I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...

Discover the incredible journey of Wendi and Rick Cross as Wendi takes us from the heart of Africa to the vibrant communities of Sacramento. Wendy's story began with the adoption of a young boy from Ethiopia, sparking a mission that transcends borders to support vulnerable children. Learn how an eye-opening family trip to Africa inspired the creation of a children's home in Uganda, where local staff strive to empower families and reintegrate children into their biological homes. Wendi shares insights on how education plays a crucial role in breaking the cycle of poverty and emphasizes the importance of keeping families together.

In Sacramento, Wendi's passion for helping children continued to grow, leading to a significant impact on local youth facing challenges. Starting with distributing essentials like diaper bags and school supplies, Wendi's organization has expanded to address the needs of those experiencing homelessness and domestic violence. The power of collaboration shines through as the organization partners with churches, businesses, and nonprofits, while individual contributions and events like the "Evening of Hope" fuel their mission. A small facility in Elk Grove serves as a testament to the community's commitment to making a difference.

Hear heartwarming stories of transformation as Wendi's team empowers vulnerable youth through meaningful relationships and opportunities. From providing clothing and school supplies to sponsoring extracurricular activities, the organization helps children build skills and connections that can change their lives. With a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, Wendy's organization nurtures a new generation of community leaders, creating a cycle of growth and support that inspires us all. Join us in celebrating the collective action that drives this life-changing mission forward.

To learn more about XHope Missions visit the website HERE
Instagram: @xhopelocal/@xhopeinternational
Facebook: @XHOPElocal/@XHOPEinternational
Linked In: XHOPE

CHAPTER SUMMARIES

(00:00) From Africa to Sacramento
Wendi Cross shares the journey of establishing a children's home in Uganda and supporting local families in Sacramento.

(10:46) Supporting Vulnerable Youth in Sacramento
International program supports foster care placements through community collaboration, funding from donations and events, and a facility in Elk Grove.

(17:43) Empowering Vulnerable Youth Through Relationships
Local organization provides clothing, supplies, and support for children in need, fostering growth and community involvement.

(29:35) Building a Community to Support Youth
Small team, volunteers, and community involvement drive success for organization empowering vulnerable children.

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...

Evelyn Jensen, CEO of Impact 100 and Sarina Paulsen, President of the organization give us some key dates as we head into the new year.
A recently launched opportunity for a member scholarship is now available with the application period open from Dec1, 2024 thru January 5, 2025. The other key dates are application for your nonprofit organization to compete in the 2025 awards and they are January 13th, 2025 through March 22nd, 2025. This is one you don't want to procrastinate on as the awards will be at least $100,000 for two organizations. $275,000 was awarded in 2024. Be sure to get this on your calendar. Also, there will be a grant writing course that you can register for as well. If you're interested in any of these programs, don't miss out. Get your application in today by visiting:

IMPACT100

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...

Trailblazer, performing artist, Executive Driector and Co-Founder of G.I.R.L.S. Rock Sacramento, Larisa Bryski joins me to share her inspiring journey behind founding G.I.R.L.S. Rock Sacramento, a dynamic initiative empowering young girls, women and those struggling to be their authentic selves. Through gender inclusion with radical love and support (GIRLS), the organization uses music, performance and other creative outlets to create community for each of the members during the various summer "camps". Larisa shares her inspiration from a Linda Ronstadt concert and the social climate of 2015 that motivated her to create a safe, supportive space for young women in a male-dominated field. Her journey from conceptualizing the camp to its successful launch in 2016 is a testament to her dedication to breaking down barriers and nurturing young talent.

The episode unfolds the vibrant world of music camps that Larisa has crafted, where creativity and community blend seamlessly. Imagine a space where kids are encouraged to express their authentic selves without the pressure of competition, but with collaboration and teamwork. The camps, supported by a passionate team of volunteers and professionals, offer a diverse range of activities beyond music—think yoga, self-defense, and even screen printing! This holistic approach not only enriches their musical education but also addresses essentials like communication and understanding of like minded individuals. This underscores the transformative power of community and the arts in empowering young individuals.

As we close, Larisa shares her ambitious vision for expanding G.I.R.L.S. Rock Sacramento. From hiring staff and fairly compensating artists, to establishing a central facility and introducing a DJ component, the aspirations are as bold as they are exciting. As always, securing funding is what allows the program to continue and that remains the primary and continuous goal. Larisa's commitment to gender inclusivity and radical love remains central, fostering individuality and activism among teens. Her revolutionary work exists to change lives and build a more inclusive artistic community.

For more information about G.I.R.L.S. Rock Sacramento and to learn about summer camp schedules, simply click on the link to their website HERE.
To follow on Instagram: @girlsrocksacramento
Facebook: girlsrocksacramento
To hear the music of one of the camps that was recorded and produced, you can find it on Spotify by searching "GIRLS Rock Sacramento" of click on this link and enjoy!
The opening and closing music for this episode is original music created from one of the summer camps.

CHAPTER SUMMARIES:
(00:00) G.I.R.L.S. Rock Sacramento Program Overview
G.I.R.L.S. Rock Sacramento was founded by Larisa Bryski, inspired by female rock artists and the need for a supportive space in the music industry.

(13:38) Music Camps Fostering Creativity and Community
Music camps offer a nurturing environment for kids to explore their creativity, supported by a d

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.