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Genelle Smith, Executive Director of Wellspring Women's Center joins me to share the inspiring journey of an organization that started with a simple act of kindness and blossomed into a vital community sanctuary. Founded over 38 years ago by two sisters with a passion for service, Wellspring began in the 1980s with just donuts and coffee. Today, it stands as as an icon of love for mothers, children, and seniors in Sacramento. Genelle sheds light on how this community haven operates from a historic firehouse, serving over 200 people daily with unwavering hospitality, dignity, and love.

Discover how Wellspring Women's Center builds community through proactive care and support. We explore their unique approach in providing an environment of ongoing support, emphasizing preventive care rather than crisis intervention. The center's dedicated team and army of volunteers ensure that every visitor finds a sense of belonging, as they focus on nurturing emotional connections and creating a safe refuge. The compassionate spirit of Sacramento shines through, as the community rallies together to support the center's mission, often through word-of-mouth referrals and generous contributions.

We also talk about Wellspring's strategic stewardship, which prioritizes financial and in-kind donations while avoiding large government grants. Operating efficiently on a budget of about $550,000, Wellspring focuses on fostering health equity through nutrition education, promoting better eating habits among women and children. Genelle shares insights on the importance of preventing burnout in social service work and envisions expanding the center's healing work to address community trauma. Join me in celebrating the unwavering dedication of those who make a difference every day, and be inspired by their commitment to creating a healthier, more supportive community for all.

You can find more information on their website HERE

or follow them on FB or Instagram at this address. @Wellspringwomenscenter

CHAPTERS

(00:00) Exploring Wellspring Women's Center Programs
(10:14) Building Community Through Preventative Care
(24:14) Embracing Efficient Stewardship and Healing
(34:32) Nutrition Education Impact in Community

Thank you so much for listening! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates. 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. 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 you found yourself on the brink of losing everything, only to rise stronger than ever before? Join me in conversation with Scott Richards, CEO of Saint John's Program for Real Change and Monica, a resilient alum of the organization, who shares her remarkable journey from homelessness to a fulfilling career at UC Davis Medical Center. In a candid conversation, Monica she reveals how the program helped her break the cycle of addiction, rebuild her life, and achieve stability. Through her story, we explore the holistic approach of the program that offers not just shelter, but an array of in-house resources like therapy, education, and vocational training designed to empower women and children to rewrite their narratives.

As we continue the discussion, we uncover the power of structured programs and community support. Monica's journey highlights the shifting landscape of accessibility in the program, moving from a once intimidating entry process to a more welcoming embrace for those in need. We discuss the critical role of nonprofit collaboration in amplifying impact, particularly through partnerships that create pipelines for employment opportunities. With insights into systemic challenges and innovative solutions, our dialogue sheds light on the ongoing battle against homelessness and the quest for sustainable, affordable housing.

We conclude with Monica's inspiring transition from culinary training to a successful career, underscoring the importance of community engagement and personal growth. Her story is a testament to the program's impact. This episode not only celebrates Monica's achievements but also demonstrates the full wraparound service that yields incredible results for those mothers and children and familes in need. It also calls attention to the broader societal issues and the relentless pursuit of solutions to build a brighter future with engagement from a variety of community partnerships.

To learn more about Saint John's Program for Real Change, visit their website HERE

You can call at any hour... 916-453-1482

Chapter Time Stamps

(00:00) St. John's Program
(11:55) Finding Hope at St. John's
(14:56) Rebuilding and Thriving at St. John's
(25:49) Nonprofit Collaboration and Funding Discussion
(34:01) Creating Sustainable Solutions for Homelessness
(40:39) Navigating Affordable Housing Challenges and Solutions
(50:07) Community Engagement at St. John's
(54:44) St. John's Program Evolution and Impact

Thank you so much for listening! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates. 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. 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...

Could the spirit of giving truly transform a community? Join me as I discuss the record-breaking success of the Big Day of Giving, a dazzling testament to the generosity of the Sacramento region. With Kerry Wood, Executive Director of the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, we explore how the event beat expectations by raising an incredible $13.8 million. Listen to insights on how 30,500 donors made 62,000 heartfelt contributions to 855 nonprofit organizations, all while defying economic uncertainties. Discover how funds are making a significant impact on food insecurity, public media, homelessness, and even the arts, showcasing the diverse causes that pull at the heartstrings of our community.

Behind the scenes, the unwavering dedication of Kerry and her team shines through, as they orchestrated this 13th annual event with passion and perseverance. From a spirited late-night kickoff to the final tally, their commitment to uplifting local nonprofits is nothing short of inspiring. Reflecting on the challenges these organizations face with funding cuts and economic changes, we celebrate the community's enthusiasm and collective effort. This episode is a tribute to the community spirit that fuels the Big Day of Giving and a reminder of the crucial role nonprofits play in enhancing our community's well-being.

To learn more about this year's BDOG, visit the website HERE

As promised in the episode, you can find "The Bark" newsletter HERE

Thank you so much for listening! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates. 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. 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...

Maria Medrano joins me this episode to share her inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a trailblazer in educational technology. Her dedication to breaking the cycles of generational poverty led to the creation of Inspirame, a tech company that empowers students transitioning from community college to a four-year institution. Maria's personal story and her parents' unwavering support highlight the power of education as she shows how Inspirame provides students with the tools they need to succeed academically and professionally.

With community college students often struggling to navigate their educational paths due to overwhelming student-to-counselor ratios, EdTechquity offers clarity. This innovative tech platform not only provides a roadmap for college transfers but also shares personal success stories, reducing barriers for first-generation students. By shining a light on the critical role of community colleges and lifelong learning, Maria emphasizes the need for adaptable educational content that caters to diverse student needs.

Our conversation also takes a critical look at EdTechuity's mission to blend education, technology, and equity. From introducing micro-scholarships for students facing financial hurdles to fostering collaborations with nonprofits, EdTechuity is on a mission to make education accessible for all. We champion the significant yet often overlooked contributions of vocational education and community colleges, advocating for increased support and recognition. Our dialogue underscores the importance of partnerships, innovative funding, and the power of education in shaping a brighter future for students and society at large.

To learn more, you can visit the EdTechquity website HERE.

Thank you so much for listening! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates. 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. 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...

Ready to transform your understanding of nonprofit sustainability? Join me in conversation with Niva Flor, Chief Impact Officer at the Sacramento Region Community Foundation. Together, we unravel the complexities of what sustainability truly means for nonprofits—beyond just surviving, it's about thriving. Discover how the Foundation's Big Day of Giving is a game-changer, emphasizing the power of unrestricted gifts and trust-based philanthropy. We dive into strategic innovation, collaboration, and the pivotal role of strong governance and leadership in navigating an ever-changing landscape. From financial resilience to operational flexibility, we cover it all.

We also explore the Sacramento Region Community Foundation's Impact Fund's mission to promote health equity through collective efforts. It's not just about financial backing; the Impact Fund is also a hub for training and community engagement, addressing vital regional issues like education access and food insecurity. Just a reminder as well that Big Day of Giving is May 1st. You can get set and prepared by visiting the site links below.

To contribute visit BIGDAYOFGIVING.

To learn more about the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, visit the website HERE.

Hear Barry Keller's story of support for the Impact Fund HERE.

Thank you so much for listening! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates. 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. 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...

Michael Lynch, the visionary co-founder and CEO of Improve Your Tomorrow (IYT), brings his compelling insights on bridging education and health equity for young men of color. We explore how IYT provides robust support from seventh grade through college to close the college opportunity gap. Michael shares inspiring stories like that of Oscar, a former student turned board member, showcasing IYT's transformational impact on breaking cycles of poverty and unhealthy habits. This narrative underscores the critical importance of fostering a sense of belonging and motivation, which are essential for educational success and health awareness.

The episode also shines a light on the pivotal role played by the Sacramento Region Community Foundation's Impact Fund, supported generously by the Keller Family Pathway Fund. We discuss how such strategic philanthropy enables impactful contributions toward health equity initiatives. With the foundation's guidance, individuals and businesses can navigate charitable giving to effectively address pressing community needs. These efforts not only help create more connected communities but also ensure environments where individuals can thrive both academically and personally.

To contribute visit BIGDAYOFGIVING.

To learn more about the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, visit the website HERE.

Hear Barry Keller's story of support for the Impact Fund HERE.

Learn more about Improve Your Tomorrow HERE.

Thank you so much for listening! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates. 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. 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 everyone had the chance to unlock their musical potential, regardless of their background or financial situation? Meet Buddy Hale, the visionary behind Musiclandria, who turned his challenging foster system childhood into a driving force for change. Buddy's personal experience with music as a lifeline inspired him to create Musiclandria, a groundbreaking nonprofit that's now the largest free music instrument lending library in the U.S. Listen as we explore how Buddy's initiative is breaking down barriers and fostering a welcoming community for all aspiring musicians.

Discover the power of community and collaboration as Buddy shares his journey, from starting a humble instrument lending program to building a vibrant musicians makerspace. Musiclandria is not just a library; it's a lifeline for musicians facing noise restrictions at home and funding challenges. A recent $100,000 grant from Impact 100 marks a significant milestone, allowing Musiclandria to continue its mission of providing free access to musical resources while balancing the realities of sustaining a nonprofit.

Looking to the future, Buddy dreams big with ambitions to expand Musiclandria into cities nationwide, transforming vacant spaces into thriving music hubs. These all-ages venues will offer instrument access, makerspaces, and professional development, creating a support pipeline for musicians from their first note through to touring and industry networking. My admiration for Buddy’s tireless dedication and optimism for a future filled with harmony, creativity, and shared musical growth is a wonderful conclusion to the story.

To learn more about Musiclandria, visit the website HERE.

Chapter Summaries:

(00:00) Musiclandria's Innovative Music Support Programs
Nature's transformative power of accessible music education for low-income families and at-risk youth through Musiclandria's lending library and community makerspace.

(13:39) Dreaming Big for Music Community
Word of mouth builds a vibrant musical community space, breaking down barriers and balancing funding challenges for accessibility.

(21:02) Building a Musical Community Pipeline
Musiclandria envisions safe, all-ages venues in every city with instrument programs, makerspaces, and professional development opportunities for musicians.

(31:30) Empowering Music Community Through Support
Nature's impact on at-risk communities is highlighted through a unique program, with hopes for collaboration and a stable space.

Thank you so much for listening! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates. 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. 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...

Sal Ramirez, Executive Director of Yolo Farm to Fork, joins me on this newspod as he shares his dedication to promoting health equity in child development. Listen as Sal unpacks the vital work being done to ensure that every child, regardless of their socioeconomic background, has access to fresh, healthy food. He passionately discusses the challenges faced by children in lower-income communities, where food insecurity can severely impact academic success and long-term well-being. Sal brings to light the irony of agricultural-rich Yolo County struggling with food insecurity and emphasizes the importance of supporting local farmers to build a sustainable, health-focused food system.

We also explore the essential role of flexible funding for nonprofits striving for health equity. Sal highlights how unrestricted contributions, particularly from events like the Big Day of Giving, empower organizations to tackle challenges more efficiently and sustainably. The episode underscores the value of community-driven support, featuring initiatives like the Sacramento Region Community Foundation's Impact Fund and the Keller Family Pathway Fund, which are making a significant difference. Through this conversation, learn how education about nutrition and food origins can shape future generations and why such community-focused solutions are key to advancing health equity.

To contribute to BDOG visit BIGDAYOFGIVING.

To learn more about the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, visit the website HERE.

Hear Barry Keller's story of support for the Impact Fund HERE.

Learn more about Yolo Farm To Fork HERE.

Thank you so much for listening! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates. 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. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing.