ENCORE | Episode #55 | Building Community with Kim Fountain

In this episode, Kim Fountain from the San Diego LGBTQ Community Center discusses the profound importance of creating intentional spaces—both literal and figurative—where individuals can connect, belong, and thrive. Kim delves into the concept of "safe spaces," redefining them as co-created environments of respect, belonging, and creativity, where individuals are inspired to take risks—both personal and collective—that generate joy and progress. Kim shares moving stories from her work, including the magic of collaborative events like the San Diego Center’s gala, where joy united 800 attendees in celebration. Through these experiences, we see how moments of connection spark movements and turn guests into evangelists for a cause. Tune in to learn how creating spaces for belonging and celebration not only uplifts communities but also fuels the passion and resources necessary for meaningful change. This Episode Brought to You by:  Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events.    The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year.    Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com   Speakers Samantha Swaim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kim Fountain LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-fountain-0a204328/ Google: https://thecentersd.org/   Resources Book Consulting Time with Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam Book Consulting Time with  Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling   Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/   Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/   Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com   Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book   San Diego LGBT Center: https://thecentersd.org/   Association of Fundraising Professionals: https://afpglobal.org/ CenterLink: https://www.lgbtqcenters.org/