René Webb
Geraldine René Webb, better known as just “René” was born in Medford, Massachusetts in 1950. Her father moved to Los Angeles shortly after her birth so René was raised by her mother and sister. The Salvation Army became instrumental in her upbringing, providing dinners, toys and community. This is where René first developed her desire to give back.
She moved to Los Angeles in 1966 to complete her high school education. She met Reggie Webb in 1967; they were married a few years later. René attended Cal State Los Angeles and graduated in 1973 with a degree in accounting. After completing her education Reggie and René started their family; giving birth to their first son, Karim and then a daughter; Kiana. By this time it was now the early 80’s and René began to experience symptoms of vertigo, her motor skills declined and the onset of neurological misfires began. After a few doctors’ visits and no diagnosis but much prayer and patience her symptoms started to subside. Elated and feeling healthy again she gave birth to son, Kyle in 1985. This was also the year the Webb’s became McDonald’s Owner/Operators. Indian Hill Management began their first year with two stores and currently own 17 restaurants. René made good use of her degree by managing the payroll department.
Unfortunately René began to lose her balance again and was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. This unpredictable disease is one that often disables the central nervous system and disrupts the flow of information to the brain. Her mother, Amelia moved to California after Rene’s diagnosis of MS. Despite physical hardships, René became heavily involved with the Salvation Army in Pomona, California. In 1988 René joined Soroptomist International, a global volunteer organization working to improve the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment. By 1992 René was the Salvation Army Chairwoman of the board and the President of Soroptomist, Pomona chapter. She was also accepted a position on the Board of Directors of the Los Angeles Chapter of the MS Society. She joined the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in 1993. René was inducted into the MS hall of fame in 2014 for having raised over $340K. Rene’s passion to give back to the community continues through her connections with several organizations include; J.U.G.S. International, Sacred S.I.S.T.A.H.S., PUPIL Foundation (PUSD), the HACER Scholarship Fund, The Red Shoe Society, her involvement with the NAACP and the René Webb scholarship fund, empowering our youth and assisting in reaching their dreams.
René has been attending Faith Community Church since 2000. Family and friends recognize her as a prayer warrior. She hosted a women's bible study in her home for several years and gives many thanks to God for everything in her life.