About us
We are a team of passionate, award-winning filmmakers based in the Inland Empire—proud to call this vibrant and diverse region our creative home. At the Desert Empire Filmmaker Foundation (DEFF), we believe the Inland Empire is more than just a backdrop—it’s a place full of bold stories, underrepresented voices, and serious creative talent ready to shine.
Our journey began in 2022 with Phase 3 Films, a film collaborative formed by students and alumni of San Bernardino Valley College. Phase 3 is still active today and continues to create compelling work, with several of its films recognized at festivals both nationally and internationally. What started as a student-led experiment quickly became a movement—showing us that the need for community and resources in our region was far greater than we imagined.
DEFF is the next step in that evolution.
We launched this foundation to give Inland Empire and Coachella Valley filmmakers what we didn’t have starting out: access to resources, mentorship, funding, and a true sense of creative support. From workshops and networking events to fiscal sponsorship and gear access, we’re here to eliminate barriers and empower the next wave of regional storytellers.
Because the future of filmmaking doesn’t belong to just one city—it belongs to all of us.
“Desert Empire Filmmaker Foundation” is fiscally sponsored by Arts Connection - The Arts Council of San Bernardino County. With this partnership, your donation and support is tax-deductible. Arts Connection is a 501(c)(3) organization. Tax ID # 46-3088038.
MEET THE CREW
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Casey Lee Ball
FOUNDER and PRESIDENT
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Cindy Ball
FOUNDER and VICE PRESIDENT
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Adam DesJardins
TREASURER and DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
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Madison Cote
SECRETARY and COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR