www.wlfdesert.org www.goodvibessoundbath.com Twenty-five years ago, Women Leaders Forum (WLF) founder Mary T. Roche had a vision: create a forum where women could gather, connect and grow as leaders. She believed empowering women empower women, and that simple, powerful truth has been the north star of this non-profit organization. WLF is where like-minded professional women work together to make a difference in the community. From preparing the next generation of leaders to honoring trailblazers throughout the valley, WLF is proud of every sponsor, donor, volunteer and member who makes our goals possible. Everything we accomplish is the direct result of the passionate and dedicated individuals who work behind the scenes. WLF’s success is the direct result of community leaders committed to leading with intention and excellence. It’s women from different backgrounds empowering one another and forging deep friendships as they pay it forward to the next generation through the Young Women Leaders educational scholarship program. This year, WLF proudly awarded 27 scholarships to local high school seniors at the 13th annual Women Who Rule Awards and Scholarship Luncheon. Program graduates hail from Palm Desert, Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Desert Mirage, Shadow Hills, Indio, Desert Hot Springs and La Quinta. This fall, these bright scholars will fulfill their academic dreams as they head to College of the Desert, UC San Diego, UC Riverside, UC Santa Barbara, San Diego State University, CSU Long Beach, CSU San Bernardino, CSU San Marcos, CSU Los Angeles, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Grand Canyon University, Virginia Military Institute and Delaware County Community College. We are grateful to our sponsors, donors and mentors for their contributions, time and resources. These students represent the future of the Coachella Valley, and to say we are proud of their accomplishments is an understatement. Whether you are new to the valley, seeking network opportunities or looking to give back, we invite you to consider WLF membership. Not only is this a wonderful organization to connect with like-minded women from all backgrounds, but programming also helps you to grow as a leader, support other women and make a lasting impact in the community. As a non-profit organization, WLF is fully supported by volunteers. We are currently planning our 2026-27 season and looking for individuals who can lend their expertise in grant writing, sponsorship, event programming and mentoring our young women leaders. Our board and committees are already planning an exciting season. Watch for our Happy 2 Hours event in August and season opener in September. On behalf of the entire WLF organization, thank you for 25 extraordinary years. Here's to the next exciting chapter together! Vikki Dorsey is the incoming president of Women Leaders Forum for the 2026-2027 season. For more information on how you can get involved, email info@wlfdesert.org or visit www.wlfdesert.org. www.DesertHealthNews.com July/August 2026 Desert Events The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 22 The Shops at Palm Desert is hosting its third annual Wellness Day at The Shops, August 8, from 3–6 p.m. The festive afternoon, dedicated to health, beauty, fitness and living well, presents the opportunity to meet local health and wellness practitioners, learn tips to thrive, try new modalities, take part in activities and win valuable prizes. Wellness vendor fair. Discover a wide range of healthfocused products, services and resources from local wellness businesses, organizations (including many you see inDesert Health) and in-center retailers. Enjoy samples, special offers, activities, information and insights related to medical resources, holistic wellness and more. Special guest speaker. Enjoy a complimentary presentation by integrative primary care physician Edith Jones-Poland, MD, entitled, “How Food Speaks to Your Body.” What does that apple tell your DNA? How about that cookie? In this inspiring and informative presentation, Dr. Jones-Poland will discuss how food directly affects your body at the cellular level, with take-home tips to help you live your best life. The 30-minute presentation will be followed by a Q&A period to answer your questions. Step and spin challenge. Guests can receive a free pedometer (while supplies last), track their steps during the event and earn a chance to spin the prize wheel for fun gifts from The Shops stores, including books, accessories, apparel and more. Passport prizes. Pick up your Wellness Day Passport at the registration table and collect stamps from participating vendors for a chance to win one of three abundant gift baskets. Enjoy upbeat music with a live DJ and stop by the photo booth for free printed photos to capture memories. Wellness Day at The Shops is free to attend and open to the community. Bring your family, invite a friend and enjoy an afternoon focused on feeling good, learning something new and connecting with local wellness resources. Register for the event to be entered into the grand prize drawing for a one-year gym membership from PURFIT Athletic! One lucky winner will be randomly selected from all registered attendees and announced on Monday, August 10. Walk-ins are also welcome! To learn more and register for Wellness Day, visit www.shopsatpalmdesert.com/events. To request a vendor application, participation fee and setup details, please email Nayyan Chandler, Marketing and Business Development Manager at The Shops, at nchandler@shopsatpalmdesert.com. Be a Part of Wellness Day at The Shops A cool way to meet, learn, participate and win! WLF offers members community, philanthropy and education. WLF Celebrates 25 Years of Making an Impact By Vikki Dorsey Guest Speaker Edith JonesPoland, MD The vendor fair will feature many local medical and wellness businesses. Celebrating 25 Years ;eľ Enŗolŗed ÷n ¥V: With the support of our sponsors and donors,... Thank you for a wonderful season! Our team will be busy behind the scenes laying the groundwork for another exciting season. We are looking for members who want to join a committee and help shape what’s ahead. Subscribe to our newsletter to learn more about WLF, our events, and how to get involved at www.wlfdesert.org ...we awarded $52,000 in scholarships to 27 high school students in the Coachella Valley. Twenty-seven young women are heading off to colleges across the country, carrying with them the encouragement, mentorship, and support of this community. We thank all who were able to join us.
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