Desert Charities News - Jan-Feb-Mar 2025

. M EN IN PHILANTHROPY - A LPHA O RDER PAGE 5 DESERT CHARITIES NEWS SPOTLIGHT JAMES LINDQUIST The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert Director of Development Making A Di erence As the Director of Development at The Center, I am fortunate to build meaningful connections that drive positive change. By aligning donors’ passions with our mission, I help foster an inclusive environment and amplify our community’s impact. My role allows me to create opportunities for connection through events like Center Stage, Red Dress, Ocotillo Club receptions, and other gatherings while supporting life-changing programs such as LGBTQ+ youth through senior initiatives. Every day, I am inspired by the resilience and authenticity of our community. It’s an honor to help create a future where everyone thrives and feels a true sense of belonging. WEBB WEIMAN Making Dreams Come True for Seniors and Veterans For the past 14 years, My Jump! has been fulfilling bucket list wishes for low-income seniors and Veterans from Coachella to Cape Cod. Our mission is to bring joy and inspiration to those in need, and we take immense pride in creating unforgettable experiences. Recently, 32 participants from local senior centers enjoyed a spectacular day of whale watching in Dana Point. Upcoming adventures include trips to Santa Catalina, a Dodgers game, and even a hot air balloon ride. Many of our participants face challenges like loneliness, depression, and isolation, but these events bring them a renewed sense of purpose and joy. After fulfilling these wishes, we often hear from children and grandchildren, who share heartfelt stories of the “pep in the step” they see in their loved ones. The sparkle in their eyes and gratitude in their hearts rea§rm the profound impact of these moments. Whether stepping out of a plane, boarding a train, or riding in an 18-wheel- er, each experience transforms lives in extraordinary ways. Want to see the magic for yourself? Visit our website at myjump.org and click on “Jumpisodes” to witness the joy we’ve brought to so many. What makes My Jump! even more special is that we fund these dreams through the sale of pies! If you’re interested in attending or learning more about our annual “Pie in the Sky” auction, please email Webb@myjump.org. Age is just a number. If you know someone who could use a little inspiration, please contact us — we’d love to help make their dream come true. Webb Weiman Executive Director My Jump PO Box 119 • La Quinta, CA 92247 (760) 851-5186 webb@myjump.org myjump.org JERRY KELLER Lulu California Bistro Managing Member Making A Di erence 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 sta as possible. We’re also proud to support Musical Theatre University, DAP, PS Boys & Girls Club and many other vital charities. BRETT KLEIN Eisenhower Health Marketing & Events Specialist Making A Di erence Brett Klein, Marketing & Events Specialist at Eisenhower Health, has been a dedicated advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, HIV awareness, healthcare access, and DEI initiatives for over two decades. Since 1999, he has participated in AIDS/LifeCycle, a cause that has profoundly shaped his career and personal journey. As he prepares for his final ride in 2025, marking the end of a 31-year legacy, Brett reflects on the integrity, honesty, and self-truth that have guided his eorts. His unwavering commitment to this mission has impacted countless lives, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and advocacy (AIDS/LifeCycle.org). TONY MARCHESE TRIO Restaurant Owner Making A Di erence A Chicago native, Tony Marchese fell in love with Palm Springs at first sight and turned that passion into purpose. Since opening TRIO in 2009, Tony has redefined hospitality, creating a welcoming space for connection and community. His philanthropic spirit shines through countless contributions to local charities, including AAP Food Samaritans, Dining Out for Life, and Palm Springs High School arts programs. Honored with awards like the Friends for Life Award and the Palm Springs Human Rights Commission’s Community Service Award, Tony’s commitment to giving back is a cornerstone of TRIO’s mission and Palm Springs’ heart. ARISTOTLE MCDANIEL GPL - Grandparents Love President Making A Di erence Aristotle McDaniel, founder of GPL-Grandparents Love, is making a profound impact in the community by supporting grandparents raising their grandchildren. Through his nonprofit, Aristotle provides vital resources like financial assistance, educational programs, and emotional support to families facing unique challenges. Inspired by his own family’s experiences, he empowers grandparents to create stable, loving environments for their grandchildren. By hosting community events, raising awareness, and fostering connections, Aristotle has become a beacon of hope, ensuring that no grandparent feels alone in their journey of love and responsibility. RICK MESA The Ranch Recovery Centers, Inc. CEO/President Making A Di erence Rick Mesa has devoted his entire career to healthcare. With decades of clinical work in mental health and substance abuse treatment, Rick did not plan on becoming an administrator. However, in the 1980s, he was asked to take the helm at Lost Heads Ranch in Desert Hot Springs. Rick learned fund development from amazing mentors and transformed the nonprofit into The Ranch Recovery Centers, Inc. Supported by his dedicated sta, Rick aims to provide proven drug and alcohol treatment for those who can “aord help the least but need it the most.”