Palm Desert, Calif., (December 6, 2024) – Desert Arc is on its way to upgrading its entire array of landscape equipment for its Landscape Maintenance Service thanks to a $23,000 Impact Grant from the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. The nonprofit, which supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will use the funds to replace gas-powered machinery with electric tools. This change will make operations more environmentally friendly and boost its appeal to new customers, including the Palm Springs International Airport, which recently signed a multi-year agreement with Desert Arc for landscape service.
This program is part of Desert Arc’s ongoing mission to enhance the quality of life and create meaningful opportunities for its 700 clients who have disabilities, including cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, epilepsy, autism and other medical and neurodivergent conditions. The nonprofit provides vocational training – in areas of landscaping, janitorial, recycling, and shredding, which transfers into employment for individuals and services in the community.
“Desert Arc employees are tremendous,” said Richard Balocco, Desert Arc President and CEO. “We’re proud of the workforce we’ve created with reliable individuals who enjoy learning skills and contributing to our community.”
For more than 65 years, Desert Arc has empowered its clients to reach their highest potential by securing employment, finding homes and fostering social interactions. The nonprofit is looking to raise $20,000 more to fully fund its transfer to electric landscape equipment.
“We know the outstanding programming that Desert Arc provides in our community, and we were happy to jumpstart the nonprofit’s fundraising campaign that will allow their landscape operations to go completely electric,” said Catharine Reed, Vice President of Charitable Programs for the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation.
The transition to electric landscape equipment not only aligns with Desert Arc’s sustainability goals but also demonstrates the organization’s commitment to innovation and growth. The updated equipment will be instrumental in maintaining the landscape at Palm Springs International Airport, where Desert Arc’s crews will provide year-round service.
“Desert Arc continues to serve as a model for inclusive employment and community impact,” said Jerry Upham, General Manager of Gulf California Broadcast Company, which owns and operates KESQ News Channel 3 and KPSP CBS Local 2. “With our coverage, we are encouraging the community to give so that Desert Arc can reach its fundraising goal.”
The Berger Foundation presents Impact Grants in partnership with News Channel 3. Impact Grants are awarded on the concept that through service, funding, and awareness, we are “Making a Difference Together.” In addition to the grant, each organization also receives media coverage about its mission across News Channel 3’s various platforms including News at 4 and kesq.com. To learn more about Desert Arc, call 760-404-1370 or go to www.desertarc.org. For more information about Impact Grants, go to kesq.com/life/impact-grants.
