WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY - PAGE 4 DESERT CHARITIES NEWS SPOTLIGHT PAULA SIMONDS For Paula Simonds, philanthropy has never simply been about fundraising, it has been about people, purpose, creating places where community feels supported, valued and cared about. With more than 25 years in nonprofit leadership across the Coachella Valley, Paula has dedicated her career to strengthening organizations that serve families, children, seniors, caregivers and individuals facing some of life’s greatest challenges. Currently serving as Executive Director of Alzheimers Coachella Valley (ACV), Paula leads with a belief that compassion and connection are just as important as programs and services. Her work focuses on expanding awareness, support, education and hope for individuals living with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and related cognitive conditions, while also uplifting the caregivers who walk beside them everyday. Known for her heart-centered leadership style and her CARES leadership philosophy: Clarity, Accountability, Respect, Energy, and Standards, Paula believes the most meaningful philanthropy happens when organizations work together to build healthier, more connected communities. A longtime advocate for collaboration, Paula continues to to inspire others through her commitment to service, leadership, and the belief that every person deserves dignity, support and the opportunity to thrive. She is grateful for the opportunity to be involved with ACV where what was once a vision by founders Dominick Calvano, Pat Kaplan and Edie Keller demonstrates that belief to best serve our community can and has become a reality. Paula Simonds Alzheimers Coachella Valley Executive Director 75105 Merle Dr., Suite 800, Palm Desert, CA 92211 O¬ce (760) 776-3100 Cell (760) 219-3762 paula@cvalzheimers.org www. cvalzheimers.org MARIA CROSS Desert Town Hall Chief Operating Officer Making A Di erence One of the most meaningful aspects of my work is helping bring people together through a lecture series that informs, inspires, and encourages thoughtful conversation. Desert Town Hall provides our community with the opportunity to hear directly from accomplished leaders, journalists, authors, and innovators, oering perspectives that broaden understanding and spark new ideas. I’m especially proud of the impact Youth Town Hall has on local students, giving them access to experiences that can inspire confidence, curiosity, and future aspirations. Seeing the positive response from both students and adult attendees reinforces the value of lifelong learning and community engagement. SOPHIA DEAN Living Free Animal Sanctuary Board President Making A Di erence As Executive Director and Board President of Living Free Animal Sanctuary, I lead with the belief that rescue is more than saving lives - it’s about restoring dignity, trust, and hope. Founded in 1980 by visionary advocate Emily Jo Beard, Living Free was built on the question, “Does this bless the animals?” a question I carry with me every day. From our no-kill adoptions to equine therapy, our sanctuary creates space for healing for those in need of a second chance. I’m proud to continue a legacy of women’s leadership in animal welfare. RENE DELL’ACQUA CHAPMAN BreatheWell Center Philanthropist Making A Di erence I was raised by philanthropic parents who taught me from a very young age that giving back to your community is important. When you make a dierence in someone’s life, you not only impact their life, you impact everyone influenced by them throughout their lifetime. For me there is nothing more rewarding than knowing that I have made a dierence in someones life. Our community oers so many opportunities to get involved. We have so many meaningful charities. It has been an honor to serve on several dierent boards over the years ALISON ELSNER San Bernardino County Medical Society CEO Making A Di erence Alison Elsner just marked her 11-year anniversary as CEO of the Medical Society, part of the California Medical Association. She considers it her “dream job,” working with 3,300 Inland Empire physician leaders 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 reform of the onerous prior authorization process and increasing the number of physicians in practice. Alison believes that it is imperative that we increase ways to ensure everyone has the ability to thrive and be healthy. MELISSA EVANS Coachella Valley Housing Coalition Operations Manager Making A Di erence My passion for serving the community is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive. Throughout my career, I have been honored to support nonprofit and community organizations through leadership, operations, and resource development, helping secure funding and strengthen programs that create lasting impact. The greatest reward is witnessing the positive dierence these eorts make in the lives of individuals and families. I am continually inspired by those dedicated to serving others and am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to building a stronger, more connected, and compassionate Coachella Valley community. TALY FANTINI Regional Access Project Foundation Director, NPO Centric Making A Di erence At NPO Centric we exist to propel our community forward. We believe in a world where no nonprofit stands alone - where leaders are equipped, organizations are resilient, and capacity is never the ceiling on impact. We partner with nonprofits toward that north star - one partnership, one organization, one breakthrough at a time. The challenges facing our nonprofit community are real. So is our collective power. Together, with our members and partners, we’re not just meeting the moment – we’re reimagining what’s possible.
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