Advocate, activist, supporter, mentor, and champion are only a few words that describe this year’s National Philanthropy Day in the Desert honorees. Their nurturing spirits combined with their abilities to secure resources and impact the most underserved communities epitomize the event’s theme: “Changing the World With a Giving Heart.”
The Desert Communities chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals CA (AFP) will recognize shining stars in six categories on Nov. 3 at its 17th annual National Philanthropy Day in the Desert. “We honor our community’s philanthropic heroes who give so generously of their time, skills, talents, and financial support,” says AFP chapter chair James Lindquist.
“Since 2007, we have paid tribute to 94 individuals and organizations whose fundraising contributions and passions have helped build vibrant and healthy communities,” adds AFP chapter president Josh N. Zahid. “We are proud to be a Ten Star Chapter and a multiyear recipient of AFP’s IDEA Champion Designation recognizing our members’ innovative development and effective fundraising campaigns for Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA).”
Here, we introduce this year’s honorees.
Outstanding Philanthropists
Mary Ann and Frank Xavier
Mary Ann and Frank Xavier’s support of Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) for more than two decades has provided unprecedented access to healthcare, medical equipment, clothing, well-check visits, dental checkups, books, teddy bears, Lego sets, and scholarships for the arts. While serving on the LLUH president’s advisory cabinet, they helped raise millions for the academic medical center’s largest campaign, Vision 2020, The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow. The couple has sought out roles supporting the McCallum Theatre, Coachella Valley Symphony, Buddy Rogers Youth Symphony, and Big Hearts for Little Hearts Desert Guild, and their fundraising efforts enabled the building of the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital outpatient clinic in Indio. Housed in the Jill and Barry Golden Pavilion, the clinic cares for more than 12,000 pediatric patients annually. “Every child deserves the chance to lead a healthy and fulfilling life,” Mary Ann says. “We are helping to provide life-saving care and advanced medical treatments to children in need.”
Outstanding Fundraising Volunteer
Lizette Vela
This local business owner has fulfilled her mission to uplift as many charities as possible over the past 30 years, all while helping families celebrate life’s special moments with Enchanted Memories and Funtastik Balloons & Party Rentals. As immediate past-president of Big Hearts for Little Hearts Desert Guild for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH), Lizette Vela secured medical care for thousands of local children. Her enthusiasm radiates in her fundraising, strategic planning, and mentorship. She supports a range of nonprofits including American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Autism Society Inland Empire, LLUCH Child Protection Services, Christopher’s Clubhouse, Coachella Valley Sexual Assault Services, Desi Strong Foundation, Family YMCA of the Desert, Olive Crest, McCallum Theatre, Mecca Family and Farm Workers Service, Suicide Prevention Walk, and Women Leaders Forum.
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