The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast – which includes Newport Beach – has appointed Keegan M. Bell, CFRE, as the organization’s executive director of philanthropy.
With over 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience in education, youth development, and community advancement, Keegan joins the Club during a key period of growth following its recent expansion into eight cities and its goal of serving 15,000 youth annually.
In his new role, Keegan will play a key leadership role in advancing the Club’s fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and philanthropic partnerships, working closely with Chief Philanthropy Officer Travis Whitten to ensure the resources needed to deliver world-class mentorship, academic enrichment, and workforce readiness programs. A purpose-driven strategist and servant leader, he is known for connecting passionate supporters with transformative missions that strengthen entire communities.
“We are thrilled to welcome Keegan Bell as our executive director of philanthropy, a leader whose passion and leadership will elevate our mission. His addition marks a strategic step in growing the resources we need to serve more youth following our recent mergers and expansion,” said Robert Santana, CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast.
Keegan brings deep expertise shaped by more than two decades of service to nonprofit organizations. Most recently, he served as executive vice president of the Irvine Public Schools Foundation (IPSF), one of the nation’s leading educational foundations. In that role, he directed strategic operations for afterschool and summer enrichment programs, philanthropy and fundraising, community relations, and communications.
Prior to IPSF, he led development and fundraising efforts at The Wooden Floor and MemorialCare, further strengthening his experience in building mission-driven partnerships and sustainable philanthropic growth.
To learn more visit https://boysandgirlsclub.com.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast
Since its founding, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast has been a cornerstone of the Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Irvine, Orange, and Santa Ana communities. The Clubs have provided strategic programming, safe space, and quality mentoring to more than 100,000 youth since the first Club in Costa Mesa opened in 1941.
The Club works to build a foundation for members to live meaningful, productive lives by equipping them with the skills they need to graduate high school, pursue higher education, and join the workforce. It has been recognized by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America as one of the most innovative in the nation, particularly with its IMPACT Model. The Clubs are proactive in fostering relationships with similarly-minded nonprofits to serve youth and their families best. All its activities, whether at the Club, a school, or out in the community, are designed to empower youth and build up the protective family and community factors that reduce risks and increase the likelihood of positive outcomes. Its mission is to ensure every child has mentors and champions in life.
