The NonProfit Podcast Network

The NonProfit Podcast Network

The NonProfit Podcast network is a compilation of not for profit businesses, organizations and community entities that are invited to be interviewed on the podcast pro-bono, use the network to find like organizations doing great work in their communities and source a one-stop listening shop of exclusively non profit organizations. This outlet is meant to give each featured non profit an opportunity to tell their story in their words, giving listeners a better and more complete understanding of the mission, vision and values as well as clearly delineating who they serve and how they're funded. Our intent is for this network to become a useful tool in helping any non profit organization begin the journey to successfully telling their story though podcasting then using that podcast as a marketing tool to reinforce their current supporters, reach new potential donors and volunteers through an easily deployed podcast. Growing reach for awareness with the speed of digital, this is just one more opportunity to get their story told to more people faster. By doing so, we expect this process to further embed the organizations in their communities of service as a result of the simplicity of distribution, the nature of the content and the ease of access to learn more about them.You can visit the website at https://www.nonprofpod.com/

  1. 3D AGO

    Non Profit News Pod: AI for Good - Helping Nonprofits Navigate the Future

    I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text... Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the way organizations operate — but for many nonprofit leaders, knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. In this timely NonProfit NewsPod, I’m joined by Brad Squire, CEO of Sacramento Venture Philanthropy, to discuss the launch of “AI for Good,” an initiative designed to help nonprofits and community leaders better understand and apply AI in practical, mission-driven ways. Brad shares insights from a recent community mixer that brought together nonprofit professionals, business leaders, and technologists to explore how AI can support nonprofit capacity building, improve operational efficiencies, and unlock new opportunities for collaboration and innovation. We discuss:  Why nonprofits are both excited and intimidated by AI  The importance of creating community around learning new technology  How AI can help organizations operate more efficiently with limited resources  The new AI for Good workshop series launching in May, June, and July  Real-world nonprofit examples already using custom AI tools and applications  Upcoming hackathons designed to build practical AI solutions for local nonprofits The workshop series includes AI 101, 201, and 301 courses designed for all experience levels — from complete beginners to those interested in building AI-powered workflows and applications. Brad also explains how Sacramento and Rancho Cordova are positioning themselves as emerging leaders in AI innovation and why now is the time for nonprofit organizations to begin engaging with these tools. Learn more and register for the workshops at:  SVP Sacramento AI for Good 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.

    11 min
  2. Why Our Kids Can’t Read: The Childhood Literacy Crisis We Can’t Ignore

    6D AGO

    Why Our Kids Can’t Read: The Childhood Literacy Crisis We Can’t Ignore

    I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text... In this episode I sit down with April Javist, Executive Director of the Sacramento Literacy Foundation, for one of the most important conversations we’ve had about the future of our communities. What begins as a discussion about reading quickly becomes a much deeper exploration into education, poverty, mental health, workforce readiness, civic participation, and the long-term impact literacy has on every aspect of society. April shares the startling reality that more children today are NOT reading at grade level than are — and why third-grade reading proficiency is one of the strongest indicators of future success. We discuss the growing Science of Reading movement, why culturally relevant books matter for children, and how Sacramento Literacy Foundation is working directly with schools, families, and community partners to improve literacy outcomes across the region. The conversation also explores accountability in education, the success Mississippi has seen through literacy reform, and why literacy may truly be the foundation for solving many of society’s biggest challenges. Along the way, April shares powerful stories from the field that highlight how something as simple as putting the right book into a child’s hands can change confidence, connection, and even the trajectory of a life. This is a passionate, emotional, and hopeful conversation about what becomes possible when communities decide every child deserves the opportunity to read, learn, and fully participate in society. Learn more about Sacramento Literacy Foundation: Sacramento Literacy Foundation Call: 916-836-3540 Email April: april@sacramentoliteracy.org Instagram: @sacliteracyfoundation LinkedIn: Sacramento Literacy Foundation LinkedIn Chapters 00:00 – Why Literacy Matters More Than Ever 03:08 – How Sacramento Literacy Foundation Began 05:02 – The Importance of Culturally Relevant Books 06:18 – Why Third Grade Reading Levels Matter 09:10 – The Science of Reading Explained 15:02 – The Literacy Data Behind Sacramento Schools 18:05 – How Communities Can Improve Reading Outcomes 20:05 – Partnerships, Advocacy & School Collaboration 27:58 – April’s Big Vision for Literacy Reform 33:10 – Why Reading Is a Revolution 39:05 – The Story That Changed Everything 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.

    53 min
  3. 6D AGO

    NonProfit NewsPod: SMUD Shine Awards. What They Are, Why Apply and Pre-Application Support.

    I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text... The Shine Awards are returning for another year, and now is the time for nonprofits to start preparing before the application window opens. In this NonProfit Podcast NewsPod, I sit down with Kevin Burdick, Sustainable Community Partnership Specialist at SMUD, to discuss how the Shine Awards help nonprofits across Sacramento County access funding for projects tied to clean energy, sustainability, operational efficiency, and community impact.  With awards ranging from $5,000 to $100,000, the Shine Awards have already distributed more than half a million dollars annually to local organizations working to improve their facilities, reduce energy costs, increase capacity, and better serve their communities.  We discuss:  What types of nonprofits qualify  The June 1 – July 31 application timeline  Why organizations should start preparing now  Pre-application workshops and informational webinars  Examples of successful Shine-funded projects  Matching fund requirements  How SMUD evaluates applications  Collaboration opportunities between nonprofits  Language accessibility and application support Kevin also shares why early preparation matters and how organizations that participate in workshops and planning sessions often submit stronger, more competitive applications.  If your nonprofit serves Sacramento County and has been considering ways to reduce operating expenses, improve facilities, or expand impact through sustainable projects, this episode is packed with practical insight to help you get started. Learn more about the Shine Awards at: https://www.smud.org/Corporate/Landing/Sustainable-Communities/Shine-awards 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.

    20 min
  4. The American Heart Association: One of America’s Most Trusted Organizations

    MAY 13

    The American Heart Association: One of America’s Most Trusted Organizations

    I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text... For more than 100 years, the American Heart Association has played a defining role in cardiovascular research, public health education, advocacy, and lifesaving care across the country. But many people may not fully realize just how deeply the organization influences the systems, protocols, and community programs that impact millions of lives every year. In this episode of The NonProfit Podcast Network, I sit down with Suzanne Bartlett, Associate Executive Vice President, to explore the mission and modern evolution of the American Heart Association — from groundbreaking research funding and hospital partnerships to CPR education, youth outreach, advocacy work, and community health initiatives throughout Northern California. We discuss how the organization collaborates with hospitals, schools, churches, nonprofits, and business leaders to improve long-term health outcomes, while also addressing issues like food insecurity, access to care, women’s heart health, and preventative education. Suzanne also shares insights into the organization’s fundraising model, the importance of volunteer leadership, and why Sacramento has emerged as one of the nation’s leading markets for community engagement and support of the American Heart Association's Women of Impact. Whether you know the organization through Go Red for Women, the Heart Walk, CPR training, or simply its global reputation, this conversation offers a compelling behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most impactful nonprofit organizations.  Short Chapter Overview 00:00 — Introduction to the American Heart Association  02:10 — Prevention, education, and Life’s Essential 8  05:00 — Reaching younger generations through schools and youth programs  07:45 — Research, evolving treatment, and trusted science  11:30 — Partnerships with hospitals, churches, and community organizations  15:20 — CPR education and building a “Nation of Lifesavers”  20:15 — Funding the mission and national impact  25:00 — Women’s heart health and Go Red for Women  31:00 — Advocacy, volunteers, and community engagement  33:20 — Personal stories and the impact of research advances  38:00 — Beyond the Mission rapid-fire questions  40:15 — How to support and connect with the American Heart Association To learn more, visit https://www.heart.org/en/affiliates/california/northern-california 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.

    50 min
  5. NonProfit NewsPod: BDOG 2026 Record Setting $15.4 Million Raised

    MAY 12

    NonProfit NewsPod: BDOG 2026 Record Setting $15.4 Million Raised

    I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text... Big Day of Giving 2026 is officially in the books—and it was the largest in the event’s history. In this special recap episode of the Nonprofit NewsPod, I’m joined once again by Kelly Siefkin from the Sacramento Region Community Foundation to reflect on a remarkable day of generosity, community engagement, and philanthropic momentum across the Sacramento region. The final numbers are staggering: $15.4 million raised62,017 donations29,091 donors886 nonprofit organizations supportedTogether, our region has now raised more than $132 million since Big Day of Giving began in 2013. But beyond the record-setting totals, this conversation highlights something even bigger: the power of community participation at every level. From $10 gifts to major matching campaigns, this year demonstrated that philanthropy is not reserved for a select few—it belongs to everyone. What We Discuss in This Episode:  How the live leaderboard became must-watch viewing throughout the night  The dramatic final push past $15 million  Why smaller nonprofits benefited in powerful ways this year  The growing impact of matching gifts and board participation  New giving trends including donor-advised funds, QCDs, PayPal, and stock donations  The role unrestricted giving plays in nonprofit sustainability  Why Big Day of Giving is not a competition—but a spotlight on generosity  How preparation, mentorship, and training directly impacted nonprofit success We also recognize the sponsors, nonprofit leaders, volunteers, board members, and thousands of donors who helped make this year possible. This episode is more than a recap—it’s a celebration of what happens when an entire region chooses to show up for its nonprofits. Brief Chapter Overview  Record-Breaking Night Recap  The Final Push Past $15 Million  Key Numbers & Participation Stats  Why Small Nonprofits Won Big  The Growth of Matching Gifts  New Giving Trends in 2026  Why BDOG Is Bigger Than Competition  Gratitude for Sponsors & Donors  Looking Ahead to 2027See it all in every way on the website: https://www.bigdayofgiving.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.

    12 min
  6. MAY 8

    NonProfit NewsPod: Impact 100 Hits $500,000 Milestone!

    I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text... In this NonProfit Podcast Network NewsPod, I sit down with Impact100 Greater Sacramento President Sarina Paulson, alongside leaders from U.S. Bank, to unpack one of the most exciting philanthropic stories in our region this year. What started as a hopeful push toward a $500,000 grant pool didn’t quite get there on reveal night—but this community wasn’t done. With 413 members rallying together, a powerful Match Me campaign, and last-minute leadership support from corporate partners and individual donors, Impact100 didn’t just get close… they crossed the finish line. Here’s what that means: A $500,000 grant pool to be distributed amongst 5 nonprofit organizationsThat means five $100,000 transformational grantsContinued momentum for one of the fastest-growing philanthropic movements in SacramentoWe also explore the deeper story behind the dollars—why collective giving works, how relationships drive impact, and why organizations like Impact100 are changing the way communities fund their future. With nearly $1.5 million invested into local nonprofits in just four years, this milestone is more than a number—it’s proof of what’s possible when people come together with purpose. 🔗 Learn more: Impact100 Greater Sacramento To learn more about the two organizations that rolled it over the top, you can find them in the links below. New York Life:  https://www.newyorklife.com/contact-us US Bank:  https://www.usbank.com/index.html 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.

    16 min
  7. The Forgotten Generation: Granting Wishes for Seniors in Need

    MAY 6

    The Forgotten Generation: Granting Wishes for Seniors in Need

    I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text... What if the power of a wish didn’t stop at childhood? In this episode, I sit down with Stephanie Berger, founder of Silver Wishes—an organization built on a simple but powerful idea: seniors deserve the same moments of hope, dignity, and joy that we so often create for children. But what I found most compelling in this conversation is that these aren’t bucket-list wishes. They’re real, immediate needs—things like fixing a car, restoring air conditioning, or providing mobility support. Small things on the surface… that completely change someone’s ability to live independently and with pride. Stephanie shares how this idea was born during COVID, inspired by her own family’s experience, and how it’s grown into a movement that’s quietly transforming lives across our community.  We also talk about what she calls the “dandelion effect”—how one fulfilled wish can ripple outward, inspiring others to step in and create even more impact. This is a conversation about empathy, about community, and about recognizing a population that too often goes unseen. To learn more about Silver Wishes you can visit the website https://silverwishes.org/. Or you can call  916-287-7172.  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.

    32 min
  8. NonProfit NewsPod: Big Day of Giving 2026. Final Push, Maximum Impact

    APR 30

    NonProfit NewsPod: Big Day of Giving 2026. Final Push, Maximum Impact

    I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text... With Big Day of Giving just days away, this final installment of the NewsPod series brings together the most important insights, strategies, and reminders to help donors, businesses, and nonprofits maximize their impact. I’m joined once again by Kelly Siefkin to wrap up a five-part series leading into one of the most important philanthropic days in our region. We revisit what’s working, what’s trending, and what still matters most—community participation. What We Cover: Business Engagement is Up  More companies stepping in with matching gifts and prize incentives Creative engagement through team pages, yard signs, and social sharing Increased visibility translating into stronger community momentum More Ways to Give Than Ever  Traditional giving meets modern tools: Venmo, Apple Pay, Google Pay Growth in donor-advised funds and IRA-qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) First-time stock donations entering the mix  Quick giving tools like “refill your cart” make participation easier than ever Philanthropy for Everyone  The $10 minimum makes giving accessible to all  A powerful reminder: collective small gifts drive massive impact A great opportunity to teach the next generation about givingTrust-Based Philanthropy Matters  Emphasis on unrestricted funding gives nonprofits flexibility  Encourages donors to trust organizations to meet their greatest needs Helps shift outdated expectations toward mission-driven impactFinal Call to Action  Give to organizations you love—and discover one you don’t yet know  Share on social and amplify the movement  Consider becoming an ambassador to extend your reach  Remember: this day belongs to the community With over 900+ nonprofits participating and millions on the line, Big Day of Giving isn’t just about donations—it’s about connection, visibility, and collective impact. Why It Matters This episode isn’t just a recap—it’s a rallying cry. Big Day of Giving works because thousands of people choose to show up. Whether it’s $10 or $10,000, every action contributes to a larger story: a community investing in itself. And beyond the day itself, the bigger takeaway is this—philanthropy isn’t reserved for a select few. It’s for everyone. Let's make it the best ever! Visit https://www.bigdayofgiving.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.

    9 min
5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

The NonProfit Podcast network is a compilation of not for profit businesses, organizations and community entities that are invited to be interviewed on the podcast pro-bono, use the network to find like organizations doing great work in their communities and source a one-stop listening shop of exclusively non profit organizations. This outlet is meant to give each featured non profit an opportunity to tell their story in their words, giving listeners a better and more complete understanding of the mission, vision and values as well as clearly delineating who they serve and how they're funded. Our intent is for this network to become a useful tool in helping any non profit organization begin the journey to successfully telling their story though podcasting then using that podcast as a marketing tool to reinforce their current supporters, reach new potential donors and volunteers through an easily deployed podcast. Growing reach for awareness with the speed of digital, this is just one more opportunity to get their story told to more people faster. By doing so, we expect this process to further embed the organizations in their communities of service as a result of the simplicity of distribution, the nature of the content and the ease of access to learn more about them.You can visit the website at https://www.nonprofpod.com/