The NonProfit Podcast Network

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...Sacramento Venture Philanthropy’s Fast Pitch is back for its 11th year—and it’s going to be bigger than ever.I’m joined by SVP Chief Operating Officer Drew Hayes to reveal the 16 nonprofits selected for the 2026 Fast Pitch cohort and take a closer look at what happens before anyone ever steps onto the stage. From nearly 100 applicants to intensive coaching, workshops and pitch development, Fast Pitch is designed to help nonprofit leaders sharpen their stories, communicate their impact and build skills they can use long after the event is over.We also talk about the move to the Crest Theatre, the funding opportunities available to the entire cohort, and why November 9th promises to be another remarkable night for Sacramento’s nonprofit community.To learn more or for tickets to this year's event: https://www.svpsacramento.org/events/svp-fast-pitch-2026Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...Sacramento Splash has spent 27 years connecting children with nature through hands-on, science-based environmental education—and their upcoming Backyard Bash for Sacramento Splash is helping ensure that work continues.In this NewsPod, I’m joined by Gina Fleming, Director of Development at Sacramento Splash, to talk about the organization’s impact, the importance of getting kids outdoors, and what’s planned for this year’s Backyard Bash.Sacramento Splash has now reached approximately 240,000 children through programs focused on vernal pools, sustainable farming, recycling, stormwater pollution and environmental leadership. During the 2025–2026 school year alone, the organization served nearly 20,000 students, with a strong focus on reaching Title I schools and children who may not otherwise have access to outdoor learning experiences.Gina also shares why this year’s Backyard Bash is especially meaningful. Sacramento Splash founder Eva Butler is returning to Sacramento to celebrate the organization she helped launch nearly three decades ago, while longtime team member Luanne will also be recognized as she prepares for retirement.I’m honored to be serving as emcee for the evening, with David Sobon of Wide Open Walls joining as auctioneer. Guests can expect live music, food, drinks, auction items and a relaxed evening along the river—all in support of Sacramento Splash and its mission to get more kids outside and connected to the natural world.Backyard Bash for Sacramento SplashSeptember 116:00–10:00 PMLearn more about Sacramento Splash and get event information at:https://www.sacsplash.orgThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this episode, I'm speaking with Jenny Davidson, founder and CEO of Academy Stay, to talk about one of the most difficult transitions a young person can face: aging out of foster care without a stable place to live or a dependable family safety net.Jenny’s journey to Academy Stay is deeply personal. After losing her youngest son, Jordan, in 2005, she returned to college in her late 30s, earned both an undergraduate degree and an MBA, and continued a career devoted to helping people impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and the child welfare system.Years later, a friend asked her a simple question: If you could do anything in the world, what would you do?Her answer brought her back to foster youth.Jenny says 93% of foster youth want to attend college or trade school someday, yet fewer than 4% graduate. As she researched why, three barriers kept emerging: housing instability, financial insecurity and the absence of a consistent community or family.Academy Stay was created to address all three.Its Sacramento property provides fully furnished housing for former foster youth ages 18 to 24 who are pursuing college or trade school. Residents also receive Wi-Fi, utilities, life-skills education, financial literacy, transportation assistance, mentoring and the everyday support many of us simply learned from family.Jenny calls what these young adults need a “gentle pause”, enough stability to stop concentrating on survival and begin focusing on education, independence and what comes next.We also talk about Academy Stay’s first 14 graduates, its impressive network of community partners, the importance of teaching life skills from “square one,” the value of CASA relationships, and a simple story involving rosemary from the community garden that showed Jenny something much bigger was beginning to happen: community.Academy Stay is not simply providing housing. It is creating dignity, belonging and an opportunity for young adults to build a future.Learn more, donate, volunteer or apply at AcademySTAY.org.Chapter Timestamps:00:00 — Meet Jenny Davidson & the Story Behind Academy Stay 03:42 — Why Foster Youth Struggle to Finish College 06:42 — Inside Academy Stay’s Housing Model 09:42 — Building Community: The Rosemary Story 12:00 — Partnerships, Education & Support Services 15:42 — From Homelessness to Higher Education 19:42 — Advocating for Foster Youth & Housing Resources 23:42 — Teaching Life Skills From “Square One” 26:42 — 14 Graduates & the Vision for Expansion 33:42 — Academy Stay’s Greatest Needs & How to HelpThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...The Sacramento Region Community Foundation’s third annual Philanthropy Summit is coming to Cal Expo on September 15, and if the first two years are any indication, you’ll want to make plans early.I’m joined by Kelly Siefkin, Chief Philanthropy Officer at the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, for a NewsPod update on what attendees can expect from this year’s gathering.The Summit brings together nonprofit professionals, donors, board members, community leaders and people who simply want to make a greater impact in our region. This year’s program includes nine breakout sessions, extensive networking opportunities and a keynote from Cherian Koshy, author of NeuroGiving, exploring the psychology and science behind why people give.Kelly also highlights sessions focused on strengthening nonprofit boards, understanding more sophisticated charitable giving opportunities, and building the kinds of collaborative relationships that can help organizations create greater community impact.The day concludes with the Celebration of Generosity, recognizing the extraordinary giving, volunteering and community involvement taking place throughout the Sacramento region.Perhaps the biggest takeaway from our conversation is the importance of connection. The Summit has grown each year because people throughout the nonprofit and philanthropic community are looking for opportunities to meet one another, learn from one another and find new ways to work together.If you’re planning to attend, don’t wait too long. Previous Summits have sold out and generated waiting lists, and this year’s larger venue reflects just how much interest continues to grow.September 15 | 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. | Cal ExpoGet your Tickets HEREThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...What happens when students who may have never seen a river, a deer or the Sierra's are given the chance to learn outside the four walls of a classroom?In this episode, I sit down with Sean Hill, CEO of Sierra Nevada Journeys, and Advancement Officer Corrie Calderon to talk about the life-changing power of outdoor education.Sierra Nevada Journeys is approaching 20 years of service and now reaches more than 30,000 youth annually through programs in Sacramento, Reno and at its Sierra Nevada outdoor education camp. Their mission is rooted in helping young people connect with nature, strengthen science literacy and build confidence through direct experience in the outdoors.Sean and Corrie share the memorable origin story behind the organization, sparked by a student at Lake Tahoe who asked, “Are there sharks in that ocean?” That moment revealed a larger truth: many children living close to extraordinary natural resources have never had the chance to experience them.We talk about their Classrooms Unleashed program, how they partner with schools and community organizations, and why they see outdoor learning as both an educational and equity issue. We also discuss Sierra Nevada Journeys’ funding model and the significance of protecting approximately 1,500 acres of Sierra Nevada land for future generations.Corrie shares a powerful story of a student who arrived on a field trip disengaged and resistant, only to leave transformed after encountering wildlife and discovering joy in the experience. Sean also shares the story of a former fifth-grade camper whose experience with Sierra Nevada Journeys may have helped shape her future academic path.This is a conversation about access, curiosity, stewardship and the very real impact that one experience in nature can have on a child’s life.Learn more at https://www.sierranevadajourneys.org/Episode Chapters00:00 Welcome to Sierra Nevada Journeys 01:20 The origin story and the Lake Tahoe “ocean” moment 05:45 Making science accessible through outdoor learning 08:15 Programs, Classrooms Unleashed and camp experiences 11:35 School and community partnerships 16:20 Funding model and annual budget 18:40 Acquiring and protecting 1,500 acres 24:05 The blank check question: scholarships, staffing and future vision 27:20 Greatest need: access, transportation and affordability 30:00 Student success stories and long-term impact 39:35 Beyond the Mission with Sean Hill 44:15 How to support Sierra Nevada JourneysThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...Violence prevention doesn’t begin when someone enters a shelter, calls law enforcement or asks for a restraining order. It begins much earlier, with awareness, education, relationships and people recognizing when something isn’t right.In this special continuation of a conversation I began at My Sister’s House’s Preventing Violence event late June, I bring together four extraordinary Sacramento-area leaders working every day with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and other forms of abuse.I’m joined by Beth Hassett of WEAVE, Ashlie Bryant of 3 Strands Global Foundation, Christine Nguyen of My Sister’s House, and Joyce Bilyeu of the Sacramento Regional Family Justice Center.We explore what violence can actually look like—including emotional, financial, technological, psychological, cultural and sexual abuse—and why coercion and control can sometimes be much harder to recognize than physical violence.We also talk about what prevention looks like in practice: education in schools, working with employers and nightlife businesses, danger and lethality assessments, culturally responsive services, survivor-informed programs, workforce opportunities, housing, legal services and removing barriers like transportation, childcare and language.But what struck me most during this conversation was just how interconnected these organizations really are.A survivor may begin with one organization and ultimately receive housing, legal assistance, translation, clothing, employment support, counseling or advocacy through several others, all without having to navigate that complicated system alone.That is collaboration at its best.And it reinforces one of the most important messages of this episode: preventing violence isn’t the responsibility of one organization. It requires an entire community willing to recognize the signs, believe survivors and act. You can learn more about each of the organizations by visiting their respective websites.My Sisters House : https://www.my-sisters-house.org/WEAVE : https://www.weaveinc.org/3Strands Global Foundation : https://3sgf.org/Sacramento Regional Family Justice Center : https://www.sacramentofjc.org/Episode Chapters00:00 – Continuing the Conversation on Preventing Violence 00:52 – WEAVE: Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault & Trafficking Services 01:46 – 3 Strands Global: Prevention, Survivors & Human Trafficking 03:35 – My Sister’s House: Culture, Language & Independence 05:53 – Sacramento Regional Family Justice Center: Help Under One Roof 08:55 – Identifying Risk Before Violence Escalates 16:04 – Prevention in Schools, Workplaces, Bars & the Community 18:13 – Violence Isn't Always Physical: Recognizing Abuse and Control 25:55 – Why Collaboration Changes Outcomes for Survivors 35:27 – Real Examples of Sacramento Nonprofits Working Together 43:42 – What Every Organization and Community Member Can DoThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...For decades, local musician Clemon Charles has shared his talent throughout Sacramento, frequently performing at nonprofit fundraisers, community celebrations and events, often simply because he wanted to help.Now, Clemon needs some help of his own.I’m joined by my longtime friend and KFBK personality Kitty O’Neal, who shares what happened after Clemon suffered a serious stroke earlier this year and the difficult road to recovery he and his family have faced since.Clemon has made meaningful progress, from being unable to eat, walk or communicate to now eating on his own and walking with assistance but continued rehabilitation is critical. His daughter relocated from Texas to help care for him, and his 84-year-old mother traveled from Barbados to be by his side. Kitty and a remarkable group of friends, musicians and community leaders are now bringing Sacramento together for a benefit in his honor.Wednesday, August 20Wildwood Kitchen & Bar (Pavilions Shopping Center, Sacramento)Admission is free, with live music from four performers, including Kitty and her band Skyler's Pool and numerous opportunities to contribute through merchandise, auction items and other donations. A GoFundMe and charitable giving option have also been established for those who cannot attend. This is more than a fundraiser. It’s an opportunity for a community, particularly the nonprofit community Clemon has supported for so many years, to return some of the generosity he has given so freely.I hope you’ll listen, share the episode and, if you’re able, join us in supporting Clemone and his family.GO FUND MEMiddle Way Health Foundation NonprofitListen to more of Clemon's music on Soundclound here.Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...What happens to a child when a parent goes to prison?For Dawn Adams, that question isn’t theoretical. Her father was incarcerated when she was just 12 years old, and she remembers the shame, isolation, uncertainty, and adult responsibilities that came with growing up without him.Years later, Dawn began recognizing those same experiences in friends of her own daughters—and eventually decided something needed to exist specifically for girls navigating parental incarceration.That became Zion Girls.In this episode, I talk with Dawn about how Zion Girls is creating a safe and supportive community for girls ages 10 to 17 who have been impacted by the current or past incarceration of a parent. Through mentoring, education, academic support, trusted relationships, and its “Pillars of Progress,” the organization is helping girls imagine possibilities that can be difficult to see when incarceration has become part of the family experience.Some of the most powerful moments in our conversation come directly from the girls themselves: an eighth grader who went from Ds and Fs to As and Bs; a 13-year-old who wants to become a judge because she understands firsthand the power of a gavel; and a 12-year-old surrounded by family incarceration who asked Dawn a heartbreaking question:“Am I next?”Dawn’s response says just about everything you need to know about Zion Girls: “Absolutely not on my watch.”We also talk about Zion Girls’ growing partnerships, the need for mentors and community awareness, Dawn’s vision for a permanent home and college scholarships, and why simply giving these young women a place where they feel seen and heard can change the direction of a life.Learn more, volunteer, or support Zion Girls at ZionGirls.org00:00 — Meet Zion Girls Founder Dawn Adams02:30 — Dawn’s Story: Growing Up With an Incarcerated Father08:30 — The Pillars of Progress11:30 — Finding and Supporting Girls Impacted by Incarceration15:30 — Building a Mentoring Community21:00 — Funding, Partnerships and Growing Awareness28:00 — Measuring Impact and Academic Progress32:00 — The 13-Year-Old Who Wants to Become a Judge34:30 — Success Stories and Breaking Generational Cycles42:30 — Beyond the Mission and How to Support Zion GirlsThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...The Sacramento Region Community Foundation’s Philanthropy Summit returns September 15, 2026, bringing together nonprofit professionals, board members, donors, and community leaders for a full day of learning, connection, and celebration at Cal Expo.In this NewsPod, I talk with Kelly Siefkin, Chief Philanthropy Officer at the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, about what attendees can expect from the third annual Summit and why the event continues to grow.Approximately 500 attendees are expected this year, with expanded capacity at the Cal Expo Expo Center after previous Summits reached capacity. The day will feature educational breakout sessions, opportunities to connect with organizations and supporters from across the region, lunch, plenary sessions, and the Foundation’s longstanding Celebration of Generosity to close out the day.Among this year’s highlights is a session on Leading Through Change, along with keynote speaker Cherian Koshy, author of Neurogiving, who will explore the psychology of philanthropy; why people give, what motivates generosity, and how nonprofits can build more meaningful relationships with donors.2026 Philanthropy SummitTuesday, September 15, 20269:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.Cal ExpoSacramento, CaliforniaFree parking is available.Ticket availability is limited and the event will sell out. Act NOW!  Registration is in this LINK.Whether you lead a nonprofit, serve on a board, support causes in the community, or simply want to better understand philanthropy, the Summit offers an opportunity to learn, network, and celebrate the generosity shaping the Sacramento region.Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...I’ve known Derrell Roberts for over 25 years, and somehow it has taken over a year to get him into the studio. I’m glad we finally made it happen.Derrell and his wife, Tina, founded Roberts Family Development Center 25 years ago with a philosophy shaped by their own lives: children have a much better opportunity to succeed when they are surrounded by caring families, mentors and community support.That belief continues to guide an organization now serving young people and families across seven sites in North Sacramento, Del Paso Heights and Natomas.Derrell is joined by Bryant Wyatt, who works with the organization’s family support services and also lives in the Del Paso Heights community he serves.We discuss Roberts Family Development Center’s year-round after-school programming, its highly sought-after Freedom School, monthly parent engagement, youth mentorship, mental health resources, housing assistance and homelessness prevention.Bryant explains why the organization uses young people as the entry point for serving the entire family. Derrell shares why education remains the foundation of the work and why exposure to colleges, professionals, elected leaders and mentors can change what a child believes is possible.We also explore the business behind the mission. Roberts Family Development Center employs more than 40 full-time team members and another 50 to 60 part-time college students. Its annual budget is approaching $7 million, and its partnerships with school districts, financial institutions, foundations and fellow nonprofits have helped the organization grow while remaining rooted in the neighborhoods it serves.Looking ahead, Derrell shares the vision for an 11,000- to 12,000-square-foot technology center that would give young people practical experience with technology and prepare them for the future of work.This is also an honest conversation about leadership succession. After 25 years, Derrell and Tina are preparing the next generation to carry the mission forward—and several of those future leaders first came to Roberts Family Development Center as children.At the center of it all is one simple message: somebody cares.Learn more: https://www.robertsfdc.orgSupport the organization: https://www.robertsfdc.org/donateEpisode Chapters00:00 — Celebrating 25 years of Roberts Family Development Center02:00 — How family inspired the organization’s founding06:00 — Education as the foundation of the work10:30 — After-school programs and Freedom School16:30 — Housing assistance, mentorship and growing family needs20:00 — Partnerships, staffing and sustainable funding25:00 — Community trust and generational impact29:00 — Adapting through challenges and change33:30 — The vision for a North Sacramento technology center46:30 — Beyond the Mission and how to support the organizationThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...California CareForce does not wait for patients to find their way to a traditional clinic. It loads nearly $1 million in dental, vision and medical equipment into trucks and brings an entire temporary healthcare operation directly into communities across California.In this episode, I sit down with Executive Director Cyndi Ankiewicz to learn how California CareForce transforms fairgrounds and other large venues into no-cost clinics with 70+ dental chairs, vision exam lanes, onsite eyeglass production, X-ray equipment and basic medical services.We talk about the two-day setup required before a major clinic can even open its doors, the licensed professionals who volunteer away from their own practices and the local host committees responsible for helping bring each clinic to their community.Cyndi also shares several remarkable patient stories, including a veteran who received dentures and glasses before marrying his fiancée and a formerly unhoused patient who credited his new glasses with helping him complete a job application and secure employment.California CareForce has served more than 55,000 patients, engaged nearly 24,000 volunteers and delivered more than $21 million in donated healthcare services. Its clinics are open to people regardless of income, insurance, employment or immigration status.The greatest obstacle is not a lack of need. It is having the funding, providers and infrastructure required to reach more California communities.Learn more and support California CareForce:Website: https://www.californiacareforce.org/Upcoming clinics: https://www.californiacareforce.org/Clinics/Upcoming-ClinicsVolunteer opportunities: https://www.californiacareforce.org/Volunteer/Volunteer-OpportunitiesDonate: https://www.californiacareforce.org/DonateChapter Timestamps00:00 – The origins of California CareForce 02:00 – A healthcare roadshow with $1 million in equipment 04:00 – Building and operating a large pop-up clinic 07:00 – Referrals, continuing care and community partners 10:00 – Choosing communities and funding each clinic 14:00 – Dentures, eyeglasses and life-changing patient stories 17:00 – Volunteer providers and statewide impact 24:00 – The greatest need and what additional funding could unlock 30:00 – Beyond the Mission with Cyndi Ankiewicz 33:00 – How donors, volunteers and nonprofits can helpThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...Human trafficking and sexual exploitation are realities that many people would rather not discuss. For the women and young people experiencing them, however, finding a safe and nonjudgmental place can be the beginning of an entirely different future.In this episode, I sit down with Sawan Vaden, Executive Director of Community Against Sexual Harm, better known as CASH.Sawan first came to CASH as a client in 2014. She later returned as a substance abuse counselor and anti-trafficking case manager before eventually becoming the organization’s executive director.Her personal journey is extraordinary, but it also reflects what makes CASH so effective. Approximately 80 percent of its staff members bring lived experience or a direct connection to the organization’s services. That creates a level of trust, credibility, and hope that cannot be taught in a training manual.Sawan explains how CASH grew from a small evening drop-in center into a comprehensive survivor-support organization offering hot meals, clothing, intensive case management, employment assistance, therapy, youth programming, peer mentorship, community education, medical care, and court diversion services.We also discuss why the idea of “choice” is often misunderstood when talking about sexual exploitation. Many survivors are choosing between dangerous options while responding to abuse, poverty, homelessness, addiction, coercion, or the basic need to survive.Demand for CASH’s services has grown dramatically. The organization now serves approximately 40 to 50 people each day and is preparing to move from a crowded 3,200-square-foot facility into a donated 8,550-square-foot permanent center.The new building will allow CASH to expand its youth programming, medical clinic, kitchen, therapy rooms, showers, children’s space, and other trauma-informed services. Its capital campaign will help transform the building into a welcoming home for healing and possibility.This episode discusses human trafficking, sexual exploitation, childhood abuse, addiction, and homelessness.Learn more: Visit the Community Against Sexual Harm website and explore the organization’s building campaign. https://cashsacramento.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cash_sacramento/CHAPTERS00:00 — Sawan Vaden’s journey from survivor to leader02:07 — Introducing Community Against Sexual Harm04:19 — How CASH began in Sacramento05:49 — Drop-in services and long-term survivor support09:04 — Therapy, youth programs, and community education10:04 — Case management and the power of lived experience14:25 — Giving women visible proof that change is possible16:23 — Community partnerships and collaborative funding18:50 — Working with law enforcement to address demand20:09 — Understanding choice, coercion, and survival22:15 — Grants, individual giving, and CASH fundraising28:10 — A vision for housing and generational stability30:28 — The urgent need for a larger permanent center36:00 — CASH’s capital campaign and community opportunities38:43 — Measuring success beyond traditional outcomes42:50 — Why demand for CASH has grown dramatically45:00 — Beyond the Mission with Sawan VadenThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...Junior Achievement of Sacramento is giving local high school students an opportunity to explore entrepreneurship, develop practical business skills and discover what it takes to turn an idea into something real.In this NewsPod, I speak with Junior Achievement Sacramento President and CEO Chris Marshall about the inaugural Ideas to Income Startup Lab, taking place July 27–28 at Golden 1 Center.During the two-day interactive experience, students will learn creative problem-solving, design thinking, market research, marketing, pricing, revenue development and lean business planning. They will also hear directly from entrepreneurs and professionals who can share their experiences, challenges and lessons learned.The program is designed to give students the tools and confidence to identify a problem, develop a possible solution and begin shaping a viable business concept. It also provides a foundation for Junior Achievement’s Entrepreneurship Summit and Social Innovation Challenge.Ideas to Income is open to rising ninth- through 12th-grade students and runs from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. both days. Participation is free using the registration code SCHOLARSHIP.Learn more and register through the Events section at https://sacramento.ja.org/events/index.Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...Most of us remember our first job—not because it launched our career, but because it taught us how to show up, work with others, take direction, solve problems, and begin taking responsibility for our own future. For many young people facing economic hardship, foster care involvement, housing instability, interrupted education, trauma, or long-term unemployment, getting that first opportunity can be incredibly difficult.In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Norris, Sacramento Director of Development for Juma Ventures, an employment social enterprise helping young people ages 16 to 24 move toward financial independence. Through its Earn, Learn, Connect model, JUMA provides real paid employment, financial literacy, career coaching, education support, workplace training, and connections to future jobs.Stephen explains how Juma partners with organizations including Golden 1 Center, Sacramento Republic FC, Empress Tavern, Alchemist CDC, SMUD, local colleges, and community-based nonprofits to create a network of opportunity around each young person. We also discuss why employers benefit from the model, how Juma measures success, and the powerful transformation that can happen when a young person is given the right support and the chance to prove what they can do.As JUMA celebrates 10 years in Sacramento, this conversation is a reminder that a first job can be much more than a paycheck. It can be the beginning of confidence, stability, independence, and an entirely different future.Learn more and get involved:Visit https://juma.org/ to learn more about Juma Ventures, explore volunteer opportunities, support its youth employment programs, or connect with the Sacramento team.Community members can also help by participating in mock interviews, résumé preparation, professional networking events, and other activities that introduce young people to new career possibilities.Chapters:00:00 – Welcome and What “JUMA” Means 01:32 – JUMA’s Origin as an Employment Social Enterprise 04:05 – Breaking the Cycle of Poverty Through Work 05:12 – Who JUMA Serves and the Barriers Youth Face 06:35 – How Young People Find and Join JUMA 09:20 – Why the First Job Matters 11:43 – Earn, Learn, Connect: JUMA's Three Pillars 18:15 – Collaboration With Sacramento Nonprofits and Employers 23:35 – The Empress Tavern and Alchemist CDC Partnership 26:45 – How JUMA’s Social Enterprise Model Is Funded 31:20 – Measuring Success and Stories of Youth Transformation 37:25 – JUMA’s Future: Entrepreneurship, New Careers and AI 43:10 – The Greatest Needs Facing Young People Today 45:05 – Beyond the Mission With Stephen Norris 49:20 – How to Volunteer, Donate and Support JUMA VenturesThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...GIVE NOW! If you like what you're hearing, click here to support this organization.  Getting housing is a major milestone for a young person transitioning out of foster care, homelessness, or the juvenile justice system. But what happens when they walk into that apartment and there’s nothing inside?No bed. No table. No dishes. No towels. No basic furniture.In this episode, I speak with Jan Judson, founder and board president of Make It Happen for Yolo County, and executive director Cathi Schmidt to talk about the often-overlooked issue of furniture poverty and the impact it can have on dignity, stability, mental health, and independence.Make It Happen for Yolo County serves transition-age youth between 16 and 24 who are connected to Yolo County. Through referrals from partner organizations, the team provides the furniture, household goods, small appliances, bicycles, and everyday essentials needed to turn an empty apartment into a functional home.What began informally in a garage has grown into an organization that served 12 youth in its first year and is working toward serving 72 this year. Along the way, Make It Happen for Yolo County has built partnerships with social workers, CASA programs, schools, nonprofit organizations, community groups, volunteers, and donors.Jan and Cathi also share some of the stories that make this work so powerful: young adults using cardboard boxes as desks and dining tables, a young man sleeping on the floor with his backpack as a pillow, and former foster youth who have gone on to graduate school, meaningful careers, and lives of service to others.We talk about the organization’s growing pains, the need for sustainable funding, the importance of volunteers, and a vision that is both ambitious and remarkably tangible: making sure every eligible under-resourced transition-age youth in Yolo County who needs this support can receive it.It’s a conversation about much more than furniture. It’s about dignity, choice, belonging, and what it really takes to help a young person build a stable life.Learn more, volunteer, donate furniture, or support the organization at https://www.mihyolo.org/Chapters:00:00 – Meet Make It Happen for Yolo County 03:00 – How the Organization Began 04:30 – Who Make It Happen for Yolo County Serves 07:00 – The Hidden Problem of Furniture Poverty 11:00 – What It Takes to Furnish a Home 14:00 – Awareness, Referrals and Community Collaboration 21:00 – Why a Functional Home Matters for Mental Health 24:00 – How Make It Happen for Yolo County Is Funded 27:00 – The Vision for Growth and Greater Impact 34:00 – The Organization’s Biggest Needs 38:00 – Success Stories From the Young Adults Served 45:00 – How to Donate, Volunteer and Get InvolvedThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...The July 31 deadline for the 2026 SMUD Shine Awards is approaching, and this final NewsPod in our three-part series has one simple message for Sacramento-area nonprofits: If you have a potential project, now is the time to get started.I’m joined once again by Kevin Burdick, Sustainable Community Partnership Specialist at SMUD, to talk about why organizations should not count themselves out before exploring the opportunity.Even if you are not certain your project is a perfect fit, Kevin encourages nonprofits to begin the application process, participate in one of SMUD’s technical assistance webinars or in-person sessions, and take advantage of the support available from the SMUD team.As he explains, an application can be more than a request for funding. It can be the beginning of a relationship.We discuss how Shine projects can lead to long-term partnerships, additional opportunities and meaningful operational savings for nonprofits. Kevin shares the example of CCHAT, whose relationship with SMUD grew from facility energy-efficiency improvements into a solar and battery storage pilot project that is now significantly reducing the organization’s monthly utility costs.We also talk about why nonprofits should not wait until the final days of July to begin. SMUD staff can help organizations better understand application questions, technical requirements, project budgets and whether a proposed project may be a fit for the program.The message is simple: Don’t eliminate your organization from consideration before having the conversation.Applications for the 2026 SMUD Shine Awards close July 31 at 5:00 p.m.Learn more, review program requirements and apply:https://www.smud.org/Corporate/Landing/Sustainable-Communities/Shine-awardsPrevious episodes in our 2026 SMUD Shine Awards NewsPod series:May: SMUD Shine Awards — What They Are, Why Apply and Pre-Application SupportJune: SMUD Shine Awards 2026 — Application Window Now Open for Sacramento NonprofitsThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...Childcare is one of the most urgent issues facing working families, employers, communities and children across California — and in more rural regions like El Dorado and Alpine Counties, the challenge becomes even more complex.This episode I'm speaking with two Heathers: Heather Slimp and Heather Della Ripa of Catalyst Community about the organization’s work supporting families, childcare providers and children through childcare vouchers, resource and referral services, provider training, diapers, school supplies, car seats, basic needs support and community events.Catalyst Community serves families across a wide geography, from South Lake Tahoe to Cameron Park to Alpine County. The conversation explores the hidden need behind communities often perceived as affluent, especially in the Tahoe region, where many working families are part of the service economy and need childcare during evenings, weekends and non-traditional work hours.The Heathers combine to explain how Catalyst Community helps families find safe, quality childcare through curated referrals; how subsidized childcare vouchers help parents continue working or going to school; and how the organization supports childcare providers with licensing guidance, CPR and health and safety training, professional development and business support.The episode also highlights the growing demand Catalyst Community is seeing: more than 500 families currently supported through subsidy programs, nearly 300 children waiting for childcare assistance, increased need for diapers and essential supplies, and a major provider shortage — including Alpine County, which has only one licensed childcare provider.This conversation is a powerful reminder that childcare is not simply a family issue. It is workforce infrastructure, economic stability, early childhood development and community resilience all in one.To learn more, visit their website: https://www.catalystcomm.org/The physical addresses in the event you wish to drop items off are:Cameron Park: 3161 Cameron Park Drive, Suite 101Cameron Park, CA 95682South Lake Tahoe: 870 Emerald Bay Rd. Ste. 400/401South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150Markleeville: 100 Foothill Rd, Bldg BMarkleeville, CA 96120SHORT CHAPTERIZATION00:00 – Cold open: rising childcare demand02:00 – Introducing Catalyst Community04:30 – Serving El Dorado and Alpine Counties05:00 – Vouchers, referrals, diapers and family support06:10 – Subsidized childcare and eligibility07:30 – Helping families find safe, quality childcare09:20 – The hidden childcare need in Tahoe12:40 – Demand for vouchers and the waiting list14:15 – Diaper bank and basic needs support17:30 – Funding, contracts and community support19:40 – Kids Expo in Placerville and Tahoe23:20 – More demand for flexible, non-traditional childcare28:20 – The big vision: more providers, more training, more support30:20 – Home CEO and supporting childcare businesses32:25 – Alpine County as a childcare desert34:00 – Income thresholds and family progress37:15 – A powerful success story from one parent45:00 – How to support Catalyst CommunityThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...When Salwa Kasabian transferred her children to a school many families were actively trying to avoid, she discovered something that would change the course of her life—and the lives of countless students across Folsom.What started as volunteering in her children's classrooms revealed a hidden reality: many students lacked the support, structure, mentorship, and safe spaces they needed outside of school. Rather than turning away, Salwa stepped forward.Eighteen years later, Folsom's Hope has grown from a simple Lunch Buddy mentoring program into a comprehensive nonprofit serving elementary, middle school, and high school students through after-school programs, academic support, mentorship, meals, social-emotional learning, and internships. Along the way, the organization has built powerful partnerships with schools, churches, local government, businesses, colleges, and community organizations—all focused on helping young people succeed. In this episode, Salwa shares: How a denied school transfer changed her life  The surprising needs hidden within an affluent community  Why after-school hours are critical for student success  The origins of the Lunch Buddy mentoring program  How Folsom's Hope grew from a handful of students to a $700,000+ operation  The importance of community partnerships and collaboration  Challenges faced by schools that don't qualify for Title I funding  Success stories of students who have returned to serve the organization  New efforts to close academic gaps through summer intervention programs  What the future holds for Folsom's Hope and the students it serves This conversation is a powerful reminder that lasting change often begins when one person chooses to respond to a need they can no longer ignore.Learn More About Folsom's Hope🌐 Website: https://www.folsomshope.org/ 📱 Follow Folsom's Hope on Facebook FolsomsHope and on Instagram @folsomshope 🤝 Volunteer, donate, or learn more through their websiteThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...For nearly 50 years, the Sacramento LGBT Community Center has been a place of support, advocacy, and belonging for LGBTQ people throughout our region.In this episode, I'm talking with CEO David Heitstuman to discuss the remarkable transformation of the organization during his 15-year journey—from a nonprofit struggling to survive with one employee and just $6,000 in the bank to a multi-million-dollar organization serving thousands through health, wellness, housing, workforce development, advocacy, and community-building programs.We talk about Sacramento Pride, youth homelessness, mental health services, the Center's ambitious capital campaign, and the challenges LGBTQ organizations face in today's funding environment.Most importantly, David shares a powerful vision for creating a region where all LGBTQ people can thrive—not just survive.Whether you're interested in nonprofit leadership, community advocacy, social impact, or simply learning more about one of Sacramento's most influential organizations, this conversation offers valuable insight into what it takes to build lasting change.In This Episode:• The evolution of the Sacramento LGBT Community Center • Supporting LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness • Mental health, health services, and workforce development • Why Sacramento Pride is about more than celebration • Building a permanent home in Lavender Heights • Leadership lessons from a decade of growth • Current funding challenges facing LGBTQ nonprofits • How community members can support the missionTo learn more about the organization visit: LGBT Community CenterChapters00:00Why Pride Matters More Than People Realize02:00Introducing the Sacramento LGBT Community Center04:00Programs That Support Health, Wellness, and Stability08:00The Growing Need for Youth Services09:30Collaboration Across the Community11:00From $6,000 in the Bank to a $7 Million Organization15:30The Impact of Sacramento Pride19:00Building a Permanent Home in Lavender Heights23:00What Unlimited Funding Could Make Possible28:30Navigating Today's Funding Challenges32:00The Center's Greatest Need Right Now37:00Getting to Know David Heitstuman43:00How You Can Support the Sacramento LGBT Community CenterThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...The future of Sacramento's River District is taking shape, but an important challenge remains.In this NewsPod update, I'm speaking with Sam Greenlee, CEO of Alchemist CDC, to discuss the latest developments surrounding the Alchemist Public Market project. After years of planning and more than $13 million secured in state and federal funding, construction is underway on what promises to be a transformative community asset for the region. The project will bring together a grocery market that accepts WIC and CalFresh, a commissary kitchen for emerging food entrepreneurs, restaurant incubation space, community gathering areas, and a weekly farmers market—all in a neighborhood currently classified as a food desert. While the project has secured its funding commitments, a reimbursement-based grant structure has created a short-term cash flow challenge. Sam shares how the community has already responded with more than $770,000 in loans and charitable support, allowing construction to continue while Alchemist works to secure approximately $1 million more in additional bridge funding. We discuss: The vision behind the Alchemist Public Market  Why the River District needs this project  How reimbursement-based public grants create funding gaps  Recent community support and progress  Opportunities for donor-advised funds, foundations, and private lenders to help  The economic and community impact this project will create for Sacramento This conversation provides important context for anyone interested in community development, food access, small business incubation, and the future of Sacramento's River District. Learn More: For information about bridge funding opportunities or to support the project, contact: Sam Greenlee: [email protected] Shannin Stein: [email protected] hear the original podcast with Sam and Shannin, listen HERE.The Alchemist Public Market is under construction today. With the right support, it will be serving Sacramento residents by early 2027. If you, or a collective group might be able to help, please reach out. Let's get this project completed.Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this Nonprofit Podcast Network NewsPod, I talk, once again, with Kevin Burdick, Sustainable Community Partnership Specialist at SMUD, to discuss one of the region's most impactful funding opportunities for nonprofit organizations undertaking energy saving projects.Celebrating its 10th year, the SHINE Awards help Sacramento-area nonprofits fund projects that support clean energy, sustainability, workforce development, STEM education, facility improvements, and community impact initiatives.Kevin explains who is eligible, how the application process works, the support available through webinars and one-on-one assistance, and why now is the time to begin preparing your application.If your organization serves Sacramento County, this is an opportunity worth exploring.In This Episode: What the SMUD Shine Awards program funds  Who is eligible to apply  Why nonprofits should start the process now  Application support available from SMUD  Common misconceptions about the application process  Funding success rates and additional opportunities  Key deadlines and resources Important Dates📅 Application Window Open Now📅 Applications Due: July 31ResourcesLearn more and apply: SMUD Shine Awards ProgramListen to our full SMUD Shine Awards overview episode from May, here.Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...Volunteers are often called the lifeblood of nonprofit organizations—and for good reason. They expand capacity, strengthen community connections, support events, and help organizations deliver on their mission every day.Yet one of the most common challenges nonprofit leaders face is finding, managing, and retaining volunteers.In this episode, I'm talking with Twyla Teitzle, Program Chair for DOVIA Sacramento (Directors of Volunteers in Agencies), to discuss the critical role volunteer engagement plays in nonprofit success and why volunteer management is far more complex than many realize.Twyla shares how DOVIA has spent nearly 50 years supporting volunteer coordinators and nonprofit leaders through professional development, mentorship, networking, training, and resource sharing. She also discusses the changing landscape of volunteerism, the growing opportunities available through technology, and why organizations of every size can benefit from investing in volunteer engagement.Whether you're an executive director, board member, volunteer coordinator, or someone looking to make a difference in your community, this conversation offers valuable insights into building stronger volunteer programs and stronger nonprofits.Topics discussed include:• Why volunteer engagement is a specialized profession• The biggest challenges nonprofits face in recruiting volunteers• Retaining and recognizing volunteers effectively• How technology is changing volunteer recruitment• The importance of volunteer coordinators• Building relationships across the nonprofit sector• Professional development for volunteer managers• DOVIA's role in supporting nonprofits throughout the Sacramento region• The future of volunteerismTo learn more about DOVIA Sacramento, visit www.doviasacramento.org. Email: [email protected] Call Twyla: 916-847-2893CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction01:05 What Is DOVIA?03:00 Why Volunteer Coordination Is a Profession05:10 Finding and Recruiting Volunteers Today08:15 Building Community Through Volunteer Leaders10:20 DOVIA's Training, Mentorship and Resources12:05 The Untapped Power of Senior Volunteers15:20 Retaining and Appreciating Volunteers18:00 Why Volunteer Management Pays for Itself22:00 The Volunteer Shortage Nonprofits Face24:10 Corporate Volunteer Programs and Partnerships26:30 DOVIA's Vision for the Future30:15 The Importance of Awareness and Outreach33:00 Getting to Know Twyla37:00 How to Connect with DOVIA SacramentoThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...Golf may be the hook, but life skills are the mission.In this episode, I sit down with Angie Dixon, CEO of First Tee – Greater Sacramento, to explore how an organization often associated with golf is actually helping shape the next generation of leaders, problem-solvers, and community changers.Having started as a participant herself in 1983, Angie shares her remarkable journey from Little Linkers student to CEO, along with the organization's mission to reach young people from all backgrounds through character-building experiences, mentorship, and access to opportunities many families never knew existed.We discuss First Tee's work in more than 120 schools, its partnerships throughout the region, specialized programs for girls and individuals with disabilities, and the life-changing impact that can occur when a young person is given confidence, support, and a chance to succeed.Whether you're a golfer or have never picked up a club, this conversation highlights the powerful role nonprofits play in helping young people discover their potential.In this episode, you'll learn:• Why First Tee serves far more than aspiring golfers• How the organization reaches more than 58,000 youth annually• The importance of teaching confidence, communication, and leadership• How First Tee creates access for underserved communities• Why golf can be a uniquely powerful tool for personal development• The inspiring success stories emerging from the programLearn more about First Tee Greater Sacramento and discover ways to support their mission of building game changers throughout our community. Visit https://firstteesacramento.org/Chapter Markers 00:00 Introduction & Angie Dixon's First Tee Journey  03:00 Breaking Down Golf's Stereotypes  04:30 Who First Tee Serves  07:00 Programs Creating the Greatest Impact  08:00 Competitive Golf & Junior Tour Opportunities  10:00 Community Partnerships Across Sacramento  12:00 Getting Kids Involved  13:30 Measuring Impact Beyond Golf  15:00 Success Stories That Inspire  18:00 Funding the Mission  21:00 What Greater Support Could Accomplish  23:00 Life Skills, Leadership & Human Connection  25:00 The Organization's Greatest Need  27:00 Beyond the Mission with Angie Dixon  30:00 How to Support First Tee  31:00 Final ThoughtsThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...For more than three decades, Animal Outreach has quietly become one of the region’s most important resources for affordable veterinary care, rescue services, and community animal welfare.In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Board President Garry Saperstein and Operations Director Vickie Shapleton to talk about the organization’s remarkable growth, the overwhelming need for low-cost veterinary services, and the life-saving work happening every single day behind the scenes.From trap-neuter-return programs and foster networks to helping unhoused pet owners care for their animals, Animal Outreach is addressing challenges many people never even realize exist. In 2025 alone, the organization completed more than 7,600 spay and neuter surgeries, administered thousands of vaccinations and microchips, and rescued more than 1,600 cats.We also discuss the organization’s exciting next chapter: a newly purchased 11,000-square-foot facility that will nearly double their capacity and dramatically expand access to affordable veterinary care throughout the region.This conversation highlights the reality of animal welfare in our communities, the volunteers who make this work possible, and why the need for support has never been greater.Topics Include:The growing demand for low-cost veterinary careHow Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs work“Kitten season” and the overwhelming surge in rescuesHelping unhoused and low-income pet ownersThe role volunteers and foster families playAnimal Outreach’s major expansion projectThe future of animal welfare services in the Sacramento regionTo learn more or support Animal Outreach, visit:Animal Outreach of the Mother LodeChapter Overview00:00 – Welcome to Animal Outreach How a conversation nearly a year in the making finally comes together.03:00 – Affordable Veterinary Care & Community Need Why low-cost spay, neuter, dental, and wellness services matter more than ever.05:00 – “Kitten Season” and the Rescue Crisis The shocking reality behind exploding kitten populations and overwhelmed foster networks.07:15 – Trap, Neuter, Return (TNR) Explained How Animal Outreach manages feral cat colonies and prevents uncontrolled growth.10:00 – Helping Unhoused & Low-Income Pet Owners Why pets are family — and how the organization supports vulnerable community members.13:00 – Adoption Centers & Volunteer Power The partnerships, foster families, and volunteers that keep the mission moving forward.17:00 – A Major Expansion for the Future Inside the new 11,000-square-foot facility and what it means for regional animal care.21:00 – The Fundraising Challenge Building a $2.5–$3 million expansion through grants, donations, and community support.24:00 – Measuring the Real Impact More than 7,600 spay/neuter surgeries and the unseen impact on the region.28:00 – Personal Stories, Passion & Final Thoughts The human side of rescue work and why this mission never really stops.Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this urgent NonProfit NewsPod episode, I’m joined by Joe Barr, Executive Director of Access Sacramento, to discuss a critical funding issue that could dramatically impact one of Sacramento’s most important community media and workforce development organizations.For more than two decades, Access Sacramento has provided affordable media training, podcasting and filmmaking education, workforce development opportunities, and public access to professional-grade production equipment for people across the Sacramento region. From aspiring filmmakers and podcasters to nonprofits and community storytellers, Access Sacramento has become a vital resource for creative expression, workforce readiness, and local voices.But now, the organization faces potentially devastating budget cuts tied to declining cable revenue and decisions being considered by the local Cable Commission. Joe explains why these cuts could threaten programs that empower community members, support nonprofit storytelling, and provide affordable pathways into media careers.We discuss: How Access Sacramento trains future creators and media professionals  The impact of “A Place Called Sacramento,” their long-running filmmaking incubator  Why community media access still matters more than ever  The changing landscape of cable funding and public access television  What’s at stake for Sacramento nonprofits, youth programs, and local storytelling  Why community action before the June 4 meeting is so important Joe also shares how listeners can get involved, contact decision-makers, and support the future of community media in Sacramento.To learn more or take action, visit: Access SacramentoThis episode serves as a timely call to action for anyone who values local storytelling, workforce development, media access, and community empowerment.Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the way organizations operate — but for many nonprofit leaders, knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. In this timely NonProfit NewsPod, I’m joined by Brad Squire, CEO of Sacramento Venture Philanthropy, to discuss the launch of “AI for Good,” an initiative designed to help nonprofits and community leaders better understand and apply AI in practical, mission-driven ways.Brad shares insights from a recent community mixer that brought together nonprofit professionals, business leaders, and technologists to explore how AI can support nonprofit capacity building, improve operational efficiencies, and unlock new opportunities for collaboration and innovation.We discuss: Why nonprofits are both excited and intimidated by AI  The importance of creating community around learning new technology  How AI can help organizations operate more efficiently with limited resources  The new AI for Good workshop series launching in May, June, and July  Real-world nonprofit examples already using custom AI tools and applications  Upcoming hackathons designed to build practical AI solutions for local nonprofits The workshop series includes AI 101, 201, and 301 courses designed for all experience levels — from complete beginners to those interested in building AI-powered workflows and applications.Brad also explains how Sacramento and Rancho Cordova are positioning themselves as emerging leaders in AI innovation and why now is the time for nonprofit organizations to begin engaging with these tools.Learn more and register for the workshops at: SVP Sacramento AI for GoodThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this episode I sit down with April Javist, Executive Director of the Sacramento Literacy Foundation, for one of the most important conversations we’ve had about the future of our communities. What begins as a discussion about reading quickly becomes a much deeper exploration into education, poverty, mental health, workforce readiness, civic participation, and the long-term impact literacy has on every aspect of society.April shares the startling reality that more children today are NOT reading at grade level than are — and why third-grade reading proficiency is one of the strongest indicators of future success. We discuss the growing Science of Reading movement, why culturally relevant books matter for children, and how Sacramento Literacy Foundation is working directly with schools, families, and community partners to improve literacy outcomes across the region.The conversation also explores accountability in education, the success Mississippi has seen through literacy reform, and why literacy may truly be the foundation for solving many of society’s biggest challenges. Along the way, April shares powerful stories from the field that highlight how something as simple as putting the right book into a child’s hands can change confidence, connection, and even the trajectory of a life.This is a passionate, emotional, and hopeful conversation about what becomes possible when communities decide every child deserves the opportunity to read, learn, and fully participate in society.Learn more about Sacramento Literacy Foundation:Sacramento Literacy FoundationCall: 916-836-3540Email April: [email protected]:@sacliteracyfoundationLinkedIn:Sacramento Literacy Foundation LinkedInChapters00:00 – Why Literacy Matters More Than Ever03:08 – How Sacramento Literacy Foundation Began05:02 – The Importance of Culturally Relevant Books06:18 – Why Third Grade Reading Levels Matter09:10 – The Science of Reading Explained15:02 – The Literacy Data Behind Sacramento Schools18:05 – How Communities Can Improve Reading Outcomes20:05 – Partnerships, Advocacy & School Collaboration27:58 – April’s Big Vision for Literacy Reform33:10 – Why Reading Is a Revolution39:05 – The Story That Changed EverythingThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...The Shine Awards are returning for another year, and now is the time for nonprofits to start preparing before the application window opens.In this NonProfit Podcast NewsPod, I sit down with Kevin Burdick, Sustainable Community Partnership Specialist at SMUD, to discuss how the Shine Awards help nonprofits across Sacramento County access funding for projects tied to clean energy, sustainability, operational efficiency, and community impact. With awards ranging from $5,000 to $100,000, the Shine Awards have already distributed more than half a million dollars annually to local organizations working to improve their facilities, reduce energy costs, increase capacity, and better serve their communities. We discuss: What types of nonprofits qualify  The June 1 – July 31 application timeline  Why organizations should start preparing now  Pre-application workshops and informational webinars  Examples of successful Shine-funded projects  Matching fund requirements  How SMUD evaluates applications  Collaboration opportunities between nonprofits  Language accessibility and application support Kevin also shares why early preparation matters and how organizations that participate in workshops and planning sessions often submit stronger, more competitive applications. If your nonprofit serves Sacramento County and has been considering ways to reduce operating expenses, improve facilities, or expand impact through sustainable projects, this episode is packed with practical insight to help you get started.Learn more about the Shine Awards at: https://www.smud.org/Corporate/Landing/Sustainable-Communities/Shine-awardsThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...For more than 100 years, the American Heart Association has played a defining role in cardiovascular research, public health education, advocacy, and lifesaving care across the country. But many people may not fully realize just how deeply the organization influences the systems, protocols, and community programs that impact millions of lives every year.In this episode of The NonProfit Podcast Network, I sit down with Suzanne Bartlett, Associate Executive Vice President, to explore the mission and modern evolution of the American Heart Association — from groundbreaking research funding and hospital partnerships to CPR education, youth outreach, advocacy work, and community health initiatives throughout Northern California.We discuss how the organization collaborates with hospitals, schools, churches, nonprofits, and business leaders to improve long-term health outcomes, while also addressing issues like food insecurity, access to care, women’s heart health, and preventative education.Suzanne also shares insights into the organization’s fundraising model, the importance of volunteer leadership, and why Sacramento has emerged as one of the nation’s leading markets for community engagement and support of the American Heart Association's Women of Impact.Whether you know the organization through Go Red for Women, the Heart Walk, CPR training, or simply its global reputation, this conversation offers a compelling behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most impactful nonprofit organizations. Short Chapter Overview00:00 — Introduction to the American Heart Association 02:10 — Prevention, education, and Life’s Essential 8 05:00 — Reaching younger generations through schools and youth programs 07:45 — Research, evolving treatment, and trusted science 11:30 — Partnerships with hospitals, churches, and community organizations 15:20 — CPR education and building a “Nation of Lifesavers” 20:15 — Funding the mission and national impact 25:00 — Women’s heart health and Go Red for Women 31:00 — Advocacy, volunteers, and community engagement 33:20 — Personal stories and the impact of research advances 38:00 — Beyond the Mission rapid-fire questions 40:15 — How to support and connect with the American Heart AssociationTo learn more, visit https://www.heart.org/en/affiliates/california/northern-californiaThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...Big Day of Giving 2026 is officially in the books—and it was the largest in the event’s history.In this special recap episode of the Nonprofit NewsPod, I’m joined once again by Kelly Siefkin from the Sacramento Region Community Foundation to reflect on a remarkable day of generosity, community engagement, and philanthropic momentum across the Sacramento region.The final numbers are staggering:$15.4 million raised62,017 donations29,091 donors886 nonprofit organizations supportedTogether, our region has now raised more than $132 million since Big Day of Giving began in 2013.But beyond the record-setting totals, this conversation highlights something even bigger: the power of community participation at every level.From $10 gifts to major matching campaigns, this year demonstrated that philanthropy is not reserved for a select few—it belongs to everyone.What We Discuss in This Episode: How the live leaderboard became must-watch viewing throughout the night  The dramatic final push past $15 million  Why smaller nonprofits benefited in powerful ways this year  The growing impact of matching gifts and board participation  New giving trends including donor-advised funds, QCDs, PayPal, and stock donations  The role unrestricted giving plays in nonprofit sustainability  Why Big Day of Giving is not a competition—but a spotlight on generosity  How preparation, mentorship, and training directly impacted nonprofit success We also recognize the sponsors, nonprofit leaders, volunteers, board members, and thousands of donors who helped make this year possible.This episode is more than a recap—it’s a celebration of what happens when an entire region chooses to show up for its nonprofits.Brief Chapter Overview Record-Breaking Night Recap  The Final Push Past $15 Million  Key Numbers & Participation Stats  Why Small Nonprofits Won Big  The Growth of Matching Gifts  New Giving Trends in 2026  Why BDOG Is Bigger Than Competition  Gratitude for Sponsors & Donors  Looking Ahead to 2027See it all in every way on the website: https://www.bigdayofgiving.org/Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this NonProfit Podcast Network NewsPod, I sit down with Impact100 Greater Sacramento President Sarina Paulson, alongside leaders from U.S. Bank, to unpack one of the most exciting philanthropic stories in our region this year.What started as a hopeful push toward a $500,000 grant pool didn’t quite get there on reveal night—but this community wasn’t done.With 413 members rallying together, a powerful Match Me campaign, and last-minute leadership support from corporate partners and individual donors, Impact100 didn’t just get close… they crossed the finish line.Here’s what that means:A $500,000 grant pool to be distributed amongst 5 nonprofit organizationsThat means five $100,000 transformational grantsContinued momentum for one of the fastest-growing philanthropic movements in SacramentoWe also explore the deeper story behind the dollars—why collective giving works, how relationships drive impact, and why organizations like Impact100 are changing the way communities fund their future.With nearly $1.5 million invested into local nonprofits in just four years, this milestone is more than a number—it’s proof of what’s possible when people come together with purpose.🔗 Learn more: Impact100 Greater SacramentoTo learn more about the two organizations that rolled it over the top, you can find them in the links below.New York Life:  https://www.newyorklife.com/contact-usUS Bank:  https://www.usbank.com/index.htmlThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...What if the power of a wish didn’t stop at childhood?In this episode, I sit down with Stephanie Berger, founder of Silver Wishes—an organization built on a simple but powerful idea: seniors deserve the same moments of hope, dignity, and joy that we so often create for children.But what I found most compelling in this conversation is that these aren’t bucket-list wishes. They’re real, immediate needs—things like fixing a car, restoring air conditioning, or providing mobility support. Small things on the surface… that completely change someone’s ability to live independently and with pride.Stephanie shares how this idea was born during COVID, inspired by her own family’s experience, and how it’s grown into a movement that’s quietly transforming lives across our community. We also talk about what she calls the “dandelion effect”—how one fulfilled wish can ripple outward, inspiring others to step in and create even more impact.This is a conversation about empathy, about community, and about recognizing a population that too often goes unseen.To learn more about Silver Wishes you can visit the website https://silverwishes.org/. Or you can call  916-287-7172. Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...With Big Day of Giving just days away, this final installment of the NewsPod series brings together the most important insights, strategies, and reminders to help donors, businesses, and nonprofits maximize their impact.I’m joined once again by Kelly Siefkin to wrap up a five-part series leading into one of the most important philanthropic days in our region.We revisit what’s working, what’s trending, and what still matters most—community participation.What We Cover:Business Engagement is Up More companies stepping in with matching gifts and prize incentives Creative engagement through team pages, yard signs, and social sharing Increased visibility translating into stronger community momentum More Ways to Give Than Ever Traditional giving meets modern tools: Venmo, Apple Pay, Google Pay Growth in donor-advised funds and IRA-qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) First-time stock donations entering the mix  Quick giving tools like “refill your cart” make participation easier than ever Philanthropy for Everyone The $10 minimum makes giving accessible to all  A powerful reminder: collective small gifts drive massive impact A great opportunity to teach the next generation about givingTrust-Based Philanthropy Matters Emphasis on unrestricted funding gives nonprofits flexibility  Encourages donors to trust organizations to meet their greatest needs Helps shift outdated expectations toward mission-driven impactFinal Call to Action Give to organizations you love—and discover one you don’t yet know  Share on social and amplify the movement  Consider becoming an ambassador to extend your reach  Remember: this day belongs to the community With over 900+ nonprofits participating and millions on the line, Big Day of Giving isn’t just about donations—it’s about connection, visibility, and collective impact. Why It MattersThis episode isn’t just a recap—it’s a rallying cry.Big Day of Giving works because thousands of people choose to show up. Whether it’s $10 or $10,000, every action contributes to a larger story: a community investing in itself.And beyond the day itself, the bigger takeaway is this—philanthropy isn’t reserved for a select few. It’s for everyone.Let's make it the best ever!Visit https://www.bigdayofgiving.org/Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this episode, I'm speaking with Kara Green, co-founder and executive director of ABLED, alongside Kelsey Emmett, a participant whose journey captures exactly why this work matters.What began as a deeply personal mission to support Kara’s son Ben—who is on the autism spectrum—has grown into a thriving organization helping transition-age youth and young adults develop the skills needed for meaningful, independent employment.ABLED fills a critical gap. For individuals who are ready to work but need additional support to build stamina, confidence, and real-world experience, this program provides a structured pathway forward. Through job training, community partnerships, and hands-on opportunities like working at Sutter Health Park, clients gain both technical and emotional skills that prepare them for long-term success.From serving just five individuals to now supporting more than 50 clients annually, ABLED is proving that when people are given the right environment and support, they don’t just participate—they thrive.This conversation highlights not only the systems change needed in workforce development for people with disabilities, but also the human side of growth—confidence built, fears overcome, and futures reimagined.💡 Why It MattersThere’s a staggering reality at the center of this conversation: roughly 80% of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are unemployed or underemployed. ABLED is directly addressing that gap—creating a bridge between potential and opportunity.This episode is a reminder that inclusion isn’t just about access—it’s about preparation, belief, and building systems that actually work for people.⏱️ Chapter Timestamps (YouTube-Friendly)00:00 – Welcome + The Origin of ABLED 02:00 – From 5 Clients to 50+ Served 04:00 – The Gap Between School and Employment 06:00 – What “Graduation” Looks Like 08:00 – Real Work Experience: Sutter Health Park 10:00 – Community Partnerships + Collaborations 13:00 – Funding + Grassroots Support 15:00 – Big Vision: Scaling ABLED Nationwide 18:00 – Measuring Impact Beyond Data 21:00 – Confidence, Growth, and Breakthrough Moments 24:00 – Greatest Needs: Volunteers + Transportation 27:00 – Success Stories + Real Outcomes 30:00 – Beyond the Mission (Personal Side of Leadership) 33:00 – Closing Reflections + Community ImpactThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this fourth installment of the Big Day of Giving NewsPod series, once again, I'm speaking with Kelly Siefkin to explore the evolving landscape of philanthropy—and what it means for donors and nonprofits alike. From trust-based giving and donor-advised funds to the rise of non-cash assets and younger donor engagement, we break down the trends shaping how people give today.We also tackle the real barriers that hold people back—perception, time, money, and complexity—and how Big Day of Giving is designed to remove them. Whether you’re a seasoned donor or just getting started, this conversation offers a clear and encouraging path to participation.Bottom line: philanthropy isn’t reserved for the few—it’s accessible to everyone, and Big Day of Giving makes it easier than ever to be part of something bigger. Big Day of Giving is May 7th. Learn more by visiting the website: https://www.bigdayofgiving.org/https://www.bigdayofgiving.org/Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this episode, I'm talking with Mary Tess Mail, Executive Director of Blue Line Arts, to explore how a small, volunteer-driven art initiative from 1966 has grown into a cornerstone of arts and culture in the Roseville region.We talk about the organization’s evolution over six decades, its expanding role in public art and education, and how it’s meeting the needs of a rapidly growing community. From gallery exhibitions to murals, student programs to artist residencies, Blue Line Arts is proving that creativity isn’t just something you display—it’s something you build into the fabric of a community.What stands out most is their commitment to connection: connecting artists with collectors, students with opportunity, and communities with shared experiences through art.💡 Why It MattersArts organizations like Blue Line Arts don’t just showcase creativity—they create access.In a time when schools are still struggling to fully integrate arts education, and communities are rapidly changing, organizations like this become essential bridges. They introduce students to new possibilities, support local artists in building sustainable careers, and transform public spaces into shared cultural experiences.This episode highlights how intentional investment in the arts leads to stronger, more connected communities—and why that matters now more than ever.To learn more about Blue Line Arts, visit: https://www.bluelinearts.org/⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Welcome & 60-Year Legacy 02:30 – From Small Town to Cultural Hub 06:15 – Growth of Roseville & Demand for Arts 09:00 – Beyond the Gallery: Programs & Partnerships 13:20 – Public Art & The Roseville Mural Project 17:45 – Digital Art & The Next Generation of Creators 21:30 – The Role of AI in Art Today 25:10 – Community Collaborations & Regional Impact 29:40 – Arts Education & Student Transformation 35:20 – Funding Model & Sustainability 40:10 – Measuring Impact Beyond Numbers 45:00 – The “Blank Check” Vision 49:30 – Beyond the Mission (Rapid Fire) 52:00 – Building Connection Through Art (Closing Story)Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this third installment of our Big Day of Giving series with the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, I'm talking, once again, with Chief Philanthropy Officer Kelly Siefkin to explore one of the most exciting new opportunities in local giving: the Impact Collaborative.This episode breaks down how anyone—yes, anyone—can step into philanthropy through a simple, accessible model. For just $300 annually (or $25/month), individuals can join a giving circle that pools resources, builds knowledge, and empowers members to collectively decide where grant dollars go.We also dig into the broader concept of giving circles—how they work, why they’re growing in popularity, and how you can even start your own with friends, colleagues, or community groups.As Big Day of Giving approaches, this conversation highlights a powerful truth: philanthropy isn’t reserved for the few—it’s available to all of us.💡 Why It MattersThis episode reframes philanthropy as something inclusive, social, and learnable—not just transactional.The Impact Collaborative lowers the barrier to entry while increasing engagement, education, and community connection. It’s not just about giving—it’s about understanding where your dollars go and having a voice in the outcome. For many, Big Day of Giving is the first step. The Impact Collaborative is how that step turns into a sustained journey.For more information, visit https://www.sacregcf.org/You can also make the call to learn more: 916-921-7723Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this episode, I sit down with Katie Campbell from RedRover to explore a critical but often overlooked reality—people in crisis may delay or avoid seeking safety because they can’t bring their pets with them.We unpack how RedRover is addressing this gap through emergency veterinary grants, domestic violence safe housing support, disaster response, and youth education programs. From wildfire deployments to quiet, behind-the-scenes grant work, this conversation reveals how compassion for animals directly impacts human safety and decision-making.What stood out most is this: protecting pets isn’t separate from protecting people—it’s deeply connected. 💡 Why It MattersToo often, systems designed to help people in crisis overlook one critical piece—their pets.When nearly all survivors say their decision to leave is influenced by whether their pet can come with them, this isn’t a niche issue—it’s a major barrier to safety.Organizations like RedRover aren’t just helping animals. They’re removing barriers, accelerating escape from dangerous situations, and preserving the emotional bonds that help people heal.This is what real, holistic support looks like.To learn more about RedRover visit their website: https://redrover.org/CHAPTERS00:00 – Introduction to RedRover and the human-animal bond 02:00 – Katie’s story and the “lightbulb moment” 04:30 – What RedRover does: core programs overview 07:30 – Pets and domestic violence: the hidden barrier to leaving 11:00 – Expanding into homelessness and broader crisis support 13:30 – Scaling nationally and building partnerships 17:00 – Funding model and donor-driven sustainability 19:30 – The big vision: working themselves out of a job 23:00 – Training communities and breaking down silos 28:00 – Educating youth and building long-term compassionThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...This episode focuses on how donors can engage in Big Day of Giving beyond just making a financial contribution. I'm speaking again, with Kelly Siefkin, Chief Philanthropy Officer. While online donations remain the most common, donors can also give through donor-advised funds, stock contributions, qualified charitable distributions, and even by pledging volunteer hours or in-kind support.We explore key trends shaping modern philanthropy—especially the rise of donor-advised funds, employer matching, and the growing impact of collective giving, where even small contributions add up to significant community-wide impact. With over $13 million raised last year, it’s clear that participation at every level matters.The episode also introduces new tools like the Discovery Assistant to help donors easily find organizations aligned with their interests, making it simpler than ever to support both familiar causes and discover new ones.At its core, this conversation reinforces a powerful idea: philanthropy is for everyone. Whether it’s $10, time volunteered, or a long-term giving strategy, Big Day of Giving is an accessible entry point—and a catalyst—for deeper, ongoing community impact.Visit: https://www.bigdayofgiving.org/Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...This episode is unique. I'm speaking with Heidi Sanborn, Executive Director of the National Stewardship Action Council and Humboldt County Supervisor, Michelle Bushnell on a topic that was born out of a concern for waste. Yes, aluminum cannisters. It turns out they're now leaders on the front lines of a growing and largely misunderstood crisis—nitrous oxide abuse. What many people recognize as a harmless, food-grade product used for whipped cream has quietly evolved into an inexpensive, highly accessible substance with devastating consequences. We unpack the reality of how nitrous oxide is being used today—from small “whippet” cartridges to large flavored canisters designed and marketed in ways that clearly appeal to misuse. You'll hear something deeply concerning: stories of addiction that rivals other substances, environmental damage from widespread disposal, and tragic, often preventable deaths.Making this even more complex is the gap between legality and impact. Nitrous oxide is technically a legal, food-grade product, there are virtually no age restrictions, limited regulatory frameworks, and significant challenges when it comes to enforcement. It’s incredibly difficult to test for nitrous oxide in the body—leaving families without answers and accountability out of reach.We also explore the policy side—local ordinances, statewide legislation, and the very real challenges of enforcement. Without meaningful accountability and a coordinated approach across public health, law enforcement, and retail regulation, this issue will continue to grow.This episode is about more than awareness. It’s about recognizing a public health crisis that is hiding in plain sight—and understanding what it will take to address it.Without clear regulation or enforcement mechanisms, communities are left reacting to the consequences rather than preventing them. From fatal car accidents to long-term neurological damage, the impacts ripple far beyond the individual—affecting families, public safety systems, and entire communities.For nonprofit leaders, policymakers, and community advocates, this is a reminder that some of the most pressing issues aren’t always the most visible. Addressing them requires collaboration, education, and a willingness to challenge outdated systems that no longer reflect current realities.Learn more on the website: https://www.nsaction.us/casb936nitrousoxidebanEmail Heidi: [email protected]:00 – Introduction to Nitrous Oxide and Why This Conversation Matters03:45 – What Nitrous Oxide Is and How It’s Being Used Today07:30 – From Whippets to Large Canisters: Accessibility and Appeal11:15 – Health Impacts: Addiction, Brain Oxygen Deprivation, and Paralysis16:40 – Real Stories: Fatal Accidents and Community Impact22:10 – Environmental Damage and Waste Management Challenges26:30 – Why It’s So Hard to Regulate and Enforce31:45 – Legislative Efforts and Local Ordinances in California36:20 – The Enforcement Gap: Why Laws Alone Aren’t Enough40:10 – What Needs to Happen Next: Policy, Awareness, and AccountabilityThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this first installment of our Big Day of Giving NewsPod series, I sit down with Kelly Siefkin, Chief Philanthropy Officer at the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, to explore a powerful but often overlooked driver of impact—business engagement.With over 900 nonprofits participating in this year’s Big Day of Giving on May 7, the largest in its history, the opportunity to support the region has never been greater. And while individual donors play a vital role, businesses are the engine behind much of what makes this day so successful.Kelly breaks down the many ways businesses can get involved—from sponsoring prizes and offering matching gifts, to creating fun, culture-building experiences for employees like giving challenges, in-office events, and customer engagement campaigns.We also explore how Big Day of Giving can be a gateway to year-round philanthropy, including opening a business fund, engaging employees in volunteerism, and leveraging tools like Giving Edge to discover new nonprofit partners.And the impact? It’s real. Last year alone, the community raised $13.8 million in a single day, contributing to over $117 million raised in 13 years. But beyond the dollars, it’s about visibility, connection, and discovering new organizations doing meaningful work right here in our region.If you’re a business leader looking for a simple, powerful way to engage your team and give back—this is your starting point.🔗 Learn more and explore business resources: https://www.bigdayofgiving.org/🎯 Why It MattersBig Day of Giving isn’t just a fundraising event—it’s a community activation moment. And businesses have a unique ability to amplify that impact by engaging employees, customers, and partners in meaningful ways.This episode reframes philanthropy not as an obligation, but as an opportunity—for culture building, leadership development, and visible community impact.Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this episode, I sit down with Elena DeLacey, Executive Director and Marshall Gorham, Land Protection Specialist, of the American River Conservancy to explore what it truly means to protect land—for today and for generations to come. What starts as a conversation about land conservation quickly becomes something much bigger: a look at the interconnected systems that sustain our communities, from forests and wildlife to water, infrastructure, and public access.We talk about the scale of their work—over 31,000 acres protected—and the responsibility that comes with it. Conservation isn’t just about acquiring land; it’s about stewardship in perpetuity. That means maintaining ecosystems, preventing catastrophic wildfire damage, restoring forests, and ensuring that the land continues to serve both people and nature.One of the most powerful parts of this conversation is understanding the ripple effect of environmental impact. A single wildfire doesn’t just burn trees—it affects watersheds, power systems, wildlife habitats, and entire communities downstream. The work American River Conservancy is doing is about getting ahead of those problems before they happen.We also dive into the complexity of collaboration—working with landowners, government agencies, and community partners to bring multi-million dollar projects to life—and the long-term vision required to protect land at scale. From preserving the Cosumnes River corridor to building public access trails that future generations will enjoy, this is legacy work in its truest form.This episode is a reminder that the natural spaces we enjoy don’t stay protected by accident—they stay protected because of organizations like this, doing the hard work of forever.Why It MattersLand conservation isn’t just about preserving open space—it’s about protecting the systems that sustain life and community. The work being done by American River Conservancy impacts water quality, wildfire prevention, biodiversity, recreation, and long-term regional resilience.If we don’t invest in this kind of stewardship now, the cost—environmentally, economically, and socially—will be far greater down the line. This episode highlights why proactive conservation is one of the most important investments a community can make.To learn more, visit their website: https://arconservancy.org/Chapters00:00 – Introduction to American River Conservancy and what a land conservancy does03:00 – Conservation vs. stewardship: the responsibility of “forever”05:30 – Forest management, wildfire prevention, and ecosystem resilience09:00 – The cascading impact of wildfire on water, infrastructure, and communities11:00 – Education, community connection, and building environmental stewardship14:00 – Where time and resources go: the realities of managing 31,000 acres17:00 – Collaboration across landowners, agencies, and nonprofits24:00 – The El Dorado Ranch project: a 7,000-acre conservation effort29:00 – Funding the mission: grants, partnerships, and community support36:00 – The long-term vision: trails, river access, and protected corridors43:00 – The greatest need: sustainable funding for stewardship48:00 – Finding balance: how conservation leaders recharge in natureThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this NewsPod, I sit down with Colby Bell of New York Life to talk about something Sacramento’s nonprofit community has long deserved—its own moment of recognition.What started as a simple gathering of nonprofit leaders has grown into the first annual Greater Sacramento Impact & Philanthropy (GSIP) Awards—an event designed to celebrate the organizations doing the real, boots-on-the-ground work across our region.Colby shares how this idea evolved from casual mixers into a fully realized awards program, backed by partners like New York Life and Sacramento Venture Philanthropy. Together, they’ve created an opportunity to not only recognize impact—but to invest in it.With 10 award categories, 30 finalists, and an incredible 7,000 community votes, this first-year event is already proving something powerful: Sacramento shows up for its nonprofits.Each category winner will receive $2,500 in unrestricted funding, supporting the critical work happening every day across areas like housing, education, food security, and community building.This isn’t just an event—it’s the beginning of something much bigger.📍 Event DetailsEvent: Greater Sacramento Impact & Philanthropy (GSIP) AwardsDate: April 9Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PMLocation: Arcade Underground, Old SacramentoAdmission: Free (Registration Required)🔗 Registration link: GSIP Registration link🎯 Why It MattersFor years, nonprofits have done extraordinary work—often without the spotlight. This event flips that.It recognizes impact in real time.It brings the community into the process.And it creates momentum for deeper investment in the sector.Most importantly, it sends a message:The work matters—and the people doing it deserve to be seen.🧭 Chapters00:00 – Introduction to the GSIP Awards01:00 – How a simple mixer became something bigger02:00 – Building support and securing funding03:00 – Award categories and community impact areas04:00 – Partner involvement and SVP’s role05:00 – Selecting the 30 finalists06:00 – 7,000 votes and community engagement07:00 – Funding breakdown and award structure08:00 – Event details and how to attend09:00 – Closing thoughts and community invitationThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...This is one of the more powerful conversations I’ve had on the podcast.I sit down with Malcolm Johnson and Colleen McCusker from Good Cause Sacramento—an organization built not from theory, but from lived experience. Malcolm’s journey from addiction and incarceration to building a process that helps others successfully reenter society is nothing short of remarkable.What stood out to me most is this: the system often gives people tools—but not a place to use them. And without that foundation, the cycle continues.Good Cause Sacramento is changing that. Through structure, accountability, and community, they’re helping men and women not just avoid going back—but actually build lives worth staying for.This is a conversation about second chances—but more importantly, what it actually takes to make them work and reduce recidivism to virtually nil. 💡 Why It MattersReal change starts with environment, not intention. Without stability, even the best tools don’t work.Lived experience builds better solutions. Malcolm didn’t study the problem—he lived it.Accountability creates dignity. This model expects participation, not dependence.Second chances need structure. Hope alone isn’t enough—process is what makes it stick.Community plays a role. Jobs, transportation, and opportunity are just as critical as funding.To learn more about Good Cause Sacramento please visit: https://goodcausesac.orgChapter Outline:0:00 — Cold Open: $200, a Bus Stop, and No Way Forward 2:05 — Introduction: Why This Story Matters 3:50 — Malcolm’s Backstory and Breaking Point 6:30 — Prison Realization: Why the Cycle Repeats 9:00 — Release Day Reality: No Support, No Direction 12:00 — The Turning Point: Faith, Story, and Momentum 16:10 — Building Good Cause: From Notes to a Process 20:00 — Why Housing and Structure Come First 25:30 — What Drives an 80% Success Rate 37:30 — Expanding the Model: Women’s House and Growth 43:00 — Success, Vision, and How to HelpThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this NewsPod, I sit down with Anh Phoong—yes, that Anh Phoong—but this time, it’s not about the courtroom or billboards. It’s about something far more personal and urgent.Anh joins me as a Woman of Impact for the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign, a nationwide effort focused on raising awareness and funds to fight the number one killer of women: heart disease.What makes this conversation powerful is the why behind her involvement. After her mother suffered a sudden heart attack in 2022, Anh saw firsthand how quickly life can change—and how critical awareness, prevention, and action really are.We talk about:Why heart disease remains the leading cause of death for womenThe reality that 80% of cases are preventableThe importance of advocating for your own healthAnd how a little friendly competition is helping raise serious dollars for lifesaving researchAnh shares how her team is getting creative—from community events to partnerships and grassroots fundraising—to make an impact during this nine-week campaign.But more than anything, this episode is a reminder:👉 Take your health seriously👉 Don’t ignore the signs👉 And don’t wait to actIf something feels wrong—say something, do something, and follow through.You can support Anh’s campaign and the American Heart Association by visiting her fundraising page in the link below.Go Red For Women Link: HEREThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...In this episode, I sit down with Robert Heidt, President and CEO of the Sacramento Metro Chamber, to explore the role the Chamber plays in shaping the economic future of the Capital Region. Serving six counties and 22 cities, the Chamber works to convene business leaders, advocate for regional priorities, and create programs that help businesses and communities grow together. Robert shares how chambers have evolved from simple networking organizations into catalysts for economic development, regional collaboration, and leadership development. We talk about signature programs like Cap-to-Cap and Study Mission, the Chamber’s collaboration with organizations like Valley Vision and the Greater Sacramento Economic Council, and why storytelling and relationships remain at the core of building a strong regional economy.We also discuss the importance of supporting small businesses, engaging nonprofit organizations as economic partners, and why Sacramento’s ability to work together across jurisdictions is one of its greatest strengths.To learn more about the chamber visit: https://www.metrochamber.org/To give Robert a call: 916-552-6800Chapter Highlights1. What the Sacramento Metro Chamber Really Does An overview of the Chamber’s role in fostering a strong regional economy and advocating for businesses across six counties and 22 cities.2. Why Chambers of Commerce Still Matter How chambers have evolved from traditional networking groups into strategic conveners of economic leadership.3. The Power of Cap-to-Cap Why Sacramento sends the largest chamber delegation in the country to Washington, D.C., and how advocacy helps shape federal policy.4. Study Missions and Learning from Other Cities How exploring cities like Detroit helps Sacramento identify new opportunities for growth and revitalization.5. Collaboration Across the Region The Chamber’s partnerships with organizations like the Greater Sacramento Economic Council and Valley Vision to drive regional strategy.6. Supporting Small Business and Entrepreneurship Why the Chamber’s work ultimately supports the thousands of small and mid-size businesses that power the regional economy.7. The Speaker Series and Bringing Big Ideas to Sacramento How the Chamber is expanding the Sacramento Speaker Series to bring national thought leaders into the community.8. Leadership Development and the Next Generation Programs designed to nurture young professionals and develop the region’s future business and civic leaders.9. Running a Modern Chamber How the Chamber operates as a member-driven organization serving nearly 2,000 businesses across the region.10. Why Sacramento’s Collaborative Spirit Matters Robert shares why Sacramento’s willingness to work together may be its greatest competitive advantage.Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...Homelessness is often misunderstood. For many women and families, it begins with a single crisis—domestic violence, a medical emergency, or simply the inability to afford housing while raising children.In this episode, I speak with Lisa Culp, founder of Women’s Empowerment, and Robin Kelly-Dunton, a graduate of the program who now serves as chair of its board. Together they share the story of an organization that has spent the last 25 years helping women and children build a pathway out of poverty and homelessness.Robin’s story sits at the heart of our conversation. She arrived at Women’s Empowerment after losing everything—caring for an incapacitated husband, raising a newborn, and struggling with homelessness. What she found when she walked through the doors was something she hadn’t felt in months: hope.Through the organization’s nine-week program, Robin gained job training, mentorship, and the confidence to rebuild her life. That opportunity eventually led to a full-time role in public service, and today she serves as chair of the board for the very organization that helped change her future.Lisa and Robin also talk about the realities facing women experiencing homelessness—especially single mothers—and how Women’s Empowerment combines employment training, childcare, housing support, and mentorship to help families stabilize and move forward.It’s a powerful reminder that when people are given the tools, support, and belief that change is possible, transformation can happen.To learn more about Women's Empowerment, visit https://womens-empowerment.org/Chapters00:00 — Introduction to Women’s Empowerment01:10 — How the Organization Began04:20 — Understanding the Real Causes of Homelessness10:50 — Robin’s Journey to Women’s Empowerment17:00 — Inside the Nine-Week Program24:00 — Employment Partnerships and Career Pathways31:40 — Robin’s Internship and Career Breakthrough37:30 — Community Partnerships That Support the Mission43:30 — Graduates Supporting the Next Generation49:40 — Funding the Work and Sustaining Impact56:10 — The Vision for the Future01:00:30 — How to Support Women’s Empowerment01:02:30 — Closing ReflectionsThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...What happens when a community decides the arts aren’t a luxury — they’re essential?In this episode, I sit down with Allison Cagley, Executive Director and the driving force behind Friends of Sacramento Arts, an organization leading the charge to restore arts and music education in public schools across our region.We talk about what was lost after Prop 13, what’s possible through Prop 28, and why this moment is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Sacramento’s students.This conversation goes far beyond paintbrushes and pianos.We explore:Why arts education impacts graduation rates, attendance, and student engagementHow creativity fuels workforce readiness and economic developmentThe long game of advocacy — and why patience and persistence matterThe real challenges of implementing Prop 28 fundingWhat it looks like when students finally have access to choir, band, theater, and visual artsAllison shares how this small but mighty nonprofit has navigated pandemic pivots, state-level partnerships, and school district bureaucracy to keep one bold vision alive:Arts every day. For Every child. In Every school.We also talk about the deeper human impact — the moment when a child beams on stage, when parents from 15 different cultures gather in a school cafeteria to watch their kids shine, and when students say, “The only reason I come to school is my drama class.”That’s not enrichment.That’s belonging.If you care about Sacramento’s future — its culture, workforce, and community vibrancy — this episode matters.About Friends of Sacramento ArtsFriends of Sacramento Arts advocates for equitable, comprehensive arts and music education in public schools. Through policy engagement, statewide partnerships, and community leadership, they are working to ensure every student has access to meaningful arts learning opportunities.🔗 Learn more: https://friendsofsacramentoarts.org🎉 Arts Education Month Celebration: Every MarchThank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...Impact 100 Greater Sacramento is now accepting nonprofit grant applications —and this is not just another funding opportunity.In this Newspod, I sit down with Sarina Paulsen, President of Impact 100 Greater Sacramento, to talk about how their collective giving model turns 100 women donating $1,000 into transformational $100,000 grants. Last year alone, more than $450,000 was awarded across Sacramento, Placer, Yolo, and El Dorado counties.We break down eligibility, deadlines, categories, and why even applying brings visibility and connection beyond the grant itself.Applications close March 21, 2026.If your nonprofit has a bold, high-impact project ready to scale, this is your moment.To learn more, visit https://impact100greatersacramento.org/Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...American River Parkway Foundation – Protecting 23 Miles of Sacramento’s BackyardI’m on the American River Parkway multiple times a week. Cycling. Running. Watching the fog rise off the river. And like many of you, I’ve probably taken it for granted.But what if I told you only about 10% of Sacramento County residents recognize the Parkway as a connected 23-mile resource?In this episode, I sit down with Diana Poggetto, Executive Director of the American River Parkway Foundation, to talk about what it really takes to protect 4,800 acres of open space that sit just minutes from our homes.We cover:The 15,000+ volunteer hours that keep the Parkway clean and accessibleWhat happens when 88,000 cubic feet per second of water roars through the riverWhy the Parkway is first and foremost a flood conveyance zoneHow Title I students are experiencing the river for the first timeThe Afghan families, cyclists, runners, artists, and seniors who all share this spaceTwo major community events: Summer Solstice and the American River Burger BattleWhy growing awareness beyond that 10% is critical for the Parkway’s futureWhat struck me most is Diana’s phrase:The Parkway isn’t just a “sense of place.” It’s a sense of space.It’s free.It’s accessible.And it unites Sacramento across cities, cultures, and generations.If you care about open space, equity in access to nature, volunteerism, or simply protecting what makes Sacramento special — this conversation is for you.🔗 Learn More & Get InvolvedVisit: https://arpf.orgChapter Time Stamps00:00 – Why the Parkway matters personally02:30 – 23 miles, 4,800 acres, and what most people don’t know04:00 – Trash removal, invasive plants, and volunteer power06:00 – Youth exposure & Title I students discovering nature10:30 – Large-scale community cleanups (800–2,000 volunteers)12:30 – How the organization is funded14:00 – Summer Solstice & Burger Battle fundraisers15:45 – The “blank check” vision for the Parkway18:30 – The greatest need: community advocacy22:00 – Flood seasons & 88,000 CFS26:00 – Managing nature and finding balance29:00 – Marketing the Parkway & video campaign33:00 – Engaging the next generationIf you haven’t been out on the Parkway recently — go.You can enter almost anywhere. And it belongs to all of us.Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing.