Five people and one local organization were honored Friday at an awards luncheon for their “spirit of philanthropy in the Coachella Valley” in honor of National Philanthropy Day.
“Each year, National Philanthropy Day offers the opportunity to celebrate those who exemplify the event’s theme of changing the word with a giving heart,” Kristin Bloomer, National Philanthropy Day event chair, said. “This year’s honorees reflect the generosity of a giving heart, not only through financial support, but also with their actions, time and passionate commitment to causes that improve the lives of many here in our valley.”
The Desert Communities Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals honored the following locals during the event at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa in Rancho Mirage:
— Angie Gerber received “Philanthropist” for her role in developing and launching FightChildAbuse.org and her support of numerous organizations, including College of the Desert and Eisenhower Health;
— Dona Nixon received “Fundraising Volunteer” for her position as board member at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and fundraising efforts for Big Hearts for Little Hearts Desert Guild;
— Rachel Druten was honored with “Nonprofit Founder” for founding Tools for Saturday, a nonprofit arts literacy program that offers Coachella Valley students exposure to drama, creative writing, music, and arts;
— Heidi Maldoon, an executive director of Variety Children’s Charity of the Desert, was honored with “Fundraising Professional” for expanding services for children with special needs and for helping the organization receive the recognition as a Certified Autism Center;
— Dior Halum, founder of Little Hearts for Little Hearts was honored with “Youth in Philanthropy”; and
— The Roost Lounge and it’s nonprofit arm, the Roost Foundation received “Philanthropic Organization.”