The Jill Foundation

Our Mission Is To Provide Financial Assistance To Hairstylists Battling Breast Cancer

Our job as hairstylists is to make the client feel beautiful!

We are there to listen, to help and to be there – Like a Friend!

When a hairstylist is diagnosed with breast cancer they can use all the help they can get.

Formed in the Loving Memory of Jill Etzold Kester

In early 2004, Jill Etzold Kester was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. She continued her fight until that October, when she lost her battle. She left behind two young daughters, extended family members and countless friends. She was just 43 years old.

Read Jill's Story

Who We Have Helped

Elisa Griego

Elisa was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer and has 2 daughters, Gabriela and Angelina. She is in the process of chemotherapy and her surgery is scheduled for this month.

Elisa's Story

Lola Riker

Lola Riker and she was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer on January 8, 2013. She is 37 years young and newly married. They are both unemployed due to her illness.

Lola's Story

Bonni Bailey

I never met Jill, but she sure did a wonderful thing by wanting this foundation to exist. As for me, I will be forever grateful for their help. I am trusting in the Lord and taking one day at a time.

Bonni's Story

Meet Our Directors

Barbara Nolasco

Barbara and her husband have owned and operated their salon, Artistic Hair, in the City of Orange for over 30 years.

While visiting Jill in her hospital room in 2004, Barbara worked with Jill to find a way to help hairstylists in her condition. A constant supporter of the Cut-A-Thon, Jill felt the proceeds could be used to benefit hairstylists diagnosed with breast cancer. The 2004 Cut-A-Thon was the most successful to date, raising $12,000. A week later, Jill lost her battle with the disease.

In 2010 Barabara co-founded The Jill Foundation with her friend, Derek Benson

“I am so humbled and honored to be a part of TJF from the beginning. I am so moved when I take a check to a recipient and I see the impact that TJF can have on a stylist. My passion is to make TJF available for any illness that strikes a hairstylist, esthetician or manicurist.” – Barbara Nolasco

Derek Benson

Derek is native to Orange County where he currently resides and works. He is a lover of animals, especially his standard poodle Anastasia, who goes to work with him every day at another local nonprofit.

Derek Benson and Jill Kester met in 1984, by chance, when Derek stopped by her salon for a haircut one day after work. They became fast friends, and were close over the next 20 years, until she passed away from breast cancer in 2004.

In his free time, Derek gives back to his community through various volunteer organizations. He is presently on the boards of two local non-profits.

In 2010 he co-founded The Jill Foundation with his friend Barbara Nolasco; inspired by Jill Kester’s life and friendship.

If, and when, Derek can get away he also enjoys spending time with family and friends and traveling as much as possible.