The Charity Charge Show - Nonprofit Podcast

Most nonprofits that fold don't fail because the mission stopped mattering. They fail because 80% of the budget sat on top of one grant, one donor, or one contract, and that one thing disappeared. HawkWatch International has avoided that trap for 40 years, and CEO Nikki Wayment says the fix is not complicated: stop putting all your eggs in one basket, and start treating every donor relationship like it's worth building for a decade, not a campaign.HawkWatch is a Utah-based raptor conservation nonprofit built on migration research. It has weathered four decades of funding cycles, a pandemic, and the kind of donor fatigue that hits every cause-based organization eventually. On a recent episode of the Charity Charge Show, Wayment walked through exactly how the organization has stayed financially sound long enough to reach its 40th anniversary, and the lessons apply well beyond conservation work.Quick SummaryHawkWatch International has operated for 40 years by continually adding new, uncorrelated revenue sources instead of depending on one.Personal donor stewardship (handwritten notes, thank you calls with no ask attached) converted a $50 a year donor into a $250,000 estate gift.Only about 5% of most people's net worth sits in cash, which means nonprofits that only ask for checks are missing the other 95% of what donors could give.A 16 acre property gift and a corporate card built for nonprofit cash flow both show up in the episode as the kind of unplanned, unconventional support that keeps a mission-driven organization solvent.

On this episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Stephen Garten sits down with Dave LeVan, CEO of Water for Good, to talk about how a faith-based water nonprofit doubled its reach without doubling its budget. The conversation covers mergers, decentralization, technology, fundraising, and a mindset shift that most nonprofit leaders never make. Charity Charge builds financial tools for the 501(c)(3) organizations doing exactly this kind of work, which is why these operator-to-operator conversations sit at the center of the show.Quick SummaryWater for Good delivers water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs in some of the hardest-to-reach communities in sub-Saharan Africa and Cambodia.Its three-year "Healthy Village" model has kept 92% of water points flowing and cut childhood diarrhea by 90% over the past decade, per LeVan.The organization moved roughly 90% of its 280 staff in-country and gave frontline teams live data, which flattened the hierarchy and reduced burnout.Water for Good was formed by merging two healthy nonprofits, a rare move that let each contribute its strengths instead of hiring to fill gaps.LeVan's north star: solve the problem and put the organization out of business, not protect it.Who is Dave LeVan?Dave LeVan is the CEO of Water for Good, a faith-based nonprofit that transforms lives through access to safe water, improved sanitation, and hygiene. The organization works in difficult places, including the Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, and Cambodia. LeVan spent most of his career in the for-profit world, including a transformation role at Walmart, before joining the organization first as a donor, then a board member, then chief executive.How big is the global water access problem?Roughly 697 million people worldwide lack basic access to safe water, meaning they cannot collect it and get home within 30 minutes, the World Health Organization's threshold for basic access. LeVan's figure aligns with the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme's 2025 estimates, which show more than two billion people without safely managed drinking water and hundreds of millions still relying on unsafe or unimproved sources.Beyond the raw count, LeVan describes a second, hidden cost: women and children spend an estimated 100 million hours a day walking for water. The problem is twofold, he explains: the time it consumes and the fact that the source at the end of the walk is usually unsafe.

On this episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Grayson Harris sits down with Erika Swilley, Executive Director of the NBPA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the National Basketball Players Association. Swilley explains how the foundation turns NBA player fines into matching grants. Her core message applies to any nonprofit leader: intent is not enough, and lasting impact comes from focus, not volume.About the guest. Erika Swilley has spent more than two decades in sports philanthropy, including senior community and social responsibility roles with the Detroit Pistons, Golden State Warriors, and Chicago Sky. She now leads the NBPA Foundation, where she created the Fined and Philanthropic campaign and advises active and retired players on building genuine, durable community impact.Quick SummaryThe NBPA Foundation funds much of its work through pooled player fines, then matches player donations up to $25,000 a year for active players and $15,000 for many retired players.The Fined and Philanthropic campaign educates players, agents, and families on where fine money goes and how to tap the match.Swilley pushes players away from one-off events like turkey drives and toward year-round, focused giving that builds a legacy.Most young players are steered away from starting their own foundation and toward donor-advised funds, fiscal sponsors, or established nonprofits.Nonprofits can connect with the foundation through its website or LinkedIn to be considered for player partnerships.Inside the NBPA Foundation: how player fines fund community workThe NBPA Foundation is a nonprofit that channels NBA player fine money into community programming led by the players themselves. When players receive technical fouls or ejections, those fines are pooled and, at the end of the season, split between NBA Cares and the foundation.The foundation then reinvests those dollars through a matching grant program that has existed since 2015. Engagement has climbed sharply under Swilley, who describes the model as non-traditional because so much of the funding starts as penalties. In the 2025 offseason, the NBPA reported distributing roughly $1.6 million in matching grants from fine money.Player statusAnnual matching grant capActive players | Up to $25,000 per yearEligible retired players | Up to $15,000 per yearFined and Philanthropic: turning penalties into purposeFined and Philanthropic is the campaign Swilley created to show players exactly where their fine money goes and how to put it to work. Many players assumed their fines vanished into a black hole with no idea the money funded community programs they could tap.The campaign uses simple, memorable touches, including hats that tell players where their fine dollars land. The goal is awareness across the full circle around a player, meaning agents, family members, and team staff. Swilley spent 19 years on the team side without knowing these resources existed, so she built the campaign to close that exact gap.

In this episode, nonprofit leader Stacey Davis Stewart discusses the impactful work of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MAD), its history, legislative successes, and future initiatives to prevent impaired driving and save lives.

Food insecurity is rising even as household budgets stretch thinner, and food banks have become core infrastructure for hundreds of thousands of families. On this episode of the Charity Charge Show, Tom Nardacci, CEO of the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York, breaks down how his organization feeds roughly 350,000 people each month across 23 counties, and what nonprofit executives can learn from how he runs it. The conversation covers local food sourcing, leadership lessons from the for-profit world, and how to build funding resilience when federal support is unpredictable.Quick SummaryThe Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York distributes about 50 million pounds of food annually through nearly 1,000 partner agencies across 23 counties.Its Agricultural Hub initiative connects local farms directly to food pantries, with a goal of growing farm and produce distribution to 30 million pounds per year.Nardacci applies for-profit team-building and accountability practices to nonprofit operations, treating the food bank like a logistics company.Funding volatility, especially around SNAP, makes diversified revenue and strong funder relationships essential for any nonprofit.About the Guest: Tom NardacciTom Nardacci has served as CEO of the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York since August 2023. Before moving into nonprofit leadership, he founded and ran Gramercy Communications, a public relations firm he led for more than 15 years, and launched the Troy Innovation Garage, a business incubator in the Capital Region.His connection to food access runs deep. His grandparents operated Nardacci's Broadway Food Mart in Rensselaer, New York for 50 years, and he grew up watching them quietly feed neighbors who could not always pay. Today he leads one of the oldest food banks in the country, an organization that operates like a major grocery wholesaler with a fleet of trucks, warehouse operations, and thousands of volunteers.

In the social impact sector, scaling an organization nationally while maintaining deep community trust is one of the hardest balancing acts to pull off. It requires an unshakeable operational foundation, a clear mission, and creative revenue models that move beyond traditional grant dependency.In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Grayson Harris sits down with Jen Rifkin, Executive Director of the Volo Kids Foundation, an organization dedicated to removing economic, gender, and racial barriers to youth sports. Jen shares her inspiring journey from volunteer coach to national executive leader, breaking down the operational "special sauce" behind their 12-state expansion. She also reveals how their unique, symbiotic partnership with a for-profit adult sports league offers a brilliant blueprint for sustainable nonprofit funding.Show Notes: Key TakeawaysBuild a Replicable Operational Formula: Rapidly scaling a national footprint requires a standardized core program structure—what Jen calls a "cookie-cutter" framework—that can be easily deployed anywhere while leaving room for local market adaptation.Leverage Hybrid Corporate Partnerships: Volo Kids sustains its growth through a powerful relationship with Volo Sports, a for-profit adult leagues provider. Guided by the slogan "We play so the kids play free," a portion of adult registration revenue offsets the foundation's core operational costs, allowing donor and grant funds to go directly to youth programming.Move at the Speed of Community Trust: Entering a new city shouldn't involve a prescriptive "we know what's best" mentality. Lasting impact is built by attending local neighborhood meetings, listening to schools, and collaborating with local municipalities to fill genuine gaps.Prioritize Relational Fundraising over Transactional Grants: In a hyper-competitive funding climate where grant dollars are stretched thin, organic word-of-mouth advocacy from volunteers, coaches, and corporate partners remains the most effective tool for unlocking new donor relationships.

In the social impact sector, being "scrappy" is often badge of honor. Nonprofits routinely stretch every dollar to ensure maximum funding goes directly to their programs. However, when it comes to technology, this efficiency-first mindset can accidentally lead to underinvestment, disjointed tools, and missed opportunities.On a recent episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Grayson Harris sat down with Adam Eads, Director at TechSoup, and Kelly Ricker, Chief Operating Officer at the Global Technology Association for IT Channel Leaders (GTIA). They discussed a powerful new grant collaboration designed to change the narrative around nonprofit technology. By funding the enrollment of 100 new organizations into the TechSoup Plus platform, GTIA and TechSoup are helping social entrepreneurs bridge the gap between simply having access to software and truly adopting it—with a specific focus on navigating the rapidly changing landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI).Key TakeawaysAcquisition vs. Adoption: Securing a software discount is only step one. True digital transformation requires ongoing education to help staff effectively integrate and use those tools to advance their mission.The 1% Philanthropy Gap: Less than 1% of global philanthropic funding is currently directed toward technology. Foundations must begin viewing operational tech investments as essential infrastructure rather than compliance-heavy "overhead."AI is a Mindset Shift, Not an IT Problem: Successfully implementing AI isn't about transforming nonprofit leaders into computer scientists. It is a change-management exercise focused on small, daily operational wins that free up time for community work.Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Learning: Because every nonprofit operates at a different stage of digital maturity, technology training cannot be one-size-fits-all. It must be modular, bite-sized, and meted out exactly where the organization stands.

In a world where 70% of jobs are found through someone you know, "social capital" is more than just a buzzword—it’s a gateway to the future. But for many first-generation students in under-resourced communities, those networks are often out of reach.In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, Grayson Harris sits down with Heather Wathington, CEO of iMentor, to discuss their ambitious new campaign: Open Doors, Ignite Possibility. Heather shares how iMentor is working to mobilize a movement of mentors, corporate partners, and communities to open 1 million doors for students by 2035. From the profound impact of social capital to the simple power of a listening ear, this conversation is a masterclass in how relationship-driven support can improve the human condition.Show Notes: Key TakeawaysSocial Capital is the Great Equalizer: Success isn't just about what you know, but who you know . iMentor focuses on building "social capital" for students, helping them access the networks and professional knowledge required to navigate convoluted career pathways.The "Everyday Mentor" is the Best Mentor: One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need to be a corporate mogul or a community leader to mentor. Heather emphasizes that students simply need an advocate—someone willing to listen, offer patience, and believe in their limitless potential.Long-Term Relationships Yield the Highest ROI: iMentor prioritizes sustained, years-long relationships over transactional interactions. Trust and confidence are built over time, providing a stable foundation for students as they transition from high school to post-secondary life.Mentorship as a Lifelong Practice: The goal isn't just a one-time connection . iMentor aims to instill a culture of mentorship where students learn to seek out mentors at every stage of their career and eventually "pay it forward" to the next generation.

American Humane Society protects over 1.7 billion animals annually across 91 countries. Dr. Robin Ganzert has led the organization since 2010, when she stepped in during a financial crisis and a period of mission drift. What she built since then is a case study in what nonprofit discipline actually looks like.On the Charity Charge Show, Dr. Ganzert walked through the financial reckoning she inherited, why she tells every local organization to stop duplicating services, and how a documentary narrated by Helen Mirren and Meryl Streep became one of their most effective outreach tools.

In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Stephen Garten sits down with Kristina "Steen" Joye Lyles, Executive Vice President of Impact for DonorsChoose. Since its founding in 2000, DonorsChoose has revolutionized philanthropy by creating a transparent, direct-to-classroom funding model.Steen shares her journey from lawyer to educational advocate, the organization's evolution over 26 years, and how they are leveraging two decades of data to prove that resource equity is the key to unlocking student potential.Show Notes and Key TakeawaysThe Origin Story: Founded by a Bronx history teacher named Charles Best who saw the need for a transparent way for the public to support specific classroom needs.A Unique Model: Unlike traditional nonprofits, DonorsChoose does not just send cash. They fulfill specific wish lists ranging from crayons to drones and ship resources directly to schools.The Power of Data: With over 1 million teachers on the platform, DonorsChoose uses real time classroom data to track trends like mental health needs and the digital divide.The I See Me Initiative: A groundbreaking effort launched in 2018 to support teachers of color and ensure students see themselves reflected in their educators and learning materials.Resource Equity: A spiky but core belief that depriving a classroom of resources is the most effective way to ensure a child does not reach their full potential.

Most nonprofits rely heavily on donations to survive. The Boat Company took a different path.For more than 40 years, this Alaska-based organization has operated as the only nonprofit cruise line in the world, using earned revenue from mission-driven travel to fund conservation efforts across Southeast Alaska.In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, Executive Director Hunter McIntosh breaks down how the model works, what “mission-based travel” actually means, and the lessons learned from running a nonprofit for decades without relying on traditional fundraising.Show Notes The origin story behind the world’s only nonprofit cruise line  How mission-based travel evolved from traditional ecotourism  The Boat Company’s earned revenue model vs. donation reliance  Partnerships with environmental organizations and local nonprofits  What guests experience on small-ship conservation-focused trips  Real-world impact, including $30M+ reinvested into conservation  Leadership lessons from 30+ years in the nonprofit sector  Advice for new nonprofit founders on funding, operations, and growth 

Child abuse is one of the most difficult and complex issues facing society, yet it remains largely hidden behind closed doors. For more than six decades, Childhelp has been at the forefront of addressing this crisis, building some of the most widely used programs, policies, and prevention models in the United States.In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, Stephen Garten sits down with Michael Medoro, COO of Childhelp, to explore how the organization has evolved into a national leader in child protection. From pioneering legislation to operating the only 24/7 national child abuse hotline staffed by professional counselors, Childhelp has directly impacted more than 15 million children and continues to expand its reach.This conversation goes beyond awareness. It digs into prevention, collaboration across nonprofits, and what it actually takes to break cycles of abuse at scale.

Most nonprofit leaders don’t start with a business playbook.They start with a mission. A personal story. A deep conviction to solve a problem that matters.Then reality hits. Fundraising, financial management, board dynamics, hiring, systems. Suddenly, they’re not just a mission-driven leader, they’re running a full-scale organization.In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, Stephen Garten sits down with Lauren Reilly, Executive Director of Gratitude Network, to unpack how nonprofits can build the operational strength needed to scale their impact.Gratitude Network is a nonprofit accelerator focused on organizations serving children and youth. Through executive coaching, strategic tools, and a global peer network, they help nonprofit leaders turn passion into sustainable growth.The results are hard to ignore. Organizations in their program are scaling impact 5x and revenue 3x, with 95% still operating long-term.Here’s the full breakdown.

Deborah Wondercheck didn't start the Arts and Learning Conservatory(ALC) because she thought it was a good idea. She started it because she'd lived the alternative, and she knew exactly what kids lose when the arts get cut.Today, ALC serves roughly 3,700 students annually across nearly 50 schools in Southern California. Since 2004, more than 35,000 kids have encountered the arts through the organization for the first time. It started with 21 kids, a string ensemble, and a few cast members doubling as nuns.In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, Deborah walks through the personal story that led to Arts and Learning Conservatory, how the organization has grown from a garage operation to a facility with a 200-seat theater, and what advice she has for nonprofit leaders still figuring out the early stages.

Stepping into a CFO role inside a nonprofit isn’t just about managing numbers. It’s about translating complexity, building trust, and helping organizations make smarter decisions in real time.On this episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Grayson Harris sits down with Jessica McLean, CFO of the American Staffing Association (ASA). Jessica shares what it’s really like stepping into a senior finance role, how AI is reshaping workforce organizations, and why diversified revenue is no longer optional for nonprofits.

Running a nonprofit that serves 1.5 million people across 1,400 sites is hard enough in a stable environment. Doing it while federal program funding is under threat, the economy is unpredictable, and your brand is underrecognized outside the disability community is a different challenge entirely.Kendra Davenport has been Easterseals' President and CEO since 2022. In that time she led a financial turnaround at the national office: no line of credit, no debt, departments that consistently come in under budget, and a long-term orientation most nonprofit leaders talk about but few execute on.In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, Stephen Garten sits down with Kendra to get into the specifics: how she thinks about financial discipline, vendor audits, reserves strategy, board engagement, and building an organization designed to outlast any single leader.

Nonprofits often face a fundamental tension: respond to immediate needs or build for long-term impact. For many organizations, limited funding, small teams, and constant pressure to deliver results push them into short-term thinking. But what does it look like to operate differently, to design programs that last, build financial resilience, and prioritize sustainability from day one?In this episode of The Charity Charge Show, Stephen Garten sits down with Bree Carriglio, Executive Director of FAR USA (Fund for Armenian Relief), to explore exactly that. FAR has spent decades evolving from emergency relief to a comprehensive, long-term development model across Armenia, supporting communities through healthcare, education, and economic opportunity. In this interview, Bree shares how FAR approaches funding, accountability, donor engagement, and program design in a way that prioritizes lasting impact over quick wins.

Laura Hope Whitaker took over Extra Special People (ESP) as a college sophomore. The organization had a $125,000 budget, a $50,000 deficit, and a founder who had just passed away from pancreatic cancer. Twenty-one years later, ESP runs a $8 million budget across five communities in Georgia and North Carolina, employs 50 full-time and 200 part-time staff, and operates a social enterprise that employs 85 adults with developmental disabilities.In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Stephen Garten sits down with Laura to talk through what it actually takes to scale a nonprofit, why "nonprofit is just a tax code," and the leadership principles she documents in her new book, The Joy Exchange.Quick SummaryESP serves people with disabilities through afterschool programs, family support, and a social enterprise called JavaJoy.Laura took over as a sophomore in college after the founder died, inheriting a deficit and four board members (one of whom was in jail).Her core growth framework: treat the nonprofit like a business, know the numbers, and be unapologetic about fundraising.Board management is a strategic function, not an obligation. Boards should evolve as the organization evolves.Mentorship and continuous learning have been the constant throughout 21 years of leadership.

Nonprofit leaders often start with a powerful mission and a deep commitment to solving a problem in their community. But many organizations eventually hit a ceiling.After the initial support from friends, family, and early champions runs out, fundraising can stall. Growth becomes harder. Boards struggle to evolve. And leaders find themselves trying to do more with limited resources.On this episode of The Charity Charge Show, host Stephen Garten sits down with Rick Peck, an experienced philanthropy advisor and host of the Money to Give Podcast.Peck has spent more than two decades working in philanthropy, helping organizations improve fundraising strategy, engage donors, and build sustainable nonprofit operations.Before entering the nonprofit sector, Peck worked as a financial advisor helping individuals plan for retirement, education expenses, insurance needs, and long-term wealth management.In the early 2000s, a career opportunity at Dartmouth College introduced him to philanthropic advising. The role focused on planned giving and donor relationships with alumni.Over time, his work expanded into:Major gifts fundraisingPrincipal gifts of $1M+Planned giving strategiesDevelopment leadership for academic and healthcare institutionsPeck later became Vice President for Development and Philanthropy Services at the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, where he worked across a wide range of issue areas including climate change, homelessness, behavioral health, and food security.Today, he operates as an independent philanthropy consultant helping nonprofits:Improve fundraising strategyLaunch capital campaignsEngage donors more effectivelyStructure philanthropic giftsHe also advises donors and professional advisors on how to give strategically.

Philanthropy often talks about impact. But impact can look very different depending on who holds the power.On a recent episode of The Charity Charge Show, host Grayson Harris sat down with Amanda Navarro, Executive Director of Convergence Partnership, to discuss how the organization is reshaping how philanthropy works by shifting decision-making power to communities and frontline organizations.Their approach challenges many traditional grantmaking norms, from eliminating competitive grant applications to replacing written reports with storytelling through podcasts.Here is a closer look at how Convergence Partnership is working to advance health equity across the United States.

Youth homelessness is often invisible. It happens quietly, in cars, on couches, in shelters, or on the street, and many young people experiencing it are navigating the challenge alone.On this episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Grayson Harris speaks with Elisabeth Jackson, CEO of Bridge Over Troubled Waters, an organization that has spent decades supporting homeless and runaway youth in Boston.The conversation explores the scale of youth homelessness, the services Bridge provides, and how nonprofits can create long-term pathways for young people to move from crisis to stability.

In this episode, Grayson Harris sits down with Katie Collins-Ihrke, Executive Director of The Arc of Howard County, to discuss the organization’s 65-year legacy of supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the realities of operating in a challenging funding environment, and the importance of mission alignment in nonprofit leadership.Katie shares how The Arc balances advocacy and direct services, navigates state and federal budget pressures, and builds long-term sustainability while staying rooted in dignity and community inclusion.About The Arc of Howard CountyPart of the broader national network of The Arc, The Arc of Howard County provides:Advocacy for people with intellectual and developmental disabilitiesCommunity-based housing and residential supportEmployment assistance and job coachingSkill-building and community integration servicesThe organization supports individuals across approximately 30 properties throughout Howard County, helping people live, work, and participate fully in their communities.

On this episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Grayson Harris sat down with Teresa Stafford-Wright, CEO of the Hope and Healing Survivor Resource Center, to discuss what it really takes to serve survivors of sexual violence, domestic violence, and human trafficking and what it takes to keep those services running.This is not light work. It is urgent, complex, and deeply human. And it requires more than just good programming. It requires strong operations, honest fundraising, and a community that understands what it actually costs to keep the doors open.Serving Survivors Since 1974The Hope and Healing Survivor Resource Center has served Northeast Ohio since 1974.The organization supports survivors across Summit and Medina Counties with a full spectrum of services, including:24-hour crisis hotlineEmergency shelterCounseling and clinical servicesCourt and legal advocacyHospital accompaniment during forensic examsPrevention education in schools and community spacesEvery service is free. That is not negotiable.As Teresa explained, survivors should not have to pay to recover from a crime committed against them. Whether someone calls at 3:00 a.m. or 3:00 p.m., they are met by trained professionals ready to respond through a trauma-informed lens.This is both crisis response and long-term healing. And it requires serious infrastructure.

Safe, clean drinking water should be a given. It is not.On this episode of The Charity Charge Show, host Stephen Garten sits down with Doc Hendley, founder and CEO of Wine to Water, to talk about the real story behind the organization, how it grew from a tip jar at a bar to serving millions of people, and what it takes to lead and scale a mission-driven nonprofit for more than two decades.Doc does not dress it up. He talks about mistakes, hard lessons, and why most nonprofits stay stuck under $2M in annual revenue. He also lays out what changed when Wine to Water stopped acting like a typical nonprofit and started building diversified revenue streams like a business.

Nonprofits are often described as mission-driven. But sustaining a mission for more than a century requires more than passion. It demands discipline, evolution, collaboration, and a deep commitment to community.On this episode of the Charity Charge Show, we sat down with Claudia Aguirre, President and CEO of Baker Ripley, a $700 million nonprofit organization serving the Houston region. What followed was an honest conversation about disruption, scale, funding realities, collaboration, and what it truly takes to build an institution that lasts.Founded in 1907 by Alice Graham Baker as part of the Settlement House Movement, Baker Ripley was built on proximity to community.Today, its mission remains clear:Provide resources, education, and connection to vulnerable communities.The organization helps neighbors:EarnLearnBelongBe wellThrough programs including:Head Start and early childhood educationWorkforce developmentImmigration servicesEntrepreneurship supportYouth STEM initiativesSenior programsUtility and housing assistanceScale matters here. Baker Ripley operates with:$700 million annual budget98% public funding$200–300 million in support services annuallyApproximately $15 million in private and foundation funding used largely for innovationClaudia describes the model this way:“We are large when it’s needed, and small when it matters.”

Insurance is not glamorous. It is paperwork, premiums, and conversations most nonprofit leaders would rather avoid.But if you run a nonprofit long enough, you learn a hard truth.The moment you need insurance is the moment it is too late to start thinking about it.In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Stephen Garten sits down with Pamela Davis, Founder and CEO of the Nonprofits Insurance Alliance, a nonprofit insurer that serves roughly 26,000 to 27,000 nonprofits across California and 32 additional states. Pamela shares how a graduate school thesis turned into a 35 year mission, why traditional insurance markets fail nonprofits, and what new and small organizations need to know before a claim ever happens.Episode highlightsPamela Davis is the founder and CEO of the Nonprofits Insurance Alliance, a group of two nonprofit insurers built specifically to serve 501(c)(3)s. One entity insures nonprofits in California and the other insures nonprofits in 32 other states.Together, the organizations serve about 26,000 to 27,000 nonprofits and have grown to roughly $1 billion in assets.Stephen and Pamela also dig into the practical side of nonprofit coverage, what to buy first, how underwriting works for small budgets, and why advocacy has become a crucial part of keeping the nonprofit sector insurable.

In this episode, we sit down with Louie Nguyen, CEO of Say San Diego, to discuss what it really means to run a nonprofit like a business while staying deeply committed to mission.Louie shares his journey from institutional investor and impact investing leader to nonprofit CEO, and how that financial discipline is now shaping SAY San Diego’s strategy. The conversation covers revenue diversification, reserve policy design, social enterprise models, mental health innovation, and what responsible risk-taking looks like in the nonprofit sector.If you are a nonprofit executive, board member, or impact investor thinking about long term sustainability, this episode is worth your time.About SAY San DiegoFounded in 1971, SAY San Diego has grown from one employee to more than 500 staff members serving approximately 45,000 San Diegans each year.Key program areas include:After school programs serving 4,000 students dailyMental health services at 26 school sitesSupport for young mothers from pregnancy through early childhoodFatherhood engagement programsCommunity advocacy and educationWith annual revenue near $30 million, SAY San Diego operates at a scale most nonprofits never reach.What You Will Learn in This EpisodeWhy nonprofits should aim to generate positive marginsThe importance of unrestricted capitalHow to calculate a true rainy day reserveWhy holding real estate is not always the best strategyHow to diversify revenue beyond grants and contractsWhat investment risk looks like inside a nonprofitHow to structure social enterprise investment opportunitiesWhy mental health funding needs long term endowment solutionsKey Topics Covered1. Transitioning from Finance to Nonprofit Leadership Louie explains how his background in institutional investing and impact finance shaped his approach to leadership at SAY San Diego.2. Revenue Diversification in a Volatile Funding Environment With federal and state funding uncertainty, Louie shares how SAY is building independent, self-sustaining revenue streams.3. Rethinking Reserves and Asset Allocation A practical discussion on how CEOs and CFOs should scenario plan, define real operating risk, and segment reserves intentionally.4. The Boba Wellness Model A bold social enterprise concept where SAY acquires boba shops that operate as businesses during the day and convert into youth wellness spaces at night.5. Intellectual Property as a Revenue Strategy How a community safety initiative evolved into a licensing and IP opportunity that can scale nationally.6. The Wellspring Initiative A $2 million mental health endowment designed to fund 1,300 therapy sessions per year in perpetuity for students who need care beyond what school districts cover.

Global health systems are under pressure. Funding models are shifting. NGOs are closing. Communities are feeling the consequences.On this episode of The Charity Charge Show, host Grayson Harris sits down with Peter Navario, CEO of HealthRight International and professor of health economics at New York University, to discuss what it takes to deliver sustainable healthcare solutions for marginalized communities, both globally and here in the United States.From community-based mental health programs to new funding platforms designed to rethink global health financing, this episode explores what it means to build systems that last.Guest: Peter Navario Title: CEO, HealthRight International | Professor of Health Economics, NYU Topics Covered:The mission and history of HealthRight InternationalThe “triangle” model: community, community health workers, and primary care systemsAddressing mental health through peer-led, evidence-based interventionsWhy traditional one-on-one therapy is not scalableThe impact of foreign aid cuts on global health organizationsHow HealthRight is diversifying revenue and launching a direct investment platformThe need for a better dialogue between funders and implementersAbout Peter NavarioPeter Navario serves as CEO of HealthRight International and is a professor of health economics at NYU.With decades of experience in global health and development, he brings both academic insight and field-based leadership to his role. Under his leadership, HealthRight has focused on strengthening community-based care models and building more sustainable funding mechanisms for long-term health system resilience.

On this episode of the Charity Charged Show, we sit down with Hilary Axtmayer, Chief Program Officer of the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, to talk about one of the most meaningful nonprofit expansions happening this year.Founded in 1988 by Paul Newman, the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp was created to give children with serious illnesses something they are too often denied: the chance to simply be kids. More than three decades later, the organization is serving thousands of children and families across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, and in 2025 it is opening a second residential camp location in Maryland.This conversation goes beyond the headline of expansion. It digs into the origin of the camp’s name, the magic of its programs, Hilary’s 25-year journey from counselor to executive leader, and the careful work required to scale without losing the soul of the mission.

On this episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Grayson Harris sits down with John McDonald, newly appointed Board President of the IEEE Foundation. The conversation is a masterclass in how long-term professional communities evolve into powerful philanthropic engines, and what nonprofit leaders can learn from a global organization built on trust, consistency, and service.John brings more than five decades of experience as a member of IEEE, the world’s largest professional technical organization with more than 500,000 members across 190 countries. His journey from student member to foundation president offers rare insight into leadership, donor engagement, and the discipline required to sustain impact at scale.What the IEEE Foundation Actually DoesWhile IEEE is widely known for advancing technology, standards, and professional development, the IEEE Foundation operates as its philanthropic partner. The Foundation supports nearly 300 funds that power scholarships, awards, education programs, and initiatives designed to use technology for the benefit of humanity.At its core, the Foundation exists to strengthen and extend IEEE’s mission by mobilizing philanthropy. It funds programs that create real social impact, from education access to humanitarian technology projects around the world.

In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, Grayson Harris sits down with Dan Lusk, Executive Director of Momentum Refresh, to discuss one of the most overlooked barriers to inclusion at public events: truly accessible restrooms. Dan shares how the organization was built to solve a basic but critical problem, why ADA compliance alone is not enough, and how their mission driven model is scaling nationwide.The conversation covers rapid growth, community partnerships, disaster response, and what is ahead in 2026.Key Topics CoveredWhy accessible restrooms remain a major barrier to participationThe difference between ADA compliant and universally designed facilitiesHow Momentum Refresh units exceed ADA standardsGrowth from local pilots to national mega eventsData, testimonials, and community trust as drivers of scalePartnerships with cities, counties, and major event organizersExpansion plans including manufacturing, franchising, and emergency response

In this episode of The Charity Charge Show, we sit down with Rob Scheer, founder of Comfort Cases, a nonprofit that has delivered more than 300,000 backpacks filled with essentials to children entering foster care across all 50 states, Washington DC, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, and soon Canada.Growing Up in the SystemRob did not come to foster care as an advocate. He came as a child who lived it.He entered foster care because of abuse, not neglect. Cigarette burns on his body are reminders he still carries at 59 years old. Like many children in the system, he became a number, a file, a case. When he aged out at 18, he joined the tens of thousands of young people who are pushed out with no safety net. Within 24 hours, most become homeless. Rob was one of them.He survived addiction, multiple suicide attempts, and repeated psychiatric hospitalizations. At 24, after nearly dying from an overdose, he made a decision that changed everything. He chose forgiveness. Not to excuse what happened, but to take his life back.That decision did not make him a hero. It made him accountable.The Numbers We Do Not Like to Talk AboutDuring the episode, Rob challenges some of the most commonly repeated foster care statistics and explains why many of them understate the reality.Here is what stands out:More than 400,000 children are in foster care in the United States.Roughly 23,000 youth age out every year.New homelessness counts show over 80 percent of people experiencing homelessness were touched by foster care at some point.Former foster youth are far more likely to experience PTSD than combat veterans.Only about 8 percent earn a four year college degree. That number improved recently, but it is still unacceptable.Rob makes one point very clear. If a child enters foster care, society has already failed.

In this episode of the Nonprofit Spotlight Series, hosted by Charity Charge, Grayson Harris sits down with Carol Klocek, CEO of the Center for Transforming Lives, to explore what it really takes to disrupt generational poverty and build long term economic stability for single mothers and their children.Founded in 1907 and rebranded in 2015, the Center for Transforming Lives has evolved into a comprehensive, two generational organization serving families across the Fort Worth and Tarrant County region. Carol shares how the organization pairs housing stability, early childhood education, clinical counseling, and economic mobility services to address the root causes of poverty rather than its symptoms.Key themes from the conversationA two generational approach to breaking poverty Carol explains why working with mothers and children at the same time is critical for lasting impact and how trauma informed care shapes every program they offer.Affordability and housing instability With single mothers earning a median income of $33,000 per year and spending more than half of their income on rent, Carol outlines why rising housing, childcare, and food costs create a pipeline to homelessness and how early intervention changes outcomes.Prevention over crisis response The episode dives deep into why preventing homelessness is far more effective and less costly than responding after families are displaced. Carol shares real data showing how keeping families housed reduces long term costs related to healthcare, education, and social services.Building efficient public nonprofit partnerships Carol details how the Center for Transforming Lives partners with healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations to deliver services more efficiently. From mobile health clinics to rent and utility assistance programs, these collaborations lower costs while expanding access.The power of a nonprofit hub model The organization’s new campus serves as a community anchor, offering healthcare access, drop in childcare, coworking space, and meeting facilities that foster collaboration among nonprofits, small businesses, and workforce partners.Listening directly to the people served Carol shares why monthly “Coffee with Carol” sessions have become one of her most valuable leadership practices and how participant feedback drives program design and trust.Looking ahead to workforce development Looking toward 2026, Carol discusses plans to pilot vocational training partnerships paired with free childcare to help parents transition into high wage, in demand jobs in fields like healthcare, welding, and electrical work.

In this insightful episode, Grayson Harris sits down with Bennett Weiner, the newly appointed CEO of the BBB Wise Giving Alliance (Give.org).As we move through 2025 and look toward 2026, the landscape of philanthropy is shifting rapidly. Bennett shares his expertise on the critical importance of nonprofit transparency, the "evolving" nature of accountability standards, and how organizations can navigate a world where AI bots may soon outnumber humans.Key TakeawaysThe Power of Accreditation: Give.org focuses on a 20-standard evaluation process covering governance, finances, and privacy.The Information Gap: A startling 2025 survey revealed that only 32% of Americans were aware of federal grant reductions. Nonprofits must proactively educate their donors rather than assuming they know the challenges.The "Founder Syndrome" Risk: Bennett discusses the importance of objective governance and why the transition from a founder-led "passion project" to an adult, governed organization is vital for long-term survival.AI Policy is Non-Negotiable: With the rise of generative AI, nonprofits need clear policies on oversight and accuracy verification to maintain trust.

In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Grayson Harris sits down with Joe Kendrick (Executive Director of Christian Mission) and Lacey Kendrick (VP of Financial Development) from the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City. The duo discusses the 180-year history of the YMCA movement, the strategic importance of its Christian heritage, and the complex balance between earned revenue and philanthropic impact.Key Discussion PointsThe Roots of a Global Movement: Joe Kendrick recounts the 1844 founding of the YMCA by George Williams in London and how that original vision of "hope and grace" translates to modern-day Oklahoma.The Business of Mission: Lacey Kendrick breaks down the unique nonprofit model of the YMCA: balancing membership dues (earned revenue) with philanthropy to ensure no one is turned away due to an inability to pay.Cause-Driven Leadership: How the organization incentivizes mission-alignment among 1,500+ employees, ensuring the "C" (Christian principles) remains the foundation of their service.Tackling Community Deserts: A look at the YMCA’s bold expansion plans for 2026, focusing on providing childcare and food security in underserved Oklahoma metros.The Power of Storytelling: Moving beyond "gym and swim" to share transformative stories of social mobility and family stability.

In Episode 144 of the Charity Charge Show, we sit down with a man who is quite literally building a better night's sleep for children across the globe. Luke Mickelson, the founder of Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) Beds, joins us to share a story that started in a cold Idaho garage and has since ignited a national movement to end "child bedlessness."From a "Two-by-Four" Realization to a National MovementLuke’s journey didn't start in a boardroom; it started with a simple observation in Kimberly, Idaho. While looking for ways to get local youth away from their screens and into service, Luke discovered a family in his own backyard whose children were sleeping on the floor."It hit me up the side of the head like a two-by-four," Luke recalls. "I thought, 'You gotta be kidding me. What are they sleeping on? The floor?'"What began as a one-time project to build a few beds has scaled into a massive operation. Today, SHP has over 400 chapters across 47 states and four countries. In 2026 alone, they are on track to build nearly 100,000 beds.Innovation in the Nonprofit Model: Your Mission is Your FundraiserOne of the most profound takeaways from Luke’s strategy is how SHP flipped the traditional nonprofit funding model on its head. Instead of diverting energy into "spaghetti feeds" or gala dinners, SHP makes the mission itself the revenue driver through Corporate Team Building.The Problem: Corporations want to give back but struggle to find scalable, organized, and impactful volunteer opportunities.The Solution: SHP provides "turnkey" build events. Companies like Lowe’s, Ford, and Google sponsor the materials and bring their employees to build the beds.The Result: The company gets a high-impact team-building experience, and the nonprofit gets 100% mission-aligned funding.Avoiding "Mission Creep"As a senior strategist, I find Luke’s discipline regarding Mission Creep to be a masterclass for any social impact leader. When you enter a home and see a family in need, the temptation to provide clothes, food, or toys is immense. However, Luke insists on a singular focus: Beds.By staying "mile-deep and inch-wide," SHP ensures their operations remain efficient, their branding stays clear, and their impact is measurable. This discipline is what allows them to maintain a 96% efficiency rate, ensuring nearly every dollar donated stays in the local community to build beds.How You Can Get InvolvedThe need is staggering—roughly 3% of children in any given community are sleeping without a bed. Here is how you can join the SHP family:Raise Awareness: Child bedlessness is an "unknown" crisis. Share this episode to help shine a light on the issue.Volunteer or Donate: Visit SHPBeds.org to find a local chapter. You can donate specifically to your city, ensuring your impact is felt at home.Start a Chapter: If your community lacks an SHP presence, the organization provides full training, tools, and initial funding to help you lead the charge."No kid sleeps on the floor in our town." It’s a bold mission, but with leaders like Luke Mickelson and the power of community-driven data, it’s a goal that is within our reach.

In this episode of the Nonprofit Spotlight Series, we interview Ginny Hill, CEO of Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey. They discuss the mission of the Girl Scouts, the significance of the cookie program, community partnerships, challenges in nonprofit talent management, and future plans for the organization. Jenny highlights how the Girl Scouts empower girls through various programs and the importance of community support in achieving their goals.

Most people think they know Girl Scouts because of one thing: cookies.In Episode 143 of the Charity Charge Show, Stephen Garten sits down in person with Paula Bookidis, CEO of Girl Scouts of Central Texas, to talk about what the public rarely sees. Yes, the cookie program is a powerhouse. But the real story is how Girl Scouts builds courage, confidence, and character through a leadership experience that blends entrepreneurship, STEM, outdoors, and life skills.Girl Scouts of Central Texas serves more than 12,000 members across 46 counties, runs with about 75 full-time staff, and relies on roughly 10,000 adult volunteers. It is a serious operation, and it runs on a model many nonprofits talk about but few actually execute: sustainable earned revenue tied directly to mission outcomes.

In this episode of our Nonprofit Spotlight series, Grayson Harris sits down with Rebecca Tallman, Executive Director of Veterans Community Project St. Louis, to discuss how the organization is tackling veteran homelessness by filling the gaps left by traditional systems.Founded by combat veterans, Veterans Community Project provides transitional housing through tiny home villages and delivers wraparound services without restricting who qualifies for help. Rebecca shares how the model works, why saying no to certain funding is sometimes necessary, and how long term, generational impact starts with stable housing.This is a grounded conversation about dignity, collaboration, and doing the work the right way.What We CoverHow Veterans Community Project was founded by veterans who saw system failures firsthandWhy many veterans do not qualify for traditional VA services and how VCP fills that gapThe tiny home village model and why transitional housing worksWhat makes the St. Louis project unique, including its outreach centerHow veterans move from crisis to permanent housingWhy VCP limits certain government funding to protect its missionThe importance of collaboration across nonprofits and agenciesMeasuring success through long term and generational outcomesHow individuals, funders, and communities can get involvedKey TakeawaysVeteran homelessness is not limited to those living on the street. Couch surfing and unstable housing count too.Eligibility rules exclude many veterans from existing services. VCP serves all veterans, regardless of discharge status or length of service.Fully furnished tiny homes remove one of the biggest barriers to permanent housing.Case management is personalized. There is no one size fits all approach.Funding should support the mission, not dictate it.Stable housing creates ripple effects that impact families for generations.

In this conversation, Grayson Harris interviews Jonathan Van Horn, the Executive Director of Pro Soccer for Athletes in Action. They discuss the organization's mission to support athletes through mental health resources, the importance of volunteerism, and the challenges athletes face in maintaining their identity beyond sports. Jonathan shares insights from his 20 years of experience, emphasizing the significance of building relationships and learning from failures. They also look ahead to the upcoming World Cup in 2026 and the initiative 'Victory Beyond the Cup' aimed at mobilizing communities.

Stephen Garten sits down with Dan Chu, Executive Director of the Sierra Club Foundation, to unpack how one of America’s most established environmental institutions operates and funds its mission. Dan explains the Sierra Club’s roots going back to 1892, why the Sierra Club Foundation was created in 1960, and how the Sierra Club’s (c)(4) and Foundation’s (c)(3) roles work together.They cover the Sierra Club’s focus on three “existential crises”: biodiversity loss and extinction, climate instability, and the growing disconnect between people and nature. Dan shares how outings and community-based outdoor programming build long-term public support for conservation, why public lands can be common ground across politics, and how the organization thinks about large-scale systems change through policy and impact investing.The conversation closes with practical leadership insights on building high-functioning boards, setting clear goals, and sustaining personal resilience in hard seasons.

Stephen Garten sits down with Cyndi Court to mark the TGR Foundation’s 30th anniversary and unpack how the foundation evolved from golf clinics into a scaled education model centered on “Learning Labs.” Cyndi explains how TGR built a repeatable program framework, standardized curriculum, and modern measurement systems before expanding to new cities. The conversation also covers durable skills, partnerships that actually work, earned revenue through events, and what makes a strong nonprofit board.Key topics coveredThe origin story of TGR Foundation (1996) and Tiger Woods’ family values of “sharing and caring”The post 9/11 shift toward education and deep community investmentWhat a “Learning Lab” is, and why it is not a school or a drop-in centerProgram pillars: STEAM, health and well-being, career and college readinessWhy TGR added the “A” in STEAM, creativity and curiosity in the AI eraScaling responsibly: standardization, tech infrastructure, and measurement before expansionHow TGR measures outcomes, including durable (soft) skillsPartnerships: how to say no, avoid mission creep, and use guiding principlesEarned revenue and sustainability through TGR Live eventsLeadership lessons and building an engaged board that understands nonprofit economicsHow listeners can volunteer and support the Learning LabsTGR Foundation timeline and growth1996: Foundation launched as Tiger turns proEarly years: Golf clinics and introducing golf to youth from under-resourced communitiesPost 9/11: Tiger refocuses foundation on education and invests deeply in his hometown communityAnaheim Learning Lab: First flagship model, 35,000 sq ft, operating for 20 yearsPhiladelphia Learning Lab: Opened April 1, 30,000 sq ft on Cobbs Creek campusPlanned expansion:Los Angeles: Early 2027 (Lulu’s Place campus)Atlanta: Later 2027 (with proximity to Atlanta Technical College)Augusta: Early 2028 (in partnership with Augusta National)What makes the Learning Lab model differentStructured programming, not a hangoutFree access for kids and familiesMultiple delivery formats:School field trips (plus teacher professional development)After school programming (critical hours for youth safety)Summer camps (preventing summer learning loss)

Vu Le, founder of Nonprofit AF, joins Stephen Garten to talk about a problem many nonprofit leaders quietly live with: we are trained to tell funders half-truths because we fear losing funding. Vu breaks down how risk-averse philanthropy, obsession with overhead, and competitive grantmaking push nonprofits into scarcity and performance instead of honesty and impact.The conversation makes the case for better communication, collective organizing, and specific reforms like multi-year, general operating support and funder pledges. It also tackles boards, donor dynamics, and why the sector needs bigger imagination and bigger asks.What you will learnWhy nonprofits often feel forced to “sound fine” to funders even when things are not fineHow risk aversion and overhead fixation distort how nonprofits operateWhy collective action, open letters, and naming bad behavior can move fundersThe case for multi-year funding and general operating supportWhy nonprofit boards are frequently ineffective and how governance could be reimaginedHow wealth and power dynamics shape fundraising, especially for orgs led by marginalized communitiesKey takeawaysNonprofits often tell funders half-truths because the power imbalance is real.Many funders are risk-averse and unintentionally punish honesty.Better communication is necessary, but collective organizing is stronger than going it alone.Multi-year funding and general operating support are the practical fixes that matter most.“Crappy funding practices” waste nonprofit time and should be called out.Boards can be effective, useless, or mission-destructive. Too many fall into the last two categories.The sector needs bigger imagination and bigger asks, not tiny grants with giant expectations.

In this episode of the Charity Charge show, host Stephen Garten interviews Melissa Lagowski, founder and CEO of Big Buzz Idea Group. They discuss Melissa's journey from being an executive director of a nonprofit to starting her own company that supports nonprofits. The conversation covers the challenges faced by nonprofit leaders, the importance of self-care, and the need for collaboration over competition. Melissa shares tactical advice for nonprofit leaders, the role of technology and AI in fundraising, and the significance of strategic planning as the year comes to a close.TakeawaysMelissa Lagowski founded Big Buzz Idea Group to support nonprofits.Nonprofit leaders often wear many hats and face burnout.Self-care is crucial for nonprofit leaders to avoid burnout.Collaboration among nonprofits can lead to greater impact.Nonprofits should run like businesses to be successful.AI can assist in fundraising and donor personalization.Asking questions is key to building relationships.Nonprofits need to identify their top supporters for effective fundraising.Strategic planning is essential for nonprofit growth.Consultants should be chosen carefully to avoid pitfalls.

In this episode of the Nonprofit Spotlight Series, Grayson Harris interviews Andrea Croom, the Executive Director of InAlliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Andrea discusses the organization's mission, the misconceptions surrounding disability services, and the importance of community engagement.She shares insights into the challenges faced by nonprofits, particularly in staffing and funding, and highlights the strategies InAlliance employs to empower individuals towards independence.The conversation also touches on Andrea's personal journey within the organization and the significance of aligning mission and values in decision-making.

In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Stephen Garten speaks with Marnie Webb, CEO of TechSoup, about one of the most influential infrastructure organizations in the nonprofit world. TechSoup has supported more than 1.4 million nonprofits, charities, and libraries across 234 countries and territories. It has delivered nearly 22 billion dollars in technology and financial resources to help mission driven organizations operate with confidence in an increasingly digital world.Most nonprofits do not have the budget, staff, or technical expertise to keep up with the rapid pace of technology. Yet they are expected to operate with the same level of digital strength that well funded companies enjoy. Marnie explains how TechSoup steps into this reality and why nonprofit technology support is far more than software discounts. It is about stability, trust, community strength, and clear pathways for organizations to adopt technology that actually fits their mission.

In this episode of the Nonprofit Spotlight Series, we interview Renee Brown, CEO of DePaul Community Resources. We discuss the organization's mission to provide support for foster care, adoption, and individuals with disabilities. Renee shares insights on the challenges faced by nonprofits, the importance of community collaboration, and her leadership principles.The conversation emphasizes the need for trust with donors, the significance of self-care, and the value of recognizing and nurturing talent within the organization. Renee also highlights the successes of DePaul and encourages listeners to get involved in their local communities.

When people think about spinal cord injury rehabilitation, they usually picture learning to walk again, transferring safely from bed to chair, or figuring out how to dress and bathe independently. Those are critical pieces of recovery.But there is another part of life that rarely makes it into care plans or team meetings: intimacy and sexual health.In this episode of The Charity Charge Show, we sit down with three leaders who are changing that reality:Gillian Gulan, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist and creator of the Adaptive Intimacy Lab at MetroHealthMarcia Meermans, Philanthropy Officer at the MetroHealth FoundationMark Bogosian, Director of Engagement at the Christopher and Dana Reeve FoundationTogether, they walk through the story of how a simple but honest patient question, a brave idea, and a strong funding partnership led to one of the most unique quality of life projects in the country.

In this nonprofit spotlight conversation, we interview Dr. John Boal, the Executive Director of Hume Christian Camps, about the camp's mission, community engagement, challenges faced in the nonprofit sector, and future plans for growth. John shares insights into the camp's impact on youth, the importance of collaboration with local churches, and the balance between mission-driven work and business operations.

In this Nonprofit Spotlight episode of the Charity Charge Show, host Grayson Harris sits down with Matt Tanner, Executive Director of United Against Poverty, to walk through a very practical approach to fighting poverty. Matt explains how United Against Poverty runs a 46,000 square foot grocery and services center that feels like a normal store, yet delivers about a 70 percent discount on essentials for households up to 300 percent of the federal poverty level.Matt breaks down how the organization responded to the recent SNAP shutdown, what it really costs families to survive in Indian River County, and why dignity, data, and partnerships sit at the core of their model. He also shares how their Success Training Employment Program (STEP) moves adults with serious barriers into steady jobs and keeps them employed through year long success coaching.About United Against Poverty, Indian River CountyUnited Against Poverty (UP) was founded 23 years ago in Florida by a husband and wife team who wanted to move beyond traditional food bank models. Their goal was simple and hard edged. Give people real agency, not dependency.Today, the Indian River County campus in Vero Beach serves roughly 750 adults per day through:The Member Share Grocery Program, offering about 70 percent savings on groceries and household essentialsCrisis and navigation services that connect families to the right supportsWorkforce development programs that focus on emotional intelligence, job readiness, and long term retentionOn site partner organizations that share space to better support the same communityMembership is free for anyone at or below 300 percent of the federal poverty level, recognizing that the true cost of living in the area is far above older 200 percent thresholds.