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Join me for a fascinating exploration of Sacramento's significant historical evolution with our passionate guests, Walter White, President of the Sacramento Historical Society, Delta Pick Mello, Vice President and Gregg Lukenbill, Vice President. Listen in as Gregg passionately outlines Sacramento's monumental contributions from the Civil War, the Gold Rush, and the construction of the transcontinental railroad to the electrification that even inspired Walt Disney. We'll uncover how Sacramento's unique geographical attributes, such as the Sierra Nevada watershed, have played a crucial role in its scientific advancements. Walt and Delta share the mission and evolution of the Sacramento Historical Society, emphasizing their efforts to document, preserve, and elevate the global significance of Sacramento's history.

In our discussion, we also highlight the importance of collaboration among local institutions dedicated to preserving Sacramento's history. We address the challenges faced by small nonprofit organizations, including funding struggles and the pursuit of fiscal sustainability through various initiatives. The chapter on preserving Sacramento's historical significance takes us back to the founding of the Sacramento Historical Society and its pivotal moments, such as the preservation of artifacts and the re-founding of the society by Joseph McGowan. The conversation underscores Sacramento's rich history and its far-reaching impact, advocating for broader recognition of its importance beyond being just the capital of California. Sacramento is truly, the center of the Golden Triangle that is made up of San Francisco, San Jose and Sacramento. Might it be possible we could construct a Smithsonian style museum to commemorate and memorialize all the city has contributed to our country? To learn more about The Sacramento Historical Society, you can visit their website: https://www.sachistoricalsociety.org/

Episode Highlights
(02:50 - 04:25) Sacramento's Role in Global History
(06:59 - 09:12) Historical Insights and Laser Beam Analysis of Jaon Didion
(10:48 - 12:38) Honoring Joan Didion in Sacramento
(17:02 - 19:15) Sacramento's Historical Significance and Potential
(23:30 - 25:01) Significance of Sacramento's History
(27:31 - 30:09) Elevating Sacramento's History Smithsonian-Style

Chapter Summaries
(00:00) Sacramento's Significant Historical Evolution
Sacramento's rich history, from the Civil War to Walt Disney's inspiration, is documented and preserved by the Sacramento Historical Society.

(13:53) Sacramento's Historical Organizations and Collaboration
Sacramento's rich history, challenges of a nonprofit, collaboration with local institutions, and opportunities for revitalization and growth.

(20:47) Preserving Sacramento's Historical Significance
The Sacramento Historical Society's history includes preservation of artifacts, renowned speakers, fundraising events, and collaborations with organizations like the Firefighter Burn Institute.

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What does it take to help newly arriving refugees, immigrants, and survivors of trafficking find stability and a sense of belonging in a new country? On this episode, I welcome Jessie Mabry, CEO of Opening Doors, a nonprofit organization that has been making a significant impact in Northern California since 1993. Jessie takes us through the inspiring journey of how a modest church outreach grew into a robust 501c3 nonprofit. We explore the historical significance behind the name "Opening Doors," and discuss the unique challenges faced by diverse populations such as Afghan and Ukrainian refugees. This conversation sheds light on the hurdles within the housing market and how the organization’s culturally and linguistically competent staff, who speak over a dozen languages, are addressing these issues.

Our discussion doesn't stop at basic needs; we explore the comprehensive support Opening Doors offers, from ESL classes and employment assistance to mental health services and legal aid. Jessie elaborates on the critical role of their legal services team in providing affordable immigration assistance, as well as their dedicated efforts in healthcare navigation, ensuring clients receive care that's both culturally sensitive and effective. We discuss the holistic efforts of Opening Doors to empower individuals, helping them transition from merely surviving to thriving and becoming active contributors to their new communities.

Finally, we address nonprofit collaboration, especially when it comes to funding. Jessie emphasizes how partnerships with organizations like The Impact Foundry and the Sacramento Region Community Foundation are essential in overcoming the competitive landscape for grants. We also clarify the important distinctions between refugees and asylum seekers, highlighting the different legal processes and challenges each group faces. Ending on a heartfelt note, we discuss the profound sense of purpose and joy that comes from reuniting families and aiding those in mental anguish to achieve mental health and well-being. This episode is a touching testament to the impactful work of Opening Doors and the lives they transform.
To learn more about Opening Doors, you can visit the website: https://openingdoorsinc.org/

Episode Highlight Timestamps
(00:07 - 01:23) Mission and History of Opening Doors
(03:43 - 05:42) Diverse Services for Immigrants and Refugees
(11:41 - 13:03) Navigating Community Resources and Advocacy
(17:13 - 18:35) Immigrant Contributions in US Society
(21:17 - 23:24) Nonprofit Collaboration and Partnership Opportunities
(30:18 - 31:37) Flexible Funding for Responsive Organizations

Chapter Summaries
(00:00) Opening Doors
Opening Doors assists refugees, immigrants, and trafficking survivors in Northern California with culturally and linguistically competent services.

(05:50) Journey to Stability and Belonging
Our mission is to support immigrants, refugees, and trafficking survivors through basic needs, self-sufficiency, and a sense of belonging.

(21:28) Nonprofit Collaboration and Funding Challenges
Collaboration among nonprofits, funding challenges, and distinctions between refugees and asylum seekers are discussed.

(36:21) Finding Joy in Helping Others
Work supporting families brings joy and purpose, transforming mental anguish to health and fostering gratitude and education.

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What can a school garden teach us about community health and education? On this episode of the Nonprofit Podcast Network, I am thrilled to welcome Salvador Ramirez, the inspiring Executive Director of Yolo Farm to Fork. Salvador's journey from an agricultural family background tied to the Bracero Program, through an enriching Peace Corps service in Kazakhstan, to his current leadership role, is nothing short of remarkable. His dedication to improving education, nutrition, and leadership for underserved children in Yolo County shines through as he discusses the 12-year evolution of Yolo Farm to Fork and its mission to integrate garden-based learning into STEM education and combat childhood obesity.

The conversation dives into the operational heartbeat of Yolo Farm to Fork, covering the maintenance of school gardens and a community farm in cities like Clarksburg and Winters. Salvador emphasizes the invaluable contributions of UC Davis and Sac State interns, who bring a wealth of skills to the organization, from marketing to administrative tasks. He shares insights into the importance of school district support, and how the collective efforts of staff, interns, and volunteers are key to the program's success. Salvador also highlights the life-changing skills children gain through hands-on farming experiences, which go beyond the classroom and into their daily lives.

Finally, we explore the diverse funding landscape of Yolo Farm to Fork, likened to a pizza with slices representing grants, donations, foundations, and sponsorships. Salvador paints a vivid picture of what could be achieved with unlimited funding, such as creating a culinary makerspace for children to explore healthy cooking. The episode wraps up with a thoughtful discussion on how garden education fosters better dietary habits, reduces anxiety, and encourages healthier lifestyle choices among the youth, ultimately benefiting their families and the wider community. Don't miss this enlightening episode that connects the dots between education, health, and community through the power of garden-based learning and true collaboration.

You can learn more about the organization by visiting the website: https://www.yolofarmtofork.org/

Episode Highlight Timestamps
(00:03 - 00:26) Exciting History Introduction
(08:35 - 09:56) Building School Gardens Through Community Support
(13:55 - 15:17) STEM Lesson Inspires Student Activism
(17:35 - 19:27) Yolo Farm to Fork Geography
(21:37 - 23:00) Practical Skills Learned Through Farming
(24:32 - 26:00) Sustainable Community Partnerships With Volunteers
(26:41 - 28:59) Relationships and Sponsorships for Funding
(30:51 - 34:12) Culinary Makerspace for Food Education
(41:51 - 43:17) Empowering Youth Through Education and Gardening

Chapter Summaries
(00:00) Garden Education in Yolo County
Salvador Ramirez's journey to becoming Executive Director of Yolo Farm to Fork, promoting education, nutrition, and leadership through garden-based learning.

(17:11) School Garden Management in Yolo
Yolo Farm to Fork manages school gardens and a community farm with support from UC Davis and Sac State interns.

(26:00) Building Sustainable Funding for Garden Education
Funding structure for garden education, corporate sponsorships, volunteer value, and envisioning a culinary makerspace for children.

(41:40) Promoting Health Through Education and Gardens
Health education for youth can lead to community-wide change through hands-on learning and Yolo Farm to Fork's innovative approach.

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How does a small organization tackling hypertension grow into a community health powerhouse? Join me for an inspiring conversation with Deborah Oto-Kent , the visionary founder of the Health Education Council, as she shares nearly four decades of experience transforming community health. Deborah takes us through the humble beginnings of her organization, initially focused on hypertension in diverse, low-income communities, to its broader mission today that addresses an array of health disparities. From healthy cooking on a budget to youth violence prevention, Deborah's stories illustrate a holistic approach that emphasizes not just health access but also social connection, economic stability, community safety, and education. Deborah is joined by Martin Ross, Deputy Director of External Affairs, Partnerships & Workforce Development to add definition to the cause and it's impact.

We highlight the importance of building collaborative partnerships to create healthier communities. Explore the intersection of health, wealth, and community well-being, stressing the need to address the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Learn why economic stability and financial education are crucial health issues and discover the essential role of collaboration among non-profits, businesses, and public health organizations in driving transformative change. This episode underscores the power of neighborhood-based solutions and the flexibility required to meet real community needs.

Finally, hear about the evolution and future direction of the Health Equity Coalition, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. We reflect on impactful work like the renovation of Roseville's Weber Park and initiatives addressing loneliness through community connection. Deborah and Martin share their insights on the importance of neighborhood-based initiatives and increased investment in low-income areas, advocating for a broader understanding of health access and mental health. Through inspiring stories and practical advice, this episode offers a deep dive into community health transformation and the lasting impact of dedicated, holistic efforts.

To learn more about HEC visit their website: https://healthedcouncil.org/
Or you can call: 916-556-3344
You can order Debra's books on Amazon.
"A Park for Everyone" & "Finding Your Connecting Place"

Episode Highlight Timestamps
(00:11 - 00:44) Founder's Long-Term Organization Involvement
(03:55 - 05:47) Social Determinants of Health and Impact
(07:55 - 10:14) Integrating Mental and Physical Health
(14:00 - 15:04) Equity Outreach and Community Engagement
(28:25 - 29:21) Community Impact Through Improved Lighting
(38:30 - 39:42) Drivers of Health Dominant Design
(43:49 - 45:18) Personal Reflections on Succession and Impact

Chapter Summaries
(00:00) Integrated Approach to Community Health
Deborah Oto-Kent shares the evolution of Health Education Council, addressing health disparities through education, safety, and community well-being.
(10:14) Building Collaborative Community Health Partnerships
Health Education Council's holistic approach addresses access to health, economic stability, mental health, and education through collaboration.
(24:37) Community Engagement and Solution-Focused Partnership
Leveraging community assets, deep listening, and neighborhood-based solutions can enhance public health outcomes.
(34:53) Succession Planning and Organization Growth
HEC's evolution and future direction, addressing social determinants of health, neighborhood-based initiatives, and leveraging diversity for sustainable solutions.
(46:06) Inspiring Stories of Community Impact
Nature'

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Can humor save lives? Join me, Jeff Holden, for an extraordinary episode where we'll uncover the potent mix of comedy and mental health with our special guests Brad and Victoria Bonar, and local comedian, DJ Sandhu. These amazing individuals share their raw and real experiences, including Brad's brave recounting of his 5150 hold and his journey to openly discussing his struggles with depression and thoughts of suicide. By blending laughter with serious discussions, they’ve created a space where difficult conversations about mental health become accessible and less intimidating for everyone involved.

We'll then shed light on the unique approach of using comedy to engage diverse audiences such as the military and schoolchildren. We explore how starting with humor makes audiences more receptive to addressing heavy topics like depression and suicide. We also emphasize the critical importance of having support resources like school counselors and community therapists readily available, ensuring that after the laughter, individuals have access to the help they need. Through touching stories and impactful events, we illustrate how this initiative is transforming the way communities talk about mental health.

Finally, we'll delve into the cultural perspectives on mental health, revealing that no demographic is immune to these struggles. Discussing the universal nature of mental health issues, we highlight the significance of self-awareness, proactive measures, and the transformative power of community support. Our conversation touches on the deep connection between comedians and depression, and our vision for expanding mental health awareness through comedy. This episode underscores how humor can be a powerful tool in addressing and managing mental health challenges, making a real difference, even possibly saving people's lives.

To learn more about the guests and their program, visit
https://www.1degreeofseparation.life/

Episode Highlights
(01:50 - 02:55) Uncovering Taboos in Comedy Culture
(05:43 - 06:45) Comedy Show Reveals Uncomfortable Truths
(14:58 - 16:07) Impact of Comedy on Mental Health
(21:30 - 21:54) Cross-Cultural Recognition of Depression
(25:42 - 26:37) Mental Health Group Dynamics
(30:08 - 31:05) Comic's Raw and Real Revelation
(43:23 - 45:02) Comedy and Vulnerability
(47:30 - 48:28) Comedy Show Comedian Anecdotes
(50:33 - 51:36) Trauma and Comedy in Healing
(01:00:51 - 01:01:55) Comedy Special With Mental Health Collaboration

Chapter Summaries
(00:00) Using Humor to Address Mental Health
Comedy and mental health intersect in "One Degree of Separation," a space for raw conversations and understanding.

(09:37) Laughter as Mental Health Aid
Using comedy to address mental health, we engage audiences and provide resources for support and dialogue.

(16:42) Fundraising and Impact in Mental Health
Establishing and managing a nonprofit, securing targeted funding, and the impact of mental health programs on communities.

(21:26) Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health
Mental health struggles are universal and require diverse representation in open conversations, fostered by bonding over a meal.

(28:58) Exploring Mental Health Through Comedy
Comedians' mental health, raw experiences, and physical symptoms of depression are discussed in the context of a show.

(37:37) Navigating Mental Health Challenges With Self-Awareness
Recognize and manage depressive episodes through self-awareness, proactive measures, therapy and medication, and supportive community engagement.

(43:49) Finding Humor in Mental Health
Vulnerability

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Learn how one parent with twins born with hearing loss was introduced to an effective support program for children as we share the compelling story of Licia Green, the Development Director for CCHAT (Children's Choice for Hearing and Talking) program. Experience the emotional highs and lows of her journey as a parent of deaf twin daughters, from the shock of their diagnosis to the profound relief and optimism found through the nurturing environment at CCHAT. Discover how this early intervention led her daughters not only to thrive in mainstream education but also to embark on remarkable adventures, like studying abroad in Italy alone.

Discover the transformative educational strategies employed at the CCHAT Center, designed to enrich the lives of children with hearing loss. We delve into the power of individualized speech therapy, the joy of daily music experiences, and the importance of maintaining social connections through summer school initiatives. Learn about the pivotal role of parental involvement and innovative techniques for boosting linguistic development, such as narrating daily activities and utilizing advanced hearing technologies like cochlear implants. Additionally, we emphasize the critical need for creating acoustically ideal environments to foster successful reintegration into mainstream settings, reducing auditory fatigue and promoting overall well-being, confidence and self-esteem.

Explore the operational backbone of CCHAT that makes these life-changing programs possible. Hear about the organization's funding mechanisms, the importance of unrestricted funding, and the inspiring success stories of former students who now return as educators. Understand the evolving challenges faced by nonprofits in the post-pandemic era and the expanded community outreach efforts, such as essential newborn hearing screenings and partnerships with medical providers. Celebrate with us the collective strength of the community and the shared commitment to enhancing opportunities for all children with hearing loss.

To learn more about the Children's Choice for Hearing and Talking, visit: https://www.cchatsacramento.org/

Highlight Timestamps
(02:13 - 03:31) Navigating Deafness
(05:27 - 06:43) Study Abroad Success With Hearing Loss
(12:26 - 14:12) Why Early Intervention Is Crucial
(20:04 - 21:45) Advancements in Hearing Assistive Technology
(26:48 - 29:17) Supporting Students With Hearing Loss
(32:07 - 33:40) Inspirational Deaf Mentor and Educator
(39:23 - 41:00) Enhancing Awareness and Support for Children

Chapter Summaries

(00:00) Children With Hearing Loss Success
Parent of deaf children shares journey with CHAT program, highlighting early intervention and successful integration into mainstream education.

(15:20) Early Childhood Hearing Support Program
CHAT Center offers individualized speech therapy, daily music experiences, and a summer school program for children with hearing loss.

(29:18) Funding and Success at Chat Center
Funding, success stories, integration, and post-pandemic challenges in supporting children with hearing loss in a well-funded organization.

(36:48) Hearing Loss Community Outreach and Partnerships
Community organization provides newborn hearing screenings, emphasizes early intervention and partnerships, and celebrates collective strength.

(41:10) Success Stories of College Graduates
Mother's journey with twins experiencing hearing loss, impact on families, and support from specialized organizations.

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What happens when theater arts meet social-emotional learning and conflict resolution? Join me, Jeff Holden, in this thought-provoking episode as we shed light on the extraordinary work of the NorCal School of the Arts. We'll explore how this organization seamlessly integrates music, theater, dance, and visual arts into educational settings and communities, benefiting everyone from pre-kindergarten students to adults. Michael, a former fourth-grade teacher turned program manager, shares his unique insights on merging theater arts with SEL, thanks to funding from sources such as the City of Sacramento, the CARES Act and the Department of Homeland Security.

This episode also highlights the essential role of arts-based Social-Emotonal Learning programs in fostering structure and routine for students, particularly those experiencing trauma. We discuss innovative methods like theater games and conflict resolution strategies that not only meet educational standards but also provide therapeutic benefits. The importance of trauma-informed, culturally relevant training for teaching artists is underscored, along with the newly introduced theater and dance credential in California, which opens up career pathways for aspiring teaching artists. Additionally, we delve into the economic impact of nonprofit arts and culture in Sacramento, showcasing tools like the AEP6 calculator.

Lastly, we celebrate the profound influence of arts education on students, teachers, and the broader community. Hear about the life-changing benefits of grants, such as the $100,000 from Impact 100, and how they enable the organization to further its mission. From implementing conflict resolution and empathy-building practices in classrooms to exciting expansions in after-school programs, this episode is a testament to the lasting impact of arts education. Listen for inspiring personal anecdotes, logistical challenges, and innovative collaborations that make a real difference in students' lives.

To learn more about NorCal School of the Arts, visit: https://www.norcalsota.org/

Highlight Timestamps
(04:09 - 04:45) School Offers Programs K-12 and Adults
(07:52 - 09:09) Performing Arts Impact on Conflict Resolution
(17:11 - 18:25) Teaching Artists and Theater Credential Program
(21:57 - 24:41) Assessing Impact and Accountability for Grants
(29:04 - 30:44) Conflict Resolution Through Theater
(41:51 - 43:45) The Art of Teaching and Performing
(46:19 - 47:48) Water Conservation Play Collaboration in Community
(49:28 - 50:27) Empowering Education Through Unique Methods
Chapter Summaries
(00:02) Arts Education Nonprofit Overview
NorCal School for the Arts brings performing arts into schools, impacting economy and community through innovative approach and data collection.

(04:36) Theater Arts and Conflict Resolution Programs
Michael integrates theater arts with SEL and conflict resolution, aided by grants and therapeutic exercises for students.

(13:19) Implementing Arts-Based SEL Programs in Schools
Integrating theater games and conflict resolution strategies in classroom lessons with teaching artists, emphasizing trauma-informed and culturally relevant training.

(22:46) The Impact of Theater in Education
Impact 100 grant enables SEL education through arts, promoting empathy and conflict resolution in classrooms.

(30:41) Arts-Based Education Program Funding and Expansion
Integrating theater arts in early education with nonviolent communication and social-emotional learning, funded by Prop 28, reaching 60 employees and expanding into after-school space.

(40:42) Arts Education and Community Collaboration

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Can horses really sense human emotions? Join me, Jeff Holden, as I uncover the profound mental health benefits of equine assisted therapy with Donna Eckwortzel, Founder and Executive Director of Hearts Landing Ranch. Donna’s unique program at Hearts Landing Ranch allows participants to bond with rescued horses without ever riding them, harnessing the horses' natural instincts as prey animals to create a therapeutic environment ripe for emotional healing. Hear how being present with these empathetic animals can transform lives, and begin the healing process from PTSD, depression, abuse and trauma.

We'll talk with Deanna about the moving stories of resilience and recovery, firsthand after her family found hope from a traumatic event through Donna’s compassionate equine therapy services. We also touch on the powerful combination of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy with equine-assisted psychotherapy, showcasing Deanna's nine-year-old grandaughter's journey to overcome her fears and anxieties. This episode shines a light on the critical role of accessible mental health resources and how horses play an integral part in the healing process.

Explore the intricate dynamics of equine-assisted psychotherapy, from emotional exercises that help clients manage their feelings. Through a client-driven approach and a dedicated team of human therapists and equine specialists, Hearts Landing Ranch offers a non-judgmental space for self-discovery and healing. Listen to a touching narrative from Anabel, an employee from the Placer County DA's office. Be inspired by the incredible work at Hearts Landing Ranch and the profound impact of equine therapy on victims of trauma, veterans, and first responders.

For more information about the ranch visit: https://www.heartslandingranch.com/
Facebook: HeartsLandingRanch
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@heartslandingranch

Episode Highlights
(01:38 - 02:52) Rescued Ranch Horses Find Home
(03:53 - 05:12) Animal Behavior and Human Perception
(12:09 - 13:00) Youth Programs Making Positive Impact
(25:21 - 26:03) Equine Therapy and Emotional Balls Curriculum
(32:01 - 33:45) Supporting PTSD With Community Events
(40:35 - 42:05) Embracing Grief and Vulnerability
(47:10 - 48:22) Power of Community in Healing
(51:11 - 52:59) Discussing Vulnerability and Ego in Communication
(57:16 - 58:07) Property Expansion Plans and Growth
(01:02:16 - 01:02:53) Rescued Horses Support People

Chapter Summaries
(00:00) Therapeutic Benefits of Equine Therapy
Therapeutic benefits of horses, present moment awareness, and their ability to sense human emotions in a non-riding program.

(14:36) Hearts Landing Ranch Equine Therapy
Family finds healing through equine therapy and EMDR at Hearts Landing Ranch after a traumatic event.

(20:19) Equine Therapy for Trauma Healing
EMDR and EAP combine to heal trauma in a child through equine therapy, emphasizing patience and mutual healing.

(24:38) Equine-Assisted Therapy and Its Impact
Equine-assisted psychotherapy involves client-driven activities with non-judgmental horses, facilitated by a team of therapists and specialists.

(33:58) Healing and Resilience Through Horses
Equine therapy at Heart's Landing Ranch helps participants heal and discover themselves through bonding with horses and confronting emotional obstacles.

(49:28) Healing and Support Through Equine Therapy
Sharing personal stories and working with horses can help heal trauma and break societal taboos.

(01:02:30) Rescued Horses Support People in Need