Desert Charities News - Oct-Nov-Dec 2024

W OMEN IN PHILANTHROPY - PAGE 13 DESERT CHARITIES NEWS KIM LIVRERI Kim Livreri, CEO of The Butterfly Mission and a Coachella Valley resident for 50 years, is a passionate advocate for homeless mothers, children, and families in the Valley. Her boundless energy and deep compassion fuel her steadfast dedication to helping families overcome adversity and build better lives. Under Kim’s visionary leadership, The Butterfly Mission provides essential services such as housing assistance, job placement, education, and mentorship. The organization not only supports children through enriching after-school programs but also creates a safe environment where mothers can focus on achieving long-term stability without the constant worry of their children’s safety. Programs like self-defense classes, art therapy, sewing training, and drone workshops equip children with valuable skills while enabling mothers to develop and implement e›ective plans for their futures. Kim’s commitment extends beyond immediate support. The Butterfly Mission helps families create and execute strategies for lasting self-suciency, o›ering job assistance, housing support, and personalized mentorship. Many families have undergone transformational changes, with some staying with The Butterfly Mission for years as they transition from emergency shelter to stable housing, secure employment, and educational success. Through partnerships with other non- profits and local organizations, Kim has expanded The Butterfly Mission’s impact, addressing both immediate and long-term needs. Her tireless e›orts are paving the way for a future where homelessness is significantly reduced, and every individual has the chance to reach their potential and achieve enduring stability. Kim’s dedication is not just about providing temporary relief; it’s about laying the groundwork for lasting change. The time to act and make a significant impact in the Coachella Valley is now. Kim Livreri, CEO The Butterfly Mission 41550 Eclectic Street Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 212-2678 livrerifour@gmail.com www.thebutterflymission.org SPOTLIGHT JUDY PEARSON Assistance League Coachella Valley 'irectRr 0arNeting CRPPunicatiRnV Making A Di›erence With over 40 years of global marketing experience, Judy’s goal is to make Assistance League Coachella Valley (ALCV) become a household name. She uses her expertise to help the organization grow and serve local school children, seniors, military families, and performing arts students. ALCV is an all-volunteer nonprofit that has been serving people in need in the Coachella Valley for over 40 years. All monies raised through grants, donations, fundraising, and ALCV’s Resale Boutique are used to fund local programs benefiting the Coachella Valley. BIANCA RAE Biance Rae Foundation )RunGer CEO Making A Di›erence The Bianca Rae Foundation provides resources to help young people reach their fullest potential. Through our annual Rae of Hope Retreat for middle school kids, now in its 10th year, more than 4000 Coachella Valley children have learned about self-esteem building, bullying prevention, and other life skills. We are investing in tomorrow’s leaders, and I am blessed to have a platform that allows me to do that. JENNIE RAYNER Living Free Animal Sanctuary 'irectRr Rf 'eveORpPent Making A Di›erence In my role at Living Free Animal Sanctuary, I feel a profound sense of purpose as I witness the transformative impact being rescued has on cats, dogs, horses, and burros. Each eŒort helps create a safe haven where these animals can heal, thrive, and find loving homes. This work also fosters a deep human-animal bond, transforming the lives of adopters, volunteers and veterans who work with our rescued mustangs. Knowing I contribute to giving those in need a second chance fills me with pride and reinforces my dedication, making a tangible diŒerence every day. ANNIE REUTINGER Artists Council Executive 0anager Making A Di›erence The Artists Council, now in its seventh year as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has a 50-year history of supporting the arts and enhancing the cultural life in the Coachella Valley. Today more than 650 members strong, we sponsor 10 art exhibitions and shows each season, plus dozens of art classes and workshops, all in our beautiful gallery space at the Artists Center in Palm Desert, creating a hub of art activity for all Coachella Valley residents and visitors alike. We are especially proud of our community outreach programs, including the annual Young Artists Exhibition that draws entries from high schools throughout the area and our special art classes for people with Alzheimer’s. STACI REIDINGER Major, U.S. Marine Corps, Retired Cause San Diego, Cause Conference Executive 'irectRr Making A Di›erence After 24 years of Marine Corps service, Staci Reidinger continues her mission of helping to protect our world and future generations. Staci has volunteered thousands of hours and donated thousands of dollars to bring more housing, stable employment, financial security and stability to individuals experiencing homelessness, veterans, neglected children and at-risk youth. She serves as the Cause Conference and Cause San Diego’s Executive Director which is focused on accelerating social and environmental impact. Staci also serves as a board member with HomeAid San Diego, the Navy Marine Corps PROUD Foundation and as a Religious Education teacher at her church. REBECCA RIZZO United Cerebral Palsy of the Inland Empire 'irectRr Rf 'RnRr 'eveORpPent Making A Di›erence Making a diŒerence is a driving force in my life. Serving on the board of the Coachella Valley History Museum since 2015 and my role as the immediate past president have deepened my commitment to preserving our local heritage. At United Cerebral Palsy of the Inland Empire, I strive to create inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they can lead fulfilling lives. Both positions allow me to contribute to my community’s growth and well-being, reflecting my belief in the power of collective action to foster positive change.