FLIGHT 33 was born on February 17, 1999, as Christine Puzauskas watched the evening news in her home in Tempe, Arizona. A tragedy had just occurred in the town of Guadalupe, Arizona. A murder – suicide left six children without parents and Manuela Tavena, the grandmother, after losing her daughter, would now be caring for the children. Chris, moved by the tragedy, found the family and discovered that 20 grandchildren were affected by the loss. Chris’ family, and the youth program she created at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Tempe, FLIGHT, Freedom to Live the Truth®, started helping the family. Volunteers began bringing food, clothes and helping the children with homework. This service component of the youth program became FLIGHT 33. Chris applied for, and was awarded, 501 (c)(3) status in 2003. Chris, as volunteer director, with a dedicated board of directors and FLIGHT crew, continues the mission. The work of the foundation is accomplished by volunteers and student interns. All continue to be inspired by the courage of the grandmother, Manuela Tavena.



The Spirit of Christ is alive in every one of us and gives us the freedom to soar by living our potential and by serving others.

The logo shows the flight of the Holy Spirit. The cross signifies Christ. 33 is the age of Christ when He died.



The charitable purpose of FLIGHT 33 is to serve and advocate for youth by assisting them in discovering their God-given talents and strengths and encouraging the attainment of goals through guidance, tutoring, financial assistance, and meaningful projects.



Our Vision is a community in which:

• All children have the tools necessary to excel in school.
• Children's abilities and talents are respected and honored.
• Parents are made to feel a part of the process of education and can take pride in the success of their children.
• Children know that they have opportunities and are capable of achieving success in school and extracurricular activities.
• Youth create bridges by helping each other.

• Each child will finish high school and/or vocational school.
• Each child will have the financial and educational means to attend college
• Each child will have job training.
• Each child will develop his or her talents.
• Youth from all walks of life will come together in service to each other.

• Every child is a precious gift from God with unique talents and strengths. Every child deserves respect and acceptance.
• "Justice for All" includes equality in educational opportunities.
• Hard work is valuable and honorable.
• Service and kindness to others is a visible sign of God's presence in the world.