OTHER PROGRAMS

Border PAWS is a comprehensive initiative aimed at supporting the welfare of dogs along the Arizona border. This program focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating stray, abandoned, or injured dogs and proving food and assistance to dog owners in need.  To provide a safe haven for rescued dogs, the initiative builds a robust network of foster homes and temporary shelters through partnerships with local governments and nonprofit organizations. Recognizing the cross-border nature of the problem, Border Paws also promotes cooperation with shelters and animal welfare groups in Sonora, Mexico. This aspect of the program addresses shared challenges such as disease control, overpopulation, and dog trafficking. In addition to direct intervention, the program emphasizes public education, launching bilingual campaigns to promote responsible pet ownership and encourage community involvement in reporting cases of animal neglect or cruelty.

A critical part of the program is a well-organized adoption and transportation effort, which connects rescued dogs with no-kill shelters and adoptive families across the United States.

Through this multifaceted approach, Border Paws seeks to provide immediate relief and long-term solutions for dogs living in one of the country’s most challenging environments.

Funded by the City of Sierra Vista's Industrial Development Authority (IDA), this program has enabled the ABA to purchase podcast equipment and host podcasts for the communities we serve.   

Voices from the Border is a storytelling and information-focused podcast that explores the complex realities of life along the Arizona-Mexico border. Each episode highlights the voices of local residents, migrants, ranchers, humanitarian workers, policy experts, and indigenous leaders to offer a nuanced understanding of border issues. Topics include immigration policy, border enforcement, environmental impacts, cross-border culture, public health, and community resilience. With a balance of personal narratives and expert insights, the podcast aims to foster dialogue, deepen empathy, and promote informed discussion on the challenges and opportunities facing the borderlands.

Pride & Wellness is a comprehensive program designed to support the health, safety, and empowerment of LGBTQ+ individuals through inclusive services, social connection, and leadership engagement. At its core, the program offers free, confidential HIV and STD testing in a stigma-free environment, along with access to prevention education and referrals to affirming healthcare providers. It also features a welcoming safe space where LGBTQ+ community members can relax, connect, and talk openly without fear of judgment—whether it's to share experiences, find resources, or simply be themselves.

To strengthen community trust and transparency, the program includes “Lunch with the CEO,” a monthly opportunity for participants to meet directly with ABA leadership. This casual, open-format lunch encourages dialogue, feedback, and relationship-building, ensuring that LGBTQ+ voices are heard and valued at every level of the organization. Together, these services aim to reduce isolation, increase access to care, and promote a sense of belonging and pride within Arizona’s LGBTQ+ communities.

Funded by the Crisis Text Line, Borders of Life is a suicide prevention program specifically designed to meet the needs of communities in Southern Arizona, where access to mental health resources is often limited and stigma remains a barrier to seeking help. The program provides bilingual (English/Spanish), culturally grounded services that include suicide prevention education, early intervention, and direct support. It offers community trainings such as QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), Mental Health First Aid, and workshops on trauma, depression, and stress management—delivered in collaboration with local schools, clinics, and faith-based organizations.

The program also includes peer support groups, youth outreach, and mobile wellness units to reach remote and rural areas. Special attention is given to high-risk groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, farmworkers, and indigenous or migrant populations. 

Borders of Life connects participants with crisis resources, mental health professionals, and follow-up care, while also working to reduce stigma through public awareness campaigns rooted in local culture and language. Family engagement and healing spaces are offered for those who have experienced loss, helping to foster resilience and connection. Services are available in-person, online, and through community events, ensuring flexible and accessible support throughout the region

Funded by Arizona Complete Heath, this program focuses on hosting town halls and community gatherings to focus on solutions to the housing crisis in Southern Arizona.

Arizona is facing a significant housing crisis characterized by a severe shortage of affordable housing, escalating home prices, and rising eviction rates.  Addressing Arizona's housing crisis requires comprehensive policy reforms, including increasing the supply of affordable housing, revising zoning laws to facilitate development, and implementing tenant protections to ensure housing stability for all residents.

The Arizona Border Alliance is currently convening town halls throughout Pima, Cochise, Santa Cruz, and Yuma counties to begin addressing the housing crisis and helping those in need of support.

Our Veteran Empowerment & Support Program (VESP) is a comprehensive initiative designed by the ABA to honor and assist veterans. The program offers personalized resource navigation and case management to connect veterans with essential services such as VA benefits, healthcare, housing support, and legal aid. Employment and skills development are key components, including resume workshops, job readiness training, and partnerships with local businesses to facilitate meaningful employment. For those interested in entrepreneurship or trades, we also provide guidance and support in pursuing certifications or starting a small business.

Mental health and wellness are central to our approach, with access to peer-led support groups, trauma-informed care training, and workshops focused on mindfulness and stress management. To build a sense of community, we host regular social events, outdoor activities, and mentorship opportunities that connect new veterans with those who have already navigated the transition successfully. Recognizing the vital role families play, we offer resources and support for spouses and children, including family referrals and reintegration workshops. Through advocacy and public education efforts, the program also aims to raise awareness of veterans' needs and promote policy change. Services are offered both in-person and virtually, with bilingual support available to ensure accessibility for all.