Desert Charities News - Jan-Feb-Mar 2025

. M EN IN PHILANTHROPY - A LPHA O RDER PAGE 3 DESERT CHARITIES NEWS SPOTLIGHT FRANK GOLDSTIN Momentous President Making A Di erence We are honored to make a meaningful impact by doing what we love for numerous organizations and nonprofits in our community. As a trusted partner, we support their event endeavors with dedication, striving to elevate each client’s brand and enhance awareness of their mission through the power of strategic events and integrated live communications. JOSH N. ZAHID Josh N. Zahid is a well-known in both the Inland Empire and the Coachella Valley. His journey with Loma Linda University Health began in 1998, when he started as a volunteer before transitioning to a full-time role at the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center. In this early phase of his career, Josh devoted himself to supporting adolescents and families facing challenges with mental health and substance abuse. In August 2013, Josh joined the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Foundation, where he managed four independent volunteer groups comprising over 450 members annually, raising millions of dollars to support pediatric critical care. Recently, he stepped into a new role as Director of Major Gifts, Education, where he oversees development o§cers and drives philanthropic growth. Josh is widely recognized for his leadership, commitment to excellence, and genuine kindness. He has implemented best practices for signature events, enhanced volunteer retention rates, and introduced innovative patient diversionary activities. A key contributor to the success of Loma Linda University Children’s Health – Indio, Jill and Barry Golden Pavilion, Josh played an instrumental role in its opening in March 2018. Today, the clinic serves as a medical home for over 10,500 children in the Coachella Valley. In September 2020, Josh was honored by American Healthcare Philanthropy as part of its 40 Under 40 program, which highlights emerging leaders in the healthcare development community. More recently, he was recognized as the Outstanding Fundraising Professional in November by the Inland Empire and Desert Communities Chapters of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. With six years of dedicated service on the AFP board of directors, Josh now extends his expertise and passion to the board of Loving All Animals, further demonstrating his unwavering commitment to making a di erence in his community. Josh N. Zahid Loma Lind University Health Director of Major Gifts, Education 11175 Mountain View Avenue, Suite A Loma Linda, California 92354 (909) 226-1085 cell/text JNZahid@llu.edu lluh.org DAVID CUMMINGS Think Together Chief Digital Officer Making A Di erence In the newly created role of Chief Digital Ožcer, Dave will guide Think Together through deploying emerging digital technologies that can best serve the mission of partnering with schools to change the odds for kids. “I was drawn to Think Together because I’m passionate about dealing with inequities and hold a deep personal alignment with the mission, goals and values of this organization.” Before joining Think Together, Dave has been in a variety of C-suite roles for companies, most recently as the Executive Vice President and Chief Digital Ožcer for Finning International . MATT 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, Betty Ford Center, and College of the Desert. My passion is improving the lives of others through philanthropy and community service. DON ESCALANTE Consider It Don Proprietor Making A Di erence One of the beautiful aspects of education is that it continues through life. My personal joy of living this experience is learning and connecting with Coachella Valley nonprofit organizations. Relating the stories of how and why organizations are created, the tangible positives they contribute to the community, and promoting upcoming fundraising and other events to help increase awareness is rewarding and, yes, educational. The causes and people who “make them go” deserve an audience; those behind the scenes give of themselves for the betterment of us all. Be heard and seen! BRUCE FESSIER Coachella Valley Media Hall of Fame Inductee Journalist, Charity Event Producer Making A Di erence No one goes into journalism for the money. We choose it as a career because we like making a di–erence. Philanthropy isn’t a career choice. It chooses you. I joined the original Palm Springs International Film Festival committee because Sonny Bono said he needed me. I co-founded the Desert Theatre League because the theater community said I should. I produced a La Quinta Art Foundation benefit honoring Merv Grižn because Merv said I had to. I produced two Amy’s Purpose benefits because I was needed. We support charities because it’s the right thing to do. KIRK GEIGER Animal Rescue Center of California President / Co-founder Making A Di erence I’m a firm believer that animals are one of the greatest gifts to humanity. If you’ve ever owned a pet, you know the value they bring to your life. When my wife and I moved to the Coachella Valley 20 years ago, we realized there was a massive need for animal welfare in the East Valley. After rescuing stray dogs and cats for over a decade, we formed The Animal Rescue Center Of California to allocate more resources to these neglected souls.