JOANN WELLNER Palm Springs International Piano Competition Vice President, Board of Directors Making A Di erence JoAnn Wellner is a dedicated philanthropist whose generosity and leadership span both coasts. A longtime supporter of medical and arts organizations in New York, JoAnn brings that same commitment to the Palm Springs community, where she resides each winter. As Vice President of the Board of the Palm Springs International Piano Competition, she plays an active role in advancing the organization’s mission and expanding its philanthropic reach. Each March, JoAnn chairs PSIPC’s Annual Benefit, bringing together community leaders and supporters to raise critical funds while celebrating the transformative power of music and the arts. MICHELLE COHEN Michelle Cohen has helped redefine the way nonprofits raise funds by combining innovation, strategic thinking, and unforgettable travel experiences. As co-founder of Mitch-Stuart, Michelle has spent decades helping charitable organizations maximize fundraising results through one-of-a-kind travel packages that inspire generous bidding while creating lifelong memories for donors. Alongside Stuart Paskow, Michelle helped pioneer the nation’s first frequent flyer fundraising program through the American Airlines AAdvantage® Fundraising program, an innovative concept that opened new possibilities for charitable giving. Their expertise has since helped thousands of nonprofits strengthen fundraising events with carefully curated travel experiences that consistently generate excitement and exceptional auction results. Under Michelle’s leadership, Mitch-Stuart has built a reputation for o ering an extensive portfolio of exclusive travel packages designed to appeal to virtually every interest and budget. Whether it’s teeing o on the legendary courses of St. Andrews, enjoying a farm-to-table pasta-making class with wine pairings in Florence, cruising through the Galápagos Islands, embarking on a night safari in Singapore, experiencing the magic of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting, escaping to a private island jungle home complete with a personal chef and sta , or staying in a four-bedroom home on a traditional working sheep farm in Ireland with an authentic whiskey tasting, each experience is thoughtfully selected to create memorable moments while helping nonprofits achieve their fundraising goals with no-risk packages where no money is paid unless the item sells. Michelle’s vision has demonstrated that the right travel experience is more than a vacation. It becomes a powerful fundraising tool that connects donors with meaningful causes while creating lasting impact for organizations and the communities they serve. Michelle Cohen, President Mitch-Stuart Inc. 29982 Ivy Glenn Drive Suite 200 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 (800) 574-9991 mcohen@mitchstuart.com www.mitchstuart.com WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY - PAGE 15 DESERT CHARITIES NEWS SPOTLIGHT LORI WEINER California Paws Rescue Founder / President Making A Di erence CPR is the largest bull terrier rescue in the country, located here in Palm Desert. With the amount of dogs always being house is around 50-55. We average 10-12 adoptions per month. We adopt all over the US and Canada. We pull dogs o the euthanasia list from everywhere in Southern California. Nutrition is important as well and I am a certified small animal nutritionist. We provide water therapy for injured animals we bring in as well. This is my passion in rescuing these lives. CORTNEY WEIR The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens Senior Manager of Development Making A Di erence The Coachella Valley is an incredibly philanthropic and socially connected place. Living here for over 31 years has allowed me to be a catalyst for positive change for so many worthy causes and missions, as both a volunteer and sta person. At The Living Desert, I have found a way to champion my love for animals, conservation and advocacy as we educate our local population and worldwide guests about the role each of us can play in preserving precious ecosystems and communities. Making a dierence is something we can all do for the betterment of our neighbors, our valley and our planet. JUDY WEXLER Coachella Valley Has Sole Founder Making A Di erence Coachella Valley Has Sole is making a dierence by providing quality shoes to people in need. We give new sneakers to Desert Hot Springs students for every day wear, but also to give them the opportunity to participate in sports. We also donate shoes to the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission to help families get back on their feet, and Well in the Desert to provide quality footwear for the homeless population. The joy of new shoes transforms their confidence and positive attitude. When we lead with positivity and generosity, the ripple eect of happiness is endless. MARIA WREN Palm Springs Air Museum Education Programs Manager Making A Di erence For the past 16 years, Maria Wren has dedicated herself to creating transformative opportunities for Coachella Valley youth. Currently serving as the Education Programs Manager at the Palm Springs Air Museum, she combines her extensive background as a STEM educator, NASA Solar System Ambassador, and passionate youth advocate. By introducing students to the inspiring world of aerospace, Maria actively breaks down barriers and expands horizons. Her impactful work empowers local children to discover their unique potential and envision rewarding future careers they might otherwise have never imagined for themselves. MARY WILLIS YOSHIOKA Big Hearts For Little Hearts President Making A Di erence Supporting Big Hearts for Little Hearts is deeply meaningful to me because it allows me to help improve the lives of children and families served by Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. As we celebrate our 25th year, I am proud to be part of an organization that has made a lasting impact through fundraising, advocacy, and community support. Every eort helps provide critical resources, advanced care, and hope for young patients facing serious health challenges. Together, we are making a dierence by helping children receive the care they need and deserve for a healthier future.
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