The 18th Annual Celebration will Recognize the Community’s Most Outstanding Philanthropists, Volunteers, and Nonprofit Professionals
– The Association of Fundraising Professionals CA Desert Communities Chapter (AFP) is proud to recognize and celebrate seven honorees who are changing the world with a giving heart this Friday, November 1st. The 18th Annual National Philanthropy Day Awards luncheon will be emceed by Patrick Evans, KESQ’s Chief Meteorologist.
“This year’s sold-out event will recognize seven exceptional philanthropists and volunteers who give so generously to countless Coachella Valley nonprofit organizations,” shared James Lindquist, AFP Board President. “We look forward to celebrating these incredible honorees whose passion, dedication, and efforts have greatly impacted the Coachella Valley.”
When: Friday, November 1, 2024
10:30am-11:30am – Social Hour and Networking
11:00am – Ballroom Doors Open
11:30am – Program and Luncheon Begin Promptly
Where: Agua Caliente Resort Casino, Cahuilla Ballroom, 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA
The 2024 National Philanthropy Day Awards Honorees:
Lifetime Achievement Award: Edeltraud M. McCarthy
Edeltraud “Edie” M. McCarthy has profoundly changed the landscape of philanthropy across the Coachella Valley. Her steadfast generosity, coupled with her poise and dedication has left an impressive legacy of supporting so many nonprofit organizations including the College of the Desert McCarthy Family Child Development and Training Center, Loma Linda University Health’s Neuropathic Therapy Center, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, McCallum Theatre, Desert Arc, Palm Springs Art Museum, Coachella Valley Rescue Mission, Olive Crest, among many others.
Outstanding Philanthropist: Bobbi Lampros
An unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of those around her fuels Bobbi Lampros’ generosity. For Bobbi, a heartfelt passion for giving back that began at an early age now extends across numerous organizations across the Coachella Valley including AAP Food Samaritans, DesertArc, DAP Health, McCallum Theatre, and Oak Grove Sanctuary Palm Springs, among many others.
Outstanding Fundraising Professional: Josh N. Zahid
As Senior Development Officer and Guild Liaison for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Foundation, Josh N. Zahid is dedicated to raising funds to support providing critical healthcare to children in Southern California. His successful fundraising career is rooted in his dedication for helping others and commitment to helping donors find the causes they’re most passionate about.
Outstanding Nonprofit Founder: Sheila Thornton
A visionary and transformational leader, Sheila Thornton is dedicated to ensuring that all Coachella Valley students succeed in college, career, and in life. As the President and CEO of OneFuture Coachella Valley, Sheila is transforming lives, strengthening the community, and building economic prosperity throughout the Coachella Valley.
Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation: Desert Oasis Healthcare
Desert Oasis Healthcare’s unique approach to philanthropy is transforming the Coachella Valley. Through generous financial support, strategic partnerships, and employee engagement, Desert Oasis Healthcare is amplifying the important impact of over two dozen nonprofits throughout the Coachella Valley including Alzheimer’s Coachella Valley, American Heart Association, Desert Cancer Foundation, FIND Food Bank, Joslyn Center, LifeStream BloodBank, Mizell Center, and Women Leaders Forum.
Outstanding Fundraising Volunteer: Dick Shalhoub
Dick Shalhoub’s impressive entrepreneurial career, steadfast service to others, and exceptional dedication to our community has undoubtedly created a legacy of generosity and community impact. Dick is the owner of 31 McDonald’s restaurants throughout the Coachella Valley and Inland Empire and is well-known for his service and generosity to many Coachella Valley nonprofits including the Palm Springs Air Museum, Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center, The Living Desert, and Dogs for our Brave, among many others.
Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy: Brooke Jennings
With a passion for helping others, Brooke Jennings is spreading joy and helping children create the next best chapter of their lives through her organization, The Chapter Foundation. With projects supporting Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, Mama’s House, and the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission, this local teen’s giving spirit is making a difference for children in need.
