Grounded in purpose, rooted in “why”.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of generosity, impact and purpose at Donor Network of Arizona (DNA) — an anniversary milestone reached at the edge of year-end records for donation and transplantation in Arizona in 2025.
This anniversary is not just about the numbers, but to reflect on where it started, where we are now, and how we continue. Behind four decades of service are countless lives saved and healed through organ and tissue donation.
How it started
Our story began in 1986, when we were first known as the Arizona Organ and Tissue Bank (AOTB). AOTB was coordinated through Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center (now Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix), establishing Arizona’s first organ and tissue bank. In 1992, AOTB became an independent organization and changed its name to Donor Network of Arizona one year later.
By 1995, DNA became the only eye recovery agency in the state after acquiring Arizona Lions Eye and Tissue Bank. Continuing in quick expansion, DNA added an in-house immunogenetics laboratory in 1997.
Fast forward to 2020, DNA relocated to its current home office in Tempe. We have since served the entire state of Arizona from this office, with one satellite office in Tucson.
Where are we now?
DNA is the only nonprofit organ procurement organization for Arizona and serves the entire state. Behind 40 years of service is a “why.” In 2025, 1,083 lives were saved through organ donation. Each life saved reconnects us with our purpose. Loved ones get to experience hope, donor heroes leave lasting legacies, and lives are saved through one generous decision.
What’s to come
What is DNA eager to do in years to come? We view the years to come as more opportunity to share the gift of life. With 109,000 people on the national organ waiting list, we encourage Arizonans to register as organ and tissue donors so that one day the number of people who die waiting for the gift of life is zero.
Throughout our 40 years, our impact has increased; not just through donation, but growing community involvement that’s become part of our culture. It’s in the quiet, meaningful marks left that speak to values and commitments held over time. Our fingerprints trace through the many committees at DNA.
It can be seen in the hands of our Common Threads sewing committee, dedicated to making baby blankets for new mothers that donate their placenta; and in the generosity of our community involvement committee, hosting food and school supply drives for local organizations in their areas of need. Championing the lifesaving hope of organ and tissue donation and our efforts across our community helps make up the impact DNA leaves in past, present and future — shaped by countless acts of kindness that continue to leave their mark.