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Darren Handy

Community Engagement Advisor

  • Job at CCF - Builds strong relationships with parishes, schools, nonprofits, and individuals to connect them with the Foundation’s mission, programs, and financial tools. Fosters partnerships with professional advisors to expand philanthropic opportunities and support charitable giving. Through this work, he helps grow participation in endowment drives, scholarships, fundraising initiatives, and educational outreach across the community.
  • Prior experience - Before joining the Catholic Community Foundation, Darren served as the Director of Stewardship at St. Timothy Catholic Church, where he focused on building lasting relationships and deepening parishioner engagement. He played a key role in increasing education and participation in parish and school endowments, while guiding individuals in making charitable contributions to support the Church now and in the future. His work emphasized community-building and walking alongside others in their faith journeys, all rooted in the spirit of discipleship.
  • Degree and School - Psychology, BA from Arizona State University
  • Home parish and calling - St. Timothy Catholic Church. Darren feels called to be a “bridge” connecting people to their God-given purpose by fostering dignity, offering guidance, and empowering them to share their gifts. In doing so, he strives to grow deeper in his relationship with Jesus Christ while helping others walk their own paths of discipleship
  • Personal information - Born in Mesa, Arizona, while his dad was stationed at Williams Air Force Base and working on his master’s at ASU. Growing up, he had the unique experience of living in the Philippines, Italy, England, and several states across the U.S. before eventually returning to Arizona to attend ASU. He has been married to his wife, Mayen, for 35 years and is blessed with seven children and five amazing grandkids.

"I truly enjoy living in Arizona year-round, and while I love getting out to golf, I’ll admit I’m not great at it (I jokingly call it 'flog,' golf spelled backwards!), says Darren. " I genuinely enjoy meeting people, hearing their stories, and finding connection. One scripture that speaks to me deeply is Galatians 2:20—a reminder of the life I now live through faith in Christ."