Page 47 Desert Charities News – www.desertcharities.com • www.dcnnews.com October/November/December 2026 www.dcnnews.com for local students to pursue their educational goals. None of this would be possible without the generosity of our donors and the continued support of our community. Being recognized as the 2026 Philanthropic Organization of the Year is an incredible honor that reinforces our commitment to investing in the future of our local youth,” he added. The Foundation’s next scholarship application period is scheduled to open in December 2026, giving another group of students the opportunity to receive financial support. Dr. Carreón Foundation continued from page 5 American Red Cross continued from page10 Benefit Films continued from page11 Amy’s Purpose continued from page 41 at avery.bell4@redcross.org or 760-422-9754. You can also visit redcross.org to make a financial donation and learn how your support helps people in need. GIVE BLOOD OR HOST A BLOOD DRIVE: Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Now, blood donation is more inclusive due to changes to the Food and Drug Administration’s guidelines on donor eligibility. To schedule an appointment or learn about hosting a blood drive, visit RedCrossBlood.org. GET TRAINED: Be ready to help when it matters most. The Red Cross offers courses in CPR, AED, first aid and other lifesaving skills. Find a class at redcross. org/TakeAClass. Compassion in action starts with you. Together, we can make a difference. people with a feeling of hope. I listen, collaborate and look for creative ways to ensure every project reflects your mission, strategic goals and brand while helping increase awareness, engagement and support. Benefit Films is offering complimentary creative consultations to nonprofit organizations interested in discovering how video can help accomplish their mission. If your nonprofit needs to raise funds, promote an event, build community awareness, attract volunteers—or simply let someone in need know that you are there to help—we can help tell that story. We live here. We work here. We contribute here. Let us tell your story. Benefit Films, www.benefitfilms.org, arnie@benefitfilms.org, 843-817-7771 qualified candidates. Therefore, Amy’s Purpose is dedicated to protecting pets through public safety awareness education programs and empowering future veterinary professionals through educational scholarships, helping to rectify the current emergency veterinary care crisis – saving the lives of pets and enhancing the lives of humans. “We look forward to continuing to fill this dire need in the valley for animal care,” said founder and President of Amy’s Purpose DeAnn Lubell. “To date, we have been able to award 40 full scholarships, while also educating the community about predator safety.” Amy’s Purpose is more than an organization – it is a promise. A promise to protect the animals we love, and to invest in the people who care for them. The event takes place on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Agua Caliente Resort, Spa, and Casino in Rancho Mirage. Reception 4:30-5:30 – Dinner and Show 5:30- 8:30 PM. Chairs Elaine Church and David Sullivan, along with co-chairs Jo Ann Horwitz and Linda Williamson, bring this spectacular event to life with Fashion Show Producer Mara Brown at the creative helm and Patrick Evans as Master of Ceremonies. For single reservations at $195 each, please go to www.amyspurpose.net to order tickets. To reserve VIP tables, please call Mary Steele at 760-880-0299. Local businessman and philanthropist Dick Shalhoub has dedicated more than four decades to strengthening the Coachella Valley and helping local nonprofits thrive. As the longtime owner and operator of more than 30 regional McDonald’s restaurants, Dick built an impressive business legacy matched by an equally enduring commitment to giving back through his time, resources, leadership, and expertise. Over the years, Dick has served in leadership roles with nearly 30 organizations, sharing his experience in operations, finance, marketing, and strategic planning. His community involvement has included FIND Food Bank, the Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center, Dogs for Our Brave, and the Palm Springs Air Museum. Among the many organizations Dick has supported, his connection to Hanson House Foundation is especially meaningful. Dick believed in the Hanson House vision before our doors even opened, supporting the dream of creating a true home away from home for families facing critical medical journeys. Now, 23 years later, Dick continues to stand behind our mission and the families we serve. We are proud to recognize Dick Shalhoub, Business and Philanthropic Leader Award Honoree, at Hanson House Foundation’s 23rd Annual Gala, An Evening at COPA: Where Rhythm Meets Philanthropy—celebrating a remarkable legacy of leadership, generosity, and service that continues to move our community forward. www.hansonhouse.org 23rd Annual Gala AN EVENING AT COPA WHERE RHYTHM MEETS PHILANTHROPY Dick Shalhoub
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