poverty prevention • intervention • advocacy
Volume 11 Issue 2
www.wellinthedesert.org • Telephone 760-327-8577
November 2016
WE HAD A DREAM
By Dennis Jory
Even though Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his historic “I Have a Dream” speech
over 53 years ago, the truths he imparted on that March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom so many years ago still resonate loud and clear today. It only seems fitting at this time
that The Well in the Desert paraphrase his iconic words with a message of our own…”WE
HAD A DREAM”.
WE HAD A DREAM that The Well would find a new and permanent home so that we
could better serve our less fortunate friends here in the greater Palm Springs area. Well, mission accomplished, thanks to the kindness and warm welcome we received when we moved
into our wonderful new headquarters at the First Baptist Church on Rosa Parks Way in north
Palm Springs. A thousand thank yous to Pastor Rodney Croom, the Deacons and Trustees
and the entire congregation of the First Baptist Church for making us feel at home in their
beautiful facility. If you haven’t had a chance to check out our new digs, we would love for
you to come visit whenever you can.
WE HAD A DREAM that our leadership at The Well would reach great new heights.
Again, our dream was realized. Under the amazing leadership of President Arlene Rosenthal
in her fourteenth year at the helm, a newly restructured Board is filled with compassionate,
giving individuals, each with his or her own unique talents. These caring Board Directors include Darci Daniels, Vice President; Mary McAndrew, Treasurer; Dennis Jory, Secretary; and
fellow board members Terrie Andrade, Cardriner Bowden, Damir Donalic, Christy Holstege,
Steed McCotter, Matt Naylor, Jessica Spry, Leo Mimet, Junior Ambassador and Pat Dugas,
Well Ambassador.
WE HAD A DREAM that our staff also would be newly inspired by the new home we
occupied and that dream came true in spades. Thanks to the hard work they put in day in
and day out, our clients have the best possible service available from people who truly care
about them. Hand in hand with our dedicated staff are our tireless volunteers who serve daily
meals, drive our vans, work our many events, counsel our clients and complete a multitude
of tasks. We really couldn’t begin to do all we do if it weren’t for these angels disguised as
Well volunteers.
WE HAD A DREAM that support for our cause would spread throughout the community
and thanks to all of our generous donors, including Riverside County, the City of Palm
Springs, along with the Palm Springs Police Force and so many involved organizations and
individuals, we are turning that negative concept of “those people” that was once prevalent in
our cities to a positive one of reaching out to the less fortunate and including them as “OUR
people”.
WE HAD A DREAM that we would be able to help make life better for others by offering
food to them six days a week. Again, our dream has been realized over and over thanks to the
kind generosity of local churches who allow us to serve meals in their facilities: The Church of
St Paul of the Desert on Alameda, Our Lady of Solitude Church on Belardo, the First Baptist
The staff of Well in the Desert
Church on Rosa Parks Way and Our Lady of Guadalupe on Calle Segundo. Mere words are
not really adequate in expressing our gratitude to these wonderful churches.
WE HAD A DREAM that we could show local communities all that we had to offer here
at the Well and that dream came true just recently when we held our Open House which was
attended by hundreds of people. It was a night of terrific entertainment, dining and dancing. On display were the many rooms we now utilize including showers for both men and
women, laundry facilities, a mediation room, office spaces, a TV/relaxation room, a “store”
for free clothing and other necessities and hallways adorned by over 50 portraits of our clients that were drawn by talented artist and the head of Well volunteers, Martha Inglis. Many
thanks to our entertainers, our volunteers and all who video-taped the presidential debates
that same night so they could come celebrate with us.
WE HAD A DREAM that we could provide the safety and comfort of offering a home to
our once homeless clients, and that dream has been realized for dozens of people now that we
have four houses where those who once lived on the street can have a roof over their head, a
place they can call home and the dignity that goes with coming “home” every night. AND
OUR NEXT BIG DREAM? Adding two more houses to offer a home to women and women
with children. We’re dreaming big on this one and hope you can help us turn this dream into
a reality with your financial support. Details coming soon.
But one long-standing dream that those of us at The Well always keep in mind is continuing the vision and the legacy of The Well’s founder, Dr. Wayne McKinney, WHO HAD
A DREAM over two decades ago to help those in need and put into practice the tradition
inspired by the original “I Have a Dream” speech that embraced making life richer for everyone!
At The Well in the Desert, WE HAD A DREAM, and thanks to so many of you,
it is coming true every single day!
Page 2
The Well in the Desert News
A Glimpse of Our New Home
November 2016
Hot Meal Weekly Program
Please arrive no more than 15 minutes before service.
All lunch service is from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Monday
First Baptist Church
588 Rosa Parks Road — Palm Springs
Bus line 24 takes you right in front of the Church.
Lunch is served in the building in back.
Tuesday
First Baptist Church
588 Rosa Parks Road — Palm Springs
Bus line 24 takes you right in front of the Church.
Lunch is served in the building in back.
Wednesday
Church of St. Paul in the Desert--just up El Alameda
from Palm Canyon
125 W. El Alameda — Palm Springs
Bus line 111
Thursday
Our Lady of Solitude--corner of Alejo and Belardo
474 N. Belardo Rd. — Palm Springs, CA
Bus line 111
Friday
Our Lady of Guadalupe
204 S. Calle El Segundo at Arenas – Palm springs
Bus lines 111 & 14, Indian & Baristo
Saturday
Food Distribution at 6:00 a.m.
Bag lunches from 9:00 a.m. —10:00 a.m.
at 181 N. Indian Canyon
Sunday
Hot meal
Sunrise Park—Far end of library parking lot
10:30 a.m. - noon
DONATE TO
THE WELL IN THE DESERT!
Donations can be sent to:
Well in the Desert • P.O. Box 5312
Palm Springs, CA 92263
Or you can visit our website and donate there:
www.wellinthedesert.org
November 2016
The Well in the Desert News
Page 3
The Season of Giving
The season of giving is here, time when hearts and pocket books are abundantly open and
are purposed for helping others not so fortunate.
Here in our valley there are many charitable organizations so worth donating to, all of
whom do excellent work all year helping people and animals in need. Please allow me to tell
you why I feel the Well in the Desert is worth your support.
The Well in the Desert is a 501c3 organization, founded in 1996 and who, for the past
twenty one years has been meeting food needs and social service needs of residents in the
west end of the Coachella Valley. We operate on a small budget of $400,000. Our work force
is made up of people who were once clients, who, through hard work and discipline got over
their demons and now help others do the same. They receive some monetary compensation
along with room and board in our houses, while some have been able to find living quarters
on their own. It is heartwarming to see their fine work; compassionate, understanding, and
strict.
We offer daily hot nutritious meals to all in need, and serve them at the churches who have
lovingly given us their support. We do a weekly food distribution to add food to tables so
people can afford their living obligations. We also provide emergency food boxes for those
who have run out of food and do home deliveries to the homebound. And, along with hot
meals we also provide sack lunches to go.
Our social services and referral services are abundant: phone and mail service, resume assistance, transportation to medical appointments, to hot meals, and more, shelter referrals,
one-way transportation home for those who are not locals, clothing, furniture, showers, coffee and a sweet roll in the mornings, assistance with food stamps and other such programs,
free notary service, rent and utilities assistance, and a family friendly environment where one
can feel welcome, cared about and respected. We are proud to say that we are opening up a
free medical clinic with Dr. Kim from the UCR School of Medicine. We start with six hours
a month for the community and clients and will expand as we grow. Our community garden,
growing vegetables, and the planting of fruit trees, is our next big project.
We serve seniors, young people, families with and without children, veterans, people living
with AIDS/HIV, individuals, those disabled, and all who need assistance, whether it be food
or social services.
Our new building, behind First Baptist Church, at 588 W. Rosa Parks Rd., is a dream come
true. We are grateful to Pastor Croom, his Board of Deacons, his Congregation, for their
dedication to those who we serve.
We all consider ourselves a family. We are grassroots, and close to 100% of all of our funding
goes to client needs. My efforts, as well as that of an amazing hands-on Board are donated—
healthy hearts is our reward. Our funding comes from grant writing, fundraisers, and the
community, from a wide variety of people who give what they can; donations range from
$5.00 to $25,000. We appreciate everyone who joins us in our mission to help others.
I have been in wonderment of the success stories I have seen; people I thought would never
get up, who have, and who have so much pride and self-esteem for having done so. I have
heard stories about peoples’ lives that have made me even more compassionate than I was
before serving those from the Well. I have learned a humility I thought not possible, and
learned to be grateful in a way that even surprised me. The Well has been a teacher and I am
grateful to be its student.
Our late Supervisor, Roy Wilson once said, at a lunch we had with him and Aurora, that the
Well in the Desert was the “safety net” for those in the west end of the Coachella Valley, and
that without us people would have nowhere to fall.
Thank you for your support and may your holidays be rich and fulfilling and filled with
good health.
Donations can be mailed to: Well in the Desert, P.O. Box 5312, Palm Springs, 92263. Credit
card donations can be made by calling: (760) 656-8905. Or online: www://wellinthedesert.
org.
Arlene Rosenthal
President, Well in the Desert
Well in the Desert News
Publisher: The Well in the Desert
Graphic Design: Tim Bridges
Printing: Reed Printing
Distribution: Desert Fox Distribution
The Well in the Desert News ©2011 is published twice annually by the
Well in the Desert, a non-profit charitable organization., IRS 501(c)(3) #330694580
The Well in the Desert
P.O. Box 5312 • Palm Springs, CA 92263
760-327-8577 • www.wellinthedesert.org
Well in the Desert Services
by Jessica Spry
I’ve been around the social services industry my entire working life and have never come
across an organization like the Well in the Desert.
Did you know 100% of funds raised go DIRECTLY to client services? I’m not sure if there
is any other program like this in the country. “Employees” of the Well are our clients, who
participate in our job training program. That’s one reason why we’re so effective. We have
clients serving clients. Everyone feels safe and respected at the Well. The Well is a family,
where everyone looks out for each other. And like every family, sometimes there is drama,
but we come together to work it out. This is a place that gives second chances. And we all
need a second chance.
I worked in homelessness services in San Francisco for many years. There are many great
programs out there, but there is always something preventing a person from pulling all of
the pieces together to create success and lasting change. For example, a job program will find
you a job but if you are homeless how can you afford transportation or get the clothes you
need to get started?
The Well strives to fill in the gaps that prevent people from really getting their lives back
on track.
We offer a one-stop shop where folks can get a meal, a shower, a clean pair of clothes, a bus
pass and haircut.
Some good folks are just not “job ready” This is where we come in. The Well has cooperative houses where people get a roof over their head, utilities paid, and a “job” where they
get a stipend to work at the Well. Our clients run the show. They are uniquely qualified to
serve our population because they understand what our folks are going through. These jobs
are challenging and we expect a lot from them. It’s a great first step in becoming workforce
ready. It’s this crucial step that is missing from so many programs out there. If you’re living
on the streets you’re most likely not ready or capable of holding down a full time job. Here
is where we come in. We are that link. We take homeless people and get them ready for “real
world “ work.
We do it all. We take in people from the streets. We give them a place to cool off, get some
food, clean up and take a nap if they need to. We are starting a clinic for medical care and
mental health counseling. When they are ready for that next level they have the opportunity
to get housing and a job with us. The ultimate goal is to get them real world job ready and
into their own housing, with help from us every step along the way.
If you don’t support someone through the entire journey there will be stumbling blocks that
derail any chances for success. Our mission is to see people all the way through- with an open
heart and an understanding that we all fall--it only matters that we get back up.
These, and so many other reasons, are why I’m so proud to be on the Board of the Well in
the Desert.
Page 4
The Well in the Desert News
The Well is in Good Hands!
by Suzanne Severin, Facilitator/Instructor/Mediator
On October 1, I had the extreme pleasure and honor of spending the day with the Board of
Directors for the Well in the Desert. It was a warmish day and we were nestled at the foot of
the San Jacinto Mountains.
Always forward thinking, Arlene Rosenthal was keen to have an offsite meeting devoted to
building on the success of the Well, planning for the future, and recognizing the outstanding
skills that each Board Member brings.
As facilitator for this Annual Retreat, I was looking forward to meeting the Board Members
and working together to achieve these goals.
I have learned that it requires sincere honesty, commitment and courage to roll up your
sleeves and take a hard look at performance, including obstacles and challenges. This is also
true about making concrete action plans that are realistic and fulfill the mission. Over the
years, I have watched teams really struggle with this.
However, on this day, I was truly awed at how cohesively the Board collaborated, shared diverse ideas, and creatively worked through issues. And above all...Never losing sight of those
they are so proud to serve. It was tremendous!
Many thanks to Lynne Hammond who catered a fabulous breakfast and lunch, and to Jim
Gross who helped us kick off the day with an extraordinary Mindfulness exercise that he is
now offering at the Well.
Well Ambassador
by Pat Dugas, Well Ambassador
As Ambassador for the Well in the Desert, I have been
given the privilege to represent the Well here in Palm
Springs and around the Coachella Valley.
Our wonderful president Arlene Rosenthal is not only
tireless, deeply committed, and creative, but so caring
about all those who work and volunteer for the Well, those
who support the Well, but mostly for those who come asking for her help. She has now expanded the services available in the new facility on Rosa Parks Road.
I have also participated in the Board Meetings and am
truly awed by the level of commitment from these wonderful Board Members, all professional in their own lives,
yet coming together to help the Well become a real force
against poverty.
It is my joy to help Arlene, the Board members, those who come to us for help, and all those
who work and volunteer so tirelessly to serve those in need.
This remarkable team deserves your total support. God bless all those who are a part of the
Well in the Desert.
November 2016
Thanks from Well Recipient
I am one of the recipients of Well in the Desert Food distribution here in downtown Palm
Springs. My entire income is a Social Security check despite the fact that my uninterrupted
working life started as a pre-teen mowing lawns. I’ve had dozens of jobs from prune picker
to licensed general contractor including a hitch in the U.S Army. I never avoided hard work
and kept up well beyond age 65. So why am I in a bread line? Bad business choices but not
bad life choices, and some bad luck.
Most small businesses fail. I kept my business on life support until just a few years back.
Bottom Line: Well in the Desert food stretches that social security check so that I wind up
just a little north of the survival line. Because of this food and some meals from local senior
centers, I have enough money left over from my monthly check to pay for medical co-pays
and my prescription medications. I simply would not be able to pay my rent and cover my
living expenses without this critical help from The Well.
William M Collins
Community Garden at
The Well in the Desert
For those of you yet to see our new headquarters, where we serve up a full palette of services
we have yet another great surprise.
The building has a huge back area where, when we moved in almost four months ago, was
filled with brush and dying trees. We have brought most of the trees back to life thanks to our
ever hard-working staff person Vince Matthews. Vince does all kinds of things at the Well,
one of them being groundskeeping.
With his help and the help of others we hope to engage the community, young and old
alike, to help develop the soil , plant vegetable seeds and nurture a garden that will be there
for those who want to take part in our healthy eating programs.
Around the perimeter we plan to plant an array of fruit trees, whose fruit will be available
to the community.
We are excited about this community project. We have requested funding from Big Horn
Charities and hope they find it a worthy project to fund.
So watch for our news and if you are interested in helping please do let us know.
Garden tools that you no longer use are most welcome.
Dr. Tim Jochen
Contour Dermatology
What do you get when you enter the doors of Contour Dematology?
Most would say, you get Dr. Tim Jochen and staff, a myriad of dermatological services,
tender care and beyond excellence professional service.
And all of that is true. What some may not know is that you also are entering the practice
of someone who is very community oriented and believes in giving back to his community
by supporting all kinds of worthwhile events in the desert.
Dr. Jochen has supported the Well in the Desert for many years, and his donations help us
keep nutritious hot meals served to our clients all week long.
This year he is again a Diamond supporter of Desert Jam Session.
He helps make it happen, and we want him to know that without people like himself, lots
of people would be hungry.
Thank you Dr. Tim Jochen, Lee Ellis, and staff for being there for our community.
DONATE TO
THE WELL IN THE DESERT!
Donations can be sent to:
Well in the Desert • P.O. Box 5312
Palm Springs, CA 92263
Or you can visit our website and donate there:
www.wellinthedesert.org
November 2016
The Well in the Desert News
Page 5
Well in the Desert Donors
Thank you to all of our generous donors and supporters who have made our job possible.
AARCO Towing
Al & Martha Inglis
Alice Atteberry
Allen Remillard
Alona McFarland
America’s Charities
Anderson Children’s Foundation
Andrea Laguni
Andrew Edward Brown
Andrew Kaskiw
Ann & Joaquin Molina
Ann M Tennyson
Auen Foundation
Barbara Keller
Barbara Platt
Barbara Schimberg
Barbara Scott
Becky Shapoori
Bennion & Deville
Betty Rinnig
Beverly Nolan
Bonnie Englund
Brian R Webb
C. M. Quickle
Cabaleros de Colon
Cardriner Bowden
Carol Teitelbaum
Carole Sukman
Charles & Anne Behm
Charlie & Claire Schaeffer
Christians In Commerce International
Christopher Baker
Chuck Davis
Church of St Paul in the Desert
City of Cathedral City
City of Palm Springs
Constance Schivarelli
Contour Dermatology
Cynthia & James Williams
Dan Thompson
Darla Z Fontanes
David Hood
David J. Sawaya
David Lyons
David Ranck
Dawn Norton
Deann Lubell
Deborah Ackroyd
Denise L. Anderson
Dennis Jory
Dennis Morrow
Desert Healthcare District
Desert Regional Medical Center Auxiliary
Diane Davis
Don Genhart & Michael Myers
Donna Fitzgerald
Donna MacMillan
Douglas Baalson
Dr. Hyman/Mintz Family Foundation
Dr. Joseph Sanchez
Edward Marteka & Mary Bilodeau
Edwin & Dorothy Woodard
Evelyn Pelico
Faye Bandow
Faye Schwimmer Phillips
FIne Art Fridge
Frank Gaeta
Gary Johns
Gary Levinson, MD
Gerald Salomon
Greg Adkisson
Guillermo E. Paine
Harold Matzner
Heide Stock-Brady
Helen L. Hampton
Helen Zimmerman
Hila Green
Howard & Roberta Young
Hugo Uhland
Iberdrola Renewables
James Gray
James Joslin
Janet Curto
Janet M. Reid
Jean M. Gabriel
Jeanne A. Burke
Jeffrey & Elizabeth Moritz
Jerry D Sinner
Jessica Spry
Jim Ilardo
JJ’s Barber Shop
Joan Blackman
Joan Dry
Joan Penny Carpenter
Joe Giarusso/Charles Paglia
John E. Burge
John J. Walker
John Paul Allen
Joseph A Otten
JR Roberts
Judy Gronkowski
Julian diCiurcio
K. Eugene Holly
Kaiser Permanente
Karen & Tony Barone
Katherine Gold
Kenneth Shay
Laura K. Wilkes
Lavone Lindberg
LC Investments
Lee Ona & Richard Hostrop
Leenie Eileen Smilay
Leo Milmet
Leonard Sigell
Lilli Joseph
Linda Holmes
Linda Levinson
Lisa and Robert Kessler
Louise Escoe
M. Vinson& Aka M. Hamilton
Marcia Griffiths
Margie Backaus
Marion Schaefer
Mark Lazarin
Mary A Marx
Mary A Smith
Mary McAndrew & Julie Siri
Mary Unkeles
Maureen Durkan
Michael Deveau
Michael Hayes
Mike & Virginia Downs
Mike O’Sullivan
Mirage Dermatology
Morris Diamond
Myron Mintz
Naideen Nagle
Palm Springs Presbyterian Church
Palm Springs Seventh-Day Adventist
Pat Richter
Patricia M Dugas
Patrick Mundt
Patrick V. Jordan
Paul C. Constantine
Paul Kaplan
PeopleScape, LLC
Philip J. Cass
Phoebe Biscow
Pierre Menard
Pro Fix Jewelry
PS Regional Association of Realtors
PSDS
PSLCT Inc
RAP
Ray J Musante
Richard G Passon
Riverside County
Robert & Carrie Allan
Robert & Nina Wernick
Robert N. Depugh
Roberta Hawkins
Robin Green
Sandra Banner
Sandra Gayle Hodges
Sandra J. Quinn
Sara L Swanson
Sarah Milmet
Saundra Benjamin
Scott Yates
Shannon Burns
Shelley Kaplan
Shirley J. McLaughlin
Stephanie Austin
Stephanie K Howard
Steve & Vicki Lippman
Stuart Lynn
Sue Townsley
Susan Walpert
Suzanne Severin
Michael & Erika Swimmer
Tanner D Voskamp
Terrie Andrade
Teri Cortland
The Coeta & Donald Barker Foundation
Thomas J. Bogle
Timothy & Gina Uschyk
Timothy Schneider
Tom Root
Valley Of God
Wayne & Marie Berkner
William C. Tumelty
William J. Cook, Jr.
William Post
Willie Rhine
Maureen & Anthony Aidukas
Palm Springs Seventh-Day Adv.
Paul Constantine
Dora Buchner
Roberta Hawkins
James Joslin
Richard Secrist
C. M. Quickle
Michelle Coneybeare
America’s Charities
Gerda Gordon
Cynthia Shapiro
Stater Bros. Charities
Pamela H Rogers
Mary Kay Patencio
Kiwanis Club of Palm Springs
Saundra & William Benjamin
Paul I Tanber
Sarah Ronayne Milmet
Debbie M. Purnel
Alfred & Martha Inglis
Dee Dethomas
Valley Assembly of God
Frances Vernace MD
Margaret Denneny-Kohn
Jonathan Welch & Dan Stoddard
James Hof
Charna & Richard Ravich
Pierre Menard, M.D.
Michael & Barbara Kane
Dorothy & Edwin Woodard
Douglas Baalson
Spectacular Shades
Annette M Michael
Ann & Joaquin Molina
Rochelle Charo
Laverne Y Hecht
Becky Shapoori
Cynthia & Iro Shapiro
Margaret Denneny
Morris Diamond
Sandy & Jordan Richman
Carol & Phil Goldsmith
Alison & Vince Adcock
Penny Carpenter
Guido Portante
Chris Seidel
Phyllis Newman
Joan Isaacs
Renee Glickman
Frank Montiforte
Melvyn’s & the Ingleside Inn
Harold Forster
Joan & Mel Freeman
Christopher H Greene
William & Ellyn Ruttan
Laura Hagen
Rosanne Lopez
Marion Schaefer
Mary Ann Kaestner
Jonora Claybrook
Robert John Teitelbaum
Sandra & Lawrence Delrose
Deanne & William Conte
John J Beishke Jr
Mary & Elfred Lampe, M.D.
Tracy L Flynn
Steven Glogger
Joseph Jackson & Gary Hebert
Robt Depaolo & Randolph Murphy
Dennis Jory
Ron & Louise Carter
John & Dacia Emmel
Jerry Sinner & Louise Harris
Fred J Lorenz
Sandra & Fredrick Fortes
Ruth Gaylene Stuart
Sandra L. Cramer
Phyllis & Marvin Eisenberg
Joan & James Chedester
John R Cliburn
Helen Zimmerman Survivors Trust
Ina V Woodin
Mark Hull
Robert W Riddell
Janet & James Curto
Joyce McKissick & Tom Cunningham
David & Jean Long
Herbert & Joie Lampass
Cowle Family Foundation
Gregory Wagoner & William Bean
Carol & Charles Burt
Peta Murray Henderson
Mitchelle Goldstein
M.M. Ahlberg
Martha & Scott Schroeder
Shirley Randolph
A. Boisvert
Roberta Hawkins
Power Yoga Palm Springs
Peggy & Richard McCaskill
Julie & Ben Baumer
City of Palm Springs
Linora & Steven Manuels
Olga, Nancy, & Romeo Battisti
Graydon & Lavonne Carlson
Jean & Raymond Kechely
Melanie D Gentry
Sandra M Levinson
Madonna and Robert Wilson
Phylis Lemberg & Mary Blackman
Leslie J Conoscenti
Klink Family Charitable Trust
Christians in Commerce Intn’l
Darlene & Dan Roesch
Barbara & Everett Evans
Helene & James Shaunty
Sheron & Thomas Burns
Ann Muniz
Betsy J Carlson
Lily Kanter
Joanne Mead
Pauline Roy
Craig Grantham
Jean Benson &William Rozar
Caroline & John Lieser
Judith Bastian
Stuart Lynn
Erica Posner
Dr. Erik J & Sidney Williams
Hester Anne Nute
Suzanne Orcino Shaffer
Dorothy & Edwin Woodard
Willian C Tumelty
Brian R Webb
Alona McFarland
Lazar Family Trust
Sandra M Ovesen
D.Schuman & S.Rose-Schuman
Roswitha Smale
Craig W Rentle
J E Ramonda
Robert Poulsen
Michael & Erika Swimmer
Judith Bronstein Trust
Schroeder Foundation
Gary Lee
Scott Sherman
Roland Burbank
Zenzara
Linda Holmes
Mark Gershenson
James Huot
Hal Wingo
Donald Campbell
Patricia Gutierrez
Bruce Jungk
James Marksbury
AARCO Towing Inc
Hugo & Roberta Uhland
Elizabeth Baker
James Gray
Tom Root
Dana Aspinwall
Ann Wride
Craig Grantham
Carl Schoeneman
Eileen Stern
James Cobbs
Mandy Evans
Lori Tingzon
Mary Sandman
Jan & Carl Sanders
Battisti Family
Desert Regional Medical Ctr Aux
The Community Foundation
Judy Henson
Kay Bell
Frank Gaeta
Pierre Menard, M.D.
Peace & Praise Fellowship
Glen & Opal Barnett Foundation
Manilow Fund for Health & Hope
Sarah R Milmet
Lillian A Ceriello
Elizabeth E Ronayne
Janis & Ray Musante
Renee S. Glickman
Gail & Thomas Ronayne
David Krischer
Dennis & Marilyn Morrow
Ocean Mist Farms - Coachella
Michelle Coneybeare
The Wasserman Foundation
Ruth Sonderling Trust
Virginia & Mike Downs
Palm Springs Presbyterian Church
Charles Paglia & Joseph Giarrusso
Wells Fargo Dealer Services
Anna & Joseph De Luca
Rosenthal of Palm Springs
Robert Pullen & John Gumont
Racquet Club Estates Neighborhd Org
Harold Matzner
Robert & Lisa Kessler
Desert Healthcare District
Palm Springs Disposal Services
Gerald Desilva
Phoebe Biscow Trust
Frank C Failing
Cheri Sterns
Donald or Patricia Rogers
Catherine Madlin-Stuart
Quin Anthony Wright
Joseph A Otten
Mary Lou & Thomas Solomon
Nancy Booth
Richard R. Rachel
Christine Hammond & Sylvia Zelnys
Michelle A. Fiore
Vic Spadaccini & Susan Schreifels
Karen & Clint Miller
Susan & David Birney
Gerda Gordon
Tybe Blink
Thomas J. Comer
Page 6
The Well in the Desert News
November 2016
The Doctors are Coming to
The Well in the Desert
For the past several months Doctors Tae and Gemma Kim have been bringing a team of
doctors, nurses, care givers, residents to our meal site at Our Lady of Guadalupe every other
Friday. They are part of UCR Riverside School of Medicine, and their project, Street Medicine has served hundreds of our clients.
When they found out that the Well in the Desert would be leasing the old day care center
on Rosa Parks Rd., they asked if they might be part of our space for a free medical clinic for
the community, and for others who we serve.
It did not take long to realize the positive impact this would have for the community, having medical services offered so close to home would be wonderful.
So, we embarked on all of the fine points in order to make this happen. All of the truly
gracious people involved were there at our Open House, explaining to those in attendance
all the services that would be offered.
They will have two rooms in our building, one for intake and services such as blood pressure, sugar testing, information gathering, and more. The other room will be for medical
procedures and will have three medical bays where people will be treated.
They plan to start offering services six hours a month, and will build on that after assessing
need and use.
We could not be more pleased about joining forces with this amazing team of people. They
have hearts of gold and are dedicated to improving health for all.
Thank for Drs. Kim, and all of your amazing staff.
Baby Boy
MaxC
Introducing my new brother, “Baby Boy”. He was on
the streets (homeless) for at least two years. He thanks my
mom with kisses and love. He now has a soft bed in which
to sleep, and two meals per day. Please donate to Well in
the Desert, so we can help our homeless and less fortunate!
Maxc and Baby Boy Wolff
November 2016
The Well in the Desert News
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The Well in the Desert News
November 2016
November 2016
The Well in the Desert News
Dia de los Muertos
/Day of the Dead 2016
This traditional day of mourning lost loved ones is celebrated throughout the Spanish speaking world, and right here in the Coachella Valley.
It was the 4th year of celebration at Desert Memorial Park and large numbers of people
throughout the community attended. This event was the dream of Cemetery Director Kathleen Jurasky; to host a celebration of cultural diversity that would bring all people together
to enjoy music, dance, art, food, and a special feeling of camaraderie.
She turned to friend, and President of Well in the Desert, Arlene Rosenthal to co-host the
event, and it became a dream come true. The event has been a fundraiser for the hot meals
and food programs of the Well in the Desert for the past three years.
This years’ event was a testament to collaboration and cooperation. Well clients and staff
set up flawlessly as others set up their own sites, informational tables and food service. One
could see the ever popular SCRAP Gallery tables filled with kids enjoying crafts. Agape
Salon was there with spirit and love painting faces and cutting hair, their gift to all. Other
informational tables were hosted by Cathedral City Senior Center, FIND Food Bank, Boys
and Girls Club of Cathedral City, Testing by Desert Aids Project.
The entertainment was exciting and riveting, with Ballet Folklorico Sol del Desierto, Jaime
Rosa, Mariachi Nuevo Amanecer, Mariachi Palmero, and a surprise troupe from Ontario,
Danzantes del Sol, performing Aztecan dances.
The altars were beautiful and emotional: one dedicated to community leaders now gone,
Ofelia Bringas and Antonio Rodriguez, one to our fallen Veterans, and one dedicated to
Prince. They were all designed and created by committee member Trinidad “Maria” Rios,
along with her husband Carlos (who built them).
And, every year there is an art contest that Louisa Castrodale puts together in all the middle
and high schools in the Palm Springs Unified School District. The art this year was just
amazing and creative, and first and second place winners all received well-deserved monetary
awards. Their art display is one of the highlights of the event.
This would not have happened without the Dia host committee members Kathleen Jurasky,
Sue Townsley, Trinidad Rios, Anna Ryser-Gann, Karen Riley, Lola Rossi, Josie Diaz, Chris
Parman, Maribel de Leon, Dr. David Rosenthal, and Arlene Rosenthal.
And, none of us would be the better for it all were it not for the generous sponsors, who
made it all possible for the community to come together, and to give help to an organization
who cares for those who are greatly in need of support and services, the Well in the Desert.
A stand-up applause goes to: The City of Cathedral City, Harold Matzner, Jim Cunningham
and Palm Springs Disposal Services, Andy Jessup Jr., Jessup Auto Plaza, Shelley Kaplan,
Mark Matthews and Wiefels and Son,.
Next years’ event will be held on Saturday, November 28th, from noon-4:00 p.m.
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The Well in the Desert News
November 2016
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WHAT WE DO:
• Daily hot nutritious meals to over 135 people per day, 6
days a week. Sack lunches also available daily.
• Phone and mail service.
• Morning coffee, rolls and fruit.
• Furniture for people in need.
• Clothing for job interviews and those who need them.
• Assistance with food stamps, MISP, ID’s and more.
• Utility assistance.
• Free notary service.
• Resume writing assistance.
• One way tickets home.
• Saturday food distribution of healthy foods to working
families, seniors, veterans and the disabled.
• Emergency food boxes.
• Some transportation to medical and social service appointments.
• Van transportation to hot lunch sites.
• Home deliveries to seniors who are homebound or frail.
• “Well Assist” Program to downtown merchants and other
business owners.
• Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations for all in need.
Christmas presents for all the children.
• A family-friendly environment where all can feel welcome, cared about and respected.
75% of our clients are the working poor, seniors and
children. 25% are homeless.
$2.50 underwrites a hot meal. $2.50 helps fill a box
of food. $5.00 buys a Christmas toy for a child who
would be without. $60.00 fills our vans that transport
people and our food. 90% of all your donations go
toward client services. We are fueled by the goodwill
and caring of volunteers and staff who donate the
majority of their time.
We thank you for any help you can give.
Checks can be sent to
Well in the Desert
P.O. Box 5312
Palm Springs, CA, 92263.
For more information: (760) 327-8577
www:wellinthedesert.org
501(c)(3) #33-0694580
Board of Directors
Arlene Rosenthal
President
Darci Daniels Murphy
Vice President
Dennis Jory
Secretary
Mary Mcandrews
Treasurer
Terrie Andrade
Director
Cardriner Bowden
Director
Damir Danny Donlagic
Director
Steed McCotter
Director
Matt Naylor
Director
Jessica Spry
Director
Joan Wolff
Director
Leo Milmet
Student Ambassador Coordinator
MISSION STATEMENT
The Well in the Desert provides daily nutritious hot meals, emergency food assistance, weekly supplemental food distribution, and access to community services
to those affected by poverty, including the working poor, the homeless, seniors,
the handicapped and others in need throughout the west end of the Coachella Valley. Our mission fuels programs for poverty prevention, direct services for poverty
intervention, and organized efforts to advocate for the poor.
THE WELL IN THE DESERT
P.O. Box 5312 • Palm Springs, CA 92263
760-327-8577
www.wellinthedesert.org
Congratulations
Arlene and Well in the Desert
on settling in at your new home.
Harold Matzner