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Unlock the secrets to breaking the cycle of poverty through education, work and community with Father Christopher Calderon, President of Cristo Rey High School as he shares the transformative journey of students as they progress through their years on campus. With heartwarming success stories like Ximena's—a trailblazer as the first in her family to attend college—this episode sheds light on the powerful role education plays in changing lives. Join us as we explore how the national network of Cristo Rey schools provides quality education for students who often start two to three grades behind, overcoming financial barriers with impressive retention and college acceptance rates.

Hear firsthand how Cristo Rey High School creates opportunities beyond local boundaries, reassuring parents that their children will thrive whether staying in Sacramento or venturing nationwide. Alumni share their stories, proving the value of these experiences and the success that follows. We also celebrate the growing trust and demand for the school, evident in its record freshman class size and waiting list, all while embracing students of all faiths in a welcoming community.

Discover the unique work-study program that forms the backbone of student success and school sustainability. Father Chris discusses how partnerships with local businesses not only finance education but also provide students with crucial professional experience well beyond their peers at other schools. We explore the challenges of maintaining sufficient placements and the deep connections forged between students and their work-study partners. This is more than education—it's an invitation to join a thriving community dedicated to breaking poverty's chains and fulfilling dreams, all while changing the family dynamic and socio-economic position in the community.

For more information about the school and to learn about enrollment visit Cristo Rey High School, Sacramento

(00:00) Breaking the Poverty Cycle Through Education
Cristo Rey High School transforms lives of low-income students through college prep education, with high retention and college acceptance rates.

(11:21) Expanding Opportunities Through Education
Alumni share experiences to reassure parents about sending students to prestigious schools, while promoting access and inclusivity at Sacramento State.

(17:34) Empowering Students Through Work-Study
The Catholic school supports non-Catholic students through a unique work-study program, providing practical skills and fostering inclusivity.

(25:13) Investing in Student Success and Community
Cristo Rey schools provide transformative experiences for students through work-study opportunities and community partnerships, despite financial challenges.

(34:41) Fulfilling Dreams Through Work-Study
Work-study programs at Cristo Rey Sacramento High School support financial needs, enhance students' experiences, and form valuable relationships.

(42:22) Celebrating Success at Cristo Rey
Cristo Rey School in Sacramento's success story is a testament to community support and breaking the cycl

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...

The loss of her grandson, Joshua, to addiction and homelessness profoundly changed Marlene Fitzwater's perspective on caring for marginalized communities. This personal tragedy motivated her to establish Joshua's House, a hospice facility dedicated to offering dignity and support to terminally ill homeless individuals. In this episode, listeners are invited to join a heartfelt discussion with Marlene, the visionary founder of the Health Communications Research Institute. Together, they explore her journey from healthcare communications to building a sanctuary of care for those often forgotten.

The episode digs into the complex transition from theory to practice in establishing Joshua's House in Sacramento. Marlene candidly shares the challenges faced, from navigating California's construction permits to managing project finances. With invaluable support from allies like city councilman Jeff Harris and insights from Salt Lake City's similar initiatives, this endeavor is transforming North C Street. As the project completes, the urgency to address the stark realities of homelessness in Sacramento becomes ever more poignant.

Marlene’s dedication, along with extensive community collaboration, has made Joshua's House a reality. The final stages involve laying cement and setting foundations, but the groundwork for a compassionate future has already been established. With over a million dollars in funding secured, including a generous grant from Anthem Blue Cross, this ambitious project promises to provide a dignified end-of-life experience for its residents.

To learn more about Joshua's House you can visit the website HERE.

(00:00) Improving Communication & Providing Dignity

Marlene Fitzwater's Health Communications Research Institute addresses healthcare disparities among marginalized populations, including hospice care for homeless individuals at Joshua's House.

(09:14) Building Joshua's House in Sacramento

Joshua's House, a hospice for the terminally ill homeless, was created in Sacramento after founder's personal loss and challenges with permits and funding.

(21:31) Launching Joshua's House

Collaborative effort to provide housing for terminally ill homeless individuals, with criteria for residency, pet care, and partnerships with healthcare, law enforcement, churches, and community groups.

(30:30) Building Joshua's House

Joshua's House, a hospice for the homeless, was established through community support and needs financial aid, volunteers, and supplies.

(38:29) Securing Funding for Joshua's House

Joshua's House receives over $1 million in funding, ensuring completion and opening by year's end for end-of-life care.

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...

Imagine standing on a sprawling ranch in Grass Valley, where the chaos of urban life fades away and students in need find a sanctuary of hope. Nate Boyd, Executive Director and Zach Malek, Outreach Pastor join me to share their experiences at Christian Encounter Ranch, a place of refuge and transformation for young individuals facing severe challenges like domestic violence and substance use disorders. Nate takes us through his inspiring journey from intern to executive director, shedding light on the ongoing struggles these teens endure and how the serene environment of the ranch offers them a chance to heal and rediscover hope.

Our conversation continues as we explore the unique educational approach at Christian Encounter Ranch’s faith-based high school. With a remarkable student-to-teacher ratio of one to five, the program provides personalized learning that helps students unlock their potential and explore their beliefs in a nurturing community. We discuss the various paths to graduation and the supportive dormitory setting that fosters growth and independence for students adjusting to life away from home. This holistic approach not only facilitates academic success but also prepares students for independent living and future opportunities.

We then shift to fundraising and highlight the annual Agony Ride, a 24-hour cycling event that unites the community in support of at-risk youth. This powerful event showcases heartwarming stories of perseverance and illustrates the collective effort of cyclists, volunteers, and local organizations to show these young individuals they are truly valued. Through therapeutic programs and faith-based initiatives, Christian Encounter Ranch empowers youth to overcome their past and build brighter futures, creating ripples of healing that extend to families and communities. Both Nate and Zach exemplify the passion and dedication that drives this transformative mission.

To learn more about Christian Encounter Ranch, you can visit the website HERE
Or you can call or text 530-268-0877

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.