Leadership & Governance

Uplifters Foundation is led by Pacific Palisades residents with direct experience in venture capital, real estate development, capital formation, and community leadership.

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Steven Dietz

Executive Director

Pacific Palisades resident for over 30 years. Founding Partner of Upfront Ventures, a venture capital firm, with over 30 years of experience investing in and building companies. Former founder and CEO of United Dwelling, one of the most active builders of small-scale residential housing in Los Angeles.

Has raised over $4 billion in capital across venture and real estate platforms. Responsible for program strategy, capital structure, and execution.

Upfront Ventures
Founding Partner
United Dwelling
Founder & former CEO
$4B+
Capital raised
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Lee West

President

Pacific Palisades resident for over 30 years. Background in business leadership, fundraising, and community coordination. Leads capital formation, government relationships, and community engagement.


Expanding Governance

The Foundation is expanding its governance structure to include independent directors, community representatives, and technical advisors with experience in finance, construction, government, nonprofit management, and community rebuilding.

Finance & Capital Markets
Construction & Real Estate
Government & Civic Affairs
Nonprofit Management
Community Representation
Legal & Compliance

Governance expansion is underway. Additional board and advisory appointments will be announced as the program launches.

We live here. This program is a direct response to the loss of homes and community following the wildfire.

— Steven Dietz & Lee West