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In this special NewsPod episode, we spotlight the 10th Annual Fast Pitch, Sacramento Venture Philanthropy’s flagship capacity-building program that helps nonprofits sharpen their storytelling and amplify impact. CEO Brad Squires and COO Drew Hayes join me to break down what made this milestone year record-setting — from a sold-out venue at The Sofia to a groundbreaking new technology platform that transformed live giving.

Hear how SVP selected 16 standout nonprofits from 70 applicants, supported them through four months of pitch development, and showcased the top 10 in front of a packed house of donors, supporters, and community leaders. With real-time donation leaderboards, a new mobile giving app, and a powerful community match, the event generated over $260,000 — more than double last year.

But the impact doesn’t stop at event night. Brad and Drew share how Fast Pitch equips nonprofits with long-term storytelling tools that help them secure future funding, strengthen board recruitment, and elevate community engagement.

SVP’s work is made possible through their donor-partners and sponsors as well as mentorship from leaders across the region. Full sponsor list available on the SVP website.

You can find it all at https://www.svpsacramento.org/

Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/ And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing.

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...

What happens when a small church ministry evolves into a vital community resource amidst a global pandemic? Join me as I uncover the unimaginable journey of the Rancho Cordova Community Food Hub, led by its first Executive Director, Carrie Johnson. You'll learn how Carrie tackled the daunting challenge of professionalizing a grassroots organization, enhancing its financial health, expanding leadership, and upgrading facilities. Her swift and strategic actions helped navigate a skyrocketing demand, with the Food Hub stepping up to support nearly 600 families a day, especially veterans and seniors facing the end of pandemic benefits and soaring costs.

Experience the innovation of a no-cost grocery store that champions dignity and choice, all while challenging outdated food distribution systems. Carrie shares the ambitious vision of a grocery store that values cultural and dietary preferences, aiming to reshape the way communities address food insecurity. Through stories of community collaboration and resilience, discover how supportive social services become a cornerstone in fostering dignity and hope for those most in need, all while transforming lives and strengthening the community fabric.

Explore the cutting-edge strategies employed by Carrie and her team to ensure the sustainability of the Rancho Cordova Community Food Hub. By merging solar energy initiatives, rentable spaces, and partnerships with many collaborative parties, the Food Hub is setting new standards in nonprofit revenue generation. As former guests become integral volunteers and staff, we witness a powerful cycle of empowerment and inclusion. The episode also shines a light on a broader network of food banks committed to battling food insecurity, reinforcing the notion that community support, hope, and compassion can drive a statewide and even national movement.

For more information about the Rancho Cordova Community Food Hub visit the website: https://www.ranchocordovafoodlocker.org/

Social Media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ranchocordovafoodlocker/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ranchocordovafoodlocker/
LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/89492550/admin/dashboard/

Articles:
https://www.biziournals.com/sacramento/news/2025/07/21/rancho-cordova-communitv-food-hub-
building.html
https://sacramento.newsreview.com/2025/02/04/rancho-cordova-food-lockers-new-community-hub-is-
reaching-for-higher-ambitions-around-dignity-while-providing-for

Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/ And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing.

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...

What if you could transform your community by making affordable housing both sustainable and equitable? Join me as I embark on a thought-provoking journey with Craig Adelman, CEO Mutual Housing California. With over 30 years of experience, Craig offers a deep dive into the organization's innovative approach rooted in the mutual housing movement of the 50s and 60s. Discover how they structure developments to ensure long-term affordability and sustainability, navigating the intricate balance between community needs and financial realities. Craig shares invaluable insights into the diverse housing needs, from multifamily rentals to senior housing, demonstrating that low-income individuals are not a monolithic group.

Uncover the experience of resident agency and community development in the realm of affordable housing. Craig passionately highlights how Mutual Housing fosters resident leadership, enabling individuals to transition from stable rentals to homeownership. This empowering approach not only creates stable living conditions but also builds vibrant communities offering mentorship and resources critical for personal and professional success. The conversation looks into the growing issue of senior homelessness and the importance of developing inclusive strategies to address such challenges.

Explore the vital role of community partnerships and funding sustainability in bringing these housing projects to life. We discuss the intricate web of collaborations with local entities and organizations, which are crucial for stabilizing living situations for vulnerable populations. Craig sheds light on addressing gentrification while ensuring equitable investment in low-income areas, drawing inspiration from global housing solutions. The episode concludes with a look at the exciting developments like Monarch, underscoring the ongoing need to expand housing efforts to meet the high demand.

You can learn more at the website, https://www.mutualhousing.com/

Instagram: @mutualhousingca

Twitter/X: @mutual_matters

Facebook: Mutual Housing California

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/mutual-housing-california/

YouTube: @mutualhousingcalifornia1314

Chapter Summaries

(00:00) Affordable Housing Development and Innovation
Mutual Housing California's unique approach to equitable housing, balancing community needs with financial realities, and long-term affordability and sustainability.
(11:54) Resident Agency and Community Development
Affordable housing is diverse, with needs ranging from supportive housing to senior housing. Mutual Housing's approach includes resident leadership and community building.
(25:06) Community Partnerships and Funding Sustainability
Partnerships, collaborations, and funding mechanisms are crucial for successful community development projects that address gentrification and support low-income communities.
(39:46) Addressing Affordable Housin

Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/ And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing.