Desert Charities News - Jan-Feb-Mar - 2026

MEN IN PHILANTHROPY - PAGE 2 DESERT CHARITIES NEWS FRANK GOLDSTIN Momentous President Making A Di erence Honored to Serve. Inspired to Elevate. We are privileged to make a meaningful di‘erence by partnering with extraordinary organizations that uplift our community every day. Each collaboration allows us to amplify their mission, strengthen their presence, and bring their vision to life through exceptional events and intentional engagement. With passion, professionalism, and dedication, we work hand-in-hand with our clients to elevate their brand, expand their reach, and create experiences that inspire giving and spark lasting change—transforming ideas into impact that moves audiences and supports meaningful work long after the event concludes. PHIL CALDWELL The Savong Foundation Cambodia CEO and Founder Making A Di erence With more than thirty years of experience as a veterinarian, I am honored to serve as the leader of the medical team at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. Aside from my full-time responsibilities caring for animals, I founded The Savong Foundation Cambodia in 2011. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization provides scholarships to students in Cambodia who require financial assistance to pursue professional careers that benefit their communities. At present, we support twenty-two students enrolled in areas of study including medicine, pharmacy, nursing, midwifery, business management, marketing, finance, global a‘airs, engineering, and veterinary medicine. DIMITRI HALKIDIS Boo2Bullying President and Founder Making A Di erence Boo2Bullying, founded by Dimitri Halkidis in 2011, demonstrates his commitment to addressing bullying, discrimination, and intolerance through youth-centered education and advocacy. A Greek-American photographer, Dimitri’s career is grounded in a meaningful reconnection with heritage, identity, and purpose. Born in Greece and raised in the United States, he brings a strong cultural awareness to his creative and philanthropic work. Through Boo2Bullying’s programming, media initiatives, and outreach, he equips young people with tools for confidence and resilience. Dimitri’s leadership has been recognized with the California Senate “Above and Beyond Award” and the Palm Springs Human Rights Commission Award. SPOTLIGHT DARRELL TUCCI Real change happens when we truly see people—understand what they need, hear what they’re saying, and build the systems and relationships that help them thrive. Empathy is the core of my leaership, my giving, and how I show up for my community. I spent nine years as chief development and strategy ožcer at DAP Health, where listening deeply to community, sta , and donors guided our strategy and fundraising through transformational growth. Combined with 15 additional years of experience, I’ve learned that the best philanthropic work starts with deeply listening to people. Now, through my consulting & coaching company, LT Strategic Advisors, my business partner, Heidi Lee, and I bring that approach to nonprofit and political organizations—helping leaders clarify strategy, strengthen cultures, and scale impact. I still advise DAP Health because compassionate, dignified care for our neighbors isn’t just professional—it’s personal. I’ve expanded my impact in the desert through the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre and Palm Springs Public Library foundations’ historic capital initiatives. When we invest in arts and literacy, we’re saying every person deserves access to beauty, knowledge, and possibility. I work with their boards to develop programs where generosity feels meaningful and connected. As a board member of Equality California, I fight for LGBTQ+ equality statewide—because equity isn’t separate from empathy, it’s the expression of it. None of us are free until all of us are. What fulfills me most is watching what becomes possible when we lead with empathy and generosity: a theater coming back to life, a library buzzing with curiosity, a patient treated with dignity. My goal stays constant—connect people’s values to real impact and make our communities stronger for everyone. Darrel Tucci Founding Partner LT Strategic Advisors 550 Park Blvd Unit 2401 San Diego, CA 92101 (760) 285-6877 Darrell@ltstrategicadvisors.com LTStrategicAdvisors.org MATT DURKAN University California of Riverside Senior Director of Development, Gift Planning Making A Di erence As Senior Director of Gift Planning at the University of California, Riverside, I am proud to support e‘orts to make higher education available to everyone. UCR is the #1 ranked national university for Top Performers on Social Mobility, by U.S. News Best Colleges Report. My philanthropic passions include increasing access to higher education, healthcare, and advocating for underserved communities. I have had the good fortune to fundraise for several prestigious institutions, including UCLA, the Betty Ford Center, and College of the Desert. It is a privilege to support the diverse communities of the Coachella Valley. OZZY DIAZ Think Together Executive Director Making A Di erence Ozzy Diaz serves as Executive Director at Think Together, bringing firsthand experience from every level of the expanded learning field to support student success. He began as a substitute program leader and advanced through the organization, gaining deep insight into student needs, sta‘ development, and program impact. Diaz focuses on coaching, training, and mentoring sta‘ to build strong teams and develop future leaders. Driven by students and the educators who support them, he also contributes to the Palm Springs Unified School District Portrait of a Graduate initiative, helping prepare students to thrive beyond the classroom. PATRICK EVANS KESQ Television Chief Meteorologist Making A Di erence For the 35-plus years I’ve worked in television, I have always felt it’s important to use the platform to support local organizations & individuals. I’ve spent nearly 24 of those years here in the Coachella Valley, and enjoy working with the larger philanthropic community by providing visibility, exposure, and a voice when I can. I’m lucky that I have the time and ability to give something back to this Valley, which has given me and my family so much!

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