DLNews

The Circle That Lifts Us All

Palm Desert, CA — Every success story at the JFK Memorial Foundation begins with someone who gives—time, resources, or faith in a better tomorrow. This month, the Foundation is celebrating the generous circle of donors, tribal partners, businesses, and volunteers whose commitment fuels its mission to uplift Coachella Valley families.

Augustine Band of Cahuilla Indians (ABCI) Chairperson Amanda Augustine and Ophelia Girl Brenda Alvarez Molina

Among the Foundation’s most inspiring partners is the Augustine Band of Cahuilla Indians, whose recent gift to the Ophelia Project goes beyond financial support. It stands as a declaration that empowering young women is an investment in the valley’s shared future.

Augustine Band of Cahuilla Indians (ABCI) at the 2025 Ophelia Luncheon. Featured, from Left to Right: Human Resources Director Veronique Lang, Ophelia Girl Cielo Giron, Casino Assistant General Manager Elizabeth Wilberts, ABCI Chief of Staff Omar Aceves, ABCI Tribal Chairperson Amanda Augustine, ABCI Assistant Tribal Administrator Heather Haines, Mentor Olga Ortuzar, ABCI Tribal Treasurer William Vance, Three7Nine Enterprise Management Chief Marketing Officer Lindsay Grant, and Chief Executive Director Augustine Gaming Commission Jonathan Stanford

“In our 27 years, the generosity of local partners has supported mentorship for more than 7,000 girls, provided early literacy resources to hundreds of families, and delivered free medical and wellness services to children in need,” said JFK Memorial Foundation President and CEO Peter Sturgeon. “Our community sponsors and partners are the champions our youth can count on.”

Recent acts of giving include a local business hosting a literacy drive for the Healthy Families Clinic and volunteer mentors devoting their time each week to guide and encourage students. These individual efforts create a powerful ripple effect that strengthens families and neighborhoods throughout the region.

The JFK Memorial Foundation invites everyone to join this circle of compassion and impact. Whether through donating, mentoring, partnering, or simply sharing the Foundation’s story, every act of support helps build a brighter future for the valley’s youth.

For more information about the Ophelia Project or to get involved, visit jfkfoundation.org or contact the Foundation at 760-776-1600 Ext. 111.

Videos:

YouTube | 2025 Ophelia "It's a Girls' World" Luncheon | I Can Do It

YouTube | 2025 Ophelia "It's a Girls' World" Luncheon | Women Can Do Anything