Full Circle Moment: Yuma Catholic Graduate Pays Local Philanthropist’s Generosity Forward

Full article originally published in the Yuma Sun, October 9, 2025

When local businessman and philanthropist Sonny Rodriguez opened a donor-advised fund, which is a one-time gift that provides grants and grows over time at the Arizona Community Foundation, he wanted to help further the education of Yuma Catholic High School students.

Scholarships were awarded to young people with the hope of building a stronger Yuma with the fund.

One of those students was Osvaldo “Ozzy” Rodriguez (no relation to Sonny). With the support of the scholarship, Ozzy was able to continue his education and build a successful career. Sonny and his brother Mark also coached Ozzy on the YC football team.

“It opened up a lot of opportunities for me,” Ozzy Rodriguez said. “It was something that was given to me, so therefore, I felt I needed to give some of that back.”

Ozzy now serves as facilities and shop director for Sonny’s own Somerton-based company, The Growers Company. In a full-circle moment, Ozzy is now helping lead a new farmworker housing project in Yuma that will provide safe, stable homes for local families.

“I was given the opportunity, I now have to oblige and share throughout my lifetime course to help others out,” Ozzy added. “My advice to the kids…is to strive for your best. Always get everything on time. It goes a long way. So, if you share some of your good vibes, your positivity and surround yourself with positive people, you’re gonna go a long way.”

What began as a scholarship for a single student has grown into proof that one act of generosity can ripple through generations, strengthening both people and community.

ACF of Yuma is celebrating National Donor-Advised Fund Day, Oct. 9, by highlighting this local, full-circle moment of community impact.

“Stories like Ozzy’s remind us that ACF Community Foundation of Yuma. “A donor-advised fund doesn’t just make a gift, it plants the seeds of opportunity that can transform lives and strengthen our entire community. A donor-advised fund turns good intentions into lasting impact. It’s a simple tool that allows people to give with purpose today while ensuring their generosity continues shaping Yuma’s future.”

Go to the Yuma Sun to read the original article (requires subscription.)