More than three dozen local charities, including four from Palm Desert, were awarded $1.8 million Jan. 15 from Bob Hope Chrysler Classic representatives.

A crowd gathered in Old Town La Quinta for the ceremony — and to catch a glimpse and get autographs from Classic host Arnold Palmer, baseball hall of famer Yogi Berra, comedian Tom Dreesen and actor and desert resident William Devane.

“We're able to award so much more money than when we first started,” said Hope administrative director Dawn Suggs, who has been with the organization 42 years. “The first year we awarded around $15,000. We have built an extensive history and strong relationships with many organizations. This is what we work for all year.”

Palm Desert charities include Big Brothers Big Sisters, Desert Arc, Desert Cancer Foundation and Shelter from the Storm.

Suggs said about 60 charities apply for help each year. An evaluation committee decides which charities to fund after studying financial statements, learning who and how many people they serve, and visiting the sites.

The distributed funds were raised at the 2008 Classic. Each charity on the list has received support before. Organizers awarded more than $1.6 million to charities in 2007, totaling more than $47 million since the tournament began in 1960.

The Coachella Valley Rescue Mission received what executive director Darla Burkett called “a very generous donation.” She said she applied for $22,000, which will be used to replace a worn down delivery truck. Burkett said she wasn't allowed to publicize the exact amount she was given.

“There are so many people in need so we're grateful to be chosen again,” Burkett said.

Berra helped present several checks while wearing his New York Yankees hat. He said he “was not very good in speech speaking” but was glad to be back for the 14th consecutive year.

Palmer also presented a special $250,000 grant to Eisenhower Medical Center to establish the first Eisenhower Robotics Institute.