Desert Charities News - Oct-Nov-Dec 2024

W OMEN IN PHILANTHROPY - PAGE 15 DESERT CHARITIES NEWS ELIZABETH (BETSY) SMALLEY, M.D. Palm Springs Public Library Foundation %RarG 9ice 3reViGent Making A Di›erence I’ve always been a strong believer in the arts as necessary for personal development and for defining who we are as a society. I have loved reading my whole life and the library has been an integral part of that. Through the Foundation, I have met many interesting and enthusiastic people who work together to ensure our library meets the needs of the community, not just through books, but through programs. It is a community hub with exciting possibilities. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Foundation as we reimagine the future of our historic library. LISA VOSSLER SMITH ModernismWeek CEO Making A Di›erence As CEO of Modernism Week, I have the unique opportunity to share the rich architectural heritage of Palm Springs with the residents and visitors who come to our events from around the world. We have an incredible history to share about the Coachella Valley and how the population and development grew, ultimately attracting famous modern architects to design legendary buildings and homes. As a result of these educational and entertaining design experiences for the public, we are able to raise money for scholarships for local high school seniors, and grants for community preservation projects. KATE SPATES Kate Spates Collaborations CEO Making A Di›erence Kate has served on several non-profit boards and advisory councils, using her marketing prowess to create, communicate & collaborate with her community. Notably co-founding AMP - Academy of Musical Performance (ampcv.org) , a dynamic multi-level contemporary music education program with year-round immersive and eclectic programs, lessons and workshops. Her dream of producing and directing films became a reality in 2020 with Palm Springs Women in Film & Television (pswift.org ) filmmakers lab. Now as President of the board of directors, she just finished directing her third short film. She’s known as a Business Strategist, Leader, Creator, Collaborator and Problem Solver. (katespates.com) KIMBERLY SPIEGEL Alzheimer’s Association 6eniRr 3rRgraP 0anager Making A Di›erence I am so fortunate to have spent my career working in nonprofits that serve our desert community. As the Senior Program Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association, I am honored and privileged to lead our dynamic team as we celebrate our 26th year serving the Coachella Valley. We oŒer FREE education, support groups, socialization programming, and so much more to those individuals and families facing an Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis. You are never alone; our dedicated staŒ and amazing volunteers work tirelessly to make a diŒerence. Please join us on October 26th for our Walk to End Alzheimer’s; help us put an end to this disease. LISA TABAREZ Think Together *eneraO 0anager CRacheOOa 9aOOe\ Making A Di›erence I came to Think Together after spending 30+ years of my career in the education sector. As the General Manager of the Coachella Valley region, I get to partner with key district leaders in the community to create innovative curriculum that meets student needs. We are positioned to service 3,000 kids in the area, from elementary school through high school, allowing them to tap into their creativity, strengthen their critical thinking skills, and prepare themselves for college and career. It is an honor to champion our future leaders and innovators within the Coachella Valley community. MARGIE TAFT Taft & Associates 3reViGent Making A Di›erence Margie owns a commercial real estate brokerage and her firm (Taft and Associates) is responsible for bringing over 1000 businesses to the Coachella Valley. She was instrumental in relocating the first Burlington Coat Factory, Harbor Freight to the Coachella Valley. She is a former Board Member and President of the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce, She is currently the President and founder of the Bombay Polo and Yacht Club, a networking club for businesses. Margie was the FAN FAVORITE of the 2013 DAP DANCING WITH OUR DESERT STARS! BRIANNA UHLHORN Anderson Children’s Foundation 'irectRr Rf *rantV anG 0eGia Making A Di›erence As ACF Director of Grants and Media, my role is to observe, evaluate, consult with, and report on the projects we fund. It is rewarding to give back to the community I grew up in and make connections that benefit our children. ACF is dedicated to meeting unmet needs of children in areas including health, education, recreation, and the arts. Opportunities to overcome challenges, develop skills, grow creativity, and expand horizons can transform young lives. ACF oŒers online grant applications in a simple format; please visit andersonchildrensfoundation.org to learn how to apply for funding. LISA D. VALERIO Fenixia Foundation, Inc. )RunGer CEO Making A Di›erence In the world of philanthropy, I am aiming to make a diŒerence in the lives of individuals with special needs. Through Fenixia Foundation, I provide resources, support and assistance to help individuals with special needs thrive. My goal is to create opportunities for inclusion, independence, and empowerment for those with special needs, ensuring they receive the care and support that they deserve. My hope is that my dedication and passion for creating a positive impact serve as an inspiration to others, showing that with compassion and determination, we can create an inclusive community for all.