Impacting Change Through Philanthropy
By: Bethany Myers
From Left: Gina Jaha, Kerry Herbert, Sue Grant, Monette Zotovich
Sue Grant, Gina Jaha, Kerry Herbert and Monette Zotovich are four exceptional women whose philanthropic efforts have significantly impacted Newport Beach and our surrounding communities. Together, these women exemplify the power of local philanthropy and inspire others to contribute to the betterment of society. Read on to learn the full story of their remarkable legacies and the lives they have touched.
About Sue Grant
Sue Grant, Founder and Volunteer CEO of the Literacy Project, created the organization to give the gift of literacy to the most vulnerable children struggling with reading. Since its inception in 2009, the Literacy Project has provided a comprehensive reading program at no cost to more than 10,500 students from low-income families across four states. This initiative improves reading skills, fosters a love of learning and builds confidence, transforming the lives of the children served. Additionally, the organization has secured over $5.1 million in funding to support its 30-hour reading program, demonstrating remarkable results - average skill improvements range from 76% to 129%. The Literacy Project also donated $1.96 million worth of reading games to benefit 49,014 family members.
Born and raised in Orange County, Sue began her career focusing on troubled school-age children. With an undergraduate degree in Counseling and School Psychology, her commitment to helping young children deepened. Her passion is rooted in her upbringing with nine siblings and her unwavering faith. One of her core beliefs is that “there are endless opportunities to do more for other people.” For Sue, this means ensuring less fortunate children acquire essential reading skills by the critical level of third grade, paving brighter paths for their futures.
Sue has accomplished remarkable feats throughout her career and personal life. At age 21, she founded Love Is A Rose, a unique company featuring “flower girls” in OC restaurants that she successfully sold by the age of 30. She then founded and served as principal of OC Public Relations for 24 years, representing Orange County's non-profit and hospitality industries. In 2003, Sue signed a contract with The Regents of the University of California to work on a project to combat rising illiteracy rates. After fulfilling that contract, she returned to helping struggling children by forming The Literacy Project and, within five years, focused on it full-time after retiring from OC Public Relations. This final chapter in Sue's career has fulfilled every dream of a servant’s heart.
Additional career achievements include delivering a speech to 650 attendees from 83 countries at the World Literacy Summit, being on the 2022 OC Register’s 125 OC Most Influential list, and receiving the 2024 Congressional “Inspirational Woman of the Year” award from Senator Bob Archuleta’s office. Most recently, at 66, Sue entered a fitness competition called Stark Naked, an empowering and life-changing experience.
Sue moved to Newport Beach at age 17 and has lived in various communities within the area. After raising her children in Irvine, she returned to Newport Beach in 2002 and now lives on Lido Isle with her husband, Gary. She and her family love the serene views and active lifestyle of Newport Harbor. She also finds great joy in participating in Mariners Church and the Fearless Women Bible Study led by Pastor Donna Schuller.
Sue encourages the community to seize the opportunity to profoundly impact a disadvantaged child's life, as we can make a lasting difference through the power of literacy. She urges everyone to find a cause that resonates with them, give back in any way they can, and discover the meaningful balance it brings to their lives. The effort enriches both the giver and the recipient, making it truly worthwhile.
About Gina Jaha
Gina Jaha has devoted her life to supporting charitable causes and enriching her community. With a background in both professional and volunteer work, Gina’s passion for helping others is evident in everything she does.
Her dedication to charity began in her childhood, inspired by her parents’ support of Danny Thomas and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This early exposure to philanthropy instilled in her a deep-seated commitment to giving back. The opportunity arose to start a non-profit charity event with her good friends, The Stearns, to benefit those in need. Gina eagerly accepted the honor of helping Mindy and Glenn launch the Life-Changing Lives fundraiser in 2008. This event benefited several organizations, including the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Wounded Warriors.
Gina is currently involved in two main charitable initiatives. Since 2016, she has served as the CDM PTA Home Tour Chair and has held various positions since 2011. This special event raises essential funds for CDM Middle and High Schools and fosters a strong sense of community and pride, directly benefiting the students. This year's 50th Anniversary Home Tour set a new fundraising record and received a proclamation from Mayor Will O'Neil and the City of Newport Beach, recognizing 50 years of excellence in the community.
Additionally, Gina plays a crucial role in The Literacy Project’s SAVOR of Newport event, which helps underserved children learn to read. She has been involved with The Literacy Project since 2011 and supports Founder Sue Grant, volunteering as Director of Event Production.
Gina has been recognized with numerous awards for her exceptional community work. In 2024, she received the Newport Beach Volunteerism Award presented by Mayor Will O’Neill, as well as the OC Spirit of Volunteerism Award. The Literacy Project honored her with the SAVOR 2023 Dream Maker Award for 10 years of outstanding volunteerism. Additionally, Gina has been a two-time recipient of the CDM PTA Honorary Service Award for going above and beyond. In 2021, she was honored with the Lincoln Legend Award for 12 years of dedicated volunteering at Lincoln Elementary School. These accolades reflect Gina's significant contributions to her community.
Since 2003, Gina and her family have lived in Newport Beach and treasure the community for its beauty, safety and excellent schools. Gina’s husband, Bob, founded an electric bike company and recently developed a high-performance pickleball paddle called GRIT Pickleball. Their son, Jackson, graduated from CDM High School in 2022 and is studying finance at the University of Oregon, while Gianni is a sophomore at CDM High School, excelling in soccer and golf.
“I love living in Newport Beach with my family! Raising our kids in Newport has been a great experience. We feel a strong sense of community and a desire to help improve where we live,” says Gina.
Gina’s motto is “Stay strong, have heart, and finish what you start.” She encourages her neighbors to spread smiles and kindness and to take time to help those in need.
About Kerry Herbert
Kerry Herbert serves on the Board of Directors for Mission San Juan Capistrano, a role that underscores her dedication to historical preservation and community service. Her involvement began many years ago when she was invited to attend the Romance of the Mission gala by her close friend and philanthropist, the late Madeline Martin Swinden, a former Mission Preservation Foundation Board member. Inspired by the beauty and historical significance of the site and the dedication of those involved in its care, Kerry decided to contribute her efforts.
As a native Californian with a deep appreciation of history, she was moved by the mission's role in educating a diverse community, including students, history enthusiasts, arts patrons and individuals battling cancer. This broad impact motivated Kerry and her husband, Gavin, to support the Mission's annual September gala by donating all floral and design decor services from Roger’s Gardens, their family business. They have proudly contributed to this event for nearly a decade, enhancing its splendor and success.
Following Madeline's passing in June 2020, Kerry was invited to join the Mission Preservation Foundation Board of Directors, a role she enthusiastically accepted. Under the leadership of Board Chair George O'Connell and founding Board Chair Tony Moiso, Kerry has embraced the opportunity to further the Mission's goals. She is particularly proud of the board's collective achievements over the past decade and eagerly anticipates this year's Romance of the Mission gala on September 13. Kerry and Gavin's active support and involvement aim to inspire others to contribute to this landmark's care, service and stewardship.
Kerry's professional background is rooted in the hospitality industry, where she enjoyed a remarkable 20-year tenure with the Four Seasons Hotels. As a proud third-generation Californian and a Newport Beach resident for nearly 25 years, Kerry takes great joy in living here. Walking along the beautiful coastline is a daily ritual, keeping her active and connected to nature. As a passionate entertainer, her home is always ready for a party and she loves bringing people together. Faith plays a crucial role in Kerry's life and she is a proud member of the Fearless Bible study group, where the bond with other women strengthens her resilience. She and Gavin are actively involved in the Parent Leadership Council at USC and Gavin's role on the Board of Trustees at Chapman University allows them to connect with other Panther families.
Kerry Herbert's involvement in Mission San Juan Capistrano and her active participation reflect her commitment to making a positive impact. Her dedication serves as a call to action for others to get involved and contribute to improving the community.
About Monette Zotovich
Monette Zotovich’s dedication to philanthropy and community, along with her vibrant and active lifestyle, serves as an inspiration to those around her. Through her involvement in various charitable organizations, she has made a meaningful impact in Newport Beach and beyond.
Over the past 10 years, she has chaired several fundraising events and continues to serve on committees, always seeking new ways to engage the community. With her substantial experience in education, Monette is passionate about supporting organizations that make a positive difference in children's futures.
Most recently, she has been a dedicated supporter of The Literacy Project, a non-profit organization helping second-grade students achieve essential reading skills. Given her educational background and commitment to children’s success, the Literacy Project's mission resonates deeply.
Additionally, Monette and her husband Steve have actively supported Child Help, an organization dedicated to preventing and treating child abuse. Over the years, they have participated in, donated, and sponsored events. Monette's dedication to improving children's lives aligns perfectly with Child Help's mission. She served on the gala committee for five years and co-chaired it twice. In 2019, at the 10th Anniversary Gala, Monette and her husband received the prestigious “Dream Maker” award for their continuous support and dedication. Monette also contributed her expertise to the inaugural Savor 2023 and 2024 committees and served as a celebrity bartender for “Cheers For Literacy” twice.
KidWorks is another organization she has strong ties with, as it serves youth and families in underserved communities through a licensed preschool, after-school programs, tutoring, mentoring, college and career readiness, family services, and leadership development. Monette has contributed by participating in their pickleball fundraising tournaments, through sponsorships and continues to provide items needed for their education.
With her husband serving on the Board of Directors, Monette has been deeply involved in Crystal Cove Conservancy for several years. Captivated by its mission to preserve and protect one of California's most beautiful beaches and educate the public about this special piece of coastline, Monette supports its efforts through donations and event participation, ensuring this natural treasure is protected for future generations.
Monette’s earlier life began with a career as an elementary school teacher in South Orange County, where she witnessed firsthand the importance of reading. After marrying Steve and moving to Newport Beach, she retired from teaching but continued her advocacy for literacy. Her classroom experiences fueled her dedication to The Literacy Project and other child-focused charities.
Both were widowed 22 years ago and feel incredibly blessed to have found each other. Together, they share six adult children and four grandchildren, all living nearby. They treasure the close-knit community, the beautiful beaches and the endless activities Newport Beach offers.
Monette believes in being there for others with a smile and emphasizes the importance of relationships. She encourages everyone to be available for people in need and to cherish their connections. While Monette Zotovich remains passionate about giving back, her biggest blessing now is being available to watch her four young grandchildren.
"These are treasured moments, and I’m grateful to have the time to spend with this next generation," she says.
Together, these four exceptional women showcase the profound impact of philanthropy on their communities. Their collective efforts highlight the power of giving back and the remarkable difference that passionate, community-minded individuals can make. By sharing their stories and achievements, we celebrate their contributions and the spirit of generosity and service that defines our community.
For more information about the non-profit organizations mentioned above, visit their websites: cdmhometour.org, literacyproj.org or IG @thelitercyproj, missionsjc.com, childhelpoc.com, kidworksoc.org, crystalcove.org
Upcoming Charity Events
Savor, benefiting the Literacy Project - September 13, 2024, Newport Beach Country Club
Romance of the Mission Gala, benefiting Mission San Juan Capistrano - September 13, 2024, Mission San Juan Capistrano
Rosé on the Bay, benefiting KidWorks - October 2, 2024, Private Residence
Cars & Cocktails, benefiting KidWorks - November 14, 2024, Finish Line Auto Club
Photography Courtesy of Jenn Castro, Nova Media House
Styling courtesy of Neiman Marcus Fashion Island
Make-up courtesy of Latrice Johnson
Gina's Hair courtesy of Kristin Zandbergen at Kittie Olivier Salon
