WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY - PAGE 3 DESERT CHARITIES NEWS SPOTLIGHT ALISON ELSNER Alison Elsner just marked her 11-year anniversary as CEO of the Medical Society. She works with 3,300 Inland Empire physician members to improve access to care and patient equity. The medical society is a powerful catalyst to prioritize solutions to support physician practices (MDs and DOs) through Medicaid and Medicare reimbursement parity, reform of the onerous prior authorization process and increasing the number of physicians in practice through graduate medical education programs for medical students and resident physicians. SBCMS is the regional arm of the mega-powerful California Medical Association (CMA), and its mission is simple: promote the science and art of medicine, protection of public health, the betterment of the medical profession and achievement of health equity. SBCMS and CMA, with over 50,000 physician members, provide comprehensive practice tools, services and support including legislative, legal, regulatory, economic and social advocacy. Together these organizations deliver advocacy outreach and solutions for physicians, including every size of practice and specialty. After graduating with a B.A. in political science from USC, Alison worked for U.S. Senator Pete Wilson in Washington, D.C. and California Governor Pete Wilson in the Sacramento, prior to leading two non-profits and launching her own public relations firm. She currently lives in Palm Springs, California. Combining extensive political and legislative experience with financial management, public a airs and community relations backgrounds, Alison is honored to represent the advancement of policies that empower physicians to thrive in practice, especially during a period of increased physician shortages and the need to ensure equity and access in patient care. Alison Elsner Chief Executive O¬cer (CEO) San Bernardino County Medical Society 1859 W. Redlands Blvd. Redlands, CA 92373 (760) 413-5053-cell/work aelsner@sbcms.org www.sbcms.org CLAUDIA CASTORENA Galilee Center CFO/Cofounder Making A Di erence For 16 years, Galilee Center has been a place of hope for individuals and families throughout the East Coachella Valley. Every week, we provide nutritious food baskets, emergency assistance, senior support services, diapers, infant formula, and other essential resources that help families navigate di¬cult times with dignity. The strength of our organization comes from the compassion of our sta, volunteers, donors, and community partners. I am honored to be part of the important work we do every day at Galilee Center. CHELSEA CLARK 4 ShayJ Foundation Chief Operating Officer Making A Di erence As Chief Operating O¬cer of the 4ShayJ Foundation, I am dedicated to preventing head injuries and saving lives through helmet safety education. Founded in memory of my brother, Shaun “ShayJ” Clark Jr., our organization has provided more than 50,000 helmets to children and educated hundreds of thousands of students across the Coachella Valley and beyond. Seeing children leave our assemblies with life-saving knowledge and properly fitted helmets is what drives me everyday. My goal is to ensure every child has access to the protection they need to ride safely and confidently. CHRIS CLEMENS Clemens & Co. President Making A Di erence Chris Clemens is a 22-year marketing and public relations veteran. Many of her clients are in the nonprofit sector serving audiences in a variety of capacities from the arts, education, healthcare, and special needs. In addition, in 2021 she founded Coachella Valley Cat Club, a nonprofit 501c3, a cat rescue and rehoming organization. She provides comprehensive marketing services to help clients with branding, strategic planning, media relations, social media, event planning, community partnerships and sponsorships, and acts as an extension of her clients by attending local events and representing them. ANGELINA COE Shelter From the Storm Executive Director Making A Di erence For 30 years, I have dedicated my career to helping survivors find safety, healing, and hope. Nearly 15 years ago, I joined Shelter From The Storm, Inc. (SFTS), where I have witnessed the life-changing impact of compassion, advocacy, and community. I believe every survivor deserves the opportunity to reclaim their voice, rebuild their future, and live free from violence. Sometimes all it takes is entering a person’s moment with compassion to help change the course of a lifetime. MICHELLE COHEN Mitch-Stuart, Inc. President and Co-Founder Making A Di erence Michelle Cohen has helped shape modern nonprofit fundraising by pioneering innovative travel and loyalty-based giving strategies that have generated more than a billion dollars for charitable organizations. Alongside Stuart Paskow, she co-created the nation’s first frequent giving program, opening new opportunities for donor engagement through travel rewards. She also played a key role in developing and consulting on the American Airlines AAdvantage® Fundraising program, with additional work supporting similar initiatives across the airline industry. Today, Michelle continues to help nonprofits strengthen donor participation and fundraising results through strategic, experience-driven travel programs at Mitch-Stuart, Inc. DR. ANGELA COLEMAN Guide Dogs of the Desert Director of Medical and Canine Development Making A Di erence As Medical Director at Guide Dogs of the Desert, Dr. Angela Coleman is dedicated to improving lives by helping provide expertly trained guide dogs that empower individuals who are blind or visually impaired to live with greater independence and confidence. Her leadership and compassion support the organization’s mission while ensuring the highest standards of care for every dog throughout its journey. Through collaboration with sta, volunteers, puppy raisers, and supporters, Dr. Coleman helps create lasting partnerships that transform lives, strengthen our community, and demonstrate the incredible impact of service, accessibility, and human-animal connection.
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