Since I am relatively new to my role as CEO of RAP, I am often asked how things are progressing for both me and the organization.

I tell them, I believe with cause, that the news is good... and there's lots of it.

After I briefly outline my own enthusiasm for working at RAP and about the full support of the Foundation's Board of Directors, I like to elaborate on some of the projects that RAP is working on.

As an example, the RAP Board approved the Five Year Strategic Plan 2014-2019 in early May.  I am grateful to my Board and staff for dedicating so many hours in exploring new ideas and working together to establish important organizational goals for the immediate future.

RAP's mission to address the unmet needs in the area of Health, Mental Health and Juvenile Intervention will not change.  In accordance with the new Strategic Plan, however, the Board intends to place focused attention on each of the three areas periodically.

The RAP Board has also made a commitment to collaborate with other fund providers in areas of mutual interest.  The board believes, as do I, collaboration is crucial in making the most of limited resources.  In this regard, the "Recreation Alliance" partnership of the Desert Healthcare District, the California Endowment and RAP will improve a number of tennis and basketball courts at the three local school districts.

As the school year winds down, I am pleased that the "Re-Think Your  Drink" campaign, a collaboration among RAP, Building Healthy Communities and the Riverside County Department of Public Health, is proving to be quite successful.  The program is increasing public awareness of the benefits of reducing consumption of sugary drinks.   Two new rehydration stations, one in
Desert  Mirage High School and the second at La Quinta High School were unveiled June 2nd.   Thank you Board members Supervisor John J. Benoit, Ricardo Loretta and Rudy Gutierrez for your participation. 

 Lastly, I want to share with you the news that RAP operations will be moving from our current location on Merle Drive to the Parkview Professional offices located at 73710 Fred Waring Drive in Palm Desert in late August.  Although we have been extremely pleased with being a tenant at the Berger Charitable Center since 1999, the City of Palm Desert has offered us a deal that will result in a substantial cost savings that will allow us to increase the funding available to our community.   We hope to have an official ribbon cutting in September.

 I look forward to giving you glimpses of more of our activities and projects in future newsletters. 

As I say, the news is good.

With the loss of the City of Desert Hot Springs' (DHS) financial support resulting in the threat of the Health and Wellnesss Center closing its doors, the future of youth recreational programs provided by the Boys & Girls Club of Desert Hot Springs was in doubt.  The Desert Healthcare District (DHCD) issued a "challenge" to potential funders.  They would essentially match dollar for dollar all funds raised.  RAP accepted the challenge and joined the  'collective' fund  established by the DHCD and also includes the Boys and Girls Club of the Coachella Valley.   

The RAP Board committed to two years of funding, $100,000 for the first year and $50,000 for the second year.  The  two-year collective fund will provide continued full operational support, utilities and common area maintenance charges for youth services at the Boys & Girls Club of DHS.   RAP is appreciative and supportive of the Desert Healthcare District's efforts to work closely with the Boys & Girls Club and Borrego Health Foundation to strategize and create a permanent funding solution.   The investment in the Health and Wellness Center will ensure the youth of Desert Hot Springs will have a safe, fun, healthy, educational environment to spend their time.