. WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY - PAGE 11 DESERT CHARITIES NEWS LISA VOSSLER SMITH Modernism Week CEO Making A Dierence As CEO of Modernism Week, I’m privileged to help share Palm Springs’ rich architectural heritage with residents and visitors from around the world. Our events celebrate the Coachella Valley’s remarkable design history, from its early growth and development to its legacy of attracting renowned modernist architects who designed iconic homes and buildings. Through these engaging and educational experiences, we not only showcase great design but also raise vital funds for local high school student scholarships and community preservation grants. ADDRIA VALADEZ Jewish Family Service of the Desert Business Administrator Making A Dierence As the Business Administrator for Jewish Family Service of the Desert, a Social Service Agency, I am not on the frontlines every day, but I support our Clinicians, Front Oce Team, and Case Managers, who are the heart of the organization, by ensuring they have everything they need to make a lasting impact in our community. At the core of my work is a simple belief: people deserve support, dignity, and a chance to heal. I make it my mission to ensure our systems run smoothly so our team can focus on what matters: supporting individuals in crisis, oering mental health care, and helping families get back on their feet. I may not be the one scheduling the appointments, or in the therapy room, or at the community center, but I’m honored to support the people who are. A.J. STEINBERG Queen Bee Fundraising Principal Making A Dierence I believe that meaningful change begins with showing up—heart first. Whether I’m helping nonprofits design impactful events, secure sponsorships, or deepen community connections, I know that my work helps fuel missions that matter. I make a dierence by empowering organizations to tell their stories in ways that inspire action, generosity, and transformation. Every child on a field trip, every dollar raised, every life uplifted reminds me why I do what I do. Philanthropy isn’t just my profession—it’s my purpose. MARGIE TAFT Taft & Associates President Making A Dierence 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! CALISTA VASSIOS The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert Senior Manager, Individual Philanthropy Making A Dierence Calista is dedicated to fostering inclusion, belonging, and meaningful connections across the Coachella Valley. Through her work, she inspires generosity that strengthens programs, resources, and advocacy, ensuring lasting impact. Her vision is that every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. As President-Elect of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and a UCR Nonprofit Management Certification graduate, she is proud to work alongside many nonprofits to uplift and unite our community. Calista encourages everyone to find something they are passionate about, get involved, and be part of building a better community. LEXI WARD OneFuture Coachella Valley Director of Development Making A Dierence Joining OneFuture Coachella Valley this year, I was immediately inspired by the organization’s mission and the tangible impact it has on students across the region. Through scholarships, mentorship, and career support, OneFuture empowers young people to succeed in college, launch meaningful careers, and become leaders in their communities. It’s clear that this work is changing lives and creating a stronger, more vibrant future for the Coachella Valley. I’m honored to be part of an organization that is so deeply committed to opportunity, growth, and long-term community transformation.. SPOTLIGHT MERI NIELSEN As a long-time resident of the Coachella Valley, I was inspired to join the Board and become President of Jewish Family Service of the Desert (JFS Desert) by their unwavering commitment to providing essential social services. Their mission is to support the diverse needs of the entire community (over 95% of the clients are not Jewish). Vital programs include case management and emergency financial assistance, which oer a crucial lifeline and promote overall well-being. JFS has had a strong presence in the Coachella Valley for over 43 years, providing more than 7,000 face-to-face services annually in mental health, school counseling, emergency assistance, camp scholarships, and special programming for both the Jewish Community and all others in need in the Coachella Valley. It is truly one of the most remarkable organizations I have ever been involved in, anI am so proud to be a part of its dynamic work. Every person is gifted with th opportunity to make a dierence in their community, and I am grateful that leading this organization allows me to contribute to a legacy of positive change. Meri is the current President and Member of the Board of Directors of JFS. Meri Nielsen, President Jewish Family Services of the Desert 490 South Farrell Drive, Suite C 208 Palm Springs, CA 92262 (760) 325-4008 x 107 (760) 778-3781 Fax www.jfsdesert.org
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