by Madeline Zuckerman
All humanitarian work performed charitably is considered philanthropy. For many, humanitarian efforts are seasonal, with their efforts being interrupted by life’s responsibilities. Then there are those select few who cross paths with an organization or a cause that resonates so deeply within them, that it completely alters them and their life’s journey. For Palm Desert resident Nancy Singer, Desert Arc’s mission would become her lodestone, and she would become a rock upon which the organization could anchor itself.
“Desert Arc is very close to my heart and has been for over 17 years,” states Nancy. “My inspiration for getting involved so many years ago with Desert Arc is my beloved niece, Erica Davis–Popely, who was diagnosed at three days old with Down Syndrome.”
In 2004, Nancy crossed paths with Tina Lopez while playing bridge at Mission Hills Country Club. Tina had a son who was a client of Desert Arc, and she herself was serving on the Board of Desert Arc at the time. As the ladies chatted, Tina became aware of Nancy’s passion for helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Tina invited Nancy to join a group of volunteers who were involved with Desert Arc. Nancy certainly made an impression on Tina, because without Nancy’s knowledge, Tina submitted Nancy’s name for consideration for a Board position with the organization. Nancy was immediately elected to the Board, and this was the beginning of a 17 plus year run as a loyal and devoted volunteer of Desert Arc!
Without children of her own, her brother’s children are dear to Nancy’s heart, and she has a special closeness with her niece Erica. “When Erica was diagnosed with Down Syndrome, my brother and sister-in-law, my parents, and I enrolled in classes to educate and learn treatments – the five of us were incredibly involved with Erica, and she often refers to me as her second mom.”
Erica Davis-Popely met her husband, Benjamin Popely, a high-functioning autistic gentleman, at a dance for people with disabilities in 2007. Three years later they were married. Ten years later, and still madly in love, the Orange County-based couple find work in their community through programs like Desert Arc.
Over the years, Singer has held every Officer position on the Desert Arc Board, including Board Chair, from which she has had a comprehensive view of the entirety of Desert Arc’s operations. She celebrates Desert Arc’s current leadership for its competency, and the professionalism of the organization’s staff.
“Nancy is a passionate, tireless advocate and exemplary volunteer fundraiser in support of Desert Arc’s mission of serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” states Richard Balocco, President/CEO of Desert Arc. “As a longtime Board Member and Chair of the Development Committee, Nancy was instrumental in the launch of Desert Arc’s well-known “Champions of Change” Recognition Awards Luncheon. We are very appreciative and very lucky to have such an amazing volunteer working to benefit our organization.”
