Kathy Abels and Laurie Duchansky, co-chairs of Impact Giving, bring a powerful blend of expertise and passion to the organization. Kathy, a former psychologist deeply influenced by her family’s Simon Family Foundation, and Laurie, a financial planner dedicated to accessible support, both champion community empowerment through Impact Giving. Together, they foster a collaborative spirit and make a significant impact in Orange County, each bringing a unique background and commitment to the organization’s mission.

Meet Colleen Howes, a 45-year resident of Corona Del Mar, known for her “Love Love” doormat and entrepreneurial spirit. She owned Santa Ana Blueprint, serving clients like Patterson Homes and handling exhibits for the Bratz vs Barbie trial. Now retired, Colleen enjoys Pickleball, gardening, hiking, and socializing. A highlight of her recent life is marrying her best friend from Spin class. Fearless and inspired by friends Annette Sullivan and Anne Cutler Firestone, she joined Impact Giving to give back, feeling it was a fantastic cause.

Meet Annette Sullivan, a beacon of positivity and successful businesswoman along the picturesque shores of Corona Del Mar. After raising her children, Annette heeded the ocean's call, leaving the bustling life of California's capital for the serene beaches where she now embraces mornings filled with brisk walks and joyful runs. A vital figure at Envista Forensics, Annette manages business development across eight western states, balancing her professional achievements with a deep commitment to philanthropy—a trait nurtured by her parents' charitable example. Annette’s zest for life and dedication to giving back make her an inspiring figure to all who meet her.

Marisa McHenry embodies the spirit of community engagement and philanthropy through her involvement with Impact Giving. Seeking to maximize her charitable impact and connect with like-minded women, Marisa joined Impact Giving in 2022. Her Irish heritage plays a significant role in shaping her identity and values. Passionate about giving back, she dedicates herself to causes like New Directions for Women, actively participating in grant committees and volunteering with various organizations. Marisa treasures the friendships fostered through Impact Giving, prioritizing partner connections and social events.

JoAnne Williams, founder of JWilliams Staffing and Impact Giving Partner, has made one of their 5 corporate core values “Community Giving.” Supporting charities of their choice is encouraged and she personally is involved in several nonprofit organizations. In 2022 she celebrated her 7th year with Impact Giving and sponsored two of her employees as Junior Partners.

Elena’s passion for helping others can be traced back to her pre-professional days, when she interned at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Atlanta. Whether helping to take care of her 3 younger siblings or starting a community shoe drive for refugees, she’s always been passionate about giving back.

Elida enjoys working with community entities, such as nonprofits and for-profit corporations, to promote and provide basic needs and essentials to unlock student potential while expanding their current and future opportunities.

Get to know Impact Giving Partner, Barbara Bowman, through a fun Q&A round we had with her recently!

Impact Giving Partner, Christina Garkovich is now a passion-driven philanthropist, but she’ll be the first to tell you that her career aspirations were initially elsewhere.

Over the last 4 years as an Impact Giving Partner, Kathy Osann has been instrumental in leading grant committees throughout the grant process and has now taken on the role of Grants Chair. We are very excited to have her fulfill this position as she is an expert in many fields, including grant writing.

Introducing Impact Giving Partner, Caterina Richards! From leading one of Impact Giving’s Grant Recipients, Bracken’s Kitchen, to participating in her church’s worship team, Caterina has made a huge impact on her local community.

As a life-long nonprofit supporter, new Impact Giving Partner Kristina Chatow, has found comfort in the work that the organization has completed and continues to do for her local community. Having worked in the field of social work for most of her life, Kristina has directly seen the positive results that grants, such as those awarded by Impact Giving, can have on nonprofits and individuals.