10 Things About Kathryne Chavez & The San Diego River Park Foundation

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“Do your little bit of good where you are;
it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”

Desmond Tutu

The San Diego River Park Foundation is a grassroots non-profit organization whose mission is to engage and inspire people to work to overcome the many challenges facing the San Diego River so that it is celebrated as a natural, cultural, and recreational treasure. The San Diego River Watershed is considered by many experts to be one of the most biodiverse areas in the country. Kathryne Chavez is a proud and passionate Board Member of The San Diego River Park who is dedicated to protecting the natural beauty and vitality of our river and community.

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#1 Kathryne Chavez grew up in sunny San Diego. A place that shaped my love for nature, community, and vibrant local culture.

#2 Favorite movie: “10 Things I Hate About You.” I have always been drawn to modern takes on the classics, and I love how this film reimagines Shakespeare with humor and heart.

#3 Book recommendation: “The Great Gatsby” is a timeless favorite. Its themes of hope, longing, and identity still resonate deeply with me today.

#4 Bucket list: To visit all 7 wonders of the world. There is something so inspiring about experiencing the awe of human achievement and natural beauty firsthand.

#5 Thailand and the Philippines are high on my list of places to visit. I am drawn to their rich cultures, stunning landscapes, and the peaceful beauty of island life.

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#6 Favorite travel destination: New York will always have a special place in my heart. I love the fast-paced energy of the city, but I also appreciate the quiet charm you can find in its parks, neighborhoods, and surrounding areas.

#7 My parents have had the greatest impact on my life. Their kindness, resilience, and unwavering generosity have been a guiding light for me and taught me the true meaning of giving back.

#8 Community is everything. When we show up for one another with compassion and intention, we create spaces where everyone can thrive and that ripple effect is powerful.

#9 A close friend introduced me to the work of The San Diego River Park Foundation, and I was immediately drawn to its mission. Preserving and restoring the natural beauty of our city is something I care deeply about, and being a part of this cause allows me to give back to the place that has given me so much.

#10 Fiesta Del Rio is our upcoming gala on September 20th that will include delicious food, exciting musical entertainment, and a live auction. Proceeds will benefit our Education Program that provides innovative nature-based STEAM learning experiences at no cost to thousands of deserving students annually.

EVENT

The San Diego River Park Foundation
“Fiesta Del Rio”
September 20th, 2025
Grant Park
2410 Camino Del Rio. North, San Diego, 92108
www.sandiegoriver.org

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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