10 Things About Anthony J. DeSalis, Esq. & The Arc of San Diego

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“There are two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.”
– Albert Einstein

The Arc of San Diego supports and empowers people with disabilities to achieve their life goals. Founded in 1951, The Arc of San Diego is the largest provider of services for people with disabilities in the County, and it’s featured frequently in GB Magazine for its community impact. The Arc serves over 2,000 individuals at more than 20 locations throughout the County. Anthony J. DeSalis, Esq. is the President & CEO of The Arc of San Diego.

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#1 Anthony J. DeSalis, Esq. grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

#2 Italy is my favorite travel destination. I have been there twice and would like to go back.

#3 Ireland is on the top of the list and other countries in Europe and possibly Asia that I would like to visit.

#4 Playing my guitar helps me to decompress. I also enjoy taking walks with my dog.

#5 I mostly read fiction and have been currently reading the Mick Herron Slow Horses books. Urban Fantasy by authors like Patricia Briggs and Kim Harrison are fun reads too. Stephen King books are often a good choice like “Mr. Mercedes” or “Holly.”

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#6 I have a Cocker Spaniel named Stitch, and a cat named Mazie.

#7 My wife, Gaynell Laptosky, Ph.D. and I have been together since 1975, and she has been the most important person to me throughout these 50 years.

#8 I think growing up as I did in the late 60s and early 70s, the idea of being involved in the community is a part of my nature. Being a part of The Arc of San Diego for over 40 years, I have seen the impact organizations as well as individuals can have on others within the community. Creating a positive change is important to me.

#9 Anthony J. DeSalis, Esq. involvement with The Arc of San Diego was purely luck. I saw an advertisement for a position at one of Arc’s locations and applied for the job. I thought it would be a good starting place to get experience working with a social service organization. I did not plan on being with The Arc for over 40 years. Why I am still here is because The Arc does what its mission states. The Arc supports and empowers people with disabilities to achieve their life goals. What can be better than helping to meet that mission!

#10 All proceeds raised at our Spring Gala benefit children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities receiving services at The Arc of San Diego.

EVENT

The Arc of San Diego
“The Greatest Place on Earth!”
Saturday, May 3, 2025
5:30 P.M. – 10 PM
Coasterra
880 Harbor Island Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
www.arc-sd.com/gala

Lori Walton
Lori Walton
My love and appreciation for nonprofit work began in college when I was selected to represent UCLA’s undergraduate service organization. As a student, I didn’t have a lot of money to donate but I quickly learned that I could make an impact by giving my time. All you have to do to make a difference in someone’s life is care. For the last 30 years, San Diego has been my home. During this time, I have served on over 17 boards and chaired 27 fundraisers. No matter how much work I do with nonprofits, I am always amazed at the number of awesome causes and dedicated supporters out there. San Diego definitely has the best weather in the world but what makes San Diego America’s finest city are the people. I feel incredibly lucky and blessed to live in a city that has so many kind and selfless souls who genuinely care about making our community a better place for everyone. As Giving Back Magazine’s Philanthropy Editor, each week, I feature a hero and the causes that are creating a positive difference in our world. Always remember that philanthropy is about more than giving money, it’s about caring enough to help others who are in pain. So, go out there and make every moment count!

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