Michelle's Place Bids Farewell To Long-Time CEO, Names New Leader

After over two decades, Kim Gerrish retires as executive director of the Temecula-based cancer resource center.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Michelle's Place Cancer Resource Center has announced the retirement of Executive Director Kim Gerrish after more than 22 years of service. Amber Berkey, previously the organization's Fundraising and Development Director, will transition into the CEO role. Under Gerrish's leadership, Michelle's Place grew from a breast cancer resource center into an all-cancer resource center serving thousands of clients annually across multiple counties.

Why it matters

Michelle's Place has become a vital community resource for cancer patients and their families in the region, providing no-cost programs and support. Gerrish's long tenure and the smooth leadership transition to Berkey ensures the organization's mission and services will continue uninterrupted.

The details

Gerrish reflected on her time leading the organization, saying she is "incredibly proud of the work we have accomplished" and that she is "looking forward to some time off" before considering what's next. Berkey, who has worked closely with Gerrish, expressed her "deep honor" to continue the organization's important work as the new CEO.

  • Kim Gerrish served as executive director for over 22 years.
  • Amber Berkey will transition into the CEO role.

The players

Kim Gerrish

The first employee and long-time executive director of Michelle's Place Cancer Resource Center, who is retiring after over 22 years of service.

Amber Berkey

The new CEO of Michelle's Place Cancer Resource Center, previously serving as the organization's Fundraising and Development Director.

Michelle's Place Cancer Resource Center

A nonprofit organization that provides no-cost programs and resources to cancer patients and their families in San Bernardino County, Riverside County, North San Diego County, and surrounding areas.

Bill and Marilyn Watson

The founders of Michelle's Place Cancer Resource Center, who expressed their gratitude for Kim Gerrish's leadership and their confidence in Amber Berkey's ability to lead the organization into the future.

Stefani Laszko

The Executive Board President of Michelle's Place Cancer Resource Center, who spoke about the transition and Gerrish's long-term commitment to the organization.

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What they’re saying

“I am incredibly proud of the work we have accomplished through Michelle's Place, the amazing family that has embraced me to carry on their daughters' legacy and the many wonderful people I have had the opportunity to work with. It has been my greatest privilege to be the Executive Director of Michelle's Place. And I could not be happier to extend this opportunity to Amber Berkey.”

— Kim Gerrish, Retiring Executive Director (Patch.com)

“I am deeply honored to continue the important work of Michelle's Place Cancer Resource Center in the role of CEO. The foundation laid by the Watson Family 25 years ago is firmly rooted in community, compassion, and hope. Kim's decades of extraordinary leadership stand as a powerful testament to her dedication and her vision, guiding the organization to one that now supports more than 6,000 clients each year. I am personally grateful for her trust, mentorship, and friendship. As we look to the future, our commitment remains steadfast: that no one should face cancer alone.”

— Amber Berkey, Incoming CEO (Patch.com)

“For over 22 years, Kim Gerrish has led Michelle's Place with extraordinary dedication, compassion, and vision. Because of her leadership, our organization is strong, stable, and deeply rooted in this community. The Board is profoundly grateful for the foundation Kim has built, and we are equally confident and excited to welcome Amber Berkey as our new CEO. Amber's commitment to our mission and her proven leadership ensure a seamless transition and a bright future for Michelle's Place.”

— Stefani Laszko, Executive Board President (Patch.com)

“We knew when Kim walked through the door that she had the heart and vision to guide Michelle's Place along a path of integrity and genuine care, and to grow it into something truly beautiful. We still remember the young woman who showed up with her three daughters in a red wagon, full of hope and determination. She never missed a step. Kim is fearless and she leads with her heart. What she has built here is something we could never have achieved without her strength and persistence, and she will always be part of our Michelle's Place family.”

— Bill and Marilyn Watson (Patch.com)

What’s next

The organization plans to continue its mission of providing no-cost programs and resources to cancer patients and their families in the region under the new leadership of CEO Amber Berkey.

The takeaway

Michelle's Place has grown from a small breast cancer resource center into a vital all-cancer support organization under Kim Gerrish's 22 years of dedicated leadership. The smooth transition to new CEO Amber Berkey ensures the organization's important work will continue uninterrupted, providing critical services to those facing cancer in the community.