The ABQ Accent

 Alice Main, CABQ’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Manager If you every wonder who is behind the climate “action” plans, look to Alice Main for your local data and… actions. Alice discusses here how climate pollution reduction can be better understood and the plans that CABQ and surrounding groups are making. Alice is part of the CABQ Office of Sustainability and is managing the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant. Through that work Alice has worked diligently with Justice40 and a community task force to receive input toward the Comprehensive Climate Pollution Reduction Plan (which they recently submitted to the EPA as part of the Grant requirement). Environmental advocacy is strong in NM and Alice fits right in with a background in family farming and doing direct work to connect the pieces between food systems, environmental justice, climate solutions, and community voice. Check out this episode to learn more about the Plan and how Alice takes a zoomed-out perspective to recognize her agency – and yours – to make positive change. 

Valerie Greif, Foster & Community Engagement Coordinator, CABQ Animal Welfare Department Drora Shub, Manager of Volunteer Engagement, Explora Science Center and Children’s Museum Chaplain Ryan Wooley, Director of Chaplaincy & Volunteer Services, Lovelace Medical Center  The Office of Civic Engagement hosted the 2nd Volunteer Fest at the ABQ Museum on October 24. As part of that event we hosted a live recording of the podcast which was a panel discussion on Volunteer Connections. Here you’ll hear from three outstanding, local volunteer coordinators who have a deep understanding of their volunteers and share more about the work itself. Check out this special episode for a conversation among passionate individuals; we cover everything from favorite volunteer stories to the power of volunteers in community. As the host, I hope this episode increases our understanding of the pivotal role that volunteer coordinators themselves play. They are a critical part of our larger community resiliency. 

Jeff Holland, Executive Director, Endorphin Power Company Jeff Holland, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, doesn’t need someone to give him a runway – he is always thinking ahead and working as a leader in the NM recovery community.Two weeks into the opening of the Bernalillo County Recovery Support Center (BCRSC) on the EPC campus, Jeff welcomed our team to come in for our first on-site podcast recording. Thank you, Jeff!  *This is why you might hear motorcycles or airplanes in the background.Jeff and his staff design programming around this driving force: EPC is the go-to for people to have a safe place to exhale and reshape their lives.Jeff has been a part of the growth of the organization for 16 years and working in recovery for over 20. Even so, he says the work is not about him but about staff and residents.In this convo, Jeff highlights that it’s more important to do [the work] right, than be in a rush. And through this perspective, EPC is still action-driven toward positive community impact and breaking down of walls and misunderstandings. EPC has a lot on the horizon – microenterprises, growth in programming and partnerships, residential space etc. It can be seen as an incubator, a microcosm of the real world where, as Jeff says about life, “you don’t ever arrive, you just evolve.”This episode reflects how generous Jeff is in sharing his personal story and takes every advantage to lift up others. Check it out to learn more about how he accidentally get into cycling, how your organization might partner with EPC, and why lime green is the new IT color. Check out the open house on Friday, September 26th 10-4PM.@endorphinpowercompanyEndorphinPower.org

 Rebecca Sisneros, Community & Government Relations Director, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central NM As a young mom, Rebecca Sisneros focused on leveling up her skills and then sharing her insights with others. She’s researched the ins and outs of health care access, career readiness, and knows it’s important to be an advocate alongside others. Her favorite thing to do is connect people and resources, and it shows. Rebecca constantly shows up for others and works hard to lift up the voice of youth - she builds relationships around NM all so these folks can level up as well. Rebecca talks a bit about the new Teen Center, Youth of the Year leadership program, and the B&GC’s own podcast! She also gives us a beautiful perspective on how young folks can face challenges as well as how her own kids have helped in her success. Listen in to understand ~ why do something even if you feel silly, the value in challenging yourself, and why Rebecca celebrates the wins and does what she can to return the good she’s been given. https://www.bgccnm.org/ The Club Chat Podcast: https://clubcast.us/clubs/bgccnm North Valley Ditches: @n.v.d.505 

Tara Gohr, President/CEO, The Grant PlantAly Sanchez, Director of Strategy and Organizational Development Tara Gohr and Aly Sanchez are part of the crew at the forefront of the grant writing world. They have about 50 years of experience between them in addition to the other 19 folks at The Grant Plant.Tara and her sister, Erin O’Keefe Hielkema, started TGP in 2003 and since then it has been a central node of nonprofit and agency development across NM, having secured almost $4000 million for their clients!Aly is a talented strategist and problem solver and has a knack for helping clients make cases and tell stories that only a seasoned grant writer-researcher-editor can.This episode covered SO much about their incredible work on behalf of NM organizations - trainings, reports, innovations etc. You’ll see why these incredible women, at the end of the day, are standing up for their clients and encouraging folks to “plug into what you care about.”You will also learn what the Mom Edit is, and, you have to know that they call a submitted grant “Planted.” On-point branding. Highly encourage you to check out their website and subscribe to their very informative blog and grant opps: www.thegrantplantnm.comBe sure to look at their upcoming trainings and take advantage of the Job Training ABQ: https://jobtrainingabq.org/Report: Federal Funding Freeze on New Mexico’s Nonprofits and Philanthropic Sector: https://www.santafecf.org/news-stories/new-report-federal-funding-nmLink to NYT article: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/06/us/new-mexico-federal-budget-cuts.html

 Diane Harrison Ogawa, Executive Coach As someone who lives in possibility, Diane Harrison Ogawa is the friend, colleague, coach we all need. This conversation was such a joy because Diane is a dynamic, hopeful, compassionate woman. She has decades of experience in corporate philanthropy and has used these opportunities to build new initiatives that many of us are still taking part in today. Diane shares how she is investing in others, continues her family’s legacy of being part of community and solution, and why being present makes the biggest difference in anything we do. Check out this episode to hear about Diane’s ability to imagine what could be and how ideas have their own time as well as the lessons to be learned in life’s transitions. From this convo I think you’ll see more possibility in your own life and our city. 

Jean Block, Nonprofit Consultant Extraordinaire Jean Block has 55 years of experience in leadership and training within the national nonprofit sector.What’s more – she’s been FUNdraising since she was 13, has published nine books and manuals, and doesn’t walk away from challenging work. Jean’s career has largely focused on supporting nonprofits through transition, be it evolving into social ventures to ensure their independence, or developing boards into high-functioning teams.Though recently retired and tending to a robust garden, Jean continues to volunteer and support her greater community, inspiring many people to continue moving toward their purpose. In this episode, Jean shares about why we should be putting our energy where our hearts are, how nonprofits have an opportunity to change the game, and, I think, why we should be following her lead. Check Amazon for her publications:The Nonprofit Guide to Social Enterprise: Show Me The (Unrestricted) Money!The Invisible Yellow Line: Clarifying Board and Staff RolesFUNdraising!! 180+ Great Ideas to Raise More Money

Linley Daly is a leadership coach, consultant, and a darn joy to be around! In her coaching and consulting business, Linley’s currency is impact – she works for positive, long-lasting change for the social sector as a whole, individual leaders, and cohorts alike. In this conversation you’ll see that she asks the BIG questions, like, “if chaos rules, how can we create culture that is based in core values, vision, and mission?”Given her broad range of experience, Linley knows to look at the larger systems and how utilizing the genius in the room, influencing women to stand up, and empowering nonprofits to use their voices can better address our societal challenges. Linley is a big believer in dialogue and the cumulative effect of small actions done in collaboration. Check out this episode to learn more about her relentless optimism and how she grounds herself to her purpose in ABQ and abroad. Highly recommend reading her blogs at https://dalyconsulting.org/

Benjamin Tobias Manager of Student Basic Needs, CNM CC Benjamin Tobais has not only found community in ABQ but continuously works to build connections to support community. It’s something that comes easy to him – the compassionate and grateful Dad, the lifelong learner, the personable, kind leader. Ben understands the needs of students within the CNM community because he takes time to get to know them as he walks through campus or supports the weekly food pantries, where over 300+ folks visit across CNM campuses. A proud first gen student, Ben reminds us that representation matters, that advocating for what you are passionate about can create growth for your community, and that understanding someone’s unique story can provide a sense of belonging at the most important moments. In this episode you will find a new volunteer opportunity, learn more about food insecurity in community (58% of state-wide survey participants are food insecure combined with housing challenges), and discover why you need a recipe for chayote. Contact Ben: btobias@cnm.edu Harwood Surface opening: https://www.harwoodartcenter.org/exhibitions/upcoming-exhibitions/ CNM food pantry distribution, wish list etc: https://www.cnm.edu/depts/dean-of-students/wellness-cnm Basic Needs Consortium data: https://basicneeds.unm.edu/ 

Tsiporah Nephesh, Founder and ED, NM Thrives If you need a woman of deep compassion and wisdom, Tsiporah Nephesh is the friend to know. Tsiporah centers her work on relationships, on listening to the needs and goals of the NM nonprofit sector so she can both advocate for them and support them via education, resources, and connections. She created NM Thrives to uplift the vital work of nonprofits and did so in a way that also informs the larger community about how impactful these agencies are. We originally met to share her efforts at the 2025 legislative session and naturally ended up chatting about how we’re in the midst of societal change and how taking action, however small, is empowering. Check out this convo to learn more about resources available to nonprofits at NM Thrives, where to share your own stories of the impact from federal challenges, and why it’s important to be conscious of the expectations you put on yourself. https://www.nmthrives.org/https://nmdoj.gov/get-help/federal-disruptions/https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/insights-analysisSpelling: Tikkun Olam 

Dr. Melani Buchanan Farmer: Director, Running 505; Founder & Owner of Bfit 505 and Aspen Education Collective Dr. Farmer’s CV is extensive, and her passion for education and community run deep. In this episode Dr. Farmer shares how she came to be at the helm of several great programs here in Albuquerque, and what keeps her motivated to continuously look for collaborators in this good work. “Education is in my soul,” Dr. Farmer says, and you can see this in so many of the details of her life. Her dissertation research became a full-fledged 501c3, Running 505; her gym offers multi-faceted wellness programming to all ages and abilities; her consulting collective seeks to support adults in their personal and professional growth. Dr. Farmer’s perspectives on how individual wellness is integral to the well-being of the larger community, how “together, we can go so much further,” and why doing the Bataan Memorial Death March each year sends a powerful message of community support are each something we can learn from. If you missed the Speakeasy-themed gala for Running 505, you can learn more about all of Dr. Farmer’s work at running505.com You may even catch me at Bfit505 one day! @running505 @bfit505

Ethan Watson, CABQ City Clerk Have you ever considered how transparency comes into effect in real life? Ethan Watson says that “transparency is an ecosystem,” and through this conversation I came to understand that he is absolutely correct – it takes multiple players, on the same beam, if you will, of access to information to ensure transparency comes to fruition in both state and federal systems.Albuquerque’s City Clerk is the chief records custodian for the state’s largest public records program, and does so with the understanding that the system needs to continuously evolve to meet the needs of the public while adhering to national best practices. Ethan and his growing staff have implemented systems that streamline the process for records management and response to requests – requests that have tripled since Covid.Check out this conversation to better understand the purpose of the Clerk’s Office, and to understand why March 17-21 is called Sunshine Week – a celebration of our national transparency laws. Ethan and his staff work diligently to improve processes, something that you can easily recognize in the latest Inspection of Public Records Act report, link below. How the office is reducing backlog: https://www.cabq.gov/clerk/news/fy-2025-second-quarter-ipra-backlog-reportSunshine Week info https://sunshineweek.org/

Liam Westgate, Director of Community and Clinical Linkages, Presbyterian Health Services When you think of healthcare, do you think of hope? Liam Westgate believes not only in the power of hope, but creating mechanisms for healthcare workers to utilize optimism in their caregiving and relationships. As the Director of the central delivery system for Linkages, Liam guides his colleagues with the perspective that “there’s always something we can do” and that their work can be more effective when using curiosity and building bridges.What this conversation revealed is that health providers like community health and peer support workers offer is so much more than one-off patient engagements – they are “points of light” among a network of folks endeavoring to care for community needs and create opportunities for healing at every interaction. Liam is a force behind these efforts, taking time to be grateful for his life-affirming patient engagements and “being open to where he is being called to be useful.”Check out this episode to learn what a pracademic is, consider why the approach to healthcare is irrational, and where the Linkages programs can be of assistance to you. Book rec: Hope in the Dark, Rebecca SolnitCommunity and Clinical Linkages https://www.phs.org/community/committed-to-community-health/programs

Brianna Gallegos, Public Information Officer for Youth and Family Services (YFS) Brianna is a long-time employee of the City of Albuquerque and would love for young folks to follow her lead.This conversation focuses on her deep understanding of the YFS community centers and their offerings, but even between the lines you can hear her passion for mentorship and collaboration.Firmly connected to her purpose, Brianna makes a concerted effort to empower youth whether it’s in YFS programs or leadership in younger colleagues. She recognizes the importance of “doing it right” when working closely with community members and knows that a good mentor can “pull the light out” of a young person to help them see their own capabilities.Check out this episode to learn more about the life of a Public Information Officer, finding impactful job opportunities for youth within the City, and YFS community center programs.Jobs and Mentorship: https://www.cabq.gov/family/our-department/employment-opportunities/jobs-internshipsCommunity Centers: https://www.cabq.gov/family/crei@yfsqbqReplyForwardHM

Peter Rice, Editor of the Downtown Albuquerque News (DAN) A natural investigator that he is, I discovered that it’s very worth asking Peter what is on his mind. His inspiring approach to modern journalism embraces a deep understanding of important historical events and current affairs. Peter is the Editor of the DAN and, along with his contributors, gathers a wonderful array of articles reflecting downtown life and events, honing in on the unique culture of this area within 16 neighborhoods.Our conversation ranged from why folks should subscribe to the DAN even if you don’t live downtown to the history of NY state to curry recipes. I found Peter to be a fascinating writer, locavore, author, and conversationalist. For these reasons and because I encourage you to learn more about local tax programs, sleeper headlines, and cycling in New Mexico, check out this episode. It might be the “balanced meal” of news you need. https://downtownalbuquerquenews.com/Hot tip of the day: Read: The Powerbroker by Robert Caro https://www.amazon.com/Power-Broker-Robert-Moses-Fall/dp/0394720245

Megan Holcomb, Recycling Coordinator, CABQ Solid Waste Starting as an intern at 15, Megan has worked in City government for quite some time, and she brings a genuine concern for community to her work every day. Between interests in sustainability and communications, her work is wide-reaching and reflects her creative abilities as well as her deep understanding of government resources. Megan and her team are trying to accomplish a number of goals through the revamped Keep Albuquerque Beautiful program, both educational and logistical in people’s day-to-day lives. As big fans of the Oneabqvolunteers.com website, she and her staff utilize this to engage the community in addition to her specialty designing wider communication strategies. I was excited to learn that tours of the recycling facility are offered and not surprised that Megan is so passionate about supporting SW staff. Did you know we have 250 SW drivers working across the city, or that you can get a Recycle Coach?!Much to learn and so much to appreciate about Megan and her unique role in our City in this episode. I’m so grateful for her and her work. Enjoy! Keepabqbeautiful@gmail.comhttps://www.cabq.gov/solidwaste/keep-albuquerque-beautiful

Rachael Hernandez, Civic Engagement Coordinator, Office of Civic EngagementI have to say, I was smiling as I re-listened to this for notes.Rachael has built a career around her heart and highest skills, and I truly enjoyed chatting with her about her trajectory and recognizing the value of her “older sister vibe.” We reflected on that moment where she got her start in community engagement, how her familial traditions influenced her volunteerism, and how she hopes to enhance the quality of life for her fellow citizens.As the first Volunteer Coordinator for the Health, Housing, and Homelessness Department at CABQ, Rachael developed and managed impactful volunteer programs and generated significant relationships needed to get the work done. Her current focus is enhancing volunteer opportunities, increasing civic participation, and fostering stronger connections between City departments and citizens. She has a special way of bringing joy to others and supporting the greater community.*When Mariah said Intel, she meant to say Sandia National Labs.https://www.oneabqvolunteers.com/https://www.cabq.gov/abq-volunteers/volunteer-of-the-month-nominations

Secretary of State, Maggie Toulouse Oliver Leading with dedication, integrity, and a sense of humor, Madam Secretary has seen it all. She has been overseeing election administration statewide since 2016 and deeply understands the importance of being an engaged citizen.Reaching multiple generations of voters requires a range of outreach initiatives, for which she partners with 33 County Clerks across NM. The recent MIT Election Performance Index reports that NM currently holds the best election policies (nationwide!) for secure, accessible, efficient, and informative processes. Secretary Toulouse Oliver says, “this is like winning an Oscar… and there’s always more work to do to continue honing it in.”Our conversation ranged from the fact that early voting is already seeing a record turnout, to understanding what it takes to emphasize voter experience as a priority, to the lengths NM officials will go to ensure that victims of domestic violence can safely participate in our democratic processes (see Safe at Home). Madam Secretary took the time to give credit where it is due her colleagues, and highlights election officials in Roswell in particular, a city which is dealing with a recent flood but keeping the voting locations open. She also reminds us that polling volunteers are an all-parties set of folks, taking time to ensure voter experience in NM continues to be top tier. She shared that age-old election myths are debunked via Trusted Information 2024, and also that citizens can utilize our County Clerk’s office if we have questions about the process. Madam Secretary wants voters to take time to look at your sample ballot and make a plan to vote early (anywhere  in your county) - avoid the lines. Election day is the last chance to vote! She also reminds us to believe in the power of our vote! It is no simple thing. You can still register to vote at any polling location in your county.November 5th is around the corner! Sos.nm.gov is an “encyclopedia” and worth the look.Nmvote.org – voter information portalMIT report: https://elections.mit.edu/#/data/rank

Sila Avcil, Co-Founding ED for NM Voters First and ED for NM Open Elections In a the lively pro-democracy elections conversations, Sila Avcil is a stand-out. Her unique background and deep knowledge of the topic are reflected by her beautiful articulation and sense of positivity. Our time together brought out some of the most important pieces of election processes as a whole, and the importance of every-day citizens taking part in these activities – elections lead to real impacts in people’s lives. In her role to foster better representation, Sila is working to educate both electeds and community members about the benefits of open primaries, ensuring that more eligible voters take part in elections and are knowledgeable about how to otherwise get involved. Check out this interview to learn more about Sila’s long-term vision, why NM is part of a historic moment in election history, and how YOU can advocate for causes close to your heart. Afterall, it’s YOUR voice that needs to be heard. Nmvotersfirst.orgNmopenelections.orghttps://www.nmlegis.gov/https://www.sos.nm.gov/

Lindsey Kay, VP of Client Services, WESST Dog lover, avid reader, problem solver. Lindsey Kay is someone we’d all want in our corner, and not just because she’s incredibly hard working. Lindsey is rooted in her values. As newly-minted VP of Client Services at WESST, Lindsey takes the time to get to know business owners and consultants alike; she knows the importance of understanding their stories and backgrounds. These are likely the kind of reasons as to why she’s been recognized so many times for her unique innovations and leadership in her previous role as founder and ED of Paws and Stripes. The internationally-known organization she started in 2010 arose out of her recognition of a distinct need in the veteran and caregiving worlds. Under her leadership of 14 years, Paws evolved from knowing first and foremost that “a dog can help” to providing holistic and trauma-informed relationship building between human and dog, organization and survivor community - the ones “who get it.” Currently Lindsey is processing this big life change with deep gratitude, and welcoming new challenges and small wins. Check out this conversation to learn more about her and WESST’s creative responses to the needs of businesses and community, and to hear Lindsey’s guidance for others who are seeking to problem solve in their own arenas. https://www.wesst.org/https://www.pawsandstripes.org/