Jeff Swanson, a Scottsdale native who spent more than a decade with the Arizona Diamondbacks, has turned his leadership experience toward a new mission: helping adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) live more independently.
From baseball to community service
Swanson’s love of sports began at Phoenix Christian School, where he excelled in baseball, basketball and football, and continued at Grand Canyon University. After choosing family over a minor‑league playing career, he joined the Diamondbacks front office in 2006, witnessing championship seasons and the 2015 Hall of Fame induction of Randy Johnson.
By the mid‑2010s, the travel demands of his role conflicted with his growing family. In 2016 he left the organization to focus on his wife and two young sons, soon becoming involved with The Be Kind People Project, a nonprofit promoting kindness among youth.
Leading One Step Beyond
In 2018 a LinkedIn message introduced Swanson to One Step Beyond, an organization dedicated to expanding opportunities for adults with IDD. He joined the staff, rose through its ranks and was named CEO in early 2026. Today the nonprofit serves hundreds of adults and families across Arizona and California, operating a campus in Scottsdale that offers culinary training, fitness, arts, recreation and employment preparation.
“Our members have talents, ambitions and goals just like anyone else,” Swanson said. “Our job is to help create opportunities for them to pursue those things.”
“Nikki’s Next Step” housing initiative
One of Swanson’s most ambitious projects is “Nikki’s Next Step,” a planned 57‑unit residential community on more than three acres in the Valley. The development will provide one‑ and two‑bedroom condominiums designed for long‑term, affordable housing that balances independence with on‑site support and social connection.
The $25 million project includes an $8 million capital campaign, with $2.5‑$3 million already pledged. A recent $500,000 matching gift will double contributions up to $1 million, accelerating progress.
Swanson is urging local businesses—architects, contractors, technology firms and employers—to contribute expertise, materials, professional services and job opportunities for residents. “There are many ways to help beyond writing a check,” he said, emphasizing the community’s role in creating lasting change.
How to support
Donors can learn more and contribute at osbi.org/nns. The initiative reflects a broader commitment in Scottsdale to address the housing needs of adults with disabilities while strengthening families and the local economy.
Original reporting: Scottsdale Progress — read the source article.
