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I went into this thinking I knew the American Red Cross—fires and floods, they're there. Disasters? Yep. All over it. What I didn't know is what you're going to hear in this episode and that is what happens the rest of the time. This legacy organization has its mark on our communities in ways I never thought. Jacquelyn Clites, who leads the 26-county Gold Country region, opened my eyes to how local and round-the-clock their work is: most days it’s not headline disasters, it’s home fires—meeting immediate needs with shelter, food, medicines, and even disaster mental-health and spiritual care. Beyond that, they supply a huge share of the nation’s blood and train our neighbors in CPR and lifeguarding, while quietly supporting military families through emergency communications and reuniting loved ones separated by crisis.

Here at home, a small team and a lot of volunteers power it all—often alongside partners like Sac Metro Fire and SMUD. The simplest way to help: give blood, volunteer your time, or donate funds. You can learn more from their website HERE.

For more information:

www.facebook.com/ARCGoldCountry

https://www.linkedin.com/company/arcgoldcountry

Phone: 916-993-7070_

CHAPTER SUMMARIES

(00:00) The Red Cross
The American Red Cross provides global disaster relief, including mental health and spiritual support, with a focus on the California Gold Country region.

(13:31) Community Collaboration and Partnerships
Community partnerships, media collaborations, and innovative programs enhance resilience and safety in disaster preparedness.

(19:07) Funding and Budgeting for Disaster Relief
Our humanitarian efforts are supported by donors, not government funding. Monetary donations are preferred over material goods. Our team and volunteers are crucial, as well as partnerships with other organizations.

(30:06) Community Engagement for Disaster Relief
Community involvement, volunteering, financial contributions, and strong leadership inspire meaningful contributions to the Red Cross mission.

(36:17) Humanity, Harmony, and Hope
The Red Cross empowers local communities with 90% volunteers and 90 cents per dollar towards mission, while emphasizing self-care and personal dedication.

(44:06) American Red Cross Impact
American Red Cross's critical role in responding to emergencies, collaboration with organizations, and impact on community resilience.

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...

Growing up in a single-parent household, Michael Lynch found his way to higher education through football. A tragic loss to gun violence transformed his perspective, driving him to uplift his community. Set against the backdrop of financial struggles, Alejandro Galicia Cervantes' journey from street vending to academic passion began with an encounter with Michael and the IYT program, sparking a love for education. Their stories remind us of the power of mentorship and opportunity in shaping lives. Together, they illustrate how adversity can be a powerful catalyst for change.

Education is more than just a path to personal success; it's a vital tool for uplifting entire communities. By fostering a college-to-community pipeline, "Improve Your Tomorrow" is reshaping futures for young men of color. With powerful stories like Moses' dream of becoming an Army officer and Rogel's mentorship journey, we showcase how support systems can break generational cycles and open doors to new possibilities. This episode underlines the importance of parental involvement and community engagement in educational success, highlighting initiatives that create culturally affirming environments for families.

Despite funding challenges, organizations like IYT remain steadfast in their mission to support young men of color. With impressive graduation rates and college attendance figures, they continue to harness the power of education, mentorship, and internships to drive change. Alejandro's personal journey from high school struggles to graduating from UC Davis epitomizes the influence of a supportive community. "Improve Your Tomorrow" celebrates the relentless dedication of those working to break barriers and build brighter futures for the next generation.

To learn more about the organization visit the website HERE.

Chapter Timestamps

(00:00) Overcoming Adversity Through Education and Mentorship
(07:47) Building a College and Community Pipeline
(13:21) Guiding Youth Towards Success Through Mentorship
(20:41) Enhancing Parental Engagement in Education
(29:11) Empowering Youth Through Education and Opportunity
(35:48) Empowering Young People Through Mentorship
(44:59) Balancing Work, Family, and Leisure
(49:40) Supporting Improve Your Tomorrow Through Engagement

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...

Join me, Jeff Holden, as I speak with Peter Pemberton and Christina Kitchen as they discuss the vast range of services provided by the Salvation Army. Peter, recently promoted to Major and transferred to Sacramento, shares the organization's commitment to evolving and meeting modern needs while retaining its core religious and social mission. Christina, who has been with the organization for nearly 18 years, starting as a client, talks about the impactful programs in Sacramento, from emergency shelters to workforce development. The conversation highlights individual success stories, collaboration with local partners like SMUD, PG&E and the Sacramento Food Bank, and the importance of donor support. This episode is a deep dive into the tangible difference the Salvation Army is making in communities, offering hope and practical assistance to those in need as they work toward the elimination of substance abuse, homelessness and unemployment.

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Guests
00:24 Peter's Background and Transition
01:12 Overview of the Salvation Army
04:08 Core Programs and Services
05:38 Workforce Development and Emergency Shelter
07:09 Transitional Housing Programs
11:06 Faith-Based Approach and Community Collaboration
17:53 Funding the Mission: Streams and Challenges
18:46 Deferred Maintenance and Construction Training
19:40 Navigating Funding Restrictions
21:18 Dreaming Big: Vision for the Future
28:04 Success Stories: Transforming Lives
35:21 How to Get Involved and Support

To learn more about the services and support you can find at The Salvation Army, visit their website 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...

Join me as I converse with David Sobon, Founder and CEO of Wide Open Walls, a most unique nonprofit. We discuss the impactful mural movement that has transformed Sacramento into a vibrant city-wide canvas, celebrating diversity, creativity, equity, and civic pride. David shares insights about the genesis of Wide Open Walls, the involvement of local and international artists, and the role of public art in connecting communities. We also discuss the extensive work done in schools, curating local talent, and collaborations with other nonprofits. The episode highlights the challenges of fundraising and the future expansion plans for creating more public art in Sacramento and beyond.

To learn more about Wide Open Walls, you can visit the website by clicking HERE.

If you would like to build your personalized tour, start HERE.

00:00 Introduction and Local Pride
00:35 Welcome to the Nonprofit Podcast Network
01:25 The Impact of Public Art in Sacramento
02:25 Interview with David Ban: The Genesis of Wide Open Walls
03:31 David Ban's Artistic Journey
04:23 The Birth of Sacramento Mural Festival
06:02 Challenges and Successes of Wide Open Walls
10:31 The Logistics of Creating Murals
17:53 Honoring Legends Through Murals
20:37 How to Get Your Wall Painted
25:30 Curating Artists for Wide Open Walls
25:57 The Vision for Sacramento's Art Scene
26:29 Empowering Local Artists
28:22 School Murals: Art for All
32:23 Collaborations and Nonprofit Support
34:55 Funding Challenges and Corporate Support
41:32 Expanding the Footprint of Wide Open Walls
44:59 Personal Passions and Future Plans
49:02 Conclusion and Call to Action

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...

Can a personal tragedy ignite a movement to reshape our healthcare system? Doug Carson joins us to reveal the poignant story behind Albie Aware, a foundation born from the heartache of losing his wife, Albie, to breast cancer. Doug recounts the painful journey that led to the foundation's inception, fueled by the anger and determination to prevent others from facing overlooked diagnostic tests due to insurance constraints. This episode not only honors Albie’s enduring legacy but also underscores the power of awareness and advocacy in the battle against cancer.

Doug passionately discusses the vital role of patient advocacy, emphasizing the need for individuals to be proactive and challenge the norms of healthcare. We explore touching narratives, including a man who defied gender stereotypes to seek crucial medical tests. These stories highlight the universal emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis and the necessity for organizations like Albie Aware to provide emotional and procedural support. In an age where grassroots efforts often replace governmental aid, we dive into the community-driven funding that keeps these essential services alive.

With a modest annual budget and a small yet mighty team, Albie Aware creates hope for many. We celebrate the community impact, from breast health classes to expanding the foundation's reach beyond Sacramento. Join us as we champion awareness, striving to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those touched by breast cancer.

To learn more about Albie Aware visit the website HERE.

Episode Chapters

(00:00) Albie Aware
Doug Carson founded Albie Aware after his wife's misdiagnosis, expanding its mission to provide affordable testing and honor her legacy.

(14:16) Accessing Healthcare and Emotional Support
Proactive patient advocacy, seeking own information, emotional support, challenging gender stereotypes, grassroots funding for essential services.

(19:26) Expanding Albie Aware's Mission
Successful fundraising strategies include events, sponsorships, and donations, with a goal of nationwide expansion for the nonprofit organization.

(28:46) Cooking, Fantasy Football, and Albie Aware
Running Albie Aware involves personal dedication, sacrifices, and finding relaxation in cooking and fantasy football.

(33:20) Community Impact and Breast Health Initiatives
Breast health and cancer awareness initiatives support 25 people per day, offer classes in English and Spanish, and are grateful for Albie Aware's role.

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...

Discover the transformative power of collective giving as we share how Impact 100 is reshaping communities, one grant at a time. This NewsPod Sarina Paulson, President of Impact 100, shares the annual grant awards program and details. With each member contributing $1,000, and a staggering $452,000 ready to be distributed at the "Diamonds and Dreams" event on September 25th, you'll hear the process and the soon to be released information on the 5 finalists for the year. From 186 applicants to the selection of five nonprofit finalists, Sarina unveils how this innovative model is addressing the ever-growing needs of the community.

Impact 100 has become a formidable force for good. The comprehensive support provided to nonprofits, including grant writing workshops and presentation training, bolsters a nonprofit's ability to secure essential funding. Learn how innovative strategies employed to cover operational expenses separately, ensure that every penny of member contributions directly fuels transformative community projects. With nearly a million dollars already invested in local initiatives since its inception, Impact 100 is not just a grant-giving body—it's a catalyst for enduring change. This update is confirms the organizations success in such a short period of time and is meant to raise the awareness, and interest in continuing to grow grass roots philanthropy in Sacramento.

You can see the event finalists on the website once they're posted 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...

Can a tragic loss transform into a legacy of life? Join us for an emotional journey with Brad Barroso, Founder of Trevor's 2nd Chance, as he recounts the story of his son Trevor, whose selfless decision to become an organ donor saved three lives after he succumbed to an asthma attack in 2018. Through Brad's heartfelt narrative, we uncover the emotional hurdles his family faced and the significant role Sierra Donor Services played in turning grief into life-saving action.

Our conversation extends to the evolution of Trevor's Second Chance Foundation, a testament to the Barroso family's resolve to honor Trevor's legacy. The foundation's mission is to champion organ donation awareness and support. By engaging in speaking events and collaborating with healthcare professionals, the foundation strives to educate others about the life-changing impact of organ donation and provide much-needed support to families navigating this journey.

Explore the power of community as we discuss how partnerships are crucial in sustaining the foundation's efforts. Dive into innovative strategies aimed at building a nationwide support network for donor families, emphasizing the need for volunteers, funding, and resources. With Brad's family playing a vital role in this mission, we celebrate their contributions and reflect on the ripple effect organ donation has in transforming loss into hope and continuity of life.

You can find more about the organization on the website HERE

To learn about the organ donation process, visit Sierra Donor Services HERE

With thanks to the support from ASEA Global.

Chapter Summaries

(00:00) The Impact of Organ Donation
Organ donation's impact on three lives, family's emotional journey, Sierra Donor Services' role, and connections with recipients.

(09:07) The Journey of Organ Donation Advocacy
Organ donation journey, founding of Trevor's Second Chance Foundation, supporting young athletes, raising awareness through speaking engagements.

(15:36) Building Collaborative Relationships for Organ Donation
Collaborative efforts with hospitals and ASEA Global sustain our mission to support donor families.

(18:55) Providing Support Through Organ Donation
ASEA Global directs 10% of sales to fund organ donation, creating a support network for families and raising awareness for the importance of donation.

(31:11) Family Support in Organ Donation
Brad's family joins us to celebrate and support our nonprofit organization, while also commemorating Carol's birthday.

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...

Growing up in a household fraught with challenges, including a mother battling addiction, Paul Somerhausen's relationship with Christmas was anything but typical. Despite these hurdles, Paul turned his early life experiences into a mission of kindness, generating hope for those in need through his involvement with Christmas Promise. After moving to the United States and rekindling his passion for giving during the holiday season, he took the bold step of creating his own initiative, using his talents in event planning to support families and keep the spirit of anonymous giving alive.

Join us as we uncover the intricate and heartfelt process behind one of the most magical Christmas operations. Paul walks us through the logistics of the Christmas gift delivery program, where stories of families in need are shared anonymously for donors to embrace. Volunteer Santas, alongside their dedicated helpers, transform into real-life heroes on Christmas Eve, delivering gifts that bring unexpected joy and dignity to struggling families. The personal stories Paul shares highlight the profound impact of these gestures, not just on the recipients, but on the givers as well.

We also explore the ambitious dreams and challenges that come with expanding the Christmas Hope program. From establishing a self-funded endowment to juggling the complexities of donations, Paul paints a vivid picture of what it takes to run a successful charity operation. His story is intertwined with the inspiring dedication of volunteers, whose tireless efforts and generosity remind us of the true spirit of community. As we wrap up our conversation, we are left with a sense of warmth and gratitude, buoyed by the commitment of those who work quietly in the background to create a brighter holiday season for everyone.

To learn more about Christmas Hope, you can visit the website HERE. To enter the site, the password is "hope4all".

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.