About Us
Privately funded. Purpose Driven. Focused on Results.
The Empower Foundation is a Los Angeles-based 501C(3) philanthropic organization that channels private capital into programs serving vulnerable children and advancing health equity. We do this through strategic partnerships, rigorous evaluation, and a deep commitment to legacy-building.
We are a bridge—connecting private donors, proven solutions, and sustained leadership to create real, measurable outcomes.
100% of every dollar raised goes directly to the charities we fund.
Our operations are funded through private commitment, and our leadership—including our Founder and Board—is entirely volunteer-based.
Vulnerable Children
We fund organizations that build confidence, identity, and long-term resilience in children facing structural and emotional adversity.
Health Equity
We invest in initiatives that expand access to care and improve outcomes in communities historically underserved by traditional healthcare systems.
Our Founder & Chairman
Dr. Colette Nichols
President, Chairman of the Board
"I never had anything handed to me. I built my life and my career from the ground up. That’s what drives this work."
Dr. Colette Nichols is a self-made executive with a 25-year career in healthcare and technology. A recognized executive and strategist, she brings the same discipline and precision to philanthropy that she brought to the boardroom.
Colette understands the power of mentorship, grit, and second chances. She built The Empower Foundation as a platform to give those tools back to others—and to do it with zero bureaucracy, maximum clarity, and total integrity.
An avid golfer, Colette also believes in the transformative power of sport to build character, self-trust, and personal excellence in children. The Foundation actively supports programs that use golf, fitness, and discipline to change lives.
What We Believe
- Every child deserves a chance to rise.
- Health is a human right, not a privilege.
- True philanthropy is measured by what you give, not what you keep.
- Legacy is not about what you’ve achieved—it’s about who you’ve lifted up.
Board of Directors
Scott Gaudineer
Scott Gaudineer
Scott Gaudineer
Board Secretary
Scott Gaudineer is a nationally recognized architect and nonprofit housing leader with over 35 years of experience designing and developing affordable, sustainable communities across California. As President and CEO of Flewelling Moody and a longtime principal at SVA Architects, he has led award-winning projects that int
Board Secretary
Scott Gaudineer is a nationally recognized architect and nonprofit housing leader with over 35 years of experience designing and developing affordable, sustainable communities across California. As President and CEO of Flewelling Moody and a longtime principal at SVA Architects, he has led award-winning projects that integrate thoughtful urban planning with social impact. His legacy includes serving as AIA California President and championing equitable housing solutions that elevate both design excellence and community well-being.
Douglas Mancino
Scott Gaudineer
Scott Gaudineer
Board Member
Douglas Mancino is a nationally respected healthcare and tax-exempt organization attorney with over four decades of experience advising hospitals, health systems, and nonprofits on complex regulatory and transactional matters. As a partner at Seyfarth Shaw LLP, he combines deep legal expertise with strategic insight to guide
Board Member
Douglas Mancino is a nationally respected healthcare and tax-exempt organization attorney with over four decades of experience advising hospitals, health systems, and nonprofits on complex regulatory and transactional matters. As a partner at Seyfarth Shaw LLP, he combines deep legal expertise with strategic insight to guide clients through mergers, tax compliance, and governance challenges. Widely published and a frequent speaker, his career reflects a commitment to advancing healthcare law with clarity, precision, and integrity.
Michael Wall
Scott Gaudineer
Michael Wall
Board Member
Michael Wall is a distinguished healthcare executive with decades of leadership experience, currently serving as Acting President and CEO of St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica. Known for his transformative tenure at Northridge Hospital Medical Center, he significantly improved financial performance, employee satisfaction, and
Board Member
Michael Wall is a distinguished healthcare executive with decades of leadership experience, currently serving as Acting President and CEO of St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica. Known for his transformative tenure at Northridge Hospital Medical Center, he significantly improved financial performance, employee satisfaction, and institutional reputation. A fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and active board member, his career reflects a deep commitment to operational excellence and community impact.