Hawker Foundation

Last month, we sponsored Hawker Street Market's second Izakaya Night at Heritage Square in downtown Phoenix. It was one of those evenings that reminded us why we care about community building—not just in hiring, but in how we show up beyond our work.

For those unfamiliar, "izakaya" translates to "stay sake shop" in Japanese. These are the drinking and snacking taverns where people gather, share stories, and build connection over good food and flowing drinks. Hawker Street Market brought that spirit to Phoenix, transforming Heritage Square into the kind of alleyway you'd find in Japan—complete with traditional street foods and a crowd that actually wanted to be there.

The event supported Hawker Foundation, a 501(c)(3) that showcases and supports local minority food and retail vendors across Arizona. It's straightforward work that matters: giving space and visibility to vendors who might not otherwise have it.

We partnered with this event because it aligns with how we think about building anything worthwhile—with intention, community, and a genuine interest in who's at the table. The strongest systems, whether in hiring or in local economies, aren't built by accident. They're shaped by people who care enough to create space for others.

If you're looking for ways to support local community work in Phoenix, Hawker Foundation is worth your attention.