Meet Anyse Smith
For more than a decade I have worked on the ground in this community, in courtrooms, shelters, recovery programs, and community centers, advocating for residents of the Coachella Valley.
I was raised in a family of healthcare providers, so I learned early how much access to care shapes a life. When care is delayed today, it becomes a crisis tomorrow.
In 2014 I completed the Gateway Program at the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission. I now have more than 12 years in recovery, and I have built my career around housing, legal advocacy, and healthcare access for our most vulnerable residents.
I serve on the board of Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest. I earned my law degree from California Desert Trial Academy, where I now teach Legal Writing while practicing public interest law at a nonprofit.
In January 2026 I earned a unanimous appointment to represent Zone 5 on the Desert Healthcare District Board, selected from a competitive field. Now I am asking the voters of Zone 5 to confirm that trust in November.
Service rooted in the Valley.
Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest
Board Member
Helping guide one of the region’s most important providers of reproductive and primary healthcare.
The Other Bar, Inc.
President
Supporting lawyers and judges in recovery. No profession is immune, and nobody should face it alone.
Regional Access Project Foundation
Board Member
Supporting health, mental health, and juvenile intervention programs across the Coachella Valley.
Friends of the Children – Coachella Valley
Board Member
Backing long-term mentorship for local youth who face the steepest odds.
California Desert Trial Academy
Professor, Legal Writing
Training the next generation of lawyers right here in Indio, investing in the Valley’s own professional talent.
Starting Over, Inc.
Assistant Director of Law and Policy
A reentry organization that pairs direct services with policy advocacy to confront homelessness and recidivism. It has helped more than 7,000 people rebuild since its founding.