Board of Directors 2026-2027
Children’s Benefit League is guided by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors committed to advancing our mission and honoring our legacy of service. Board members generously give their time, leadership, and expertise without compensation to help support medically vulnerable children and families in the Long Beach community. Through thoughtful stewardship and compassionate service, they help ensure CBL continues putting hope into action.

Jona Howe
President

Desiree Eakin, MD
Vice President

Andrea La Vela
Recording Secretary, Board

Michelle Nygard
Recording Secretary, General

Lauren Garcia
Corresponding Secretary

Judy Nichols
Financial Secretary

Connie Stewart
Fund Development

Sharon Young
Parliamentarium

Susan Livesay
Treasurer

Sylvia Desmond
Co-Treasurer

Lorie Franck
Philanthropy

Debbie Welding
Philanthropy

Nancy Perkins
Historian

Susan Laffiche
Community Laison

Elaine McKay
Community Laison

Desiree Eakin MD
Social Media/Webmaster
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