In this final episode of Season 1 of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Charles Parisi, the Host (filling in for Dave Mason), this episode's co-host, Adriana O'Donnell, and the team from San Marcos Promise, Lisa Stout, the Executive Director, and Dan Gross, who spearheads Community Development. In a fun episode where the benefit of belonging to San Diego Gives happened live on the air, Lisa and Dan share with listeners the power, the purpose and the promise of the organization. Helping students in North County San Diego find their next steps after high school is in many respects fueled by lack of resources in many school districts for high school counselors. Lisa, a counselor for 20 years, mentions that schools can have anywhere from 450 - 600 students for every counselor. Thus, the need for San Marcos Promise and their many services to help students find their fit, their way, their path. Speaking of next steps, listeners are treated to exciting "on the air" breaking news! The success of San Marcos Promise has led the organization to consider what is next in their quest to help more students. And what did they decide? An entire new brand to reflect the new direction and ethos - they will now be known as Project Next! Special thanks to Lisa Stout and Dan Gross for joining and helping close out Season 1 of "Live Local, Give Local." For more information on San Marcos Promise and Project Next, we encourage you to visit www.projectnext.org. Thank you for listening and giving where you're living! Building local capacity for non-profits to foster phenomenal relationships and best practices is the heart and soul of San Diego Gives. For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Charles Parisi, the Host, this episode's co-host, Adriana O'Donnell, Stephanie Miller (CEO), and Jill Marshall (Deputy Director) of the Women's Resource Center.The Women's Resource Center was founded almost 50 years ago in 1974 by a group of Oceanside women who recognized the need for a rape crisis center in their community. Initially, they provided shelter in undisclosed locations, but now they offer a range of services including shelter, transitional housing, emergency services, and more. They serve individuals primarily in North County and San Diego, offering assistance to both women and men, with approximately 5% of their clients being males.Listen as Stephanie and Jill challenges their organization faces. One such challenge is technology, as abusers can use cell phones and tracking devices to locate survivors. To protect clients, they have to consider strategies like disposing of phones and cars to ensure safety. Childcare is another significant challenge, as affordable childcare is hard to find and can be a barrier to survivors' ability to find employment and stability.The Women's Resource Center relies on a combination of government funding, individual donations, and foundation support to operate. They joined San Diego Gives to raise awareness, increase visibility, and engage potential donors and volunteers to support their mission. Listen as Stephanie and Jill highlight the need for additional funding to cover expenses such as Uber rides, security deposits, first month's rent, and childcare.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Charles Parisi, the Host, this episode's co-host, Adriana O'Donnell, Kathie Moehlig the founder of TransFamily Support Services.Listen in as Kathie explains that the catalyst for starting TransFamily Support Services: her personal experience as the parent of a transgender child. Her son began his transition at the age of eleven, at a time when many people were unfamiliar with the concept of transgender identity, and there were limited resources and support available. Kathie's advocacy journey began when she faced challenges finding doctors and support for her child. She shares how she relentlessly pursued medical care, education, and support for her son, eventually leading to the founding of TransFamily Support Services eight years ago. Since then, the organization has served over 4,000 transgender individuals and their families across the country.The conversation touches on various aspects of the organization's work, including support groups, mentorship programs, family coaching, insurance and medical navigation, and educational initiatives. Kathie highlights the importance of creating affirming and supportive environments for transgender individuals, especially children and teens. She emphasizes the importance of proper education and training for professionals in the healthcare system.The conversation shifts towards the challenges of navigating insurance and policy barriers for transgender individuals. Kathie explains how her organization helps individuals and their families advocate for their rights, including appealing insurance denials and ensuring access to medically necessary treatments. Kathie also discusses the importance of allies and advocates in creating a more inclusive society. She mentions her organization's efforts to teach people how to be better allies and accomplices, urging everyone to stand up against discrimination and hatred.The episode concludes with a discussion about San Diego Gives and the role it plays in supporting local organizations like TransFamily Support Services. Kathie expresses gratitude for the platform and the opportunity to connect with donors and volunteers in the San Diego community.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Charles Parisi, the Host, this episode's co-host, Adriana O'Donnell, Michelle Lerach and Christina Ng of Berry Good.In this podcast episode, the hosts introduce their guests from the Berry Good Food Foundation, a nonprofit organization. The guests are Michelle Lerach, the founder of the organization, and Christina Ng, the "Foundation Cultivator." Hear Michelle talk about how she transitioned from being a lawyer to founding the Berry Good Food Foundation after working on a goat farm in Sonoma during a sabbatical. It was there that she realized the power of community support for farmers and wanted to create a similar sense of community in San Diego, which led her to start the Berry Goodnight Dinner in 2010.The dinner brought together chefs, farmers, food activists, and writers to connect and share. Over the years, this community expanded to both sides of the border, creating a strong network in the region. The Berry Good Food Foundation was formed as an extension of this community, with a focus on teaching people how to cook and grow their own food, creating a fair and equitable food system.Christina shares her experience of meeting Michelle at one of the Berry dinners and how it led to a life-changing connection with her now-husband, a farmer. Listen in on a discussion about the importance of access to healthy food and how partnerships with organizations like the Berry Good Food Foundation help ensure that families in San Diego County have access to quality healthcare and nutritious food.Hear Michelle emphasize the need to challenge the industrial food system and advocates for policy changes to promote healthier food choices. She mentions the organization's signature program, Seeds for the Future, which focuses on school gardens, and the Future Thought Leaders panels, which aim to educate people about food and its impact on health. Michelle also talks about the role of community partnerships and how organizations like San Diego Gives can help them expand their reach and impact.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, David Drazenovich, and Cherryl Castro-Lector, the Development Manager at the San Diego Blood BankThe Blood Bank organizes large blood drives like the Padres Summer Blood Drive and Comic Con to collect blood units that save thousands of lives. To address the aging out of donors and increase awareness, the San Diego Blood Bank conducts tours, reaches out to schools, and collaborates with various organizations. Listen as Cheryl shares heartwarming stories like that of a recipient who received 30 units of life-saving blood after a severe accident and now organizes blood drives and advocates for donations.Hear Cheryl speak about the essential role of the blood bank in the community, comparing it to a fire hydrant that goes unnoticed until someone requires blood for medical treatment. The blood bank depends on financial support from individual donors, community foundations, and local corporations. Listen in on a conversation emphasizing the need for both blood and financial donors, showcasing the impact a single blood donation can have on someone's life. Cheryl's hope for the future is to continue educating the community about blood donation and the interconnectedness it brings to society. For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, Sharon Goodson, and Diana Kutlow, the Director of Development at Hands of Peace.Hands of Peace is an organization that aims to promote peace and understanding among Israeli, Palestinian, and American youth through dialogue. Diana shares the story of how the organization was founded in the aftermath of 9/11, driven by the desire to bring people together and find nonviolent means of change. The program, which brings together young people from different backgrounds, encourages them to listen to each other's personal stories and experiences, fostering empathy and understanding.Hear Diana talk about her personal passion for peace and justice studies, her journey to becoming part of Hands of Peace, and the organization's focus on grassroots peace-building. She emphasizes the importance of dialogue and facilitation in the program, allowing the youth to learn from one another without dictating any specific narrative. Additionally, she discusses the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the organization's innovative response with virtual programs.Listen as Diana further highlights Hands of Peace's impact on its young participants, who go on to become advocates for change in their communities, addressing issues like domestic violence and social inequalities. Diana stresses the significance of collaboration with other nonprofits and communities in San Diego, showcasing the ripple effect of the program's positive influence. For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, Sharon Goodson, and Alicia Quinn Kitagawa, the Vice President of Strategy and Engagement at United Way of San Diego County.Hear Alicia share insights into United Way's remarkable 103-year history in San Diego, which is dedicated to ensuring every child, young adult, and family can thrive, regardless of their income or zip code. The organization's core focus lies in education and economic mobility, particularly in early literacy and STEAM education for middle and high school students.Alicia sheds light on United Way's involvement in the Earned Income Tax Credit Coalition, which has contributed $29 million back into the community through free tax preparation services. As a convener, United Way collaborates with various organizations, school districts, and funders to collectively address the community's most pressing issues and drive social change.Listen as Alicia emphasizes the significance of volunteerism, with United Way actively engaging individuals and corporations to offer their time and talent in support of nonprofits. Alicia discusses their Nonprofit Board Certification and Matching program, enabling business professionals to enhance their skills as board members, fostering a strong partnership between the nonprofit and private sectors. The hosts and guest stress the vital role volunteers play in nonprofits, not only providing much-needed support but also converting into long-term donors. Alicia highlights the 30+ volunteer projects available on the day of community service, allowing individuals and companies to connect with organizations in need.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, Sharon Goodson, Kathleen Sandoval the Director of Marketing and Events at the San Diego Children's Discovery Museum, and Heather Disher, the Director of Advancement at the San Diego Children's Discovery Museum.In this podcast episode, Heather Disher, the Director of Advancement, and Kathleen Sandoval, the Director of Marketing and Events, discuss the San Diego Children's Discovery Museum. Hear Kathleen and Heather highlight the museum's physical and mobile spaces, emphasizing their focus on early education and STEM learning for children under five. Social and emotional learning is embedded into all their programs, and they work closely with local school districts to bring the museum experience to children across the county. Both Heather and Kathleen touch on their personal experiences, their backgrounds in nonprofits, and the impact of the museum on children's development. They also discuss fundraising efforts and upcoming events like Science and Engineering Night and the STEM-posium. The challenges faced during the pandemic and plans for future growth and expansion are also mentioned. The hosts also share heartwarming stories of children's wonder and delight while exploring the museum's exhibits, highlighting the joy and inspiration the museum brings to young learners. Through partnerships, community engagement, and innovative programs, the San Diego Children's Discovery Museum continues to make a meaningful impact on children's education and development in the region. Overall, the episode showcases the museum's commitment to providing accessible, hands-on education to children and the positive impact it has on their lives.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, Sharon Goodson, Karina Vidrio Meza, the Development Coordinator of Our Lady's School, and Judy Ziment, the President of Our Lady's SchoolThey discuss the mission of Our Lady School, which focuses on providing high-quality education to students from low-income, first-generation neighborhoods in Barrio Logan and Sherman Heights, San Diego. Hear Judy and Karina emphasize the importance of building a close-knit community and fostering personal relationships among students, staff, and donors. In addition, Judy and Karina share inspiring success stories of their students, including high school admissions and college graduations with substantial scholarships. They emphasize the importance of personalized attention and small class sizes in creating a supportive learning environment. Hear the guests highlight the school's summer program, which aims to provide students with a different perspective of their community and foster friendships and connections that may have been impacted during the pandemic.Despite being a private Catholic school, Our Lady School ensures that no student is turned away due to financial constraints and offers scholarship support. They rely on private donations and fundraising events to cover the operating expenses. Listen to the guests highlights their involvement with San Diego Gives, and the benefits it has brought to Our Lady School.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, Alex White, Marcy Roke, the President and CEO of Travelers Aid Society, and Adrianna Yemhatpe, the Program Manager of Travelers Aid Society.Listen to them discuss the organization's mission and their work in helping vulnerable individuals in San Diego with their transportation needs. Travelers Aid Society, a 120-year-old social services organization, has evolved over the years to meet the changing needs of the community. They provide various programs, such as Senior Ride, Senior Solutions, and Ride Finder, to assist low-income older adults and individuals with disabilities in accessing transportation options. The organization aims to reduce isolation and provide essential transportation services to those who are most in need. They collaborate with other nonprofits and community partners to ensure that gaps in transportation services are addressed. Despite the growing demand, Travelers Aid Society faces challenges in meeting the needs of all individuals due to limited funding. They participate in San Diego Gives, a fundraising event that allows them to raise awareness and funds for their programs. Hear the guests speak to the importance of collaboration and the ongoing efforts to support vulnerable populations in San Diego.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, Alex White, Alejandro Garcia the founder and executive director of Advancing Students Forward, and Monica the manager of operations of Advancing Students Forward.ASF, also known as "Su Futuro," works on both sides of the US-Mexico border, primarily in Tijuana's Colonia Tecolote community. The organization aims to provide access to education and academic support for students, as 50% of students in Mexico do not continue their education after 6th grade due to financial constraints. Listen to discussions on ongoing learning and improvement, as well as the challenges faced by middle school students and the importance of showing them that someone cares about their education. ASF accompanies students from 7th grade to university, offering various services such as workshops, academic programs, career preparation, and enrichment activities. They focus on creating a sense of community and belonging for students who are often the first in their families to pursue higher education. ASF also collaborates with Waste for Life and the University of San Diego on an upcycling project that teaches students to repurpose waste materials and create useful products. The program is flexible and accommodates students' different schedules, providing them with valuable skills and inspiration. Through San Diego Gives, ASF has found collaboration and support from other nonprofits in the community, reinforcing the importance of their work. Hear Monica talk about the significance of caring for the students and creating a sense of belonging as key elements in their success. For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, Alex White, Lauren White, the Operations and Development Administrator for BigTable, and Gloria Garcia, the Care Coordinator for BigTable.Listen in as they discuss the mission and work of BigTable, an organization that supports individuals in the restaurant and hospitality industry who are facing various crises. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the challenges faced by this industry, from financial struggles to health issues. BigTable provides assistance with housing, healthcare, bill payments, childcare, and transportation. They work closely with hotels and small businesses, connecting individuals in need with job opportunities and providing direct support during crises. They also discuss how BigTable was founded and its focus on building relationships and providing support through initiatives like industry dinners.Hear Lauren and Gloria share their personal motivations for joining BigTable and express their enthusiasm for participating in San Diego Gives. The hosts highlight the importance of understanding the hidden economic factors affecting individuals in the restaurant industry, and they commend BigTable for addressing these needs.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, David Drazenovich, and Don Stump, the CEO of Lifeline Community Services. The organization has evolved from primarily being a transportation provider for people with disabilities to offering various community services. Lifeline started in 1969 as a drop-in center for youth struggling with drugs and grew to include youth development, juvenile delinquency prevention, and gang intervention programs.Hear Don discuss the challenges faced by the organization, such as the high cost of living and homelessness in Southern California. Lifeline receives financial resources through government grants and contracts, as well as fundraising efforts. Don emphasizes the importance of educating donors about the complexity of social issues and the need for sustained support to bring about meaningful change.San Diego Gives has been instrumental in highlighting the organization's work and engaging the public. Hear Don speak as to how San Diego Gives has had a positive impact on nonprofits and the opportunity it provides for board members and staff to support their organizations.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, David Drazenovich, Dr. Rakesh Patel, the CEO of Neighborhood Healthcare, and Julie Ngo, a dedicated neighborhood supporter and donor of Neighborhood Healthcare.Dr. Patel explains that Neighborhood Healthcare was established in 1969 as a free clinic in Escondido, California, and has since expanded to 24 locations across San Diego County and Riverside County. The organization offers services with a focus on improving patients' overall health and well-being. He mentions that the majority of their patients come from the local community and live below the federal poverty level. They collaborate with other nonprofits and community partners to address various needs such as housing and food insecurity. Hear Julie Ngo share her personal connection to Neighborhood Healthcare, highlighting the importance of accessible healthcare for low-income individuals and the comfort of having a trusted family doctor. Hear both guests touch on the financial support the organization receives from government funding, insurance, and philanthropy, as well as individual donors. It is with this help that the organization is able to function to help meet the growing need for affordable healthcare and fulfill the belief that healthcare is a right, not a privilege.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, David Drazenovich, and Jamie Beck, the Founder, President, and Managing Attorney of Free to Thrive. Free to Thrive is an organization that aims to empower survivors of human trafficking using legal services, education and training, and policy advocacy.While human trafficking is not a crime that is often seen, it is always there in the background, affecting many. Especially with the pandemic and the isolation that has been caused by it, there has been an increase in human trafficking and human trafficking related crimes. The increased use of the internet has also made it easier for traffickers to find and lure in their targets.Education and advocacy are two important pillars of the Freedom to Thrive organization model. This is part of the reason that Jamie is so excited about San Diego Gives because it opens up the conversation for more awareness and laws surrounding human trafficking. Hear Jamie talk about the importance of connecting with like-minded organizations and individuals in the community in terms of starting the conversation about human trafficking.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, Alexandra White, Kathleen Diehlmann, the Manager of Volunteers at Brother Benno's Foundation, and DinaMarie Ahee, the Accounting Manager at Brother Benno's Foundation.Brother Benno's is an organization named after Brother Benno Garrity, a monk, that serves the unsheltered and the working poor. As an organization that serves over 300 people per day, they rely heavily on support from the community. This comes in the form of community volunteers and financial contributions.This is part of the reason that Brother Benno's has found San Diego Gives to be such a beneficial program: San Diego Gives presents the opportunity for the foundation to build connections and partnerships with other organizations that can maximize the impact of Brother Benno's' programs. Hear Kathleen and DinaMarie talk about their tips for other participating organizations which include communicating with business leadership, keeping an eye on the goal, building a connection to the target audience, and more.Brother Benno's provides various different types of services to the community all the in the form of different "buckets" or focus areas. Some of these buckets include essential services (food, clothing, showers), recovery programs, sober living programs, outreach, and more.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, Adrianna O'Donnell, Clay Myers-Bowman, the Development Officer of Finch Youth Services, and Teresa Chapa, the Southern California Regional Vice President of Finch Youth Services.Originally starting as an orphanage, Finch Youth Services has evolved into an organization that supports kids in foster care and kids with mental health needs. They have outpatient, home-based, and residency treatment services that aim to provide support to kids in need. In addition, they also operate a non-public school that offers special education curriculum to students in order to teach them skills to thrive within the community after graduation.Both Clay and Teresa discuss the most rewarding parts of their involvement with Finch Youth Services which centers around the positive changes and impact they are able to see their work have on the lives of the children they are serving. Through their programs, they have been able to see kids who are struggling become kids who are thriving. This is why it is so important for them to have a staff that recognizes the importance of quality language and cultural responsiveness in order to best connect with and serve the children.Finch Youth Services has been involved in San Diego Gives since the beginning and they are excited to see what this year will bring. Hear Clay and Teresa talk about some of the benefits that being part of this program has brought to their organization including community outreach and support. They would encourage anybody who is interested in getting involved to learn more about San Diego Gives and join.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, Adrianna O'Donnell, Jodi Diamond, the CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oceanside, and Matt Koumaras, the President & CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Vista.Both the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oceanside and Vista aim to serve the youth in their local communities by helping them find their passions while steering them in the right direction to have successful futures. They do this through various programs including mentorships, STEM (and STREAM) based activities, workforce development, and career explorations.Being part of San Diego Gives allows the clubs to continue giving opportunities to youth. Not only are they able to raise funds as they are mainly supported by foundation giving, but they are also able to show the community all the other crucial programs and opportunities that the boys and girls clubs can provide outside of sports and wellness which is what they are known for. It is For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, Adrianna O'Donnell, Sara Boquin, the CEO of the Barrio Logan College Institute, and Cristina Aguirre, the Chief Program Officer of the Barrio Logan College Institute.The Barrio Logan College Institute is a program that aims to break the cycle of poverty by helping to prepare students and sending them to college. They serve students starting in the third grade who are the first generation in their family to go to college (meaning that their parents do not have four-year college degrees) by providing these students with the path and resources to get where they want to go. 100% of the students that have gone through this program have gone on to enroll in college immediately after high school and 72% are able to graduate within 6 years with a college degree. They not only provide students in elementary, middle, and high school with support but also have programs for parents.Being part of a network like San Diego gives is extremely important for the Barrio Logan College Institute. Especially after the pandemic, San Diego Gives allows them to remind the community of the work being done by the program and its importance to the students and their families. Being able to connect with other organizations that support their mission is also imperative for the success of the students and being part of a local movement like San Diego gives has only helped extend the reach of the Barrio Logan College Institute.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.
In this episode of "Live Local, Give Local" listeners enjoy a great conversation between Dave Mason, the Host, this episode's co-host, Adrianna O'Donnell, and Drew Moser, the Executive Director for the Lucky Duck Foundation.The goal of the Lucky Duck Foundation is to alleviate the suffering of homelessness in San Diego Country. They focus on taking immediate action by providing "lifeboats" to help take people off the streets. They offer food and weather outreach programs, job training programs, resources for other organizations so everyone can help effectively, and they push for the government to create change. They focus on helping those in need using their business savvy and private sector expertise.In 2023, the Lucky Duck Foundation has three main goals they are targeting: youth experiencing homelessness, seniors experiencing homelessness, and calling for the local government to help remove criminal activities that threaten the homeless. Through his experience in previous years, Drew believes that being a part of San Diego Gives will bring them one step closer to their goals. He sees the benefits of being able to engage the community and encourage people to get involved.For more information on the many services of San Diego Gives, please visit www.SanDiegoGives.org.