Six Coachella Valley philanthropists, volunteers, and non-profit professionals will be honored at the 19th Annual National Philanthropy Day Awards in November
– The Association of Fundraising Professionals, CA Desert Communities Chapter, proudly announced the six honorees who will be recognized at the 2025 National Philanthropy Day Awards in November. Selected from 64 nominees, this year’s honorees were unveiled at the AFP’s May 7th luncheon, which was sponsored by The Center.
“Each year, AFP is honored to recognize those in our community who give so generously through their time, expertise, and financial support, and to date we have recognized 106 individuals and organizations,” shared Cindy Burreson, AFP Board President. “This year’s honorees are shining examples of how the impact of philanthropy can extend throughout our community creating positive and lasting change.”
The 2025 National Philanthropy Day Award honorees are:
Outstanding Philanthropist: Angie Gerber
A demonstrated leader and passionate champion, Angie Gerber’s lifelong dedication to philanthropy, advocacy, and community service has enabled her to create a meaningful impact across the Coachella Valley. Her passion for supporting the arts, healthcare, and vulnerable children spans organizations including the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center, Palm Springs Art Museum, Eisenhower Health, Big Hearts for Little Hearts Desert Guild, College of the Desert, and McCallum Theatre, among others.
Outstanding Fundraising Volunteer: Dona Nixon
Dona Nixon is a dedicated volunteer and generous donor with a lifelong passion for supporting healthcare initiatives and children’s causes. As a board member of the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Desert Guild supporting Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, she led and championed numerous initiatives to secure transformational financial support for the organization. Dona also generously supports the Angel Light Academy, Bighorn BAM, Eisenhower Health, Loma Linda University Health, and Variety Children’s Charity of the Desert.
Outstanding Nonprofit Founder: Rachel Druten
Author, artist, advocate, visionary, leader, and non-profit founder – just a few words that describe Outstanding Nonprofit Founder Rachel Druten. Rachel founded Tools for Tomorrow in 1999 to bring free, after-school arts literacy programs to students in the Coachella Valley, and to date, Tools for Tomorrow has served more than 22,000 local students helping to develop self-confidence, positive social networks, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation: The Roost Lounge and Foundation
Roost Lounge owners Jeff McDonald and Charles Thomas have created more than just a fun and friendly gathering spot, they have fostered the spirit of community and philanthropy by creating a space for patrons to connect with community causes that matter. Through creative fundraising events, like their Christmas in July campaign, The Roost Lounge supports numerous organizations including the Cathedral City Senior Center, Tools for Tomorrow, Boys and Girls Club of Cathedral City, Rio Vista Elementary School, Voices for Children, Palm Springs Animal Shelter and more.
Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy: Dior Halum
Giving back can start at any age – just ask ten-year-old Dior Halum. Bringing joy and smiles to those in need motivates Dior. At just six years old, she began donating her birthday gifts to patients at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and now has launched an initiative called Little Hearts 4 Little Hearts, encouraging other young people to help brighten the lives of LLUCH’s youngest patients through gifts of LEGO™ sets and teddy bears.
Outstanding Fundraising Professional: Heidi Maldoon
As the Executive Director of Variety Children’s Charity of the Desert, Heidi Maldoon improves the lives of local Coachella Valley children and families every day, and through her vision and leadership, has grown Variety’s programming, financial capacity, and community impact in just a few years. With over 20 years of serving as a nonprofit leader, Heidi’s deeply personal commitment to philanthropy is also fulfilled through service as the Awards Committee Chair for National Philanthropy Day and with the Riverside County Local Child Care and Development Planning Council.
“These honorees exemplify the National Philanthropy Day motto of changing the world with a giving heart,” shared NPD event chair, Kristin Bloomer. “We are thrilled to be able to shine a light on these amazing members of our community.”
The 2025 National Philanthropy Day celebration will be held Friday, November 7, 2025 at Agua Caliente Resort and Spa in Rancho Mirage. Emceed by Patrick Evans from KESQ News Channel 3, the luncheon will celebrate this year’s six National Philanthropy Day honorees. NPD is sponsored by Angie Gerber, Dona Nixon, Tools for Tomorrow, Variety Children’s Charity of the Desert, Desert Oasis Healthcare, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, Loma Linda University Children’s Health, and Palm Springs Animal Allies. Media sponsorship is provided by Palm Springs Life, the Desert Sun, and KESQ News Channel 3.
For information on sponsorship, becoming and AFP member or attending NPD, visit afpcadesert.org.
