Desert Charities News - Jan-Feb-Mar 2024

Patrick Evans KESQ TV Meteorologist & Host Host of Eye on the Desert Making A Di erence 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. Joe Enos Joe Enos & Co. Public Relations Principal Making A Di erence It’s always an honor to support community leaders and local organizations who lift the spirits and lives of so many in very di¦erent ways, like Susan Davis and Jenny Gil of Desert X, Margaret Keung-Robles and the team at Boys & Girls Club of Palm Springs, Ellen Goodman of The Foundation, and the committee at the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation. I applaud everyone who keep the arts alive and work with kids and their families. We are better place because of these organizations and so many others in the Coachella Valley. Don Escalante Consider It Don Principal Making A Di erence Everyone has a story. Those involved in the thriving Coachella Valley nonprofit sector – creators, beneficiaries, and those who quietly work behind the scenes on causes about which they are passionate - deserve to have their stories heard. It is a privilege to interact with and share caring motivations of those who make a di¦erence, and those who are touched by the goodness of others. The results? The priceless rewards of a stronger, healthier, and happen community. Community hereos who make it possible rarely seek the limelight. But they should not, and need not, remain anonymous. Tell your story! (98). Matthew Durkan Philanthropy Executive Making A Di erence I dedicate my professional life to working for causes that support higher education, health care, research, and civil rights. I support those who seek to expand their knowledge and understanding of the world, to help those who cannot help themselves, and to improve the physical, mental, and spiritual wellness of my community. As a fundraising professional, I acquired my skills by working with respected institutions including the University of California at Los Angeles, California State University, San Bernardino, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and College of the Desert. My passion is improving the lives of others through philanthropy and community service. Barry Dayton Desert Oasis Healthcare Director of Marketing Making A Di erence My decade-plus experience in nonprofit marketing and fundraising made me really appreciate the hard work of these dedicated men and women. Many of them could enrich themselves far more in the for-profit world but know the value they bring to so many in fulfilling their missions. And a tip of my hat to those who support these important causes with their “time, talent, and treasure” just as my parents taught me from an early age. Whether you work for a local nonprofit or support it with volunteer hours or a financial gift, each of you has my deep and abiding respect! Sean Daigle Memoria Films Owner, Founder Making A Di erence Since launching Memoria Films in 2020, Sean has helped dozens of non-profits in the Coachella Valley and surrounding areas by producing emotionally compelling video content. His unique combination of technical production expertise coupled with his empathy have enabled him to move the needle for organizations in astonishing ways. He has helped organizations like CVRM, Boys & Girls Club of Cathedral City, BIGHORN BAM, Desert Cancer Foundation, The Pendleton Foundation, Parkinson’s Resource Organization, Family YMCA of the Desert, The First Tee of CV, Desert Christian Academy, and the Inland Empire Ronald McDonald House. Sean would love to help take your organization to new heights in 2024. M EN IN PHILANTHROPY - PAGE 4 DESERT CHARITIES NEWS SPOTLIGHT Richard Balocco Richard Balocco is the President/CEO of Desert Arc. Celebrating its 65th Anniversary Milestone, Desert Arc has championed the rights of people with disabilities, guided by its mission to enhance the quality of life and create opportunities for people with disabilities, since 1959. The vision is to increase the choices, capabilities, and independence of adults with disabilities. The comprehensive programs and services provided by Desert Arc are designed to give each individual, the most vulnerable members of our society, a safe and supportive, person-centric resource base to reach their highest potential to live, work and socialize in the community. On an annual average, Desert Arc serves nearly 700 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, epilepsy, and other medical conditions. Desert Arc is also dedicated to social innovation and has created a variety of enterprises providing Business Services for companies and individuals. These include the Shredding & Recycling, Landscape Maintenance, Janitorial and Fulfillment divisions, providing hands-on training and paid jobs for Desert Arc’s clients (aka people with disabilities served by our mission). The general public is invited to bring their documents and hard drives to Desert Arc’s SHRED IT and FORGET IT shredding events every month from 9 am to 12 Noon – on the third Friday on our Palm Desert Campus and on the second Monday in Yucca Valley. Proceeds from Desert Arc’s annual fundraising events, the CHAMPIONS OF CHANGE Recognition Awards Luncheon on February 8, 2024 and Golf Classic on April 1, 2024, benefit our cause by providing critical financial support for our Health Care, Nutrition and other programs that are not funded by the State of California. I am deeply grateful for the 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