The Desert Business Association, the region’s LGBTQ+ and Ally Chamber of Commerce, will once again shine a spotlight on excellence, leadership, and community impact at the 2026 DBA Impact Awards. The celebration, presented by The UPS Store: Proudly serving Palm Springs, Cathedral City, & Palm Desert, takes place Monday, May 4 from 5–9 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center. This annual event honors businesses, individuals, and organizations whose work strengthens the Coachella Valley’s LGBTQ+ community while also supporting local youth through educational scholarships in partnership with Safe Schools Desert Cities.
2026 Honorees
- Outstanding Business – Townie Bagels
- Townie Bagels has become a beloved Palm Springs staple known for its traditional, water‑boiled New York–style bagels crafted with old‑school methods and no additives. The bakery’s commitment to quality, consistency, and community hospitality has earned it a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.
- Outstanding Business Persons – Michael and Ernie Westman (Montage Events, GED Magazine, Cathedral City LGBT Days, Equality Wine Fest)
- Michael and Ernie Westman are well‑known producers, publishers, and community advocates whose work spans major regional events and LGBTQ+ cultural programming. Through Montage Events and their leadership roles in Cathedral City LGBT Days, they have helped shape one of the Coachella Valley’s most visible Pride celebrations, emphasizing unity, visibility, and creative expression.
- Outstanding Community Service Organization – Boys & Girls Club of Cathedral City
- For more than 45 years, the Boys & Girls Club of Cathedral City has provided a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for local youth. The organization offers academic support, leadership development, health and wellness programs, and mentorship opportunities that help young people reach their full potential.
- Outstanding Community Service Leader – Julie Warren (Palm Springs Speaks; LGBTQ+ History & Archives of the Desert; Palm Springs Public Library)
- Julie Warren has built a career centered on public engagement, cultural programming, and community storytelling. As Communications Manager for the Palm Springs Public Library and a key organizer of the Palm Springs Speaks speaker series, she helps bring nationally recognized authors, entertainers, and thought leaders to the Coachella Valley. Her involvement with LGBTQ+ History & Archives of the Desert supports the preservation of regional queer history, ensuring that local stories are documented, honored, and shared.
Scholarships for LGBTQ+ Youth
This year’s ceremony includes the presentation of four educational scholarships supporting LGBTQ+ students across the Coachella Valley. These awards, created in partnership with Safe Schools Desert Cities, help local youth pursue higher education and career pathways. Scholarship sponsors include DBA, Taste Specific, Dinner with Patsi, and Desert Hand Car Wash — Cathedral City.
Entertainment
The evening features a performance by Cathedral City resident Marisa Corvo, known for her appearance on The Voice and her dynamic presence at regional venues and events, including The Roost Lounge, the L-Fund Gala, and the Minería Symphony Orchestra of Mexico Music Festival.