All for a Good Cause

It's no secret that Northern Nevada has its fair share of philanthropic non-profits just waiting for donations of time, energy and resources. So which ones are close to our hearts? While we often dedicate time and expertise to local charitable foundations as a team, we also do so individually. Here are just a few of our personal causes: 

Nicole Rose Dion, Account Director:

I donate my extra food to Eddy House. They are always so grateful, even if it's just a leftover sandwich tray from the company retreat. It feels so good to not throw perfectly good food (I know I won't eat) into the trash and instead feed a homeless teen or two or 20.

Edward Estipona, President/Founder: 

My wife and I have always supported our Catholic community by giving to our church, St. Rose, and to the Reno Catholic Diocese. Additionally, we’ve been longtime members of KNPB, as it’s important to us to sustain programing that improves our lives. Aside from that, historically I’ve contributed to the SPCA, Volunteers of America, regional/national autism causes and children’s healthcare causes. I’m a Trustee for the Community Foundation of Western Nevada. And of course, as someone heavily involved in the creative field, I personally donate time to the arts, currently serving my second 5-year term on the board for the Nevada Arts Council.

Dani Rawson, Digital Media Coordinator:

I love working with Reno Photo Meet Up, a local monthly gathering created by Casey Simon. A bunch of photographers come together every month to create, network and build a creative arts community.

Brian Raszka, Associate Creative Director:

Every year my wife and I donate to: the Food Bank of Northern Nevada, KUNR and Reno Sparks Gospel Mission. 

Paige Galeoto, VP of Creative:

I am a volunteer coach for the Reno Huskies NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) mountain bike team, committed to getting more kids on bikes, and I am a guest coach for Bike Like a Girl, empowering girls and women through bike riding. I donate time and funds to local trail building organizations (The Biggest Little Trail Stewardship, Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association (TAMBA) and Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship).

Chelsey Brice, Account Executive:

I've been volunteering in various capacities with Advocates to End Domestic Violence in Carson City since I was 10. My mom works for the agency, so at first, I didn't have a choice; but as I've grown, so has the agency and my involvement with them. Given my career choice, I've been able to expand my volunteer work with AEDV. I now help the organization in a communications role, helping to manage a couple of their websites, social and traditional media.

Jackie Shelton, VP of PR:

When I decided to write a screenplay, I realized I didn’t know anything about making movies. Since I learn by spending time with people smarter than me, I got involved with the Cordillera International Film Festival. That was so cool I joined the board, and that means I get to help put on a film festival that attracts filmmakers from all over the world! In addition to the annual film festival, we’re also responsible for Movies in the Park, Future Filmmakers Foundation, Women in Film, Nevada Filmmakers and Curated Screenings. So much movie fun! I also recently joined the WIN board. And whenever I can, I help out Women & Children’s Center of the Sierra and other causes dear to my heart.

Mikalee Byerman, VP of Strategy: 

Just last week I was voluntarily auctioned off for charity, which is something I'd only do for an extremely good cause — the Northern Nevada Children's Cancer Foundation, to be precise. I'm also on the board of directors for Lexie's Gift, and I'm passionate about serving as a flu shot advocate after a terrifying experience with my own daughter being hospitalized with the flu. So Immunize Nevada is not only a client, but a cause I'm passionate about helping in any way I can.