National Philanthropy Day in the Desert Honors Local Humanitarians
October 22, 2024 | Story by Erin Scott, Palm Springs Life
The event, hosted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals CA Desert Communities Chapter honors those who change the world with a giving heart.
The philanthropic spirit is alive and well within the Coachella Valley, manifesting through volunteering time, the sharing of expertise, and donation of resources to advance important causes and initiatives.
On Nov. 1, at the 18th annual National Philanthropy Day in the Desert awards luncheon, the CA Desert Communities Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) will recognize seven community heroes for their generosity, purposeful philanthropy, and impactful contributions to our region.
Since 2007, the AFP has recognized 98 individuals and organizations, spotlighting those who are dedicated to improving the quality of life for Coachella Valley residents. Congratulations to the 2024 honorees.
Dick Shalhoub
Outstanding Fundraising Volunteer
Local businessman Dick Shalhoub has a passion for helping local nonprofits thrive. As the owner-operator of more than 30 regional McDonald’s restaurants, Shalhoub’s legacy of community impact spans more than 40 years.
“You want to be part of that old adage, ‘the fabric of our community,’ ensuring you share your resources, whether its financial, time, or skills, so that you can help create change and improve the lives of others,” he shares.
Serving in a leadership capacity for close to 30 organizations in the Coachella Valley area, Shalhoub shares his business insights and expertise in areas of operations, finance, marketing, and strategic planning for organizations including FIND Food Bank, the Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, and many others. He serves on the board of directors for the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center, Dogs for Our Brave, and Palm Springs Air Museum.
Desert Oasis Healthcare
Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation
For more than four decades, Desert Oasis Healthcare (DOHC) has gone above and beyond in its service to the community. As a doctor-owned medical group serving 60,000 members, DOHC is not only committed to improving the health and well-being of its members, but it also supports more than two dozen nonprofits that work to help desert residents live healthy and fulfilling lives.
DOHC’s commitment to the Coachella Valley includes employee volunteerism, in-kind services, and financial support for organizations including the Alzheimer’s Association, American Heart Association, Boys and Girls Clubs, Coachella Valley Rescue Mission, Desert Cancer Foundation, FIND Food Bank, and Joslyn Center, among others.
“There are so many deserving nonprofits that are supporting our community, and DOHC is proud to partner with organizations that are helping us build a healthier community,” says Dr. Marc Hoffing, medical director of Desert Oasis Healthcare.
Bobbi Lampros
Outstanding Philanthropist
An unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of those around her motivates Bobbi Lampros’ quiet generosity. Her drive to give, which began at an early age, now extends across numerous Coachella Valley nonprofits, including Desert Arc, DAP Health, McCallum Theatre, and SafeHouse of the Desert. Her innovative and collaborative approach to philanthropy is exemplified in her role as Giving Sponsor for Fashion Week El Paseo, affording numerous organizations vital exposure, a platform to share their missions, and financial support.
Lampros’ heartfelt passion, dedication, and giving spirit have transformed many local nonprofit organizations, and for her: “There’s a magic to giving back,” she says. “It can really become addictive. That simple moment of giving is so wonderful. I encourage everyone to find a way to give back.”
Edeltraud M. McCarthy
Lifetime Achievement Award
The inaugural recipient of the National Philanthropy Day Lifetime Achievement Award, Edeltraud “Edie” M. McCarthy has profoundly changed the philanthropic landscape of the Coachella Valley.
Her calling to help others, ignited as a young girl volunteering at a hospital in Germany, has grown into an extraordinary legacy of support for numerous nonprofit organizations, including Loma Linda University Health’s Neuropathic Therapy Center, Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, McCallum Theatre, Desert Arc, Palm Springs Art Museum, Coachella Valley Rescue Mission, and Olive Crest.
McCarthy and her late husband, Patrick, established the College of the Desert’s McCarthy Family Child Development & Training Center. Together, they were recognized as Outstanding Philanthropists at National Philanthropy Day in the Desert in 2014. “Giving back is very close to my heart,” McCarthy shares. “I’m continuously inspired to give when I see the impact and how it truly helps people. I encourage others to pick a charity to support and then watch their path. When you see their success, you want to stay involved.”
Sheila Thornton
Outstanding Nonprofit Founder
As the CEO and president of OneFuture Coachella Valley, Sheila Thornton knows that the economic success of young people depends on access to education.
OneFuture strives to empower students as they enter the workforce by offering critical support in the form of scholarships, mentorship, internships, and connections to employment. This comprehensive assistance ensures their educational success, breaks the cycle of poverty and strengthens the economy.
“The work OneFuture does affects the entire region,” Thornton says. “The power of OneFuture and our partners working together is really evident in the results — $17 million in scholarships, 1,165 bachelor’s degrees, 488 associate degrees, 171 master’s degrees, 17 doctoral degrees, and 87 certificates. Today, thousands of Coachella Valley students are on the path to success in college, career, and life.”
Thornton’s leadership supports a network of stakeholders from the region’s three school districts, higher education institutions, nonprofit organizations, and businesses to implement the Coachella Valley Regional Plan for College and Career Success. The plan outlines a series of ambitious goals that empower young people, helping them reach their full potential; achieve their education, economic, and career aspirations; and contribute their talents to the Coachella Valley and beyond.
“When our youth succeed,” Thornton emphasizes, “our community thrives.”
Brooke Jennings
Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy
At 15 years old, high school student Brooke Jennings is brightening the lives of sick and underserved children through simple acts of kindness. She established the nonprofit The Chapter Foundation, inspiring friends and classmates to join her efforts. Together, they support patients at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital by handwriting cards and making gifts, and they organize clothing drives for the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission.
“With simple acts, I knew that we could make a difference in the lives of the kids we’re helping,” Jennings says. “Our goal with The Chapter Foundation is to help bring a smile and hope to underserved youth and women with small children in homeless shelters and hospitals.”
Josh N. Zahid
Outstanding Fundraising Professional
As the senior development officer and guild liaison for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Foundation, Josh N. Zahid is a tireless and dynamic fundraising professional dedicated to bringing essential healthcare services to children in our community. One of his most notable achievements was leading the $6 million fundraising campaign that established the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Indio clinic.
With strong values and a spirit of optimism, Zahid also dedicates countless hours to furthering the mission of the AFP’s CA Desert Communities Chapter as the immediate past president and current co-chair of National Philanthropy Day in the Desert.
Zahid’s work and dedication to giving back appear to be second nature. “I was taught by my amazing parents and grandparents,” he says. “They were always helping others in need, so it really became part of me. You went to school, did your homework, spent time with your family, and then, at the end of the day, you gave back to someone else or supported a charity. It is something that I’ll continue to do for the rest of my life.”