Desert Charities January-February-March 2023 Men in Philanthropy

Desert Charities News P.O. Box 1525

Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 (760) 346-1822 steve@desertcharities.com

www.desertcharities.com www.dcnnews.com

in men PHILANTHROPY

Industry Leaders and Influencers in the Nonprofit Industry

PRESENTED BY

Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

Cathedral City Senior Center

Contour Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Center

DAP Health • Desert Arc • Desert Oasis Healthcare Momentous • The Living Desert • Think Together

Our community is home to many meaningful charities.

In its 12 years of telling the stories of local nonprofits, Desert Charities News has built the largest database of charities within the region. This allows us to stay current on the individuals who are at the forefront of these organizations – helping them grow and thrive.

This section is dedicated to the men who serve the desert’s philanthropic community through their leadership, vision and benevolent spirit. Learn more about these exceptional men and what inspires the passion in their purpose.

Aside from giving time and treasure to the causes that have touched their hearts, these men are also prominent driving forces in the community – using their influence to benefit others in need.

Get to know the “Men in Philanthropy” who are making an impact in the Coachella Valley.

Contact information for all men: www.desertcharities.com

Search: Name of their company

Steve Tolin Editor–Publisher

Kristin Peterson President Greg Kain Print Design

DAP Health Rounds Out Its Fundraising Leadership Team

BOTH SEASONED DEVELOPMENT PROFESSIONALS ARE EXCITED TO JOIN THE COACHELLA VALLEY HEALTH CARE ORGANIZATION

By Daniel Vaillancourt

With two new hires, DAP Health enriches its development department just in time for the Coachella Valley’s season of giving.

Chief Development Officer Cortney Weir joins the advocacybased non-profit after nearly 30 years at such organizations as the American Heart Association, the Arthritis Foundation, Best Buddies, and most recently, the California Southland Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.

For his newly created role, Assistant Chief of Philanthropy and Presidential Priorities Chris Boone recently relocated to Palm Springs from Los Angeles. Boone comes to DAP Health having spent time at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Los Angeles Youth Network, The People Concern, and most recently, the National Parks Conservation Association.

“Removing barriers to care requires financial resources, which requires hiring top fundraising talent,” says DAP Health CEO David Brinkman. “Cortney and Chris are the best of the best in the field of philanthropy. Together, I have no doubt we will fulfill our mission to bring wellness to our valley by providing health equity to all.”

Neither Weir nor Boone are new to the desert.

In 1984, at the age of 18, Weir moved from her native San Francisco to Palm Desert, where she and her roommate were the only two women living in a 10-unit apartment complex inhabited by gay male couples of various ages. “Those dear men really took me and Elizabeth under their wings,” says Weir. “I remember we couldn’t afford a Christmas tree, and suddenly, a Christmas tree appeared. If we were dating young men we should not be dating, they would chase them off. Whatever we needed, they would provide.”

When those same men became sick within a year, it was Cortney and her roommate’s turn to provide for them, going so far as to drive them to appointments at the original, tiny Vella Road offices of Desert AIDS Project, as DAP Health was formerly known.

“I remember taking people to the hospital and having them be turned away because they were living with HIV/AIDS,” Weir recalls. “I remember calling their mothers to say, ‘Your son is dying,’ and having them reply, ‘My son died for me a long time

ago.’ I was in shock. My mother would have crawled over broken glass for me — and she was with me many times when one of my friends was incoherently calling for his mom. She’d hold their hand and say, ‘I’m here, honey. I’m here.’ Back then, the only comfort we had was one another and Desert AIDS Project. For me, coming to DAP Health is coming home.”

Born and raised in Seattle, Boone has been a longtime visitor to Palm Springs. Speaking to his role and to DAP Health’s purpose, Boone — who served as a board member of the Human Rights Campaign for six years — says, “It was honestly a unicorn of an opportunity. To be able to take what I’ve learned at other organizations I’ve worked at or volunteered with and apply it to a mission I’m so passionate about was very appealing.”

While Weir wasn’t looking to leave her previous employer, all it took was a campus tour led by Brinkman to convince her. “David is an impressive leader and visionary,” she says. “He’s so good at painting a picture of where he wants to go — what’s been achieved, what’s possible. And he’s right here!

There’s nobody he has to answer to in Chicago, Miami, or wherever. Trust me, I asked around. Everyone said, ‘Seriously, DAP Health and David Brinkman are the real deal.’”

Boone will focus on DAP Health’s major benefactors. “David saw the need for someone to specifically do this work,” he says. “My biggest task, but an opportunity I relish, is getting to know the organization’s dedicated donors — their passion and personal story that bring them to support the organization. There are so many generous people in the desert. Some are currently supporters, but many we still need to meet and introduce to our work.”

For Weir, the biggest hurdle is time. “I can be an impatient person,” she says with a chuckle. “I want everybody to know — now! — that while we remain very respectful to the history of this organization, what it’s meant to the community, and whom we’ve served, the impact we can have on an even larger group of community members is very real. Donors are going to be very interested in what we’re building over here at DAP Health. Once we’re done with the next phase of our growth, people are simply going to be blown away.”

Removing barriers to care requires financial resources, which requires hiring top fundraising talent…

The impact we can have on an even larger group of community members is very real.

Photo: David A. Lee

Reid D. Milanovich

“Reid. D. Milanovich serves as Tribal Chairman for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Chairman Milanovich Reid D. Milanovich was sworn in as Chairman of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians on April 5, 2022. He was first elected to the Tribal Council in April 2014 and served five consecutive terms as a Tribal Council Member and two and a half years as Vice Chairman.

The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians has given millions of dollars to hundreds of charities over the past decade. In addition, the Tribe presents the annual Charity Golf Tournament that provides donations to five charities each year. This year’s golf tournament supports Boys & Girls Club of Palm Springs, Mama’s House, Cathedral City Police Officer’s Association, Advocates of Indigenous California Language Survival and the Malki Museum.

“It’s an honor for us to support so many important charities and organizations throughout Coachella Valley and beyond,” Chairman Milanovich says. “These charities are dedicated to making lives better throughout our community.”

During his career, Chairman Milanovich was named as one of Palm Springs Life’s 40 Under 40, a group of impressive young professionals with promise to achieve greatness in the Coachella Valley. In addition, he was also recognized by The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development with a Native 40 under 40 Award.

Prior to his service on Tribal Council, Chairman Milanovich served as a Tribal Council Proxy in 2013 and served for more than two years on the Tribe’s Scholarship Commission. In addition, he served for two years on the Board of Directors for the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. Chairman Milanovich earned his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from California Baptist University and resides in Palm Springs.

Reid D. Milanovich, Chairman

Agua Caliente Band of Mission Indians

5401 Dinah Shore Drive Palm Springs, CA 92264 (760) 699-6925

%Kate Anderson kanderson@aguacaliente-nsn.gov www.aguacaiente-nsn.gov

Tracey D. Allen

IMAHelps Vice President

Making A Difference

Tracey D. Allen co-founded IMAHelps in 2000 with his wife, Ines, to organize medical humanitarian missions that provide some of the world’s most underserved people with everything from general medical and dental care to life-changing surgeries, prosthetics and other specialized services that reflect the expertise of our volunteers.

Operating with no paid staff, no salaries and no financial backing, the Allen’s have built a team of 130 volunteers who have provided free healthcare to over 100,000 impoverished patients in nine countries. IMAHelps has grown to a point where it now organizes some of the largest humanitarian medical missions in the Western Hemisphere.

David Ambroz Head of Community Engagement for Amazon in the Inland Empire

Making A Difference

When it comes to lifting up communities, we look to leverage our scale for good and use our ability to innovate quickly to strengthen communities around the world where our employees live and work. Amazon’s culture is built around solving impossible problems, which is why we’re able to take a different, more hands-on approach than most. We work side-by-side with community partners to find solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges and build long-term, innovative programs that have a lasting, positive impact.

Dr. Rick Axelrod

LifeStream Blood Bank President/CEO

Making A Difference

How often do we get a chance to save someone’s life? By sharing one hour of your time to donate blood you can save up to three lives. Patients at our local hospitals depend on community members to donate life-saving blood products to help them get well. Your blood donation through your local blood bank supplies the human fuel that allows our healthcare professionals at our local hospitals to do their jobs. Without blood, there are no surgeries. Without blood, patients cannot recover from chemotherapy. Without blood, premature infants may perish. Give Hope, Give Life, Give Blood!

Richard Balocco

Desert Arc President/CEO

Making A Difference

THANK YOU to everyone in our community who supports Desert Arc’s mission to enhance the quality of life and create opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1959!

You are the ones making a difference in the lives of nearly 700 people!

THANK YOU to Desert Arc’s Board of Directors, Staff Members and Volunteers, to the Families and Care Providers, our Donors, Grant Funders and Sponsors, to our Business Partners, Commercial and Residential Business Services Customers, Local, State and Federal Politicians, Press and Supporters, to our colleagues at the Inland Regional Center, California Disability Services Association, Department of Rehabilitation and the State Council on Developmental Disabilities!

Ray Barmore Living Free Animal Sanctuary Executive Director

Making A Difference

Working at Living Free with a group of people who all share that same goal is a joy. When you see the world changed for the animals we save and how those animals enrich the lives of the people who adopt them, work is not work, it’s a pleasure.

When you visit Living Free you feel the peace and serenity of the sanctuary. You feel it again when you see how our mustangs change the lives of veterans through our War Horse Creek program. It’s a true transformation, I’m grateful and humbled to be part of such a wonderful organization.

Randy Barth Think Together

Founder & CEO

Making A Difference

At Think Together our mission is to partner with schools to change the odds for kids. In California, 2 million kids, out of 6 million are effectively failing school. Most of these students are African-American and LatinX. This is known as the achievement gap. We work with schools to close this gap and we work with families to provide the support system around schools, which also helps to close this gap.

Ron Berger Desert Tortoise Preserve Committee President

Making A Difference

I manage non-profit entities focused on the Desert Tortoise.   The Desert Tortoise Preserve Committee operates preserves where  desert tortoises and other threatened, endangered species can live peacefully within fencing we installed. One area, the Desert Tortoise Research Natural Area located outside California City, CA,  covers forty square miles. The Desert Tortoise Conservancy plans to develop an  Awareness Center in Palm Springs, building awareness of the tortoise’ plight while providing a facility to re-home formerly pet  tortoises. The Coalition for a Balanced Environment, comprised of 19 entities, seeks to bring raven populations under control!

Chris Boone

DAP Health Assistant Chief of Philanthropy and Presidential Priorities

Making A Difference

For me it’s about connecting donors to impact. Throughout my career in fundraising and the nonprofit sector I have always worked and volunteered for missions that I have a passion for and that align with my personal values.

At DAP Health, I am responsible for coordinating, crafting, and overseeing the execution of the relationship management strategies for all prospects capable of making the largest gifts to DAP Health. Linking our biggest investors to DAP Health’s vital programs to show them impact is how I can make a difference. And that gives me energy and hope.

David Brinkman DAP Health CEO

Making A Difference

Anything that unites us and lifts up all people, I prioritize. The nonprofit sector exemplifies these values of unity and equality. Whether a volunteer, donor, client or staff member, together we bring life to the African Proverb, “if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Let’s focus on our similarities and inspire each other to go further, together in 2023.

Frank Goldstin

Frank Goldstin is the President of MOMENTOUS, the Coachella Valley’s premier event production firm specializing in the creation of unforgettable, multidimensional events including live, virtual, hybrid and televised fundraising experiences.

For over 30 years, Frank and his team have been the creative force behind a diverse portfolio of events ranging from strategic fundraising and gala events to corporate productions, elaborate entertainment and show concepts, custom parties and luxe celebrations.

When it comes to producing the many high-profile fundraising and gala events in the valley, MOMENTOUS brings a client’s vision to life through an elevated, development-centric approach, through the formation and delivery of strategic and creative concepts, integrated solutions, event marketing and communications, superior event and entertainment design, advanced technical production and total event management; all seamlessly combined in unison to deliver incomparably memorable and immersive event experiences.

Volunteer Palm Springs Founder/Chair

Making A Difference

My goal and inspiration for creating VPS was to create volunteer opportunities which, in turn, provided a way for people to meet new friends and help build a stronger community through volunteering. Whether you are a full-time, part time or snowbird resident, VPS partners with many nonprofits representing a wide range of activities and events to put your interests and energy to work! There is no greater satisfaction to me than to continue to be the ‘volunteer matchmaker’ of the Valley.

Go to www.volunteerpalmsprings.org for more information.

Felice Chiapperini

Desert Oasis Healthcare Community Development Specialist

Making A Difference

Partnering with local nonprofits, senior centers, and other community agencies, Desert Oasis Healthcare continues to provide both financial support and health services to help improve the lives of our residents. Our Mobile Health Clinic visits health fairs and other partner locations throughout the Coachella Valley and Morongo Basin. To date, we have administered more than 110,000 Covid vaccines and boosters, along with flu vaccines and a variety of health screenings, all at no cost. Our commitment to assisting our sponsorship partners further their mission to improve the health and wellbeing of our residents remains an important priority.

Geoffrey E. Corbin

Cathedral City Senior Center President / CEO

Making A Difference

As CEO of a nonprofit, I am privileged to work with countless people across the desert who make a difference.

At Cathedral City Senior Center, I am honored to work with a team who makes a life-affirming difference for seniors daily.

We distribute thousands of pounds of food through the Jim Scheibel and Tim Wood Food and Humanity Center and provide  warm meals, emergency food bags, and social services referrals. I marvel at how our community comes together to provide  food, fun, and friendship in a community center where this magic happens daily.

We are honored to be long-term event partners to many of our valley’s non profit’s in their critical fundraising. For new clients, we provide complimentatry consulations to get to know the organization, its mission and events, and to share our approach through the delivery of elevated and strategic event services.

For more information and to see a vast array of event profiles featurinng photos and video, please visit MOMENTOUS’ website at GoMomentous.com

Frank Goldstin

President

MOMENTOUS

777 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Suite 200 Palm Springs, CA 92262

(760) 273-5050

Frank@GoMomentous.com

GoMomentous.com

David Carden Jr.

“We rise by lifting others.”

- Robert Ingersoll

Allen Monroe

Allen Monroe, President and CEO of The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, began his professional career as a research scientist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services where he studied the effects of climate change on endangered species. Then he put his passion and training to work in conservation biology with several nationally known zoos and aquariums before coming to The Living Desert in 2014.

“I come to the Zoo every day inspired by the work we do in education, conservation, habitat revitalization, and animal breeding,” he explains. “We are making an impact locally by inspiring people to care about the world’s deserts and globally collaborating to save endangered species from extinction.

The Living Desert is first and foremost a conservation organization, on the frontlines of species survival and habitat preservation.” Celebrating its 50 th anniversary in 2020, the Zoo welcomes over 600,000 visitors annually, and recently embarked on a $60 million capital campaign “Pride of the Desert” to build a new restaurant, convention/conference center, and lion habitat. This project will strengthen the organization’s ability to teach future generations to conserve and share our planet’s precious resources with all living creatures.

Mr. Monroe holds a BS in Wildlife Fisheries Sciences from Texas A & M University and an MBA from the University of Texas A & M University.

Allen Monroe, President and CEO

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

47900 Portola Avenue

Palm Desert, CA 92260 760-346-5694 amonroe@livingdesert.org www.LivingDesert.org

Barry Dayton

Desert Oasis Healthcare Director of Marketing

Making A Difference

When California introduced its “Vaccinate All 58” campaign for COVID-19, Desert Oasis Healthcare (DOHC) jumped in wholeheartedly to do its best within our service area in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. DOHC began giving what now totals tens of thousands of vaccines.

As flu season returned once again, we used our Mobile Health Clinic to extend our reach for both COVID and flu vaccines, and health screenings into even the remotest areas of the Coachella Valley and the High Desert. We’ve also been providing boosters and vaccinating 5-11 year olds.

We still believe that “Together we can end the pandemic.”

Joe Enos

Joe Enos & Co. Public Relations Principal

Making A Difference

It’s been an honor over the past year and a half to support community leaders and local organizations who have lifted the spirits of so many in very different ways during really challenging times, like Susan Davis and Jenny Gil of Desert X, Margaret Keung-Robles of Boys & Girls Club of Palm Springs, Ellen Goodman of The Foundation, and Dane Feldman of the Erkies Turkeys giveaway. I applaud everyone who kept the arts alive, continued their work with kids in our community, and addressed food insecurity. We will come out of this better.

Patrick Evans KESQ Television Meteorologist & Host of Eye on the Desert

Making A Difference

I have always believed that my career in television and radio has given me a platform which should be used to help others, improve the community, and elevate organizations that are doing hard work to make the Coachella Valley a better place. I feel very lucky to do what I do, and I’m glad it’s given me opportunities to work with some many local charities. I am grateful for those opportunities.

Michael Faith

Michael Faith Auctioneer Owner

Making A Difference

I support nonprofits and schools in creating fun, purposeful, and successful fundraising events – utilizing current best practices. I believe that events can bring us closer together. When done well, they can deepen your relationship with donors and allow your organization to fully realize your mission. With my background in nonprofits as well as my training and experience as a professional Benefit Auctioneer - I can support you and your organization in taking the guesswork out of events. I will work with you to craft a fun, meaningful, and most importantly, a successful event. Let’s do more good together in 2023 and beyond! www.psauctioneer.com.

Frank Goldstin

MOMENTOUS Events President

Making A Difference

We are honored to help make a difference doing what we love for so many organizations and nonprofits in our community. From being a trusted partner in the truest sense of the word while supporting their event endeavors, our goal is to elevate each client’s organizational brand and bring great awareness to their respective missions through the power of strategic events and integrated live communications.

Lawrence

Gustafson

Think Together Sr. Director, Corporate Relations

Making A Difference

Working with Coachella Valley foundations, donors, and corporate funders to support Think Together’s afterschool, expanded learning and school improvement programs is a tremendous privilege.

Together, they support our mission to change the odds for kids and the amazing team that pursues our vision to impact over two million students statewide.

Since opening our first site in Palm Springs Unified School District in 2020 amid a pandemic, our caring staff have supported students with their academic and social-emotional development and help prepare them for college and career success.

Steven Henke

DAP Health

Director of Brand Marketing

Making A Difference

Your brand is the story others tell about you. I view creating diverse and honest communications as one way to effectively express DAP Health’s values of inclusivity and justice. Whether choosing what stories to tell in DAP Health Magazine using a team of writers who reflect the voices of our diverse clients and patients — or choosing what images to lift up in our marketing campaigns — the goal is identical: We at DAP Health want to create equity for every member of our community by building authentic, personal connections based on shared values. Actively listening so as to celebrate the wide range of human experiences lived by those we serve is what marketing with a purpose is all about.

Michael Hinkle Palm Springs Art Museum Associate Director of Advancement

Making A Difference

My deep roots in the Coachella Valley have helped inspire and guide my career in fundraising and advancement. Strong leadership, consistent communications, and audience engagement are key to establishing long-term relationships for philanthropic and transformational giving. I work with an incredible team to create experiences and opportunities that align with the interests of our diverse community of members, donors, and underserved communities. We also recognize the younger generations and the new energies coming into Palm Springs and the region. Everyone is welcome at Palm Springs Art Museum.

Victor Ide Cathedral City Senior Center Chief Operating Officer

Making A Difference

What we do is very personal to me and it is my passion. I know personally the challenges of caring for an older adult and navigating the many services that are required.

These experiences shape the work we do at Cathedral City Senior Center. Our team shares the same passion for creating a space for seniors to thrive. We make a difference every day.

Whether you are in need of services or want to volunteer, give back or make a difference, there is a place for you here. We are a home away from home for seniors in our community. Come join us!.

Richard Balocco

Richard Balocco is the President/CEO of Desert Arc, a nonprofit organization who has championed the rights of people with disabilities since 1959. Its mission is to enhance the quality of life and create opportunities for people with disabilities. With locations in Palm Desert, Indio and Yucca Valley, Desert Arc serves nearly 700 adults, 18 and older, with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout the desert cities and outlying areas.

The programs offered by Desert Arc are designed to give each individual a safe and supportive, person-centric resource base to reach their highest potential to live, work and socialize in the community.

Allan H. Jensen

Neuro Vitality Center

Executive Director

Making A Difference

Here at the Neuro Vitality Center, we are making a difference in the lives of those with neurological issues, such as stroke, Parkinson’s, Dementia/Alzheimer’s. Our two programs consist of the Community Based Adult Services (CBAS) for those who function in a social setting, offering Physical, Occupational, & Speech therapies. And the Desert Memory Club, that focuses on those with more advanced Dementia/Alzheimer’s.

Allan’s theatrical background has also brought to the center the Foundation Lounge and our weekly Open Mic Night on Wednesday evenings, along with our Saturday Showcase Series featuring local talent from around the Coachella Valley. www.neurovitalitycenter.org.

Dr. Timothy Jochen

Contour Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Center

Founder / Medical Director

Making A Difference

Giving will change you. Get out of your comfort zone and do something for others, and your life will be richer for the experience. People tend to find excuses for not giving. Everyone can be a judgy critic behind a cell phone and complain about a situation. But by volunteering or giving resources, you can become part of the solution.

There’s a gift in giving, and that gift is for you in addition to helping others. You always get something back, and you never know how much impact one small action can have.

Find a cause or two, and don’t miss out on the opportunity to give

Jerry Keller Lulu California Bistro Managing Member

Making A Difference

Lulu is proud to be deeply involved in our vibrant Coachella Valley community which has brought us so much love, happiness and success.  Lulu’s main goals are to provide very sanitary, safe and enjoyable dining for our guests and safe employment for as many of our staff as possible.  We’re also proud to support Musical Theatre University, DAP, PS Boys & Girls Club and many other vital charities.

Since some of our programs are not funded by the State of California, Desert Arc relies on contributions from our community to provide services like our Nutrition program offering healthy meals to people from low-income families. Meeting another important need, our Transportation department’s fleet of buses picks people up at their home and brings them back at the end of a fulfilling day throughout the Coachella Valley, Morongo Basin and other desert cities. Our Sports and Recreation program engages people in extracurricular activities such as golf, tennis, zumba dance and art classes. And, many people would not be able to participate in our programs without the benefit and assistance of our on-site nurses.

Proceeds from Desert Arc’s annual fundraisers ~ the ChampionsofChange Recognition Awards Luncheon on February 8, 2023 and the Golf Classic on April 3, 2023 ~ will benefit our cause in support of these vital programs.

I am deeply grateful for the unwavering dedication of Desert Arc’s Board of Directors, staff and all of our supporters in making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities!

DesertArc.org

760.346.1611 General Information

760.404.1370 Business Services

760.404.1368 Fundraising Events

Richard Balocco also served as a Council Member for the City of Indian Wells since November 4, 2014.

Dr. Timothy Jochen

“I believe in the flow of giving. The more you give, the more you receive because there’s satisfaction and joy in giving.”

Dr. Timothy Jochen is as passionate about helping his community as he is about helping people look and feel better through his work as a board-certified dermatologist and talented cosmetic surgeon at Contour Dermatology Cosmetic Center. He’s been serving the Coachella Valley for more than 20 years. From one office in Palm Springs to three Coachella Valley locations and a new office in Loma Linda, as the practice increased, so has his community involvement.

Dr. Jochen has been recognized for both his professional work and philanthropy. Professional honors include being voted a Castle Connolly Top Doctor nine years in a row as voted by his peers and published in Palm Springs Life, voted a Palm Springs Life Best of the Best Beauty + Body Care, and voted Best Dermatologist in The Desert Sun’s Best of the Desert for eight years. Sharing his knowledge as an Associate Professor of Dermatology at USC in Los Angeles, he’s also been voted teacher of the year several times.

For philanthropic contributions, Dr. Jochen and Lee Erwin, Executive Director of Contour Dermatology, have been honored with the 2017 Jeannette Rockefeller Humanitarian Awards, the Mizell’s Center’s 2019 Community Impact Award, the 2020 JFS Desert Humanitarian Award and as honorees of the 2020 Inland Empire Ronald McDonald House “A Few Good Men.”

The accolades are humbling; more than anything, they want to spotlight the charities they support and inspire others to give back. Covering nearly every facet of the community, they have helped more than 60 local non-profit organizations, including health-related services, women’s charities, programs for children, seniors, animals, food and homeless shelters, and the arts.

Jochen, MD Medical Director,

James Lindquist DAP Health Director of Development

Making A Difference

Philanthropy and making a difference go hand in hand. If we choose, each day, each of us can effect positive change in someone’s life by participating — in whichever way we can — in humanitarianism.

The Coachella Valley is known for its diversity, which allows varied racially and ethnically communities to thrive. These disparate populations become the backbones of solid civic cohesion.

At DAP Health, we strive daily to provide health equity and health justice to all, and I am honored to be just one part of the tremendous impact our organization makes on the desert we all share and have chosen to call home.

Tony Marchese Trio / CVHarvestbox Owner

Making A Difference

Trio has been a community supporter / partner since it opened its doors in 2009. ‘

“Trio is where Palm springs Eats.” Loved by all locals and tourists alike. I have always believed in giving back to our community.  We are proud to have supported AAP Food Samaritan, DAP (Dining Out For Life), AIDS walk Palm Springs High School, just to name a few.

Trio will always stand tall and proud of our community, and always will help when we can.

We never take our business for granted, we are grateful for all the community support and our continued growth.

Jerome Elliott Moskowitz Desert Ensemble Theatre Artistic Director

Making A Difference

As Artistic Director of Desert Ensemble Theatre since 2018, my role is to identify plays that illuminate the complexity of human interaction, push artistic boundaries, and challenge societal norms. Themes this season include the rising wave of antisemitism and homophobia; freedom of artistic expression; Jewish identity; and fixation with celebrity culture. As a community theatre, we offer local artists opportunities on and off the stage. We espouse a philosophy of collaboration and camaraderie that was initiated when Tony Padilla founded the company in 2011. DET strives to create a nurturing environment and a laboratory for personal growth for theatre practitioners.

Greg Murphy

The Joslyn Center Director of Development & Marketing

Making A Difference

Jack Newby

The Joslyn Center Executive Director

Making A Difference

David Perry & Associates President

Making A Difference

Contour

& Cosmetic Surgery Center Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, Loma Linda (760) 423-4000 contourderm.com

Working for and with nonprofit organizations provides countless opportunities to make a difference. The effort we put in comes back tenfold in the impact it has on the quality of life in our community. As the then President & CEO of the Association of Fundraising Professionals noted when visiting the Coachella Valley several years ago, the Palm Springs Area is one of the top philanthropic communities in the United States, the other being Palm Beach, FL. We are blessed to be where we are, and I am grateful for all of you who help make a difference.

I have had the pleasure and honor of working in the non-profit sector for nearly 30 years. Whether working for LGBTQ+ organizations, AIDS organizations, or working with seniors and older adults, I have always taken great satisfaction knowing that I have helped make a difference in people’s lives. Making a difference means providing food to those in need, comfort and support for those with a serious illness, or helping to provide a place where people can build a new life. Many of the people we serve have nowhere else to turn. Non-profit work truly changes the lives of those we serve.

With over 35 years working with charitable organizations and nonprofits, David Eugene Perry believes in giving back to those organizations that give most to the community. Whether it’s representing the Coachella Valley’s esteemed nonprofit theatre Dezart Performs, the acclaimed A Cabbello all male chorus, working with HARC.org to better inform community and government leaders on how to improve health care, serving on the Palm Springs Police LGBTQ Outreach Committee, or helping build the next generation of community leaders with the Caravanserai Project, or helping promote the first ever “Pride on the Page” literary festival to benefit the Palm Springs Library Foundation. David Perry & Associates, Inc. / www.davidperry.com

David Perry

Timothy

Founder

Dermatology

Michael Phipps-Russell Loving All Animals Executive Director

Making A Difference

It has been an amazing experience to be a part of the Coachella Valley’s animal welfare charity sector. Throughout the pandemic our community has continued to work together to end the euthanasia of our adoptable and treatable animals. It has not been easy, but we have seen success and now we can focus on sustaining our accomplishments. I honestly did not think I would live long enough to see all that we have done together. It has been a privilege and honor to work within this community and to be a part of truly making a difference for our valley’s animals.

Alan Potash Jewish Federation of the Desert Chief Executive

Making A Difference

Officer

Being a newcomer to the Coachella Valley I am inspired to continue the important work of the Jewish Federation of the Desert: Caring for the Vulnerable, Strengthening the Community and Supporting Jewish Communities in need around the world. We raise money to allocate to organizations who are aligned with our mission to Make the World a Better Place. By strengthening our work and partnerships we will make significant differences. I am looking forward to working with others in the valley!

Shawn Ragan California Indian Nations College Vice President

Making A Difference

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed many of the systemic educational inequalities face by historically-marginalized populations. Many Native Americans live in technology deserts and faced obstacles accessing on-line educational services. Native American students already face historical trauma around forced education, the erasure of identity, feelings of “invisibility,” and the lowest success rates of any demographic in California. CINC is changing these trends with personalized student services, culturally-aware academic curricula, dedicated staff and faculty, tribal and community partnerships, and successful graduates who support our current students. CINC is helping our students change their lives – not just now, but for generations to come.

Victor Ide

Caring for my mother with MS inspires the work I do. Before starting my in-home care agency, Progressive Care Partners, I spent my career in HR / Change Management with several Fortune 100 companies, including Office Depot, Walmart, Gap, Inc., and Charles Schwab. After I sold Progressive Care Partners to an agency in Los Angeles, I joined Cathedral City Senior Center as COO.

I thrive on change; I’m passionate about creating environments where people thrive, and businesses grow; I love the uniqueness of each person and what brings out the passion in them; my signature is finding common ground from where we can build. I am thrilled to be able to apply this experience to Cathedral City Senior Center.

Cathedral City Senior Center was a small, nonprofit senior center serving seniors and their families (including caregivers, children, and grandchildren). Along with CEO Geoff Corbin, I am leading an executive team that has grown the agency to help exponentially more seniors and their friends and families. Because Cathedral City does not have a community center, parks & recreation department, or social services department, our little center is a de facto community town hall.

A. Renker

Eisenhower Health Foundation Senior Vice President

Making A Difference

As a proud member of the Eisenhower Health family I am both honored and grateful to work with so many outstanding colleagues caring for our community through this crisis. Our front line health care workers who risk their lives to take care of others are the true great heroes, of this time and this country. I am humbled and grateful to work with all of them and their hard work, dedication and kindness are inspiring!

Jeffrey Schlund

The Betty Ford Center Senior Outreach Manager

Making A Difference

As a Senior Outreach Manger, I get the opportunity to work with dedicated professionals including psychiatrists, psychologists and therapists every day.

It has been said, pick a job you love, and you never work a day in your life. That is true when I began my career working at the Betty Ford Center, the premier non-profit drug and alcohol treatment center in the world, located in Rancho Mirage.

I am beyond blessed to be working for an organization whose mission is to bring recovery to those suffering with the disease of addiction.

It is a cause that is close to my heart.

George Sinatra

Palm Springs Art Museum Corporate, Foundation and Grant Manager

Making A Difference

I’m thrilled to be in my new role this year as a member of the beautiful Palm Springs Art Museum Team. Overseeing Corporate Foundation and Institutional Grants gives me the opportunity to help make the museum’s incredible community programs accessible to people of all ages and walks of life in the Coachella Valley. Every day, I’m inspired by the art, the artists and my colleagues who are dedicated to make every person’s experience unique!

Our current management team has tripled membership, doubled the Food Bank, increased programming to a diverse audience (e.g., Braille and Hispanic), and tripled the agency budget. I am thrilled with the volunteers, donors, community, and members that make the Cathedral City Senior Center a particularly successful niche agency serving those most in need from across the valley. I am honored to help lead the organization’s mission to become a 21st-century center for active living.

Victor Ide, Chief Operating Officer

Cathedral City Senior Center

37171 West Buddy Rogers Avenue

Cathedral City, CA 92234 (760) 321-1548

victor@cathedralcenter.org

David

James Lindquist

I don’t think any of us grow up thinking we want to work for a non-profit or that we will have a career in that field. But for me, one event that changed my life forever made clear my calling for life in philanthropy.

The non-profit at which I began, Our House, made a difference in people’s lives by providing them with housing, food, clothing, and medical services. I could relate to this work, seeing as many of those needs were ones I had at that stage of my life. For the very first time, I realized I was exactly where I belonged.

My career evolution over the last 18 years has focused not only on where I’ve felt my efforts made the most significant impact on disenfranchised populations and their ongoing needs, but on what aligned with my own values. Whether it’s been working with animals, people with disabilities, or people living with HIV/AIDS — or fighting for health equity and health justice for all — I’ve had the great honor of uniting with donors, volunteers, board members, and staff to remind all of us what a profound, positive change we can make in our communities.

As the director of development at DAP Health, I oversee the IMPACT Program, an initiative that allows our clients and patients to tell their stories of how the organization has touched and improved their lives by providing health care and other vital services. We invite donors to attend these tours in an effort to show them what it is we precisely do at DAP Health. All that we do.

I get so much daily satisfaction from my work. I love knowing I help make a difference by allowing our storytellers to share their tales of triumph and joy.

James Lindquist

Director of Development

DAP Health

1695 N. Sunrise Way

Palm Springs, CA 92262

(760) 656-8413 (direct) (760) 567-2306 (cell)

JLindquist@daphealth.org www.daphealth.org

Mike Singer CSUSB Palm Desert Campus Public Affairs

Making A Difference

I feel that the work I do at the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus affords me the opportunity to make a positive impact in the community. PDC is a special place, and our faculty, staff and students excel in a variety of areas.

I enjoy sharing their achievements and accomplishments with our community, and I know that the education our students receive at PDC will open up many doors for them when they graduate. I am proud to be a part of PDC’s success, and I am looking forward to the future as the campus continues to grow.

Peter Sturgeon

John F. Kennedy Memorial Foundation President/Chief Executive Officer

Making A Difference

The mission of the JFK Memorial Foundation is to enhance the physical, emotional and intellectual health and wellness of Coachella Valley children and families.

With the long term damaging impact from the response to COVID, this mission is more vital than ever in our 24year history.

I am humbled to be a part of it!

Adolfo Velazquez California Indian Nations College Director of Development

Making A Difference

Opportunity at equitable and quality education is an absolute owed to all communities and individuals. While this is a readily accepted perspective, it is far too often left out of conversation and prevalently missing in minority communities.

Here at California Indian Nations College, we are working diligently to provide equitable opportunity at affordable and quality education to our native and non-native community members. As the Director of Development, I commit my time to securing financial and community support to grow the college’s efforts and ensure the success of our communities in, and beyond the Coachella Valley.

Rob Wheeler LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert CEO

Making A Difference

The Center supports, strengthens, and amplifies the diverse LGBTQ+ community across the Coachella Valley. Because of the fierce dedication of our team, we offer life-saving access to essential social-support programs, including a weekly community food bank, behavioral health services, and an array of youth-driven groups, events, and activities in our Coachella space. Looking ahead, I envision an era of programming where we are agile, responsive, and continue to evolve in response to community need. Having dedicated my life’s work to our community, I am humbled to lead The Center in partnership with everyone marching toward LGBTQ wellness, justice, and liberation.

Scott Wolf

Coachella Valley Rescue Mission Development DIrector

Making A Difference

Every day I see people who are in different stages of rebuilding their lives, having been broken, shattered, needing help when they have been at their most vulnerable. To be a part of the process that assists them in achieving victories, both private and public is the most rewarding thing I have ever done in my professional life. It is a privilege to be part of a team that saves lives one life at a time.

Jake Wuest

FirstBank California Market President

Making A Difference

Since becoming FirstBank’s California Market President in 2020, Jake has been instrumental in bringing the bank’s ‘banking for good’ mission to life. He has led FirstBank’s partnership with Desert Community Foundation to create Coachella Valley Giving Day on March 1, 2023. This annual 24-hour day of giving aims to increase awareness of nonprofits and personal giving in the community.

He is focused on elevating the community through service and philanthropy and regularly encourages employees and community members to get involved. Jake serves on the Executive Committee for the College of the Desert Foundation Board and on the Finance Committee for the City of Palm Desert.

Changing the Odds for More Students

New Executive Director of Philanthropy Katie Roth Combines Philanthropic Leadership with Education Needs

Think Together, which operates afterschool and expanded learning programs in Palm Springs Unified, has welcomed Katie Roth as Executive Director of Philanthropy. Roth will spearhead growing Think Together’s individual philanthropy program, while connecting more intentionally with the philanthropic interests of the Coachella Valley.

Roth joins the Think Together team after 15 years experience with education nonprofits. Starting as a middle school math teacher for Teach for America, Roth continued her career in education, most recently as the executive director of PowerMyLearning.

“I’m excited to engage with community and business leaders who have a passion for providing children with expanded opportunities for a brighter future,” said Roth. “There is so much need in our communities and I look forward to bringing more excellent programming to schools through partnerships with our board and supporters.”

After two years of pandemic-related school disruptions, students are experiencing a great need for rich afterschool and expanded learning programs like the ones Think Together offers. Educators know that students are going to need support within and outside of the school day to regain the learning students lost. Students need

access to arts curriculum, sports and STEM programs. They need supportive adults that can provide them the guidance needed to understand the complicated world around them.

Think Together started its work with Palm Springs Unified School District in 2017 with its school improvement division, Orenda Education. In 2020, the organization expanded its reach to provide afterschool and expanded learning programs to more than 1,600 students across 21 schools.

Throughout the state, Think Together operates at more than 500 school sites across more than 70 school districts and charter management organizations. You can help Think Together serve more students, train staff to deliver high quality programs, and purchase curriculum and materials needed to provide robust academic and enrichment content.

Learn more about Think Together at thinktogether.org.

KATIE ROTH

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