Think Bigger Voices

What happens when education, businesses and community leaders unite under one belief: that every kid deserves the opportunity to Think Bigger?In this special one-year anniversary episode, host Jennie Treby and Think Big for Kids founder Tony DiBenedetto reflect on 24 episodes recorded across Florida, Atlanta and Greater Washington, D.C. This year of conversations revealed a powerful truth: people care deeply about kids in poverty, and meaningful collaboration is already making an impact.In this episode, Jennie and Tony revisit the insights reshaping the fight against poverty:Bridging the Stability Gap for Working Families: While federal data often misses the full picture, Jessica Muroff from United Way Suncoast shared that ALICE data shows that 40% of Americans cannot afford a basic household budget. This instability is compounded by financial traps discussed by Thomas Feint at Grow Financial, such as penalty APRs that can jump to 40% after a single missed payment.Meeting Fundamental Needs with Dignity: Thomas Mantz from Feeding Tampa Bay goes beyond temporary relief to provide food to millions, while Tracey Keim from The Green Devils Closet provides hygiene products, food and school supplies, ensuring kids feel safe, confident and ready to learn.Clear Pathways to Higher Education: Experts like Nadine Bailey in financial aid explained how navigating FAFSA is the key to unlocking millions in unused scholarships, while Dr. Mike Hartline at the FSU College of Business demonstrates how first-generation students can achieve an 87% graduation rate with intentional support.Personal Commitment Driving Community Impact: Leaders like Effie Santos of Maddie’s Movement, Dr. Lynette Henry of Educate Fairfax, and Mike Batt of Fairfax County Economic Development demonstrate how personal motivation fuels systemic change. From supporting youth aging out of foster care to transforming educational outcomes to aligning partnerships that connect students to career opportunities, these leaders show that sustainable solutions come from those who are personally invested in the mission.Jennie and Tony reflect on how the challenges are complex, but when communities think bigger together, real change is possible.Links:Think Big for Kids: https://thinkbigforkids.org/More about Tony DiBenedettoTony DiBenedetto: https://thinkbigforkids.org/about-us/leadership/tony-dibenedetto/Tony DiBenedetto on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-dibenedetto-8ba0588/About host Jennie TrebyJennie Treby: https://thinkbigforkids.org/about-us/leadership/jennie-treby/Jennie Treby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennie-treby/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How does one powerful, personal relationship fundamentally change a teacher's calling and redefine success for their students?In this episode of Think Bigger Voices, host Jennie Treby sits down with Morrise "Mr. Q" Quierolo, a civics and AVID teacher at Liberty Middle School in Fairfax County. Guided by the belief that education is a vocation and a mission, Morrise is building his career by shaping classrooms rooted in belonging, empowerment and hope.From his unexpected start in Teach For America, which took him across the country to a challenging school environment in Phoenix, Morrise discovered a life-changing truth: meaningful relationships are what truly transform students. And it was a letter from a struggling student that ultimately sealed his calling in education and shifted him away from a planned law school route.Back home in Fairfax, Morrise now teaches at one of Virginia’s most diverse middle schools, where he champions student leadership, builds an AVID “family,” and helps kids, especially those with learning differences or challenging home lives see possibilities they’ve never been shown. His partnership with Think Big for Kids has played a key role in that work, opening doors to real-world experiences that expand opportunity and spark imagination.In this episode, you’ll learn:●     How AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) builds student empowerment, leadership, and college-and-career readiness.●     How Think Big’s hands-on programming such as career showcases, field trips and industry workshops expand opportunity.●     How students from financially disadvantaged or challenging backgrounds often build unique resilience and skills that can be turned into strengths for helping others.●     How early exposure to mentors, careers and community impact can shift a child’s entire trajectory.Through his own journey of service and powerful student letters, Morrise reveals what happens when the education system shifts: students who feel seen, supported and believed in unlock a future they never thought possible.Links:Educate Fairfax: https://www.educatefairfax.org/Fairfax County Public Schools: https://www.fcps.edu/Fairfax County Economic Development Authority: https://fairfaxcountyeda.org/Think Big for Kids: https://thinkbigforkids.org/More about Morrise QuieroloMorrise Quierolo: https://libertyms.fcps.edu/staff/morrise-queiroloAbout host Jennie TrebyJennie Treby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennie-treby/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do we reach students who are hardest to reach, the ones who feel discouraged, disconnected, or burdened by challenges no one else sees?In this episode of Think Bigger Voices, host Jennie Treby talks with Marc Matthie, a coach, longtime Fairfax County educator, and Think Big for Kids Advisory Board member. For more than 20 years, Marc has mentored students on and off the field, guided by a simple belief: real relationships create real hope.His journey from football standout to devoted educator, shaped by his move from Jamaica to New York, fuels his commitment to supporting the “4D” kids: Disengaged, Discouraged, Disillusioned and Disconnected. Marc explains how uneven starting points shape a student’s path. Some grow up with stability and support, while others face daily uncertainty through no fault of their own, making mentorship and guidance from point A to point B essential.In this transformative episode, you’ll learn:The Kids at Hope philosophy, which shifts the focus from viewing students as "at risk" to seeing them as "at hope," and how strengthening a child's sense of hope acts as a protective dam against difficult life experiences.How intentional classes, such as Fairfax County Public Schools’ Agency and Empowerment class, provide safety, support, and room to grow.How pairing a student’s natural resilience with trusted mentors and meaningful resources gives them the foundation they need to thrive.From navigating adolescence to confronting instability at home, Marc shares a blueprint rooted in pouring hope into students, pairing them with mentors, and giving them access to the resources they’ve never had. With their natural resilience finally supported, these kids don’t just catch up, they thrive. And with organizations like Think Big for Kids helping bridge those gaps, Marc paints a powerful picture of what’s possible when youth who’ve had to fight for everything finally receive the tools, support and belief they deserve.Links: Educate Fairfax: https://www.educatefairfax.org/ Fairfax County Public Schools: https://www.fcps.edu/ Fairfax County Economic Development Authority: https://fairfaxcountyeda.org/ Think Big for Kids: https://thinkbigforkids.org/ More about Marc Matthie Marc Matthie: https://thinkbigforkids.org/about-us/leadership/marc-matthie/ About host Jennie Treby Jennie Treby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennie-treby/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can communities ensure every student has the resources and support they need to succeed in one of America’s largest school districts, where 37% of students live in poverty?On this episode of Think Bigger Voices, Jennie Treby sits down with Dr. Lynette Henry, Executive Director of Educate Fairfax, a non-profit that serves over 183,000 students across 199 schools in the 10th largest district in the U.S. With 30+ years of experience transforming struggling schools in Tampa to community partnerships in Fairfax County, Dr. Henry shares her blueprint for success: connecting students to resources, opportunities and support systems that teach them to believe in themselves.In this transformative episode, you'll learn:● Dr. Henry’s personal story of coming to America from Barbados with only $200 and two suitcases to further her education and impact kids in need.● How strategic classroom and community partnerships can simultaneously boost attendance and reading achievement and decrease discipline referrals.● Strengthening social capital by connecting students with mentors, college resources and volunteers by meeting them where they are to guide future opportunities.● How Educate Fairfax’s strategic planning ensures students have what they need to thrive, from school supplies to food security, health care and vision support. This growth with purpose model is providing scholarships, grants, Innovators Fund programs and educator support.● The impact of business and community partnerships, including with the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority and Think Big for Kids, in co-creating pipelines for student success.From building trust to fostering teacher creativity and family support, this conversation highlights how intentional, strategic investment in education can change lives, create equity and prepare the next generation for the future workforce.Dr. Henry’s philosophy is simple: imagine the best for every child and make it happen. Because with the right access and encouragement, doors of opportunity open.Links:Educate Fairfax: https://www.educatefairfax.org/Fairfax County Public Schools: https://www.fcps.edu/Fairfax County Economic Development Authority: https://fairfaxcountyeda.org/Think Big for Kids: https://thinkbigforkids.org/More about Lynette HenryLynette Henry: https://www.educatefairfax.org/staff/lynette-henryLynette Henry on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-lynette-henry-246a55184/About host Jennie TrebyJennie Treby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennie-treby/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can economic development organizations strengthen their communities by investing in the next generation of talent?In this episode, host Jennie Treby sits down with Mike Batt, Vice President of Talent for the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (EDA), to explore how public, private and nonprofit partnerships are shaping the workforce of tomorrow.Mike shares how his 20-year career at Microsoft led him to a mission-driven role connecting companies with schools, why investing in students strengthens the whole community, and how innovative programs across the region are inspiring kids to dream bigger.Through collaboration with Think Big for Kids, Fairfax County Public Schools and Educate Fairfax, the Fairfax County EDA is creating a model for how economic development can begin long before the hiring stage – by helping students discover their potential, develop skills and connect education to real career opportunities. 💡 Key insights:●     The EDA’s approach to connecting regional talent, education and business growth through strategic partnerships, exposing kids early on to high-growth industries like technology, healthcare, government, space and cybersecurity.●     How economic development organizations can future-proof their regions by aligning business needs with education and youth development.●     How Think Big for Kids is shaping career pathways across the greater Washington, D.C. region by bringing businesses into schools to help students envision the careers available right here at home.●     The powerful impact of hands-on career showcases, field trips and STEM experiences, paired with mentorships and internships, to prepare students for success.●     Why investing in students is an economic strategy that strengthens local businesses, builds community equity and drives long-term growth.Tune in to hear how collaboration is helping tomorrow’s workforce discover what’s possible right in their own backyard.  ​​Links:Fairfax County Economic Development Authority: https://fairfaxcountyeda.org/Educate Fairfax: https://www.educatefairfax.org/Fairfax County Public Schools: https://www.fcps.edu/Think Big for Kids: https://thinkbigforkids.org/More about Mike BattMike Batt: https://thinkbigforkids.org/about-us/leadership/michael-batt/Mike Batt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-batt-4a95b6201/About host Jennie TrebyJennie Treby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennie-treby/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Think Bigger Voices, Jennie Treby sits down with Effie Santos, former banker, author, TEDx speaker and founder of Madi’s Movement. After the devastating loss of her teenage daughter Madi, Effie transformed unimaginable tragedy into a legacy of hope and opportunity for youth aging out of the foster system.Effie shares her journey of resilience, the lessons behind her book The Power of the Pause, and how Madi’s vision inspired the creation of a nonprofit dedicated to helping teens and young adults aging out of foster care. Through services encompassing education, employment and empowerment, Madi’s Movement provides practical pathways to young people who often face homelessness, incarceration and other hardships. From GED support and driving programs to financial literacy and career pathways, the organization equips foster youth to become independent and thrive.Listen in to Learn:The inspiration behind Madi’s Movement and why the organization focuses on teens and young adults aging out of the foster care system.How the Advocate Program, Madi’s Movement Academy and Pathways to Employment work together to provide a comprehensive support system.The barriers foster youth encounter, from separation from siblings to limited knowledge of how to access education, jobs and even driver’s licenses.How Madi’s Movement equips teens and young adults with life skills like nutrition and wellness, financial literacy from budgeting to credit, and career readiness through resumes and interview practice.How anyone can “show up” to make a difference, no matter their background or resources.This episode highlights how Madi’s legacy is opening doors, providing consistent guidance and changing futures for foster youth who are too often left to navigate adulthood on their own.Links:Madi’s MovementThink Big for KidsMore about Effie SantosEffie Santos’ WebsiteEffie Santos on LinkedInAbout host Jennie TrebyJennie Treby on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can safe spaces, digital literacy and community-driven programs reshape the future for young women in Atlanta’s hardest-to-reach communities?In this episode of Think Bigger Voices, host Jennie Treby sits down with Danita Knight and Sooraya Williams of YWCA Greater Atlanta to explore how the organization is breaking down barriers and expanding access to opportunity. Grounded in three core areas - advocacy and safety, health and wellness, and education and economic empowerment - the YWCA’s mission is about creating pathways to empowerment with programs like TGI Teens and the newly reimagined Phillis Wheatley Center.They discuss how TGI Teens equips young girls with coding, digital literacy and problem-solving skills, empowering them to design solutions for real challenges in their own lives. At the Phillis Wheatley Center, women and families will be able to access wellness and empowerment classes, such as cooking and gardening to exercise and financial literacy - all in an environment that amplifies their voices rather than prescribes their futures.Listen in to learn:●     How YWCA Greater Atlanta has been guiding women and teens to recognize that they hold their future in their hands - for over 120 years!●     Why listening to girls’ voices and letting them build solutions to their own challenges creates lasting resilience.●     How practical tools, digital literacy and community support are creating ripples of change and building stronger, more connected communities across Atlanta.●     Why parent engagement is key to building lasting confidence and resilience for their daughters and themselves. The YWCA Greater Atlanta proves that empowerment isn’t about handing women and girls a script - it’s about giving them the opportunity, access and confidence to write their own.Links:YWCA Greater AtlantaThink Big for KidsMore about Danita Knight and Sooraya WilliamsDanita KnightSooraya WilliamsAbout host Jennie TrebyJennie Treby on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the fight against pediatric health disparities, are we missing the most powerful tools: connection, education and access? TampaWell, activated by Tampa General Hospital (TGH), is redefining disease prevention and tackling social factors negatively impacting health at the root.In this episode of Think Bigger Voices, host Jennie Treby sits down with Dr. Tanuja Sharma and Rachel Hoyer of TGH to explore how one of Florida’s leading hospitals is addressing health disparities in underserved populations. With over 40% of the U.S. population struggling to make ends meet, this is not a niche issue — it’s a national reality.Dr. Sharma and Rachel Hoyer unpack how systemic gaps, from a lack of primary care to chronic stress, are impacting kids long before they ever reach a hospital. They explore how TampaWell is responding with real, community-centered solutions – based on the proven success of a similar model in Italy!Listen in to learn:-      Why many children in underserved communities go without routine care, and what’s lost in the process.-      How fragmented support, environmental exposure and chronic stress impact physical and mental health.-      Why access and education are the foundation of lasting change, and how wellness classes and conversations at a young age build habits that carry into adulthood.-      Why access to nutritious food, physical activity, stress reduction, and social connection are essential pillars of care rooted in equity, dignity and proactive care.-      How community-focused programs, including educational activities, wellness coaching and volunteering, empower families to heal and grow together through cooking, gardening, exercise and giving back. TGH is redefining pediatric health, bridging the gap between medical, mental and community care. Dr. Sharma and Rachel Hoyer offer a behind-the-scenes look at how TGH’s TampaWell, with empathy at its core, is equipping families with the tools they need to flourish. Links:TGH Tampa WellThink Big for KidsMore about Dr. Sharma and Rachel HoyerDr. Sharma on TGH WebsiteRachel Hoyer on LinkedInAbout host Jennie TrebyJennie Treby on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the key to ending generational poverty wasn’t just access, but advocacy, athletics, and accountability?In this episode of Think Bigger Voices, host Jennie Treby travels to Atlanta to sit down with C.J. and Kelli Stewart, the powerhouse couple behind the L.E.A.D. Center for Youth. L.E.A.D.—short for Launch, Expose, Advise, and Direct—is transforming the lives of Black youth in Atlanta through sports-based youth development. From baseball diamonds to life coaching certifications, CJ and Kelli share how they’re helping at-risk boys and girls overcome life’s “curveballs” including crime, poverty, and racism with confidence, discipline, and purpose.Listen in to learn:●     Why sports like baseball and tennis are powerful tools for social-emotional growth and academic self-efficacy.●     How L.E.A.D. integrates trauma-informed programming, civic engagement, and mentorship starting as early as 3rd grade.●     What “major league citizens” are—and why C.J. and Kelli hold every student to that standard.●     How L.E.A.D. is building future philanthropists, entrepreneurs, and leaders by turning kids into alumni investors.●     The Stewarts’ new venture to elevate coaching standards with Pedagogy for Pros.With the right support and structure, young people don’t just survive adversity; they lead through it.Links:LEAD Center for YouthThink Big for KidsMore about the StewartsCJ Stewart on LinkedInKelli Stewart on LinkedInAbout host Jennie TrebyJennie Treby on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if first-generation college students had a support system that started in kindergarten and stayed with them through graduation and beyond?In this episode of Think Bigger Voices, host Jennie Treby sits down with Dr. Deonte Brown, Director of the CARE Program at Florida State University (Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement), to explore how one of the country’s most comprehensive support systems is transforming outcomes for first-gen, low-income, and underserved students. From early intervention in rural elementary schools to mentorship, career prep, and financial aid navigation in college, CARE is redefining what it means to empower students for long-term success.Listen in to learn:●     How Title 1 schools offer very limited access to AP courses, IB courses or accelerated mechanisms like dual enrollment, placing students at an unfair advantage for college prep.●     How CARE helps students navigate college applications, housing, financial aid, and culture shock before they ever arrive on campus.●     Why community and connection are critical for first-gen student success, and how CARE builds both.●     The power of walking families through the college journey alongside their student.●     How CARE prepares students for life after college, from graduate school readiness to real-world mentorships.●     Why Dr. Brown’s own first-gen experience drives his passion for helping students thrive, not just survive.With nearly 3,000 students in its network, CARE proves that when you build trust, structure, and opportunity, students thrive.Links:The CARE Program at FSUThink Big for KidsMore about Dr. Deonte BrownDr. Deonte BrownDr. Deonte Brown on LinkedInAbout host Jennie TrebyJennie Treby on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if a high school education could include AP classes, extracurricular activities, and corporate work experience, starting at age 14? In this episode of Think Bigger Voices, host Jennie Treby sits down with Dr. Patrick Liang, President and CEO of Cristo Rey Tampa Salesian High School, an educational model transforming the future for low-income students by blending rigorous academics and real-world corporate work experience in a warm, family-centered community. With a 100% college acceptance rate, Cristo Rey equips first-generation students to break the cycle of poverty by giving them what few high schools offer: opportunity, structure, and confidence.Listen in to learn:●     How Cristo Rey is a network of 40 schools across the country combining AP courses, corporate internships, and a values-based education.●     Why starting work study as a freshman helps students build confidence, soft skills, and career readiness.●     The importance of mental health support, food access, and trauma-informed care in student success.●     How Cristo Rey partners with 60+ universities and top employers to ensure students not only go to college—but graduate.●     What makes Cristo Rey Tampa’s students some of the most resilient, motivated, and employable young people in the region.From BayCare to JP Morgan, Cristo Rey students are showing the world what’s possible when hard work meets high expectations.Links:Cristo Rey Tampa Salesian High SchoolThink Big for KidsMore about Dr. Patrick LiangDr. Liang on LinkedInAbout host Jennie TrebyJennie Treby on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the key to student success wasn’t just academics—but believing you belong?Attending a large state university can be overwhelming for many students but imagine the extra challenges and pressures of being the first person in your family to attend college. Host Jennie Treby sits down with Michael Hartline, Dean of the Florida State University College of Business, to explore how FSU is transforming the college experience for first-generation students. With over 1,100 first-gen business majors and initiatives that include living-learning communities, etiquette dinners and professional development funding, FSU is leading the charge in student success.Listen in to learn: ●     Why first-gen students often hesitate to pursue business degrees —and how FSU is changing that●     How early engagement programs and living-learning communities build confidence and help students overcome Imposter Syndrome●     The importance of career readiness, soft skills and real-world prep beyond the classroom●     Dean Hartline’s personal first-gen journey and the impact of leading with empathy With the right support, first-gen students aren’t just finding their way—they’re leading the way. Links:Think Big for KidsFlorida State University College of Business More about Dean HartlineDean Hartline on LinkedInAbout host Jennie Treby  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When talent is everywhere but opportunity isn't, Year Up United becomes the bridge young professionals need.Join host Jennie Treby as she sits down with Gary Flowers, CIO, Transformation and Technology Services at Year Up United, to explore an innovative approach to workforce development that's transforming young lives. Discover how this national workforce development organization ending the Opportunity Divide for 18-29-year-old young adults, connecting untapped talent with leading corporations like Bank of America, JP Morgan Chase, and Apple.In this episode, you will:Learn how the nation’s largest employers partner with Year Up United to develop their talent pipelinesUnderstand how the organization helps young adults from underserved communities launch successful careersHear inspiring stories of graduates who have overcome obstacles and achieved remarkable successExplore Year Up United’s approach to workplace readiness and skills trainingDiscover the inspiring mission behind Year Up United and how they're changing lives, one career pathway at a time.  Links:Think Big for KidsYear Up United More about Gary Flowers:Gary on LinkedInAbout host Jennie Treby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For two decades, a tiny 6-by-9-foot closet in a high school has become a lifeline of dignity, transforming thousands of students' lives. In this episode, Jennie Treby sits down with Tracey Keim, an educator at St. Petersburg High School and the Founder of The Green Devil’s Pantry & Closet. With her unwavering belief in human dignity, Tracey is changing lives—one backpack, one essential supply, and one act of kindness at a time. What began as a simple mission to help students find prom dresses, tuxedos and professional attire has blossomed into a lifeline for thousands, proving that powerful change often starts in the smallest of spaces. In this episode of Think Bigger Voices, you’ll learn how The Green Devil’s Pantry & Closet goes far beyond providing food, personal hygiene items and cleaning supplies—it offers dignity, hope and stability to students and families facing financial uncertainty.Tune in to hear:● The inspiring story of this community-driven initiative● How one teacher is modeling benevolence and creating lasting change● Practical ways YOU can help students in your own community Discover how the most impactful changes often happen in the most unexpected places.More about the Green Devil's Pantry & ClosetThink Big for KidsAbout Host Jennie Treby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Music, education and community—Dr. Alex Harris has spent his career at the intersection of all three. As a renowned singer-songwriter, producer and philanthropist, he’s performed alongside legends like John Legend and Alicia Keys. But his biggest passion? Empowering the next generation through the Arts Conservatory for Teens (ACT). In this episode of Think Bigger Voices, host Jennie Treby sits down with Dr. Harris to explore his journey from performing as a child with his siblings to founding ACT, an organization that provides arts education and career opportunities to underserved youth. Discover how creativity fosters confidence, how exposure leads to empowerment, and why the arts are essential to building a brighter future for America’s teens. Listen in as they discuss: ●      How arts education helps students from all backgrounds build confidence and career skills.●      The importance of mentorship and real-world exposure for young creatives.●      ACT’s unique approach to preparing underserved and at-risk teens for success beyond the stage.●      Why giving back is just as important as professional success. Join us for an inspiring conversation that proves the arts aren’t just about performance—they’re about community transformation. More about Dr. Alex Harris hereArts Conservatory for Teens Think Big for KidsAbout Host Jennie Treby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For economically disadvantaged and first-generation students, financial aid can be the key to unlocking higher education—but navigating the system is often overwhelming. How can we, as advocates and changemakers, help ensure these students get the support they need? In this episode, Nadine Bailey, VP of Regulatory Affairs at Ultimate Medical Academy, joins host Jennie Treby to explore the resources, policies, and programs designed to break down financial barriers. Together, we’ll discuss: - The latest FAFSA updates & what they mean for low-income students- Grants, scholarships & financial aid programs that make a difference- The great FAFSA debacle: what happened and what we learned- How schools, nonprofits & community organizations can provide better support- Strategies to empower first-gen students & families in need Join us in the movement to make higher education accessible for all. Tune in to learn how you can help bridge the financial gap and create real change. Links:FAFSA YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@FederalStudentAid FAFSA Pro-Tips - https://studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/pro-tipsFAFSA Parents - https://studentaid.gov/fafsa-apply/parents Think Big for Kids – https://thinkbigforkids.org/Ultimate Medical Academy - https://www.ultimatemedical.edu/More about Nadine Bailey Nadine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadine-bailey-09a462b/About host Jennie Treby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if your bank could make a real difference in your community? With 40% of American families and young people struggling to make ends meet, Thomas Feindt, CEO of Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, shares how the not-for-profit banking model is focused on breaking cycles of poverty and creating lasting change. Drawing on 25 years of experience in the credit union industry, he explains how Grow Financial is meeting this critical need. Join host Jennie Treby in the latest Think Bigger Voices episode as she sits down with Feindt to explore how credit unions are transforming financial inclusion and uplifting communities. Listen in as they discuss:How not-for-profit models enable credit unions to focus on members over profits, with interest rates capped at 18%.The importance of financial literacy in helping kids and young adults navigate milestones like first car and first home purchases.Insights into America’s debt crisis, including generational challenges and the pitfalls of "buy now, pay later."Grow’s efforts to open branches in underserved areas and collaborate with nonprofits in the Tampa Bay community.Understanding the ALICE (asset-limited, income-constrained, employed) population and how credit unions foster hope and financial stability. Tune in to discover how credit unions like Grow Financial are reshaping banking for a stronger, more inclusive future where America’s youth have the opportunity to thrive.Links:Grow Financial Federal Credit Union – https://www.growfinancial.org/ Think Big for Kids – https://thinkbigforkids.org/ About Host Jennie Treby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if solving childhood hunger is about more than just food?Thomas Mantz, President and CEO of Feeding Tampa Bay, joins host Jennie Treby to explore the deeper challenges of food insecurity and how it impacts our communities, especially children. In this episode, they discuss:The staggering reality of food insecurity in the U.S.Why prevention is key to breaking the cycle of hunger and transforming livesHow Feeding Tampa Bay connects families to critical resources beyond foodNew research that shows why Weekend Backpack programs are not effectiveTune in to discover how we can all play a part in creating a world where nobody goes hungry—and why Mantz believes, "Nobody wins unless everybody wins."Links:Think Big for Kids - https://thinkbigforkids.org/Feeding Tampa Bay - https://feedingtampabay.org/More about Thomas Mantz:Thomas on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mantz-a8a13b33/About host Jennie Treby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All of us know families who are considered ALICE (asset-limited, income-constrained, employed). But we don’t always know how to support them.In United Way Suncoast’s 5-county area, 2 in 5 residents are considered ALICE – and today, host Jennie Treby interviews CEO Jessica Muroff about solutions they’ve seen break the cycle. Listen in as they discuss: 3 strategic areas of focus (early learning, youth success, financial stability)How to turn $1 into $1.75What’s changed in the 100 years since United Way fundraisers rode on horseback through the streets of TampaHow the United Way is leveraging data to implement community-specific programs throughout the U.S.Tune in to discover the one simple action YOU can take to change a child's future and how we can all play a part in creating a brighter future for our youth and families in need.Links:Think Big for KidsUnited Way SuncoastMore about Jessica Muroff:Jessica on LinkedInRecent posts and blogsActs of Impact: How Jessica Muroff Helps Others Rise (St. Petersburg College article and podcast)[Video] Jessica Muroff: State of United Way Suncoast 2024 and maximizing MacKenzie Scott’s giftAbout host Jennie Treby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Growing up, Freddy Williams was told his mouth was either going to get him in big trouble or do some good in the world. The Boys & Girls Club alumnus-turned-CEO joins host Jennie Treby to do some good in this podcast episode, discussing: How the iconic organization saved his lifeWhat strategic shifts are changing the approach they’ve taken for the last 20 years How prevention programs benefit communities and taxpayersWhat you may not know about Denzel Washington Freddy’s passion for helping the next generation shines through as he discusses the long-term impact of education, financial literacy and the support systems that ensure no child (or young adult) is left behind.Links:Think Big for KidsBoys & Girls Clubs of Tampa BayBoys & Girls Clubs of the SuncoastBoys & Girls Clubs of AmericaMore about Freddy:Freddy on LinkedInFreddy Williams tapped to become Chairman of the National Board of Directors for Boys & Girls ClubsBusiness Observer profileFreddy Williams to lead Tampa Bay Area Boys & Girls ClubsAbout host Jennie Treby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.