In this episode of Community Connections, Jennifer Quiñonez from Kings Partnership for Prevention sits down with Lori Willson, Executive Director of the Central Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross. They discuss the growing impact of extreme heat in Kings County, how families can recognize heat related illnesses, and what steps communities can take to stay prepared. Lori also shares how the Red Cross supports our region during disasters and how local residents can get involved through volunteering and preparedness resources.

In this episode of the Community Connection Podcast, Iranda Ramirez and Carolina Soto from Kings Partnerships discuss the Extreme Heat and Community Resilience Initiative — a community-driven effort focused on preparing Kings County for rising temperatures and protecting our most vulnerable residents.
From power outages and outdoor work conditions to caring for seniors and children during heat waves, extreme heat affects us all — but not equally. That’s why your voice matters.
Learn how this initiative brings together local organizations, residents, community leaders, and government partners to strengthen emergency response, expand cooling strategies, and build long-term resilience. Most importantly, find out how you can get involved by taking a quick community survey that will help shape real solutions.

Below is the link to our community survey.

Extreme Heat Community Survey

In this episode, we’re joined by Neal Sundberg, the Director of Coaching at BrightLife Kids to explore how free and virtual behavioral health coaching is supporting children ages 0–12 and their caregivers. We discuss the most common challenges parents are facing today. From big emotions and behavior struggles to anxiety and how early support can positively change a child’s long-term outcomes.

You’ll learn how coaching differs from traditional therapy, why it’s especially effective for younger children, and how BrightLife Kids is breaking down barriers like cost, language, and stigma to make care more accessible for families.

Plus, we share one practical strategy parents can start using today to strengthen their child’s emotional well-being—and one powerful truth every caregiver should know about kids’ mental health.

Learn more about BrightLife Kids through their website https://brightlife.kids/ca

Community Connection presents the episode “Heart of Childcare,” hosted by Gaby from Kings Partnership and featuring Veronica Puga, owner of Building Blocks to Learning Childcare. In this episode, Veronica shares her passion for early childhood education, the heart behind her childcare center, and how quality care supports children’s academic, social, and emotional development while strengthening families.

This episode is proudly sponsored by CASA of Kings County, highlighting the power of community partnerships in supporting children and families.

Kings Partnership's Executive Director Gaby hosts the Community Connection Podcast and welcomes Hillary Perez-Godfrey, Director of Business Development & Client Engagement at My Diabetes Tutor. Hillary shares her story, her work, and practical guidance for navigating diabetes.

Sponsored by Episcopal Church of the Saviour.

Join Aliyah Ortiz, Program Coordinator, and Iranda Ramirez, NEW Community Specialist, as they dive into what the Kings Partnership Substance Use Prevention Program is all about.

A community united against substance misuse, the KPFP Substance Use Prevention Program brings you inspiring conversations about resilience, education, and empowerment. Tune in to learn how local initiatives and everyday actions are shaping a safer, healthier tomorrow.

We’d like to thank our partner, Lily of the Valley Church, for sponsoring this episode.