The Purple Room, Palm Springs’ legendary supper club renowned for its Rat Pack era atmosphere and world-class entertainment, provided the backdrop for IECF’s recent Professional Advisors Cocktail Reception and Dinner. The event was an exclusive gathering for financial advisors, attorneys, and other professionals dedicated to helping their clients realize their philanthropic dreams with IECF.
Jeremy Hobbs, IECF Board Member and Founding Chair of the Build Coachella Valley Fund, opened the evening with an introduction to the history and place-based work of the Foundation. Hobbs emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of philanthropy within the community and inspiring individuals and organizations to give back and make a positive impact.
Michelle Decker, President and CEO of IECF, explained how the Foundation has been a catalyst for progress in the Inland Empire for over 80 years. She
highlighted IECF’s unique ability to match donors with local nonprofits that are making a real difference, offer expert guidance, and facilitate partnerships that address pressing community needs. As a timely example, Decker noted the recent $4.5 million endowment of the Jane Lykken Hoff Fund, which will support six Coachella Valley nonprofits in perpetuity.
Brie Griset Smith, CSPG, Chief Development Officer at IECF, emphasized the crucial role professional advisors play in helping donors achieve their charitable giving goals. She outlined the five key reasons to partner with IECF: control, connections, full-service philanthropy, investment performance, and flexible giving.
Griset Smith encouraged attendees to reach out to the IECF team for collaboration, saying “At IECF, we know that philanthropic giving can be a powerful tool for positive change. As a professional advisor, your expertise is invaluable in helping individuals and families maximize the impact of their charitable contributions.” 
IECF’s program culminated with the recognition of Phil Savage IV as the IECF Professional Advisor Champion for 2023. Savage was honored for his exceptional contributions to philanthropy and his dedication to supporting the Inland Empire community.
Afterward, Sharon Sills, a beloved desert entertainer known for her dynamic show Sass, Sex, and Song, took the stage to captivate the audience with a blend of jazz, blues, and Broadway show 
tunes. Her performance added a delightful touch of glamour to the evening.
The Professional Advisors Cocktail and Dinner Reception provided a platform for networking, education, and inspiration. As attendees enjoyed the evening’s program and festivities, they were reminded of the power of philanthropy and the positive impact that can be achieved through collaboration and generosity.
If you’re a professional advisor looking to partner with IECF and empower your clients’ philanthropic dreams, please get in touch with Brie Griset Smith, CSPG, Chief Development Officer, at bgrisetsmith@iegives.org, or call 951-244-7777. Download our Professional Advisors Guide here!
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