Mission Matters

Paul Feith
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Mission Matters

This is the Mission Matters podcast, where we feature successful, mission-driven leaders committed to creating a positive change in the world. Our mission with this channel is to inspire other leaders by providing industry insights, new ideas, and inspiring stories from the pros!

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    Jenny Kopach - Science Olympiad

    Jennifer Kopach is the CEO and SVP of Marketing Communications at Science Olympiad, the nation’s largest K-12 team STEM competition. She oversees operations and manages partnerships with leading businesses, government agencies, scientific associations, and higher education institutions who join Science Olympiad's mission of improving the STEM experience for students, families, and teachers. Jennifer works tirelessly to position Science Olympiad as a well-functioning nonprofit organization devoted to program service and excellence at 50 state chapters and 57 alumni chapters across the US. She is also the President and CEO of the Science Olympiad USA Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to carrying out the charitable, educational, and scientific purposes of Science Olympiad. In this episode… Science competitions often focus on individual achievements, leaving teamwork and interdisciplinary learning as secondary concerns. However, Science Olympiad takes a different approach, combining hands-on collaboration with real-world scientific challenges to prepare students for future STEM careers. How does this program inspire the talented problem solvers of tomorrow by transforming an after-school activity into a nationwide movement? Jennifer Kopach, the driving force behind Science Olympiad, shares her journey from a PR and marketing professional to the CEO of a leading STEM competition organization. She recounts how Science Olympiad grew from her parents' basement endeavor into a nationwide initiative that fosters academic excellence and creates a robust community among students and educators. With a competition structure that allows students to specialize in diverse scientific fields while learning teamwork and problem-solving, they develop skills that translate into future careers in medicine, engineering, and research. Jennifer emphasizes the organization's role in shaping future scientists, highlighting its unique ability to offer students a broad choice of disciplines and the opportunity to compete and collaborate. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Jennifer Kopach, CEO and SVP of Marketing Communications at Science Olympiad, about the transformative power of Science Olympiad in STEM education. Jennifer discusses the organization's growth from a basement startup, the depth of educational opportunities it offers, how alumni chapters contribute to the ongoing passion for STEM and community service, and the impact of the Science Olympiad Foundation's grants on STEM research.

    46 min

  2. FEB 10

    Sr. Anthony Veilleux - St. Patrick's Residence

    Sr. Anthony Veilleux is the Director of Mission Integration at St. Patrick's Residence, a nonprofit organization providing care for the aged and infirm in Naperville, Illinois. A member of the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm for 50 years, she has played a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for residents through compassion and dedicated service. Known for her deep commitment to end-of-life care and holistic support, Sr. Anthony is also a registered nurse who brings medical expertise and spiritual guidance to her role. Her leadership and faith-driven approach focus on ensuring that St. Patrick's Residence remains a beacon of love and compassion within the community, addressing the physical and spiritual needs of its residents. In this episode… In a world where people in the twilight of their lives often face isolation and neglect, the commitment to serve them with dignity and compassion becomes a powerful testament to humanity’s capacity for care. What motivates individuals to dedicate their lives to enriching the final chapters of this vulnerable population? How does one woman's lifelong dedication to caring for the elderly become a beacon of hope and support for countless individuals? Sr. Anthony Veilleux, a registered nurse, unveils how her call to a life of service was clear from a young age. She shares her narrative — one that started in New Hampshire and led her through a fulfilling career in nursing to become a pillar in the Carmelite Sisters' community. Sr. Anthony discusses her service at St. Patrick's Residence, a haven of care and servitude deeply rooted in the core values of compassion, respect, and a shared commitment to improving the lives of the elderly. She describes the culture of St. Patrick's as one where love and faith intersect to create a nurturing environment for residents, staff, and volunteers. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Sr. Anthony Veilleux, Director of Mission Integration at St. Patrick's Residence, about the mission-driven work in senior care. Sr. Anthony discusses her inspiring faith-based journey from childhood calling to joining St. Patrick's Residence, the Carmelite Sisters' core values, mission, and their integral role in caregiving, the services and care provided by St. Patrick's Residence, and how the organization overcame its challenges.

    35 min

  3. FEB 3

    Gabi Vargas – National Hispanic Suicide Prevention Network

    Gabi Vargas is the Founder of the National Hispanic Suicide Prevention Network, an organization dedicated to addressing mental health and suicide prevention within the Hispanic community. She is a certified suicide loss grief support specialist and recognized 40 Under 40 Latinos in Chicago for her impactful work, empowering fellow suicide loss survivors to find hope. Gabi is also the Founder and CEO of Poiema Studio, a safe space promoting mental wellbeing in Elgin, Illinois. As a bilingual Youth Mental Health First Aid instructor with the National Council of Mental Wellbeing, she believes education is the best prevention.  In this episode… In times of overwhelming struggle, it is not uncommon to question the very fabric of our purpose. However, the deepest challenges can often lead to profound insights and catalyze collective healing. So, how can one individual's transformative journey from despair to hope inspire a community to find strength and purpose in their own darkest moments? Gabi Vargas, a social entrepreneur, delves into how she transformed her adversities into a force for good. She candidly shares her experiences with immigration, mental health struggles, and the loss of loved ones, revealing how these challenges led to the creation of support networks aimed at preventing suicide in the Hispanic community. Gabi emphasizes the power of education, empathy, and community engagement, underlining the importance of accessible resources for affected individuals and their families. Her triumph over personal hardships and venture into social entrepreneurship offer valuable insights into finding your passion and positively impacting the world. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Gabi Vargas, Founder of the National Hispanic Suicide Prevention Network, about her work in suicide prevention and mental health advocacy for Hispanic communities. Gabi shares her journey and struggles of identity and mental health as an immigrant, the inception of The Poiema Studio, the founding and mission of the NHSPN, and tips for overcoming challenges in the nonprofit world.

    34 min

  4. JAN 27

    Carolyn Wahlskog - Youth Outlook

    Carolyn Wahlskog, LCSW (she/they), is the Director of Operations and Programming at Youth Outlook, a youth services agency working to meet the ever-evolving needs of LGBTQ+ youth and their families in northern Illinois. She is the Co-coordinator of the Transformative Justice Law Project's Name Change Mobilization, which serves trans folks across IL to change their legal name and gender markers. Additionally, Carolyn is an adjunct professor at Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago.  Previously, she served as the Executive Director of Housing at 360 Youth Services, launching the first LGBTQ+ youth housing program in the Midwest. Carolyn works with educators, mental health professionals, and other youth workers to create safe, supportive, and affirming policies and practices for working with queer and trans young people and their families. In this episode… In a society where acceptance of LGBTQ+ youth is still challenged, creating safe and supportive environments is imperative for their emotional well-being and development. Initiating conversations that focus on advocating for change is essential for dismantling systemic barriers and promoting a culture of inclusivity that benefits everyone. So, how can we foster affirming spaces to validate their identities and empower them to thrive amid adversity? Carolyn Wahlskog, an advocate for the rights and wellness of the LGBTQ population, shares her path from social work to pioneering LGBTQ housing programs and spearheading initiatives that create affirming environments for youth. She discusses challenges like adapting the organizational culture in a virtual setting and underscores the importance of genuine inclusivity in businesses and schools. Carolyn shines a light on the progress and ongoing battles LGBTQ communities face, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy and understanding. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Carolyn Wahlskog, Director of Operations and Programming at Youth Outlook, about creating supportive environments for LGBTQ youth. Carolyn discusses the inception of Youth Outlook and its evolving impact on the LGBTQ+ community, its drop-in center's structure and purpose, how the Rainbow Sprouts program supports younger LGBTQ+ kids and their parents, and the ongoing struggles and importance of allyship for the LGBTQ+ community.

    24 min

  5. JAN 20

    Alison Paul - The Conservation Foundation

    Alison Paul is the Vice President of Community Conservation at The Conservation Foundation, a nonprofit aimed at improving the health of communities by preserving and restoring natural areas and open space, protecting rivers and watersheds, and promoting environmental stewardship. She is a passionate environmental advocate with decades of experience in environmental science and social justice. Alison has worked in human rights and community-based conservation and has spent over a decade with the Field Museum in Chicago before joining The Conservation Foundation. She is pivotal in fostering partnerships and programs that connect people to land, health, and community, emphasizing inclusivity and sustainable practices. In this episode… The intricate relationship between our local environments and societal well-being is often underestimated, yet it is key to fostering healthier communities. By recognizing the profound impact of nature on public health, how can we unlock innovative strategies for enhancing community resilience? Could embracing our environmental roots ignite a journey to unite individuals for the greater good? An experienced environmental advocate and nonprofit leader, Alison Paul delves into the inspiring world of creating positive change through environmental efforts. She shares her compelling narrative of growing up with a profound connection to nature and how this evolved into a lifelong commitment to social justice and conservation. She discusses The Conservation Foundation's initiatives, efforts to make healthy, locally-grown food accessible, and the challenge of staying true to a mission of inclusivity in a world of ever-changing demographics. With her passion and expertise, Alison illustrates how environmental work is linked to fostering healthier communities and individuals. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Alison Paul, Vice President of Community Conservation at The Conservation Foundation, about connecting communities with the environment. Alison discusses the linkage between social issues and environmental conservation efforts, The Conservation Foundation's mission to protect green spaces through community engagement, and the challenges of remaining inclusive, relevant, and impactful in changing demographics.

    28 min

  6. JAN 13

    Kay McKeen - SCARCE

    Kay McKeen is the Founder and Executive Director of SCARCE, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing environmental education and promoting sustainability in communities through recycling and composting initiatives. Since its inception in 1990, SCARCE has reached over 2.3 million people, helping educate and inspire action in 112 countries while spearheading significant legislative changes for environmental protection. Kay's passion for environmentalism was influenced by her upbringing, nature-loving family members, and her hands-on experience in nursing homes where resource conservation was necessary.  In this episode… In a world increasingly burdened by waste, the fate of discarded items raises compelling questions about value and sustainability. What if the items deemed as trash by one person could transform into essential resources for another, fostering a circular economy? Can small positive actions by individuals lead to large-scale environmental and social benefits? Kay McKeen, an experienced nonprofit leader, is the embodiment of how one can make a significant impact through networking, creative thinking, and sustainable actions. She shares how her organization has transformed the concept of waste by rescuing and redirecting resources like books, musical instruments, and even laboratory equipment to those in need. From educating communities on environmental issues and fostering green practices to inspiring global initiatives, her mission transcends local boundaries, promoting the welfare of both people and the planet. Together with her organization, Kay has touched the lives of over 2.3 million individuals and operates under the belief that every positive action contributes to a greater collective good. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Kay McKeen, Founder and Executive Director of SCARCE, about environmental education and resource rescue. Kay discusses how her family values and career led her to environmental advocacy and SCARCE, the nonprofit’s unique approach to rescuing resources and promoting reuse before recycling, how its rescue program gives new life to resources and helps those in need, and how SCARCE overcomes operational challenges.

    38 min

  7. JAN 6

    Vicky Joseph - Families Helping Families

    Vicky Joseph is the Founder of Families Helping Families, a nonprofit organization based in Naperville that provides housing and volunteer mentors to homeless families in DuPage County as they work towards self-sufficiency through education. Over the past 30 years, she has grown the organization to support 12 families, showcasing a strong community-driven impact. Vicky's inspiration stems from her family's history, particularly her Holocaust survivor mother, which instilled in her a sense of responsibility to give back. She previously served as a Community Outreach leader at Bridge Communities, a dynamic, grassroots, nonprofit organization committed to transforming the lives of homeless families. In this episode… Bringing a newborn home to a warm and loving environment is filled with joy and gratitude. However, there are other people in a situation where there is no home awaiting the child's arrival. How does one find the strength and resources to transition from instability to a future filled with hope? Vicky Joseph, a passionate leader and organizer in the nonprofit realm, delves into what it takes to turn vulnerability into victory. She shares her journey from a personal epiphany to launching a nonprofit that offers apartments and volunteer mentorship to homeless families. Throughout the discussion, Vicky emphasizes the power of personal connection, financial literacy, and the defining impact of mentor relationships that often extend beyond the program's duration. She also touches on the recent strategic decisions aimed at ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of her organization. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Vicky Joseph, Founder of Families Helping Families, about tackling homelessness through community support and mentorship. Vicky shares the origins of her lifelong dedication to social work, the start of Families Helping Families, the services the organization offers, and the program’s challenges and successes.

    20 min

  8. 12/30/2024

    Amy Rasmussen - Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education

    Amy Rasmussen is the Executive Director of Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education (CAPE), a nonprofit arts and education organization dedicated to enhancing student learning through the arts by partnering with over 40 Chicago public schools. Under her leadership, CAPE has made significant strides in arts integration, collaborating with professional teaching artists and educators to create innovative curriculum projects that combine arts with academics, benefiting thousands of students. Amy's passion for arts education stems from her experiences in intensive music programs, which inspired her to advocate for high-quality arts access in schools. She holds a music degree from DePaul University and a graduate degree in arts entertainment and media management from Columbia College. In this episode… The arts possess a unique ability to inspire, educate, and foster connections that extend beyond traditional classroom boundaries. Integrating creativity into the structured curriculum can profoundly enhance students' learning experiences, igniting their passion and enthusiasm for knowledge. So, how can we empower students through arts to lead a richer and more holistic educational journey? Amy Rasmussen, an experienced nonprofit leader, uncovers the remarkable effects of integrating the arts into the academic curriculum. She traces her journey from a musician to a champion of arts education, illustrating how a background in both art and management can equip one to influence positive change in the education system. Amy highlights their unique approach of collaborating with professional artists and teachers to co-create curriculums that harness the arts to spark student engagement and understanding. The challenge, she notes, is prioritizing arts education amidst an environment often dominated by stringent academic frameworks. In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Amy Rasmussen, Executive Director of Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education (CAPE), about the importance of arts in educational enhancement. Amy shares her musical beginnings and how they fueled her journey in nonprofit management and arts education, CAPE's mission to intertwine the arts with academic goals in the classroom, and the challenges and realities of sustaining arts programs in structured school systems.

    24 min
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About

This is the Mission Matters podcast, where we feature successful, mission-driven leaders committed to creating a positive change in the world. Our mission with this channel is to inspire other leaders by providing industry insights, new ideas, and inspiring stories from the pros!

Information

  • Creator
    Paul Feith
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    58
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Mission Matters (c) 2023
  • Show Website
    Mission Matters

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