WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY - PAGE 14 DESERT CHARITIES NEWS PAMELA “PAM” ERWIN Pamela “Pam” Erwin’s commitment to philanthropy is rooted in a belief that strong communities are built when people contribute whatever they can — whether time, expertise, or financial support. Her relationship with DAP Health has taken many forms, beginning as a grant maker with the Wells Fargo Foundation and continuing as a donor through 100 Women and as a volunteer. When she arrived in the desert in 1999, she quickly recognized DAP Health’s leadership in HIV services and treatment and the essential role its groundbreaking work played in the region. Throughout her career, Erwin has focused especially on health care and education for women and children. During 20 years with the Wells Fargo Foundation, nonprofit site visits showed her firsthand the significant gaps between community needs and available funding, particularly in rural areas. As Senior Vice President of the Foundation, she led national philanthropic e orts supporting pre-K–12 education and community health and created Wells Fargo’s Hands on Banking financial literacy program. Locally, Erwin helped design and launch what is now the Foundation for the Palm Springs Unified School District and served as its first board president. The organization supports classroom teachers, school wellness centers, and STEM, arts, and music programs. For Erwin, philanthropy means creating sustainable e orts that endure. Her advice to other women is simple: Find organizations that matter to you, participate in whatever way you can, and invite others to join — because every contribution counts. Pamela “Pam” Erwin Partner for Life & Volunteer DAP Health pgebikerun@gmail.com www.daphealth.org SPOTLIGHT SAMANTHA TWEDDELL United Cerebral Palsy of the Inland Empire Director of Donor Development Making A Di erence My entire career has been dedicated to nonprofit work, driven by a passion for helping people and strengthening communities. As Director of Donor Development at United Cerebral Palsy of the Inland Empire, I connect donors and community partners with our mission of empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live a life without limits. Philanthropy creates opportunities, fosters inclusion, and transforms lives. I am honored to support an organization that makes such a meaningful impact and grateful to work alongside donors, advocates, and colleagues who share a commitment to creating positive change every day. MARSHA UUTELA California Indian Nations College Director of Tribal Relations & Resource Development Making A Di erence As Director of Tribal Relations & Resource Development at California Indian Nations College, I work to strengthen relationships with Tribal Nations, community organizations, educational partners, and philanthropic supporters to expand opportunities for Native students. Since assuming this role in January 2026, I have focused on building partnerships that support student success, workforce development, cultural preservation, and access to higher education. I am honored to help advance California’s only accredited Tribal College and to work alongside community leaders who are committed to creating lasting educational opportunities for future generations. CALISTA VASSIOS Calista Vassios Consulting Making A Di erence 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. On the Board of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and as 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. REV JANE VOIGTS United Methodist Church of Palm Springs Pastor Making A Di erence Pastor Jane is thrilled to be serving in her ninth year as pastor of the United Methodist Church! As she says every Sunday, “UMCPS is all about connecting, making a dierence, and bringing God’s Party to our needful world.” Her congregation seeks to love others and engender authentic joy. Currently UMCPS is beginning a process of constructing aordable senior housing on its campus, feeding hungry people in its Fellowship Hall several times a week, regularly engaging with veterans at Veterans Village in Cathedral City, hosting a “Christian Club” at Raymond Cree Junior High, and participating with the local LGBTQ community in a variety of ways. Plus, new God Parties are on their way! LEXI WARD The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens Major Gifts Officer Making A Di erence I have the privilege of connecting passionate supporters with opportunities to make a meaningful impact. Through building relationships with donors, I help advance conservation, education, and community engagement eorts that inspire people and protect the natural world. Every gift secured helps create experiences that connect generations to wildlife, foster a deeper appreciation for our desert and the plants and animals that call it home, and support The Living Desert as a treasured gem in our community. Together, we can continue growing its mission, preserving its legacy, and making a dierence for our community and beyond. PAM WEEKLEY Pam Weekley & Associates Owner Making A Di erence Over the last 45 years, Pam Weekley has built a prosperous Accounting career . While her firm is very successful in all facets of accounting, she has chosen to use her financial expertise to uplift the missions of nonprofits. Whether preparing financial statements, ensuring IRS compliance, or developing sustainable budgets, Pam brings clarity and accountability to organizations that are too often under-resourced. Outside of the o¬ce, Pam is a committed volunteer, serving on the board of Loving All Animals. Rather than seeing financial work as purely transactional, Pam views accounting as a form of service: a way to empower organizations to grow, fulfill their missions, and make a measurable dierence in their communities.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjA1MjUy