Donor Stories

All philanthropy starts with a story. We're honored that our donors entrust IECF with their funds so lives can be changed for the better, and it's a distinct privilege to learn about the events that...

For over 50 years, Gloria Macias Harrison has dedicated her life’s work to the betterment of her community through communication, activism and education. As co-founder of El Chicano newspaper and...

Jane Lykken Hoff is one example of a true legacy. This Palm Springs pioneer, who celebrated her 103rd birthday in February 2023, is considered a bit of a legend. Jane is known as a gifted horsewoman...

As the daughter of a single mom, Nefertiti "Nef" Long grew up in humble circumstances. Her family moved frequently when she was a child. Although Nef faced adversity, she was fortunate to have...

Peggy Fouke Wortz was an extraordinary woman who transformed a life of privilege into a legacy of generosity. She gave of her wealth, her personal resources and her untiring spirit to those in our...

Born in Minnesota in 1874, Victress Bower was the youngest of four children. She began teaching in Minnesota and then moved to Escondido, California before coming to Riverside in 1908. She...

A Riverside icon shares how tough times taught her to give to others. In honor of January's Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and February's Black History Month, we're pleased to share the story of one of...

Philanthropy can take many forms, including volunteerism, community service and charitable giving. These are just some of the outward-focused practices that enrich our communities and promote the...

At IECF, we’re privileged to serve as the link between hardworking nonprofits and generous donors in our united efforts to create a vibrant region. We’d like to introduce you to George and Vici...

With heavy hearts, the Foundation mourns the recent passing of friend and community philanthropist, Aaron Michael Norris. Aaron was a beloved member of the community, an expert in real estate...

IECF is proud to manage the MOSAIC fund, which was established to promote the education of multicultural enrichment; advocate for unity among races; provide a curriculum that teaches empathy; and...

Randall Lewis, renowned regional homebuilder, developer and longtime philanthropist, has made a generous gift of $80,000 to IECF’s Here for Good Fund in honor of the Foundation’s 80th Anniversary....

May is National Pet Month, and we’re privileged to share this story about a wonderful donor whose beloved pet, Gracie, inspired a philanthropic legacy of which we can all be proud. “If I can put...

Our series of Conversations with Board Members continues in celebration of IECF’s 80th Anniversary and new Signature Funds, each of which will raise $80,000 in their inaugural year. Each of our...

As part of Women’s History month, IECF is highlighting two of our donors, Carol Newkirk and Beverly Rashidd. Both women spent their careers championing women's rights and fostering opportunities for...

At IECF, our board members are instrumental in helping us achieve our mission of strengthening the Inland Empire through philanthropy. They’re our ambassadors, advocates, strategists, and...

IECF is proud to announce that three Coachella Valley nonprofit organizations received a total of $60,000 from the Margot Fund in its inaugural year of giving! Established in 2021, the Margot Fund...

Palm Springs philanthropist Jay Allen wanted to celebrate his 65th birthday by raising $65K for nonprofit organizations including the LGBTQ Center of the Desert. He opened the Jay Allen 65th...

“My late wife and I developed an interest in supporting the library many years ago,” said Chris Carpenter. “Molly found her calling as a first-grade teacher. She absolutely loved the thrill of...

Bernard “BerniE” Edmonds is a prominent African American visual artist whose work includes sculpting the bust of Booker T. Washington, which is on permanent display at the Historic Mission Inn in...

Mrs. Rosalie Silverglate is a woman with a big heart and passion for her community. She has been a long time donor with Inland Empire Community Foundation (IECF) since 1993. Rosalie was born and...