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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.

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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.

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Join me for an emotional and inspiring conversation as I welcome Erica Pope, Executive Director and John Burke Camp Director from the Me-One Foundation to explore their remarkable mission of providing cancer patients and their families with a much-needed escape. We discuss how the foundation was born from the personal journey of Tom and Heidi Wieser, who, after experiencing the benefits of a similar camp in Southern California, wanted to bring that same opportunity to Northern California. Through the creation of Camp Wieser, the Me-One Foundation offers families battling cancer a weekend away from their daily struggles, fostering cherished memories and offering a temporary respite from their illness. The essence of the foundation is beautifully captured in its sports-inspired name, "Me- One," metaphorically speaking, "Keeping Life's Scoreboard at Cancer Zero Me-One," symbolizing the hope and strength they bring to participants.

John speaks about the transformative experiences at Camp Wieser. Through personal stories and testimonies, we uncover how attending camp has profoundly impacted families, offering a space where joy and normalcy can be found amidst the chaos of cancer. The camp hosts 35 families annually, with many former campers returning as volunteers, creating a supportive and enriching environment. We also explore the emotional and financial challenges faced by families and the crucial role that community and faith play in providing hope and purpose. Despite being a secular organization, the personal faith of those involved underscores their journey of turning adversity into a ray of hope for others.

Discover the powerful impact of community support as we discuss the collaborative efforts with local oncology centers and other cancer-focused organizations. Camp Wieser welcomes participants from across the United States, providing a unique opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences. A poignant testimonial from a recent camper highlights the deep sense of understanding and hope fostered during the camp experience. With the incredible support of volunteers and donors, Camp Wieser remains a vital resource for families, offering unforgettable moments and a chance to escape the burdens of cancer, even if just for a long weekend.

For more information about Me-One and Camp Wieser, click HERE
To apply for the 2025 Camp Wieser visit: Applications

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.

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Ever wondered how a career path can take unexpected yet rewarding turns? Join me for an inspiring conversation with Lauretta Casimir-Mahoney, the CEO and President of NeighborWorks. Lauretta takes us through her unique journey from aspiring to be a judge advocate general in the US Navy to becoming a powerhouse in real estate and mortgage finance. You'll hear firsthand how an aversion to student debt led her to buy her first home at a young age, sparking a lifelong passion for the housing market. Lauretta’s insights into her transition from corporate sales to a successful referral-based mortgage business underscore the vital role of trust and integrity in professional growth as well as nonprofit leadership.

Get an inside look at NeighborWorks' pioneering efforts to create sustainable mixed-use communities where people can truly live, work, and play. Lauretta discusses the innovative integration of retail spaces with rental and ownership housing options, aiming to foster seamless transitions from renting to homeownership. We'll explore the significant funding sources that make these projects possible, including federal and state grants and corporate donations. Lauretta candidly addresses the challenges that nonprofits face, particularly during election years, and emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining trust within the community.

As Sacramento evolves from a small town to a vibrant urban city, Lauretta shares heartwarming success stories from the local Housing Counseling Center. These narratives highlight the crucial impact of housing education, foreclosure prevention, and estate planning on residents' lives. Discover NeighborWorks' unwavering commitment to empowering communities, advocating for marginalized individuals, and fostering generational wealth and pride in homeownership. Lauretta also teases exciting future projects aimed at transforming and uplifting communities, demonstrating her visionary leadership. This is an insightful episode filled with actionable advice and inspirational stories that showcase the transformative power of sustainable development and community support.
To learn more about Neighborworks you can visit their website: https://nwsacramento.org/
Or you can call directly at 916-452-5356

Chapter Highlights
(00:00) From Real Estate to Community Impact
Lauretta Casimir-Mahoney's journey from aspiring judge to NeighborWorks CEO, emphasizing trust and integrity in mortgage industry and leadership philosophy.

(12:58) Building a Sustainable Mixed-Use Community
NeighborWorks integrates retail, rental, and ownership housing to create communities where residents can live, work, and play.

(23:46) Preparing Sacramento for Future Development
Sacramento's urban growth, COVID-19's impact, and success stories from the Housing Counseling Center highlight the importance of strategic development and equitable living.

(29:35) Empowering Communities Through Sustainable Development
NeighborWorks in Sacramento promotes equitable communities, generational wealth, and inclusive advocacy for marginalized individuals.

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 does it take for a nonprofit to craft a compelling, three-minute pitch that captures hearts and minds and maybe even some money? Find out as I welcome Brad Squires, President and CEO of Sacramento Venture Philanthropy, who takes us behind the scenes of the Fast Pitch Finals. With over 50 applicants whittled down to 15, and only eight making it to the finals, this episode offers a sneak peek into the rigorous coaching and vetting process of the program. Brad shares how this event, now in its ninth year, empowers local nonprofits to amplify their impact by honing their storytelling skills.

Discover the excitement leading up to the Fast Pitch Showcase at The Sophia theater this November 7th, where attendees can support their favorite nonprofits through live donations. Hear from Brad about the invaluable skills participants gain, from fundraising to volunteer engagement, and the role of live judges, including your very own host, Me! We also touch on the Class of 2024 and the anticipation surrounding the announcement of the top eight finalists. This program will sell out and we want to be certain everyone knows to move quickly to get their tickets.
You can learn more about the event and how to get your tickets by visiting the website https://www.svpsacramento.org/fast-pitch

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 we could see homelessness not just as a social issue but as a deeply personal journey? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Christina Bilyeu, Chief of Mental Health Services, The Permanente Medical Group, and President of the board at HOPE Cooperative, to explore the layers of homelessness in Sacramento. Dr. Bilyeu shares moving insights from her own family’s struggles with housing insecurity, revealing how these experiences have shaped her commitment to addressing this critical issue. We dissect the intertwined factors of mental health, substance use disorders, and economic instability that perpetuate chronic homelessness, especially in the post-pandemic landscape.

Dr. Bilyeu takes us through the essential stages of helping those experiencing homelessness transition to stability and independence. We uncover the significance of building trust and rapport, which form the bedrock of effective outreach and support. From there, we delve into the impact of family support and the complexities of mending strained relationships. For those grappling with severe mental illness or long-term substance abuse, persistent outreach and respect for their choices emerge as key themes. Dr. Bilyeu’s approach humanizes the often-misunderstood struggles of the homeless, bringing compassion and hope to the forefront of the conversation.

Our discussion culminates in the vital role of community support and collaboration in tackling homelessness. Dr. Bilyeu highlights how a unified effort involving healthcare providers, local businesses, law enforcement, and community leaders can create a robust support system. We also delve into the importance of education and relationship-building in promoting medication adherence among the homeless with mental health issues. This episode underscores that addressing homelessness goes beyond housing solutions; it requires behavioral and mental health improvements, with organizations like HOPE Cooperative leading the charge. Don't miss this profound exploration of one of society’s most pressing challenges.
You can learn more about HOPE Cooperative on their website by visiting: https://hopecoop.org/

To get details for the annual fundraising event and comedy show on October 18th, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stand-up-sacramento-tickets-836555699617?aff=oddtdtcreator

(00:00) Mental Health and Homelessness Support
Dr. Bilyeu discusses chronic homelessness, its causes, and the importance of treating individuals holistically.

(15:05) Building Trust and Empowering Change
Building trust, family support, and persistent outreach are crucial in helping individuals transition out of homelessness.

(23:26) Building Community Support and Collaboration
Homelessness, choice, medication, trust, education, relationship-building, collaboration, support, and solutions are discussed.

(37:01) Community Efforts to Address Homelessness
Homelessness, mental health, and community involvement are crucial in addressing the ongoing crisis. HOPE Cooperative and upcoming event on Oct 18th are making strides.

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 could directly impact the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) while fostering a more inclusive society? They could be autism, Down's Syndrome, FragileX and other not so visible disabilities that none the less, create challenging lifestyles for those experiencing them as well as the families who support those with these conditions. Join me, Jeff Holden, for an inspiring conversation with Lorraine Lomolino, Manger, Mission Advancement, for Best Buddies Sacramento, an international nonprofit dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for those with IDD. Founded by Anthony Kennedy Shriver in 1989, Best Buddies operates on five foundational pillars: friendship, jobs, leadership, living facilities, and family support. Lorraine shares how the Sacramento chapter is currently embracing three of these pillars—friendship, jobs, and leadership—and outlines the ambitious plans for expanding their services to include living facilities and family support in the near future.

Listen as we explore the exponential growth of Best Buddies Sacramento, fueled by critical partnerships with local businesses like Raley's, which provide invaluable support through mock interviews. Lorraine highlights the diverse funding sources that keep the organization thriving, from government grants to individual donations and large-scale fundraisers like the Friendship Walk and Champion of the Year campaign gala. Learn more about the significant impact these programs have on the community, the heartening success of sold-out events, and the ongoing efforts to increase school participation and employer connections. Lorraine’s insights offer a compelling glimpse into a world where inclusivity and opportunity are more than just ideals—they’re actionable goals transforming lives for more and more of our population with IDD.
To learn more about Best Buddies, visit https://www.bestbuddies.org/

Episode Chapter Summaries
(00:00) Best Buddies
Best Buddies supports individuals with IDD through friendship, jobs, leadership, living facilities, and family support programs in Sacramento.

(13:30) Building Community Through Best Buddies
Best Buddies Sacramento supports individuals with disabilities through partnerships, funding, and ambitious goals for future growth.

(24:34) Empowering Individuals With Developmental Disabilities
Community integration and employment are crucial for individuals with IDD, and interest forms help connect them to support and promote inclusivity.

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.