Imperial Valley Wellness Foundation Receives Historic $7.5 Million donation from Alliance Healthcare Foundation
EL CENTRO, CA - The Imperial Valley Wellness Foundation (IVWF) has received a groundbreaking $7.5 million contribution from San Diego-based Alliance Healthcare Foundation (AHF), marking a historic investment in the future of Imperial County. The donation, announced Monday, ensures IVWFs long-term sustainability and empowers the organization to direct resources toward critical health and wellness initiatives in the region.
The funding marks a major shift in philanthropic strategy, emphasizing broad community control rather than traditional grantor-grantee relationships. This type of investment, designed to give local leaders greater autonomy, is among the first of its kind in the nation.
“IVWF has been a trusted partner of AHF for several years, and we’ve been continually inspired by the positive impact it has had on the communities within Imperial County,” said Sarah Lyman, executive director of AHF. “Our board feels very strongly that now is the time to take meaningful action to invest in the community’s own wisdom and vision for a healthier future.”
A New Era for Imperial Valley
Since its founding in 2018, IVWF has worked to improve health outcomes and civic engagement in historically underserved communities. Under the leadership of Executive Director Roque Barros, the foundation serves as a Rural Development Hub, providing support to nonprofits, strengthening local infrastructure, and promoting long-term economic and social well-being.
“The most impactful community work is accomplished when stakeholders experience self-determination, strength, and sustainability” Barros said. “AHF has been instrumental in helping us lay a solid foundation for growth and prosperity in our community, and we look forward to continuing to work alongside them in this new era for Imperial County.” She continued in a press release
Barros emphasized that the foundation is not just building another institution but rather creating the civic infrastructure necessary for lasting, community-led change.
Commitment to Equity and Long-Term Investment
AHF has long supported IVWFs mission, providing millions in capacity-building support, technical assistance, and grant funding since 2017. The latest contribution cements a long-term partnership between the two organizations, reflecting a commitment to advancing health and wellness in a region that has historically seen limited investment compared to the rest of California.
By transitioning away from traditional grant structures to an equitable partnership based on trust, transparency, and accountability, AHF and IVWF are working together to redefine how philanthropy operates in underserved areas.
IVWF ultimate goal is to make Imperial Valley a better place to live for all ensuring that local leaders and organizations have the resources needed to address critical community health challenges.
For more information about IVWF and AHF, visit www.ivwf.org and www.alliancehf.org.