Desert Charities News - Jan-Feb-Mar 2025

. M EN IN PHILANTHROPY - A LPHA O RDER PAGE 9 DESERT CHARITIES NEWS SPOTLIGHT KIRK GEIGER Rescuing stray animals and pulling dogs from the euthanasia list at the county shelters was never part of our plan. Now, it’s the only thing we want to do. During the 2008 housing crisis, we couldn’t turn a blind eye to the amount of discarded and stray animals in the East Valley. Animals were left in abandoned homes or released on the streets as people were forced out of their homes. We took in as many animals as possible and formed a bond with Christine Madruga at the Pet Rescue center in Coachella. By the summer of 2020, we knew we had to do more about the pet crisis in the East Valley, so we formed The Animal Rescue Center Of California ( The ARC ) to bring more attention and resources to this issue. We are a full-service rescue. We not only go out in the field and trap stray animals, but also pull dogs from the county euthanasia list, get them medical care and find them loving homes. We created a YouTube channel to highlight this need and gain support for our mission. Unfortunately, animal welfare has taken a turn for the worse in the past couple of years and the need has become far greater. Our phone rings every day with owner relinquishments and people in need of our services. We counsel people daily and point them toward whatever resources they require. Our mission is to build a ‘SHELTUARY’ In the East Valley to house and care for animals in need. Kirk & Noelle Geiger | Founders The Animal Rescue Center Of California www.thearc-ca.org thearcofca@gmail.com 760.877.7077 Coachella, California SCOTT SEAR Desert Recreation District Public Information Officer / Legislative Affairs Making A Di erence Through the Desert Recreation District, I have the privilege of working with our incredible nonprofits like the Desert Recreation Foundation (desertrecreationfoundation.org ) and Coachella Valley Youth Golf Foundation (First Tee) (firstteecoachellavalley.org ). My role allows me to bring awareness to these organizations, not only to the public but also to our local, state, and federal partners. These nonprofits provide vital resources to our community, empowering youth and families. It’s an honor to advocate for organizations that truly make a di–erence right here in the Coachella Valley. JAY SELLER The Joslyn Center Executive Director Making A Di erence Dr. Jay Seller is making a tremendous impact at the Joslyn Center in Palm Desert, ensuring the area’s vibrant senior community has a supportive, engaging space to thrive. His e–orts are focused on meeting the socialization needs of local seniors, helping to combat loneliness and foster strong connections. Through an array of activities and wellness programs, Dr. Seller champions an inclusive, lively environment that celebrates the vitality of seniors in the desert. With the unwavering support of Valley philanthropy and dedicated members, the Joslyn Center continues to flourish, enhancing quality of life for countless individuals each day. JOHN SPROGIS United Cerebral Palsy of the Inland CEO/President Making A Di erence Drawing from personal experiences with a sister who has Down Syndrome and as a parent of a son with Cerebral Palsy, I understand the potential for a life without limits. At UCP of the Inland Empire we have a dedicated team that has been delivering programs to advance the independence, productivity, and full citizenship of individuals with disabilities. The programs that we have include In-home respite care, Skill Builders Programs, Family Empowerment programs, and Custom Adaptive Bikes. It definitely takes a village to advance the needs of those with special needs and my team and I will continue to foster collaborative relationships to advance the needs of those we serve. CODY SHELTON Tour de Palm Springs Executive Director Making A Di erence I joined the Tour de Palm Springs in Coachella Valley in 2023 and became the Executive Director of this prestigious event because of the significant impact it has on the community by combining a passion for cycling with a commitment to giving back. As one of the largest cycling events in the nation, the Tour de Palm Springs attracts thousands of participants each year, raising funds for local nonprofit organizations. Under my current leadership, the event not only promotes health and fitness, but also fosters a spirit of unity and generosity. Our e–orts have helped countless charities continue their vital work, enriching lives throughout the Coachella Valley and beyond. MATT SWEARMAN DAP Heath Director of Development Making A Di erence I am passionate about building strong, lasting relationships between our community of donors and the mission of DAP Health. I have a deep belief in the transformative power of philanthropy, and I find great fulfillment in helping individuals and organizations connect their philanthropic goals with the urgent health and wellness needs of our community. My commitment is to ensure that each contribution makes a tangible, meaningful impact. Guided by a sense of purpose and community, I am honored to play a role in advancing the critical work of DAP Health . SHERMAN TAM 29 -PSP Chief Development Officer Making A Di erence It’s been rewarding and fun to volunteer for local charities during the past 25 years in Palm Springs. In retirement, I’m able to leverage my marketing experience working at technology start-ups and fortune 100 companies to help build 29-PSP. The 100% volunteer organization provides complimentary transportation for active-duty military and their loved ones on leave between the 29 Palms Marine base and Palm Springs & Ontario airports. Volunteer driver recruitment is our #1 priority as we are preparing to celebrate our one-year anniversary. I’m excited to continue collaborating with donors, supporters, and leaders.