Parkinson’s Resource Organization (PRO) is making big changes as it has expanded its Board of Directors and ushered in new officers. The board restructuring marks the first of several changes as the organization evolves in its 35th year of serving the Parkinson’s community.
“As a key contributor to the organization’s fundraising, strategic, and programmatic goals, a healthy board is integral to the success of any charity,” says Executive Director Eileen Lynch. “I’m thrilled to welcome such talented, motivated individuals to positions of leadership within PRO’s Board of Directors and to welcome new members who bring unique perspectives as caregivers and professionals within the community. A strong board is a sign of a strong organization, and at PRO, we intend to be a strong source of support for our Parkinson’s community as long as the need remains.”
PRO is excited to announce its new Co-Chairs, John White and Shon Tomlin. Both have benefited from and supported PRO throughout the years.
White is a familiar face in Greater Palm Springs and serves as the organization’s Marketing Committee Chair. Originally from Chicago, John first joined KESQ in 1995 and anchors News Channel 3, where he earned an Emmy Award in 2016 for his reporting on the Salton Sea.
Shon Tomlin
Tomlin, a multi-Emmy award-winning media and tech executive, has served as a pro-bono consultant to PRO since 2020 and has nonprofit experience as the co-founder of the Palm Springs’ 501(c)(3) VRON-PS and as co-founder and former CEO of 1 Giant Mind.
“PRO has been a source of support for my family as we navigated a family member’s Parkinson’s,” says John White. “As my relationship with PRO has evolved, I’m consistently impressed by the compassion, care, and dedication they bring to the Parkinson’s community. I’m inspired by the plans we are putting into action to expand resources for Coachella Valley and beyond.”
“Two years into my tenure serving on PRO’s board, it’s a true pleasure to work with such a strong and dedicated team,” says Shon Tomlin. “The professional diversity produces a collaborative energy that is not just productive but exciting. Aside from their professional accolades, it’s rewarding to work with people with Parkinson’s, professional and family caregivers. I am constantly learning and motivated to do more for the Parkinson’s community.”
PRO also recently added Kimberly Guzzetti and Hannah Yoo to its Board of Directors. A Southern California native, Kimberly was an educator for 30 years, serving as a teacher, principal, and Senior Director focused on State and Federal compliance and funding. Guzzetti also serves on the Achieve Charter School Board of Directors, which is based in Northern California.
Hannah Yoo, the Board Secretary, is a lawyer with extensive legal experience. In Chicago, she was a tax attorney for Fortune 500 clients, and in California, she was a research attorney for a reputable law firm specializing in campaign finance and lobbying laws. Yoo also previously served on the boards of a bar association, alumni association, and advocacy group.
New board members also include John Mason, founder and president of BrightStar Care, an in-home care provider and staffing company with over 365 locations serving 39 states. Robert Koch, a long-time PRO managing volunteer and retired finance and banking executive joined the board and has been instrumental in advising and supporting PRO’s fundraising efforts. Other managing board members include Richard Katz, Michael Opell, Neil Friedman, and Board Treasurer Jim Lawless.
Founded in 1990, Parkinson’s Resource Organization (PRO) has been a beacon of hope and assistance for people living with Parkinson’s and their families. Parkinson’s disease is the fastest-growing neurodegenerative condition in the world and outpaces other age-related illnesses in diagnosis. With a mission to ensure that no one is isolated because of Parkinson’s, PRO offers a wide range of services, including support groups, educational resources, and advocacy.
For more information about Parkinson’s Resource Organization, our new brand identity, and upcoming in-person programming, visit parkinsonsresource.org.
