Philanthropy in Phocus

Ending Isolation Through Inclusion: Best Buddies

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:00:44 +0000

Tommy DiMisa (“Tommy D,” the Nonprofit Sector Connector) kicks off episode #240 of Philanthropy in Phocus from his office (not the attic!) with a message he lives by: if you’ve got an idea—try it. What started as a campaign he launched on January 8, 2021 has become a weekly platform spotlighting nonprofits and the people behind the mission.

This episode takes an unexpected but perfect turn when Tommy’s original guest can’t make it—so he calls in the cavalry: Britt Carroll and Izzy Ades-Lawlor from Best Buddies New York. Together, they unpack what Best Buddies is all about: inclusion, belonging, and opportunity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)—starting with real, one-to-one friendships.

Britt shares Best Buddies’ origin story (founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver at Georgetown) and walks through the organization’s major program “pillars,” including Friendship, Jobs, Living, Family Support, and Leadership Development / Transitions—all designed to expand access, independence, and community. Izzy adds what she’s focusing on now: growing school involvement and helping lead promotion for upcoming events—especially the Friendship Walks.

You’ll also hear one of the most powerful “mission moments” of the episode: Britt tells the story of Charlotte, a Best Buddies Jobs participant working at Asphalt Green in NYC—where members know her by name, greet her warmly, and credit her with making their days better. It’s a real reminder that when employers lead with inclusion, the ripple effects are massive.

Key Dates + Call to Action

Best Buddies NYC Friendship Walk: May 2
Best Buddies Long Island Friendship Walk: May 9 (10AM–1PM), Marjorie Post Park (Massapequa)
Ways to help: start a team, donate, volunteer, sponsor, or open doors to employment partnerships

Tommy’s closing message says it all: it’s not about ability—it’s about access.

Change Lives with Us: Hamptons Community Outreach

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 15:00:30 +0000

Tommy “Tommy D” DiMisa is back “in the attic” for Episode 239 (recorded January 16th), and he’s joined by Marit Molin of Hamptons Community Outreach (HCO)—an organization proving that the Hamptons are far more than the “white parties and yachts” stereotype. In between the mansions are pockets of families living with food insecurity, kids without coats, and homes in dangerous disrepair—and Marit saw it up close.

Marit shares how a single moment sparked the mission: a child at her dining table didn’t want to stop doing arts and crafts because she didn’t have paper or markers at home. That heartbreak became action—a free, six-week Hamptons Art Camp (launched in summer 2018), running 9–3 and designed to give underserved kids safety, creativity, and real summer memories, while also easing the burden on working parents. But the needs didn’t stop when camp ended—families needed shoes, backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, and ongoing support.

Then COVID changed everything. Unable to fundraise for a camp no one knew could happen, Marit pivoted to what communities asked for most: food. HCO raised $320,000 in 2020, delivered 7,000 hot meals, 20,000 pounds of fresh produce, and provided groceries to 250 families twice a month, while also supporting struggling local restaurants by purchasing meals from them. As volunteers helped distribute door-to-door, HCO uncovered another crisis hiding in plain sight: families raising children in homes with black toxic mold, broken windows, collapsing ceilings, splintered floors, and no heat.

Today, HCO has grown from grassroots to high-impact—supporting hundreds of families and children, repairing dozens of homes, and building a serious pipeline of help. Marit’s current, crystal-clear goal: raise $4.5 million to help the 64 families on HCO’s home repair waiting list—including some who need an entirely new home. And if you want to show up with love in action, HCO’s annual fundraiser Love Fest is February 7th, 5–7 PM, at 230 Elm in Southampton. Learn more (and donate/volunteer) at HamptonsCommunityOutreach.org.

Broadway in the Hamptons

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 15:00:35 +0000

Tommy DiMisa is back for the first Philanthropy in Phocus episode of 2026 with his trademark “day-in-the-life” energy—ringing in the new year, celebrating his 48th birthday, and broadcasting not from the attic this time, but from the worldwide headquarters of Vanguard Benefits. Along the way, he shares highlights from a packed week: supporting a Queens Chamber of Commerce nonprofit needs assessment with local leaders, jumping on calls about mission-driven work (including efforts supporting incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people), and continuing to show up as “The Nonprofit Sector Connector” who helps organizations amplify their stories.

This week’s featured guest is Tracy Mitchell, Executive Director of Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor (BayStreet.org). Tommy brings Tracy on because he’s intentionally challenging himself to learn more about the arts and culture space—especially as Bay Street Theater becomes a semi-finalist in the Long Island Imagine Awards. What follows is a lively, heartfelt conversation about the power of the arts to change moods, open minds, and build community. Tracy shares her remarkable path from being a child performer to producing work in television and film—including large-format projects like Back to the Future: The Ride, and an ABC primetime documentary special hosted by Oprah. Together, they reflect on how technology transformed storytelling, lowered the barrier to entry for creators, and expanded who gets to make and share meaningful work.

Tracy then pulls back the curtain on what makes Bay Street Theater special: it’s an intimate 299-seat professional regional theater that operates year-round, bringing in Broadway-level talent while producing new work and reimagining classics. She explains the scale of their summer season—multiple mainstage productions running eight shows a week—plus comedy, concerts, and special performances that keep the venue buzzing beyond the traditional theater calendar. One of the biggest missions Bay Street embraces is developing what’s next: supporting writers and artists through opportunities like their New Works Festival, where scripts are selected, performed by professional casts, and refined through audience Q&As. Tracy makes the case plainly: you don’t find “the next Hamilton” without taking chances on original work.

A centerpiece of the episode is Bay Street’s Literature Live program—created to ensure more students experience professional theater while they’re still in school. Tracy describes how the program adapts curriculum-connected books into 90-minute productions (with full sets, lighting, costumes, and professional actors), and brings middle and high school students in for free—schools just cover transportation. The real magic, she says, is what happens when students from different backgrounds watch the same story and take away different insights, sparking conversation, empathy, and connection. Tommy ties it back to the heart of the show: when art creates understanding, it strengthens community—and that’s nonprofit work in action.

To close, Tracy shares how listeners can help: volunteer support (they need about 10 volunteers per night), donations, and community investment keep the theater thriving, since ticket revenue covers only part of what it takes to operate. Tommy leaves the door wide open for future collaboration—hinting at an upcoming visit, tour, and promotional content to help Bay Street reach even more people. It’s a high-energy, feel-good episode that spotlights how arts organizations don’t just entertain—they educate, inspire, and create the shared experiences that hold communities together.

Inheriting the Power of all Survivors

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 15:00:37 +0000

In this powerful episode of Philanthropy in Phocus, Tommy D, the Nonprofit Sector Connector, sits down with Kavita Mehra, Executive Director of Sakhi for South Asian Survivors of Gender-Based Violence, for an honest, vulnerable, and inspiring conversation about what it means to build a life of service and stand with survivors. From her working-class Jersey roots and 100-hour weeks in her mother’s Hallmark store, to frontline overnight shelter work, to being fired from a fundraising role and coming back stronger, Kavita shares how every step of her journey shaped the leader she is today.

Kavita opens up about being a survivor herself, the loneliness of navigating class and identity as an Indian American woman, and how those lived experiences inform her leadership at Sakhi. She and Tommy dig into the realities of direct service vs. development, the importance of professionalizing the nonprofit sector, and why fundraising is really about storytelling, connection, and aligning passion with resources. Along the way, they talk about the Imagine Awards, sector stress, and why small groups of committed people truly can change the world.

You’ll also hear how Sakhi has grown from a small organization with a modest budget into a $7M+ movement hub with a 50-person team, offering holistic, in-house support for survivors across the South Asian and Indo-Caribbean diaspora: a helpline and text line, safety planning, immigration and family law support, trauma-informed counseling, housing assistance, culturally specific food access, economic empowerment, job coaching, and more. Kavita and Tommy emphasize that survivors are the agents of change in their own lives – Sakhi’s role is to clear barriers so they can safely make their own choices. They close with a call to action to support Sakhi or your local gender-based violence organization, because this work is truly life-and-death and impacts every community.

Resources & How to Get Help

If you or someone you know may be experiencing gender-based violence and needs support:

Sakhi for South Asian Survivors

🌐 Website: SAKHI.org

📞 Helpline: 212-868-6741

📲 Text: 305-204-1808

A trained team member will respond as quickly as possible to support with safety planning, crisis response, and next steps.

⚠️ If you are in immediate danger, please call 911 or your local emergency number first.

Connect & Support

🎙️ Show: Philanthropy in Phocus (with a PH!)

👤 Host: Tommy DiMisa, The Nonprofit Sector Connector

🌐 TalkRadio.NYC – Uplift. Educate. Empower.

👉 Learn more, donate, or get involved: SAKHI.org

👉 Support your local gender-based violence / anti-violence organization – this is one of the most important issues of our time, and everyone is impacted.

#PhilanthropyInPhocus #Sakhi #EndGenderBasedViolence #NonprofitLeadership #SurvivorCentered #SouthAsianCommunity #DomesticViolenceAwareness

Blood Cancer United: A Global Leader in Blood Cancer

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 15:00:03 +0000

In this inspiring episode of Philanthropy in Phocus, Tommy D – the Nonprofit Sector Connector – sits down with his longtime friend Dr. Joy DeDonato, Executive Director for the Metro New York region of Blood Cancer United (formerly the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society). Joy shares how a lifetime of service began with a simple feeling of wanting to help others, and evolved into more than two decades in the nonprofit sector focused on cancer support, education access, women’s issues, and amplifying the voices of those who are too often unseen or unheard. She reflects on the powerful example set by her parents, who modeled service “before it had a title,” and how that foundation of love, grit, and doing the right thing has shaped her entire journey.

Joy walks listeners through her professional path from Nassau Community College—first as a student, then staff member and later Executive Director of the college’s foundation—to a decade at the American Cancer Society, and on to SUNY Stony Brook working on women’s health and women’s leadership. Throughout, she emphasizes the power of long-term relationships, showing how mentors, colleagues, and friends have stayed connected across roles, institutions, and life milestones. Joy also shares deeply personal stories of losing loved ones to cancer early in her career, and then, 20 years later, watching close family members with blood cancers move from “despair to hope to strength” thanks to advances in treatment—an evolution that called her back into the cancer space and ultimately to Blood Cancer United.

Together, Tommy and Joy highlight the recent rebrand from Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to Blood Cancer United, designed to be more inclusive of all blood cancer patients and families. Joy outlines key initiatives including the Dare to Dream project for safer pediatric treatments, the Student Visionaries of the Year campaign, the emotional Light the Night walks, the Big Climb at Citi Field, and the Visionary of the Year competition that rallies leaders to raise critical funds. She also touches on her wider civic leadership as Vice Chair of Dress for Success Long Island and as a commissioner for both Human Rights and Women’s Leadership in Suffolk County. Through humor, Golden Girls and Fraggle Rock references, and real talk about grit and service, this episode celebrates how one person’s commitment to community, equity, and compassion can ripple out to transform countless lives.

Increasing Employee Ownership Through Succession Planning

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 14:00:50 +0000

In this episode, Tommy D sits down with Marie Davis and Matthew Epperson from the Georgia Center for Employee Ownership (GACEO) to unpack how business owners can use succession planning to keep companies, jobs, and legacies in their communities. They outline the three major models of broad-based employee ownership—ESOPs (a regulated retirement trust invested in the company), worker cooperatives (direct ownership with patronage profit sharing), and employee ownership trusts (EOTs) (mission-driven trusts that share value broadly)—and explain when each fits. Key clarifications: employees don’t pay to join an ESOP, governance typically remains with a board, and sellers may access tax advantages such as a §1042 capital-gains rollover (for ESOPs and co-ops). The conversation anchors these ideas in the “silver tsunami” of boomer-owned businesses and why proactive planning preserves local economies.

Marie and Matthew share real-world examples: Clegg Auto’s EOT-backed expansion that kept Augusta’s Regency Auto open with the same team and a new profit-sharing purpose trust; the growth of Love Is Love Cooperative Farm from five founders to 20 employees; and Athens-based JOMA Construction, which went 100% ESOP early, aligning a young workforce around long-term wealth building and retention. Beyond the why and how, they highlight practical on-ramps for owners and advisors—GACEO’s Employee Ownership Ambassador Program and Exit Pro 101—and point to a national ecosystem of state centers (via EOX) that can match companies with experienced legal, accounting, valuation, and financing partners.

If you’re a founder, CFO/CPA, exit planner, or community leader exploring alternatives to traditional M&A, this episode shows how to transition ownership to employees, protect culture, and keep profits local. Learn more at GACEO.org and connect with Tommy D to continue the conversation.

Harvesting Dignity, Growing Futures.

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 14:00:30 +0000

• Discover how Smile Farms connects agriculture with advocacy

• Learn how meaningful employment creates lifelong impact

• Be inspired by Steve’s personal and professional journey—from global brands to grassroots change

🍽️ This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus with Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic

We’re planting seeds of purpose and possibility with Steve McDermott, Managing Director of Smile Farms, an organization redefining inclusion through meaningful work opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. 🌱✨

This week, we explore “Harvesting Dignity, Growing Futures.” From his early days at Unilever and PepsiCo to leading strategic impact at Smile Farms, Steve’s journey is rooted in passion, innovation, and purpose. Join us for a conversation about employment, empowerment, and how farms are cultivating more than just crops—they’re cultivating community.

🕙 Tune in Friday, October 24th at 10 AM EST to hear how Smile Farms is transforming lives—one job, one person, one harvest at a time. 🎧

Progress with Purpose

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 14:00:54 +0000

✨ Why listen?

• Learn how QCP supports individuals across all stages of life

• Hear what’s changing—and what must change—in the field of disability services

• Be inspired by a legacy of advocacy, inclusion, and hands-on leadership

🍫 This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus with Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic

We’re joined by Terri Ross, Executive Director of Queens Centers for Progress (QCP), a pioneering organization empowering people with developmental disabilities for over 75 years. From preschoolers to older adults, QCP’s programs support more than 1,500 individuals in living full, independent lives. 💼💙

This week’s episode, “Progress with Purpose,” explores the evolving landscape of disability services and what it truly means to foster inclusion, dignity, and joy in our communities.

🕙 Tune in Friday, July 26th at 10 AM EST to hear how QCP continues to lead with compassion, adaptability, and person-centered care.

Organization: Queens Centers for Progress

Website: www.queenscp.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com\Queenscp

Instagram: @QueensCP

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/queenscp

#QueensCentersForProgress #DevelopmentalDisabilities #InclusionMatters #InTheAttic #CommunityEmpowerment #DisabilityRights

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

The Power of Showing Up

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 14:00:08 +0000

• Learn how grassroots action became a full-service hub serving 2,500+ people a month

• Hear the real talk on leadership, burnout, and building from nothing

• Be inspired by a survivor-led movement that puts compassion into action

🍫 This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus with Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic

We’re joined by Jennifer Hernandez, Co-Founder and Executive Director of ECLI-VIBES, an organization born from lived experience and built on the belief that healing starts with showing up. What began from the trunk of a car has become a $5 million agency with 40+ staff, 24/7 crisis response, and a survivor-led mission. 💼💙

This week’s episode, “The Power of Showing Up,” dives into what it really takes to break cycles of trauma—and how community-powered change can rewrite the future for survivors of violence, trafficking, and poverty.

🕙 Tune in Friday, August 1st at 10 AM EST to hear how Jennifer and her team at ECLI-VIBES are building a legacy of safety, dignity, and radical care across Long Island. 🎧

Name of your organization: ECLI-VIBES

Website: eclivibes.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088752150697

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ecli_vibes/?

fbclid=IwY2xjawLjfiRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETE5RlVBbkhY

VHhPTU1QRHRLAR52GycLMqedVVYzIIdBqBdxdyh7qLZeVY5

dYNg3ly4mrSeyzFXDofkOCnitg_aem_rYhpdxEfH_869hm47uMQSg

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eclivibes/

#PhilanthropyInPhocus #ECLIVIBES #SurvivorLed #HealingJustice #TommyDiMisa #InTheAttic #CommunityCare #RadicalEmpathy

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Caring with Cultural Dignity

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 14:00:43 +0000

- Learn how culturally appropriate services are transforming senior care

- Hear about the unique needs of South Asian elders in NYC

- Be inspired by Dr. K’s journey from medicine to movement-making

🌸 This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus with Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic 🌸

Join us for a powerful and heartfelt conversation with Dr. Vasundhara Kalasapudi, affectionately known as Dr. K, the Executive Director and founder of India Home. As a geriatric psychiatrist and visionary nonprofit leader, Dr. K has been at the forefront of creating culturally responsive services for South Asian seniors in New York City. 🧓🏽💜

This week, we explore “Care with Culture: Uplifting South Asian Seniors.” Born from her own search for care for her aging parents, India Home has grown under Dr. K’s leadership into a trailblazing organization offering senior centers, advocacy, and social engagement rooted in cultural connection.

🕙 Tune in Friday, June 27th at 10 AM EST to hear how Dr. K is building community, dignity, and care for a population often overlooked—and how culture can be a powerful tool in aging with grace. 🎧

Website: https://indiahome.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/indiahomeusa

IG: https://www.instagram.com/indiahomeusa/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/india-home/

#IndiaHome #DrK #SeniorCare #CulturalInclusion #AgingWithDignity

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Baking with Purpose

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 14:00:50 +0000

- Discover how entrepreneurship can empower people with disabilities

- Learn about the challenges and triumphs of creating inclusive employment

- Be inspired by the Cupcake Crew’s commitment to mentoring the next generation

🧁 This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus with Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic 🧁

Join us for a heartwarming and empowering conversation with Patty Castrogiovanni, founder of Special Sweets Bakery, operating under the nonprofit A Special Place For Me. Together with the Cupcake Crew—a team of talented individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities—Patty is proving that purpose, creativity, and community rise beautifully… just like their cupcakes. 💜

This week, we explore “Baking with Purpose: How Sweet Inclusion Can Be.” Learn how this small business blossomed from a dream to keep a close-knit group of classmates together after aging out of the school system—and how it now inspires others through mentorship and meaningful employment.

🕙 Tune in Friday, June 20th at 10 AM EST to hear how this one-of-a-kind bakery is creating opportunity, joy, and delicious impact—one cupcake at a time.

IG: https://www.instagram.com/specialsweets4u2/

#SpecialSweetsBakery #CupcakeCrew #InclusionMatters #DisabilityEmployment #BakeForGood

Flight Path to Inclusion

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 14:00:38 +0000

- Discover how aviation is being used to support neurodiverse families

- Learn how sensory-friendly experiences reduce fear and spark empowerment

- Be inspired by Antonio’s mission to create an inclusive future in flight

✈️ This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus with Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic

Join us for an inspiring flightpath into inclusion with Antonio Ferrara, founder of Aviators for Autism, a nonprofit on a mission to create sensory-friendly aviation experiences for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. From guided airport tours to immersive airfield events, Antonio is using aviation to empower neurodiverse individuals and break barriers—both on the ground and in the air. 🛫💙

This week, we explore “Flight Path to Inclusion.” Antonio shares how his love for aviation combined with a deep commitment to autism awareness has led to a movement that builds confidence, community, and new opportunities.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonio-ferrara-161103170/

Website: https://www.aviatorsforautism.org/

#AviatorsForAutism #AntonioFerrara #InclusionInAviation #NeurodiversityMatters #FlightPathToInclusion

From Grief to Growth

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 14:00:00 +0000

💛 This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus with Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic

Join us for an insightful conversation with Noah Eliot Gotbaum, Interim Executive Director of Adam’s House Grief Support for Children and Founder of New Spirit Advisors. Noah brings a powerful blend of entrepreneurial spirit, nonprofit leadership, and lived compassion to the conversation—especially when it comes to supporting grieving children and building impactful organizations from the ground up. 🧒💬

This week, we explore “From Grief to Growth: Building Nonprofits That Heal.” Learn how Adam’s House has transformed lives through free peer-based grief programs for children and families—and how Noah’s experience founding New York Cares and reviving regional nonprofits has shaped his approach to leading with purpose.

🕙 Tune in Friday, June 6th at 10 AM EST to hear how strategic vision, storytelling, and heart can grow an idea into a healing force for an entire community. 🎧

Name of your organization: Adam's House Grief Support for Children/New Spirit Advisors

Website: adamshousect.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?

q=adam%27s%20house

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noahgotbaum/

#PhilanthropyInPhocus #AdamsHouseCT #GriefSupport #NonprofitLeadership #NewSpiritAdvisors #HealingThroughCommunity

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Holding Space for Grief and Growth

Fri, 23 May 2025 14:00:00 +0000

The mental health needs of children and teens has been a topic with increased attention and discussion in recent years. SIBSPlace has been providing preventative mental health care to vulnerable children and families for 25 years and our knowledge in how to encourage children to increase self-awareness, promote expression of feelings and develop coping skills can be beneficial to all.

💛 This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus with Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic

Join us for a heartfelt and important conversation with Joanna Formont, Executive Director of SIBSPlace, a free program supporting children ages 5–17 who are coping with the illness or loss of a sibling or parent. An affiliate of Mount Sinai South Nassau, SIBSPlace has been a safe space for healing, self-expression, and connection for over 25 years. 🧒🎨

This week, we explore “Holding Space for Grief and Growth.” Joanna shares how SIBSPlace uses expressive arts and therapeutic peer support to help children navigate the complex emotional impact of illness and loss—and how our communities can show up for them with compassion and care.

🕙 Tune in Friday, May 23rd at 10 AM EST for insights on mental health, childhood grief, and how prevention, empathy, and creativity can help families heal. 🎧

✨ Why listen?

- Learn how SIBSPlace supports children through anticipatory grief and bereavement

- Understand how illness impacts the entire family—and how to help

- Be inspired by 25 years of community-based healing and emotional resilience

Organization: SIBSPlace, an affiliate of Mount Sinai South Nassau

Website: sibsplace.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sibsplaceinc/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sibsplaceinc/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-formont-lmhc-2471128/

#PhilanthropyInPhocus #SIBSPlace #ChildhoodGrief #MentalHealthMatters #ExpressiveArtsTherapy #TommyDiMisa #InTheAttic

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Redefining Possibility

Fri, 16 May 2025 14:00:00 +0000

They will learn about The Viscardi Center’s transformative work in education and workforce development. Also they will understand the role of disability in diversity, equity, and inclusion.

💡 This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus with host Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic

Join us for an impactful conversation with Dr. Chris Rosa, President & CEO of The Viscardi Center—a national leader in education, employment, and empowerment for people with disabilities. A lifelong advocate and wheelchair-user himself, Dr. Rosa has spent decades breaking barriers and driving systemic change to promote equity, access, and opportunity. ♿🌍

This week, we explore “Redefining Possibility: Disability, Leadership & Equity.” From transforming college access through CUNY initiatives to leading national disability employment policy, Dr. Rosa shares how authentic leadership, lived experience, and inclusive vision are reshaping what’s possible for people with disabilities.

🕙 Tune in Friday, May 9th at 10 am EST for an inspiring conversation on progress, purpose, and what it really means to lead with impact. 🎧

✨ Why listen?

Learn about The Viscardi Center’s transformative work in education and workforce development

Understand the role of disability in diversity, equity, and inclusion conversations

Be inspired by Dr. Rosa’s leadership, legacy, and advocacy on a national scale

Website: https://viscardicenter.org/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/viscardicenter/?hl=en

FB: https://www.facebook.com/ViscardiCenter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/viscardicenter/posts/?feedView=all

X: https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fviscardicenter

#PhilanthropyInPhocus #TheViscardiCenter #DisabilityEquity #InclusionMatters #ChrisRosa #AccessForAll #TommyDiMisa #InTheAttic

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Fighting Fentanyl with Compassion

Fri, 09 May 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Hopefully raised awareness to the affect that fentanyl is having on our nation.

🎙️ This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus with Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic

This week, we welcome Chris Hennessy, founder of The Raven Is Here, a nonprofit born from personal tragedy and driven by fierce compassion. After losing his brother to fentanyl poisoning, Chris dedicated his life to supporting those battling addiction, homelessness, and human trafficking—offering real help, hope, and human connection. 🕊️

Through outreach efforts and his Ending the Stigma podcast, Chris is building awareness, advocating for justice, and showing up for people when they need it most.

🕙 Tune in Friday, April 25th at 10 AM EST for a raw, moving, and ultimately empowering conversation.

✨ Why listen?

Learn the harsh realities of the fentanyl epidemic

Hear how lived experience fuels real solutions

Be inspired by what it means to turn pain into purpose.

Name of your organization: The Raven Is Here

Website: www.theravenishere.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?

id=61560519146474&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hipislive?

igsh=Zzg1anZlaXo5OGkw&utm_source=qr

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hipislive/

#PhilanthropyInPhocus #FentanylCrisis #TheRavenIsHere #EndingTheStigma #AddictionRecovery #TommyDiMisa #InTheAttic

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Service Above Self

Fri, 02 May 2025 14:00:00 +0000

By hearing about Rotary Club impact on local communities, an audience can gain insight into how volunteer efforts can create lasting change, understand the tangible benefits of service-oriented organizations, and be inspired to get involved in their own communities. This can lead to increased awareness of local needs, a stronger sense of civic responsibility, and potential opportunities for personal and professional growth.

"🌟 This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus! 🌟

Join host Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic as he welcomes Mark Kuat and Chris Soto, two passionate leaders from the Rotary Club of Gold Coast-Lake Success who are making a real difference through service, community engagement, and humanitarian outreach. 🤝🌍

This week, we explore ""Service Above Self"". Mark and Chris share how their local and international projects, like the Meal Food Packaging program that delivered over 86,000 meals, are transforming lives and inspiring others to embrace civic responsibility and community action.

🕙 Tune in Friday, May 2nd at 10 am EST to hear how giving back, leadership, and grassroots efforts create a ripple effect of change that strengthens communities and brings people together. 🎧

✨ Why listen?

Discover how Rotary’s service model builds stronger, more resilient communities.

Learn the tangible ways volunteer efforts can create lasting impact.

Be inspired to start your own journey of service and community leadership.

#PhilanthropyInPhocus #RotaryInternational #ServiceAboveSelf #CommunityImpact #Volunteerism #RotaryGoldCoast #GivingBack #TommyDiMisa 🎙️🌟"

"Organization: Rotary Club of Gold Coast - Lake Success

Website: https://gclsrotary.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?

q=the%20rotary%20club%20of%20gold%20coastlake%20success

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mukhtar-kuat-284871108/"

No Matter What: Recovery & Resilience

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 14:00:00 +0000

This episode offers a powerful, honest look at addiction, recovery, and what it truly means to rebuild a life from the ground up. Through lived experience and real-world solutions, listeners will gain insight into the recovery community, available resources, and how they can be part of the solution. Whether you're in recovery, know someone who is struggling, or simply want to make a difference, you'll walk away inspired, informed, and empowered to take action.

💪 This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus! 💪

Join host Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic as he welcomes Kevin Raab and Kenneth Nicholson, co-founders of the No Matter What Foundation, a Long Island-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals and families impacted by substance use disorder. Through scholarships, treatment referrals, and ongoing support, this organization stands by people in recovery—no matter what. 🛤️✨

This week, we explore “No Matter What: Breaking Barriers to Recovery.” Kevin and Kenneth share their powerful personal stories, the founding of their organization, and the lived experience that fuels their mission to walk alongside others on the path to healing and purpose.

🕙 Tune in Friday, April 18th at 10 am EST to hear about overcoming obstacles to treatment, creating a community of second chances, and the hope that lives beyond addiction. 🎧

✨ Why listen?

Hear real stories of addiction, recovery, and resilience from two leaders with lived experience.

Discover the unique model of support that combines treatment access, peer mentoring, and practical solutions.

Learn how you can make a difference in the fight against addiction in your community.

Name of your organization: No Matter What Foundation

Website: www.nmw-foundation.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554785383108

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-matter-what

#PhilanthropyInPhocus #NoMatterWhatFoundation #RecoverySupport #AddictionAwareness #SecondChances #CommunityHealing #TommyDiMisa

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Education Beyond the Walls

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:00:00 +0000

The audience will get a better understanding of the importance of adult education for those individuals traveling through our criminal legal systems. People will listen because there are over 113 million people in our country that have a criminal history or know someone that does. Helping people navigate the next chapters of their lives through education and skill training can (and will) change the face of our criminal justice system.

Jeffrey Abramowitz, J.D. is the Chief Executive Officer of the Petey Greene Program and the Puttkammer Center for Educational Justice. Jeff is the past Executive Director of Justice Partnerships and Executive Director Reentry Services for JEVS Human Services and the founder and Program Director of Looking Forward Philadelphia Reentry Program. Jeff previously served on the Board of the Coalition on Adult Basic Education, COABE, where he served as Secretary, and currently Co-chairs the State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship Program and is Chair of the Public Policy Committee. Jeff was appointed to the Pennsylvania Reentry Council and serves as Chairman of the Employment Committee and past co-chair of the Reentry Committee for the PA Workforce Development Board and served as the past Chair of the Philadelphia Reentry Coalition. Jeff is also a member of the Fair Chance Business Consortium and Vice-Chair of Philly Truce Foundation. Jeff is a subject matter expert for the US Department of Education, is the Moderator for US Department of Education LINCS Community of Practice on Correctional & Reentry Education and works on the IET in Corrections project for OCTAE. Jeff sits on several organizational boards and centers his work in the intersection of adult education, workforce development, and justice. Jeff is the producer and host of the award-winning weekly radio/television show “The Looking Forward” on Philly Cam Radio WPPM 106.5FM and PhillyCam TV (Live Streaming; Xfinity 66/966; Fios TV 29/30; Roku; Apple TV) and Co-Host/Producer of the Behind Every Employer Podcast. Jeff is a recognized keynote speaker and presenter across the country.

www.GivingVoiceToValuesTheBook.com

#PhilanthropyInPhocus #PeteyGreeneProgram #EducationInPrison #JusticeReform #ReentrySupport #SecondChances #WorkforceDevelopment #TommyDiMisa

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

The Overdose Crisis & Racial Inequity

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 15:00:00 +0000

Saeeda Dunston has served as Elmcor’s chief executive officer since August 2014. Recognized for her leadership in developing culturally competent programs for marginalized communities in New York State, her work focuses on empowering individuals and families to be active change agents in their communities.

Before joining Elmcor, Saeeda held several senior management positions throughout her career, addressing poverty, anti-racism, and healthcare needs in various New York City boroughs and citywide advocacy and policy-focused coalitions. She has played a vital role in enhancing Elmcor’s capacity through partnerships with public and private entities, addressing socio-economic and health disparities in Queens communities.

Saeeda has significantly contributed to developing and improving programs focused on behavioral health, health equity, social and economic justice, anti-stigma initiatives, and community education. Notably, she spearheaded Elmcor’s first supportive and affordable housing project, providing essential housing solutions to the chronically unhoused, individuals recovering from substance use disorders, and older adults. Additionally, her vocal, impassioned grassroots advocacy forged the groundwork that ultimately

prompted the inclusion of a funeral assistance fund operationalized in the Biden-Harris administration to support families who lost loved ones during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Black New Yorkers had the highest rate of overdose death in 2022, and the largest increase in rate from 2021 to 2022.

Approximately one in 1,000 Black New Yorkers between the ages of 55 and 84 died of a fatal overdose in 2022, a statistic more than twice the citywide rate.

Black men are 5x more likely to die of an opioid overdose in NYC compared to their white counterparts.

When it comes to confronting this epidemic in Black communities, we must acknowledge how the racial disparities in treatment of substance use disorder demand urgent attention. An anti-racist and effective approach that explicitly acknowledges the inherent healthcare inequality fueling the public health crisis devastating our communities is necessary in the fight to save lives

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Long Island's Musical Legacy

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

The audience will learn about another gem on Long Island! There is so much to do and learn about right in our own neighborhoods. LIMEHOF celebrates Long Island's musical heritage - which is extensive and exciting!

This week on Philanthropy in Phocus, Tommy DiMisa welcomes Judi Veeck from the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF). Judi shares the story of LIMEHOF, a cultural gem celebrating Long Island’s rich musical heritage while supporting arts and music education. From honoring local legends like Billy Joel to offering scholarships, educational programs, and senior initiatives, LIMEHOF is dedicated to inspiring future generations through the power of music. Tune in to discover the impact of this vibrant nonprofit and learn how they’re preserving and celebrating creativity across Long Island.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Transforming Lives: Bilingual Behavioral Health at HCC

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 15:00:00 +0000

They will learn about available services in Nassau and Suffolk Counties for underserved communities. They will learn about the history of the Hispanic Counseling Center and our mission.

Claudia M. Boyle serves as the CEO of the Hispanic Counseling Center (HCC), a multi-service agency in Long Island that provides bilingual and bicultural behavioral health and prevention services for underserved communities. Claudia joined HCC in 2007 as a clinician, delivering individual, family, and group counseling. Over the years, she advanced to roles such as Coordinator of the Kinship Program, Youth and Family Coordinator, and Associate Director, overseeing all HCC programs. In 2021, she was appointed CEO.

Originally from Colombia, Claudia earned her BA in Psychology from Universidad Del Norte and her MS in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Miami. Her professional experience includes counseling, program development, and research, with a focus on Latina women and families. Claudia is deeply committed to community collaboration and addressing the diverse needs of Long Island’s Hispanic population through culturally competent care and innovative leadership.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Air Ambulance: Life-Saving Care for Haiti

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Concerned global citizens and philanthropists interested in learning about the issues in Haiti and ways to support a unique, and critical solution to its health care crisis.

Haiti Air Ambulance is dedicated to providing life-saving air medical transportation to critically ill and injured individuals throughout Haiti, regardless of their financial circumstances. As the country’s only nonprofit helicopter emergency medical service, we are committed to enhancing access to timely, high-quality healthcare by bridging the gap between remote areas and medical facilities. Our mission is to support Haiti’s health infrastructure by collaborating with hospitals, clinics, and first responders, ensuring that

every person in need has rapid access to essential care. Through our services, we strive to reduce mortality rates, improve patient outcomes, and foster a healthier, more resilient nation. Our commitment extends to building local capacity, empowering communities through training, and promoting long-term, sustainable healthcare solutions for all Haitians

Organization: Haiti Air Ambulance

Website: www.haiti-air-ambulance.org

#PhilanthropyInPhocus #HaitiAirAmbulance #EmergencyHealthcare #MedicalTransport #GlobalHealth #HealthcareAccess #SupportHaiti #TommyDiMisa

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Leadership & Workforce Challenges in IDD Care

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 14:00:00 +0000

They will learn about working with the IDD population, what it's like to be a non profit leader and, hopefully have a few laughs.

- OUR MISSION -

We will enrich the lives of those we serve through quality care, a broad range of services, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

- OUR VISION -

To expand our role as Long Island’s center of excellence for providing premier treatment, care, education and support to those with epilepsy, and to individuals with intellectual or emotional challenges.

Organization: EPIC Family of Human Service Agencies

Website: www.epicli.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/epiclongisland

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epiclongisland/?hl=en

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/epic-long-island

#PhilanthropyInPhocus #IDDCommunitySupport #MentalHealthMatters #EpilepsyAwareness #BehavioralHealth #SupportNonprofits #LongIslandCommunity #TommyDiMisa

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

"Empowering Youth: Catalysts for Change"

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Participants will discover how to harness the voices and perspectives of our youth to tackle community challenges. While some may feel disheartened by the behaviors of teens, fostering genuine connections can transform them into powerful allies in our efforts rather than seeing them as obstacles.

Katrena Perou is a seasoned collective impact strategist with over 21 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector. As the Founding Executive Director of Inspiring Minds NYC (IMNYC), she specializes in developing transformative community engagement models across various districts in New York City.

Katrena’s previous roles include Director at Groundwork Inc., CAMBA, and Chief Program Officer at Urban Arts Partnership, where she has demonstrated a profound ability to identify and leverage assets within partner communities to create program models and initiatives that unite stakeholders around common goals centered on youth empowerment.

Her work was particularly impactful during the pandemic. She engaged underserved youth and earned recognition in local and national media outlets such as PIX11, CBS, and Good Day NY.

Katrena firmly believes that passion, skills, talent, hard work, and resilience are key to solving problems in any community. This principle has enabled her to make a significant impact, sharing her expertise through TED Talks and participating in various state-wide and national conferences.

Her contributions have been honored with several prestigious awards, including the Al Vann Legacy Award, the Women of Distinction Award from the NY State Assembly, and the Power Women of Brooklyn Award.

Additionally, she was inducted into the Cleveland Heights Hall of Fame.

Katrena began as a standout basketball player on a Final Four team at Penn State University, where she completed her undergraduate degree. She further advanced her leadership skills by completing the Executive Leadership Program for Nonprofit Management at Columbia University. To explore Katrena's passion for her work, visit her inspiring TEDx Talks on YouTube.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

The Intersection of Arts and Climate

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 14:00:00 +0000

They'll learn about how storytelling and live performance can be impactful strategies to address the climate crisis.

Chantal Bilodeau is a Montreal-born, New York-based playwright, whose work focuses on the intersection of storytelling and the climate crisis. In her capacity as artistic director of the Arts & Climate Initiative, she has spearheaded local and global initiatives for nearly two decades, engaging theatre and educational communities, as well as audiences in the U.S. and abroad, in climate action through programming that includes live events, talks, publications, workshops, artist convenings, and a worldwide distributed theatre

festival. Her work has been presented in a dozen countries and translated into French, Norwegian, Greek, and Portuguese. She is currently working on a series of eight plays that look at the social and environmental changes taking place in the eight Arctic states. She is a Creative Core member of the Laboratory for Global Performance and Politics. In 2019, she was named one of “8 Trailblazers Who Are Changing the Climate Conversation” by Audubon Magazine.

Name of your organization: Arts & Climate Initiative

Website: www.artsandclimate.org

Facebook: @artsnclimate

Instagram: @artsnclimate

#ArtsAndClimate #StorytellingForChange #ClimateActionThroughArt

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Children's Mental Health

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Info about Long Island's most pressing problems, ways in which FCA is working to address those problems and ways in which our neighbors can get involved.

Dr. Jeffrey L. Reynolds is the President and CEO of Family and Children’s Association (FCA) in Garden City, NY. Under his leadership, FCA, with a $24 million budget, supports vulnerable populations on Long Island. Dr. Reynolds has secured over $18 million in new funding and launched several innovative services.

Previously, he was Executive Director of LICADD, expanding substance abuse prevention programs and increasing services. He also worked with the Long Island Association for AIDS Care for 19 years.

Active in various health and community boards, Dr. Reynolds is a recognized expert on substance use and HIV/AIDS, having authored over 250 articles. He holds degrees in psychology, public administration, and a doctorate from Stony Brook University. A two-time cancer survivor and marathon runner, he has raised funds for numerous charities.

#PublicHealth #CommunityService #SubstanceAbuse #NonprofitLeader #MentalHealth #AddictionRecovery #CancerSurvivor #MarathonRunner #HIVAwareness #YouthPrograms

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Digital Equity - Computers 4 People

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Listeners will gain valuable insight about the critical issue of the digital divide, how access to technology can transform lives, and how they can help foster digital equity with a simple donation of a device they no longer use. By tuning in, they will discover how a 15-year old founded Computers 4 People, a leading nonprofit organization that is making a tangible impact and how sustainable innovation can uplift communities and more!

Dylan Zajac is the Founder & Executive Director Computers of 4 People (C4P), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting digital equity and access to underserved communities.

At the age of 15, Dylan Zajac founded Computers 4 People, located in Hoboken, New Jersey and by the age of 20, he expanded operations by opening a second office in Massachusetts. Up to date, Computers 4 People has served more than 3000 individuals and their families and has forged partnerships with over 300 organizations in the NYC and Boston Metro area.

Dylan is currently enrolled as a senior at Babson College.

Organization: Computers 4 People

Website: www.computers4people.org

Facebook: facebook.com/computers4people

Instagram: instagram.com/computers4people

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/computers4people/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

What does Destination Accessible offer to website visitors?

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 14:00:00 +0000

The audience will learn the specifics of what Destination Accessible offers on its website. People should listen to find out how they can get the most out of www.destinationaccessible.org.

About Org: Destination Accessible is a 501c3, whose purpose is to enrich the lives of people with mobility challenges by providing accessibility information of leisure venues (restaurants, parks, theaters, museums, kid-friendly venues, and other popular places.

About Roberta: Roberta was a teacher for more than 40 years. After spending time in a wheelchair, due to a bizarre accident, and having had both her mother and father using wheelchairs at various times, her frustration with lack of information led her to found Destination Accessible.

Organization: Destination Accessible US Inc.

Website: www.destinationaccessible.org

Facebook: Destination Accessible

LinkedIn: Destination Accessible

#DestinationAccesible #HelpingOthers #WheelchairsMatter

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

How Social Responsibility Creates Positive Work Culture

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Kim Cottage is a trailblazer in the recruitment industry and a co-founder of the Philanthropy Network of NY. With a passion for connecting corporate clients with their philanthropic missions, Kim has made significant contributions to the intersection of business and social impact. Her innovative approach has set her apart in the recruitment field, making her a key player in fostering meaningful partnerships between companies and their philanthropic goals.

Elizabeth M. Saitta, MBA serves as the Executive Director of SHRM Long Island bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for advancing the profession by inspiring, influencing, developing, and driving meaningful leadership for SHRM LI’s members and the HR community. With a profound commitment to making a positive impact, she spearheads strategic initiatives and leads the organization toward achieving its goals.

Liz has a proven track record in marketing and business development, with 25+ years of experience in event planning and financial service marketing. She previously held positions at Kuttin Wealth Management and is Owner of Helping Hands Event Services and Co-Founder of Philanthropy Network of NY.

Website: https://pnnewyork.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pnnewyork/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pnnewyork

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/92544586/admin/feed/posts/

#Podcast #NonprofitLeadership #HelpOneAnother #Nonprofit #PhilanthropyInPhocus #TheNonprofitSectorConnector #KeepConnecting

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Saving the World: Nonprofit Insights with Steve Mayer

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Get some ideas about how to:

- Pitch your organization's strengths

- Appeal to individual donors' interests

- Strengthen your organization so it sells better

- Upgrade your communication strategies

- Enhance your evaluation efforts

- Make your mission come alive

Studied organizational psychology, earning a doctorate degree from Univ Minnesota. Started a non-profit research organization, Rainbow Research, Inc, and a spin-off called Effective Communities Project.

Consulted to dozens of major foundations, and engaged hundreds of nonprofits around the country, and internationally. Taught "Nonprofit Program Development and Evaluation" at Johns Hopkins University.

Created a website (EffectiveCommunities.com) to pass on what he and his team have been learning about effectiveness in nonprofits and foundations.

Company: Effective Communities Project

Website: www.EffectiveCommunities.com

Facebook: Effective Communities Project

LinkedIn: Steven E. Mayer, Ph.D

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

"From Stonewall to Pride"

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 14:00:00 +0000

A better understanding of how Pride events and operations work, and the impact of fundraising in supporting LGBTQIA+ organizations in New York City and nationwide.

Kazz Alexander is a passionate and experienced nonprofit executive with a demonstrated history of enhancing programs and student experiences in non-profit management and youth development. Kazz has mostly recently served as Founding Executive Director of Hit The Books, Harlem NY’s first community-based organization focused on combining the pillars of mixed martial arts with mentorship and tutoring. Kazz holds a B.A. in history and has also earned a master’s degree in education from the University of Virginia, as well post-graduate certificates from Fordham University (Executive Education), Baruch College (Non-Profit Management) and NYU (Diversity and Inclusion). Prior to leading Hit the Books and TeachableNYC, Kazz served as Chief Program Officer at BCNY, and as Director of several non-profits in New York and New Jersey. Kazz also serves as Co-Chair of the Board of Directors at NYC Pride, advancing LBGTQIA+ community causes and organization partnerships throughout the New York metropolitan area.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Unveiling the Hance Family Foundation: Join the Movement!

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 14:00:00 +0000

They will hear about two parents' resilience and strength and how that transformed the small Floral Park community and then the world. They will hear how they can get involved, enroll in the HFF's free Self-Esteem Rising programs for their community and learn about strategies that can save you on your darkest days.

About Org: The Hance Family Foundation was created in the summer of 2009 after Warren and Jackie Hance lost their three daughters in a car accident on July 26, 2009. Emma, Alyson and Katie Hance were only 8, 7 and 5 years old. Facing unbelievable loss and grief, Jackie and Warren started this foundation as a way to honor their girls and create some joy out of tragedy. The HFF teaches our original social-emotional learning programs called Self-Esteem Rising to females of all ages all across the world. We honor the Hance girls because they lived with enthusiastic confidence. Kate Tuffy created these programs and is the chairperson of the HFF Executive Board. Meet Warren Hance: is the president and founder of the Hance Family Foundation. He is father to Emma, Alyson, Kate and Kasey Hance. Meet Kate Tuffy: is a special education teacher and behavior analyst. She created Self-Esteem Rising after being moved by the incredible hope and optimism that the Hance Family Foundation symbolizes.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Child Hunger on Long Island

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Hopefully the audience will hear or message and want to be part of the solution to child poverty on Long Island

About Org: Longwood Blessings is part of a National Organization in 45 States and D.C. whose sole mission is to provide food for food-insecure children for school weekends. Longwood Blessings started 10 years ago feeding 50 Children and now we feed over 500 students every school weekend. Our organization is completely powered by volunteers who fundraise, buy, pack and deliver food each school week. About Trisha Ewald: is a founder of Longwood Blessings in a Backpack. She has been Program Coordinator for the past 10 years. She now also works as a full time employee of the National Organization and oversees about 100 other Blessings in a Backpack programs on the east coast. About John Ammirati: joined Longwood Blessings as volunteer fundraising coordinator a year and a half ago after retiring from managing real estate offices

Longwood Blessings in a Backpack Website longwoodblessings.org Facebook Profile https://www.facebook.com/BiaBLongwoodNY

#EndChildHunger #FeedTheFuture #NoKidHungry #HungerFreeKids

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Empowering Adults with Physical Disabilities

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 14:00:00 +0000

About Org:

Envisioning Access is a Boston based 501 c 3 that is developing, in conjunction with tech start-ups and universities, innovative technologies like AR/VR, robotics, AI for those living with physical disabilities. Started in 1979, the organization has recently undergone a dynamic transformation from a service animal model to establishing an Innovative Technology Initiative. We are working with scientists and designers,

some of whom have physical disabilities themselves while also using our recipient base and developing relationships with other partners to bring on those who will use these technologies to test the products and provide input on the design and efficacy of the product. At Envisioning Access, we are amazed to discover that technology developed for the disability community is often developed without the input of anyone in the disability community. Our hope is that no technology for the disability community will be

made without the feedback of those using the tech, and if possible, developed by someone in the disabilitycommunity.

All our projects have three main goals in addition to providing accessibility for all. The technology must:

• provide a means to assist with a path for meaningful employment;

• offer assistance to getting back to school if that is what the individual wants; and,

• help alleviate isolation.

About Diane:

As the executive director of Envisioning Access, Inc., Diane Nahabedian leads the organization's dynamic transition from providing service animals to developing innovative technology for people with physical disabilities. With over 35 years of nonprofit management experience, she has a proven track record of enhancing the stature, financial security, and strategic partnerships of organizations through effective

development, marketing, and communications.

Diane has expertise in branding and rebranding organizations, and works with teams including boards and staff to plan and execute revenue-generating events and programs. She creates comprehensive marketing and public relations strategies to increase awareness of the organization and its key players. Her mission is to empower people with disabilities to live more independent and fulfilling lives through technology that meets their needs and preferences.

Name of your organization: Envisioning Access

Website: https://www.envisioningaccess.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MonkeyHelpers/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monkeyhelpers/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2411204/admin/feed/po

sts

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Rising Strong: Empowering NYCHA Communities

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 15:00:00 +0000

1. A better understanding of the population we serve.

2. The need that 1 in every 17 New Yorkers -- over 525,000 -- have in New York City

3. How we raise funds to invest in high-impact programs, evaluate them, and scale them across NYCHA

communities.

Alex Zablocki is a veteran public servant with nearly two decades of experience working with nonprofit organizations and government agencies at all levels. Before joining the Fund, Alex served for five years as Executive Director of the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy. The public-private partnership supports 10,000 acres of City, State, and federal parkland in Brooklyn and Queens. Before leading the Conservancy, Alex served as Senior Program Manager at the New York State Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery and also previously served as Director of Community Relations for the New York City Department of Homeless Services and has held various roles with the New York State Senate and New

York City Council. Alex received a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance and investments from Baruch College’s Zicklin School of Business and earned a Master of Arts degree in community and economic development from SUNY Empire State College. Alex joined the Fund as its Executive Director in June 2022.

Website: https://www.communityfund.nyc/

Facebook: http://facebook.com/communityfundnyc

Instagram: http://instagram.com/communityfundnyc

LinkedIn: https://www.tiktok.com/@communityfundnyc

#CommunityCompass #NYCHA #PublicHousing #CommunityInvestment

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Spring Into Resources and Awareness with ADRC

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000

They will learn all about the free and wonderful services we provide to Long Island families. We are an amazing resource and want more folks to be aware of our services.

Lauren Vlachos is the ED for the ADRC. Before joining ADRC in March 2022, Lauren served as the COO for the Suffolk County Boy Scouts. Lauren worked for the Scouts for 18 years serving youth throughout Long Island. Before joining the Scouts, Lauren served as a US Peace Corps Volunteer for 2.5 years in Niger, West Africa. Lauren earned a BA from Gettysburg College, MS from The New School, and is a Certified Fundraising Executive as well as a Master Gardener. She has 3 kids, 3 pets, and lives in West Islip.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

GameChangers: Powering Communities Through Sports Philanthropy

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000

More knowledge and understanding about SPN and how they can get involved. They should listen because the sports community is abundant and plays a huge role in our society.

I'm a strategic growth advisor and fractional COO helping sports teams, athletes, non-profits and startup companies build better fan relationships around data and innovative collaboration while making their businesses more agile, efficient and sustainable. With 25 years experience and a proven track record leading cross-functional teams at the NHL, MLB Advanced Media and Disney Streaming Services, I excel at developing symbiotic partnerships, driving new revenue and transforming digital audiences. I'm passionate about building communities and enjoy content and product development, brand strategy and team-building.

Organization: Sports Philanthropy Network Website: https://sportsphilanthropynetwork.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SportsPhilanthropy

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportsphilanthropy/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sportsphilanthropynetwork/

#SportsPhilanthropyImpact #GameChangersPodcast #PlayForChange

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

How To Turn Heartache Into Leaving A Legacy That Matters

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 15:00:00 +0000

Tune in live at www.talkradio.nyc!

Strategic Alliances: Basketball For Profit and Not For Profit

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 15:00:00 +0000

Tune in live at www.talkradio.nyc!

Adaptive Basketball - NY Rolling Fury & City University of NY (CUNY)

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 15:00:00 +0000

Listen live at www.talkradio.nyc !

Ballin 4 Peace

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 15:00:00 +0000

At Ballin4Peace, we believe that basketball can be a powerful tool for promoting peace and bringing people together. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, you can join us in making a positive impact on the world through this beloved sport.

Unlocking the Potential: Empowering Charities with Web 3.0

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 15:00:00 +0000

The future is here. Web 3.0 focuses on getting users immersed in a brand's Universe and how a brand can excel in the Web 3.0 space.

About Org: Battlefield Commander Foundation is a non-profit corporation and shall operate exclusively for education and charitable purposes within the meaning of Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or the corresponding section of any future Federal Tax Code. The Foundation provides educational scholarships to the children of law enforcement, military, and emergency responders killed on the job or during active service About Martin: Martin Conroy is a Christian High-Performance Lifestyle Coach, Martial Arts Instructor, and #REALTIMEwhistleblower. Conroy spent his three-decade-plus distinguished career in corporate America in the marketing and insurance industries. In 2014, he caught AFLAC agents committing fraud against police officers in Queens. He went through a horrific whistleblower experience resulting in him leaving corporate America to found and run the Battlefield Commander Foundation.

#ScholarshipsForHeroes #RealTimeWhistleblower #CharityEducation #BattlefieldCommanderImpact

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Invent the Future: Diverse Innovators Driving U.S. Growth!

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 15:00:00 +0000

They will learn about the "journey" independent inventors take in bringing their product ideas to market. They will learn how New England Invents is willing and able to provide help and guidance in helping with this commercialization process.

Lexa is the Executive Director of New England Invents. Her passion for inventing and helping other inventors is fueled by lessons learned with her product invention, Cargo Caddie, a stable trunk shelf that nearly doubles usable trunk space for most SUVs/CUVs in the market. She licensed Cargo Caddie in May 2023 and has begun developing several other consumer products.

Name of your organization: New England Invents Website: www.neinvents.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexa-gandolfo-2b317a1

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Why we choose to work Internationally and the impact that has on our work

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 15:00:00 +0000

I hope the audience will understand that it is possible to take your passion for something, your hobby, your joy and put it into something wonderful and positive. Chances are if you have found a way to fill a need, fill a void, your community needs that too. We all have expertise that can we can use to impact social change on a larger level.

I was born and raised in Queens in NY. I spent my whole life in theatre, I attended Frank Sinatra High school and then followed my love for theatre and performance to the University at Buffalo. After that I was working in NYC doing theatre auditioning, but also working as a teaching artist. After a trip to Thailand with a college friend Jacqueline Raymond Wegman we knew we needed to take our love for theatre and education and use it as a source for good. International Girls Ensemble was born, now I had to figure out how to run a non profit, I went back to school got my Masters in Arts Administration and have been working at IGE every since.

#changemakers #changemakerson

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Empowering Men's Health: From Urging Tests to Encouraging Comprehensive Care

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

Understanding programs and services offered at Winters Center for Autism. Learn more about an untapped talent pipeline of capable and motivated workforce. Get involved and support our work.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Christine: Christine Ponzio, M.S.E.d., is the Winters Center for Autism Executive Director. She has been working with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, as well as their families, for more than 30 years. She began her career in the field in 1989 at Developmental Disabilities Institute’s (DDI’s) Children’s Residential Program as an instructor, what is now known as a direct support professional(DSP).

About Org: Winters Center for Autism, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit affiliated with the Winters Family Foundation, was established in 2020 after years of thoughtful planning and development. Joe and Michele Winters, native Long Islanders, have been strong advocates for high-quality services for people with autism since their son Sean's diagnosis in 1996. They have long believed that employment provides people with a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Today, autism affects 1 in 36 children in the United States.The Center is a dynamic partnership of dedicated people working together to enhance the lives of adults with autism through job creation, training and placement to address the excessive unemployment rate among people with autism.

Although there are many programs that provide excellent services for children and teens, there is a huge gap in the number of services and opportunities for adults with autism. The Winters Center for Autism addresses that need by identifying skills and talents of our participants and matching them with businesses and organizations open to creating jobs for capable and trained employees; creating a kinder and more inclusive Long Island community.The Center also provides fitness, recreation and social programs to assist participants in achieving their goals.

Name of your organization:Winters Center for Autism

Website: https://www.winterscenterforautism.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WintersCenterforAutism/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/winters_center_for_autism/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/winters-center-for-autism

KEY WORDS: #autism #autismawareness #autismspeaks

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

How Has the Pandemic Affected the Mental Health of Older Adults?

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

We believe that our families and communities are better off when mental healthcare is available at every age. However, older adults face multiple barriers to accessing treatment, including stigma, financial cost, transportation challenges, and language. Negative stereotypes are another barrier, as they teach us that depression is a normal part of aging and that older adults are unable to grow and change. We hope to draw the audience into a conversation about how mental healthcare can support the overall well-being of older adults and strengthen families and communities.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Nancy: Nancy Harvey, LMSW, has served as the chief executive of the Service Program for Older People (SPOP) in New York City since 1990. During her tenure, SPOP has grown from a neighborhood-based agency primarily serving homebound older adults to a regional resource for affordable mental healthcare for adults age 55 and older. A State University of New York system graduate, she holds a B.A. fromSUNY New Paltz and M.S.W. from SUNY Albany. She has been an advocate for increasing access to geriatric mental health care in the region and has developed outreach strategies in partnership with NYCAging, NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Mount Sinai Health System, New York-Presbyterian

What Adults Can Learn About Youth Dating Violence to Support the Young People in Their Lives

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

- How to support youth at risk of relationship abuse

- What help is available to young survivors of dating violence in New York State

- How to identify signs of dating violence

- How tech-based abuse shows up for young people

- Information on how to learn more about dating violence

- How the legal system works in cases of dating violence

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Day One focuses its full services on youth, 24 and under, who are at risk of or experiencing relationship abuse. Through prevention programs, we reach 10,000 youth per year in workshops about consent,tech-based abuse, and healthy relationships. We train thousands of teachers, parents and other professionals to identify warning signs of abuse and intervene with safe and supportive guidance. For young survivors of dating violence Day One provides legal assistance and therapeutic counseling to help survivors achieve safety and stability. Our youth development programming builds the next generation of leaders in the anti-violence movement through advocacy and awareness projects designed and led by teens.

KEY WORDS:

#domesticviolenceawareness #domesticviolencesurvivor #DomesticViolenceAdvocate #againstdomesticviolence

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Teaming Up Against Prostate Cancer

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

They will know more about the work of Fans for the cure and how they can be a part of it.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Since the start of the charity’s annual Baseball Road Trip in 2007, Fans for the Cure has taken part in over 1,200 prostate cancer awareness days/nights at MLB and Minor League ballparks (and football stadiums and hockey arenas) throughout the country.

Ed is completing his forty-eighth season in baseball broadcasting. He hosts Remember When with former Red Sox manager Kevin Kennedy on SiriusXM Channel 89.

A graduate of Fordham University in the Bronx, Ed is an inductee into the All Hallows High School Hall of Fame.

Ed and his wife Luisa reside in Westchester County, New York.

Website: https://fansforthecure.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fans4thecure

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fans4thecure/?hl=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/fans4thecure

KEY WORDS: #cancerawareness

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Changing The Military Mindset and Successfully Navigating The VA

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

They will gain knowledge on how to understand the VA process and how to successfully navigate the system to ensure they maximize their benefits.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Veteran advocacy 501(c)(3) founded by service connected disabled veterans that offer no cost education and service to active duty, reservist, national guard, veterans and their families.

Veteran Advocacy Nonprofit 501(c)(3) with over 35 years of experience helping veterans navigate the VA process successfully and maximize their benefits. We assist active duty, reservist, guard, veterans and their families.

Name of your organization: Connecting the Dots for Veterans

Website: linktr.ee/connectingthedotsforveterans

Facebook: Connecting the Dots for Veterans

Instagram: connectingthedotsforveterans

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-dottie-adams-928825268/

KEY WORDS: #veteransawarenessmonth

All Things Mental Health With a Focus on the Importance of Family Support

Fri, 26 May 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

1 in 5 people are living with mental illness. The other 4 are family, friends, neighbors and colleagues. When someone you care about develops a mental health condition, it can be difficult to know how to support them while also taking care of yourself. This episode will dive into issues for people living with mental illness but also pay close attention to loved ones that surround them and how they can support themselves and the people they care about. This episode will also go over NAMI-NYC's programs including our support groups, classes, Helpline, and advocacy work.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

For over 40 years, the National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City has offered life-changing support, education, and advocacy to families and individuals affected by mental illness. NAMI-NYC's services are free of charge and accessible to anyone who needs them.

Website: www.naminyc.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NAMINYCMetro

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naminyc_metro/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/naminycmetro/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

"Revitalizing Education: POM's Farm and Staff Lead the Way in Re-engaging Teens and Overcoming COVID-19 Challenges"

Fri, 19 May 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

The audience will be able to understand the wide scope of services we offer at POM and the lives that we are transforming and have been for 28 years. I think any feel good story right now in our world is worth listening to!

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Lisa: Lisa Gatti has had a lifelong love affair with horses. As Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Pal-O-Mine, she has the opportunity to share that love with others in her community while running a business that inspires, educates and empowers others. Lisa’s passion for horses and teaching began at a very young age. After graduating college with a dual degree in elementary and special education, she lent her skills as a special education teacher in an alternative high school setting, working for Nassau Boces and Brentwood Residential Center. She started Pal-O-Mine in 1995.

About Organization: Pal-O-Mine Equestrian began in 1995 as a therapeutic horseback riding program for individuals with disabilities and other vulnerable populations. Our mission has been, and continues to be, to provide a comprehensive therapeutic equine program using horses to facilitate growth, learning and healing. Our populations include children and adults with disabilities, those who have been abused or neglected, the military and the impoverished.

Name of your organization: Pal-O-Mine Equestrian

Website: www.pal-o-mine.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/palomineequestrian/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/palomine_equestrian/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pal-o-mine-equestrian/

‍Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens Redevelopment

Fri, 12 May 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens is building a new facility that will serve 16,000 young people inWestern Queens by 2026. The new building will have the first planetarium in Queens, 1000 seat arena,regulation swimming pool, 175 seat backbox among other amenities. By 2030, we are looking to serve 30,000 young people in the borough of Queens.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Org:

For 65 years, The Salah M. Hassanein Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens (VBGCQ) has been an anchor in the Astoria/Long Island City community, offering children a safe haven to learn, play, and grow into tomorrow's leaders. Since opening its doors, VBGCQ has upheld a strong tradition of community leadership to make a difference in the lives of young people.

Each and everyday, we manifest our mission through the Club's core program areas: Academic Enhancement, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), Healthy Living and the Arts. Our comprehensive range of programs are offered to all children (ages 6-18) including homework help, swimming and sports, coding, engineering, gourmet

About Costa:

Costa Constantinides serves as the CEO for the Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens. Variety serves over 4000 young people per year and in his new role Costa has helped secure millions in capital funding towards their re-imagined clubhouse that will serve 16,000 kids.

As chair of the Environmental Protection Committee from 2015 to 2021, he was committed to fighting the effects of climate change and keeping it from forever changing New York City’s landscape. Costa is a nationally recognized expert on climate change. Sustainability, resiliency, and air quality have been among Costa’s top environmental issues long before he was sworn in.

Name of your organization: Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens

Website: https://bgcqueens.org/

Facebook: Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens

LinkedIn: Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Journey of Joy

Fri, 05 May 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

They will know more about our endeavors

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Venture Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation whose primary purpose is to solicit and disburse funds to support individuals with developmental disabilities and own property for those purposes.

Founded in 1983, we are dedicated to supplementing the human services Venture Together, Inc. (FKA Camp Venture) delivers to adults and adolescents with developmental disabilities in the Rockland County Community.

We solicit funds from private citizens, charitable trusts, corporate or private foundations, and fundraising events and programs. Funds are managed to directly benefit adults and adolescents with developmental disabilities, including providing resources for enhanced or unfunded programs and developing new facilities. We rely on community-minded supporters’ generosity to help plug those shortfalls; our donors are the silver lining in any cloud for our most special population.

Website: https://venturetogetherny.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/venturetogetherny

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/venture_together_ny/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/venturetogether/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Actions Speak Louder Than Words Always!

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

We are hoping the audience will learn about One Stitch Foundation and be passionate about helping young athletes who need it most! Let's all stop talking about helping people and actually do it!

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Guest: Nathaniel "Coach Dee" Lancaster :

Head Coach for Michael Jordan's Rucker Park Championship Team in 2010. Won a championship as the Assistant Coach for the Albany Legends International Basketball League (Formally known as theCBA). Selected by Jr. NBA to conduct clinics for the youth at every city during All-Star Weekend. Head Coach for the Jr. Brooklyn Nets and successfully completed 8-week clinic for the School of the Deaf. NBA certified clinician and licensed through USA Basketball Youth Development. Worked with NBA players such as Anthony Morrow, James Harden, Brandon Jennings, Michael Carter-Williams, Jeremy Lin, Chris McCullough, Kevin Garnett, Brooke Lopez, Kris Humphries, and Paul Pierce. My training philosophy is when you build up confidence and morale, you build character. When a character is built, it applies to your approach in life, not just sports!

Name of your organization: One Stitch Foundation

Website: www.onestitchfoundation.squarespace.com

Facebook: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/onestitchfoundatio n

Instagram: https://instagram.com/onestitchfoundation?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

‍

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

MAY - Mental Health Awareness Month

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

Mental health is a topic that is very much at the forefront of the news these days and for good reason. One of the stark realities to come to light over the past 2 years has been the impact of the pandemic on the mental health and social development of children. With so many interactions occurring in the virtual space, kids were missing out on the social and mental benefits that come with attending school and social interactions. For children in the hospital, the level of isolation they were experiencing was particularly traumatic. We learned from our hospital partners that mental health wasn’t just a concern, it was an impending crisis, particularly for teens.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, suicide is the second leading cause of death between the ages of 10 and 20. Children who are being treated in pediatric psychiatric wards are there for a variety of reasons and their needs are just as varied. Unfortunately, this is often a population whose interactions and activities are even more restricted than other hospitalized children.

We knew this was an area where enCourage Kids could make a significant impact. The relationships we have built over the last three decades with the child life and medical staff in our partner hospitals put us in a unique position to help spread awareness of the challenges many hospital systems are facing and how we are supporting them in meeting the needs of their communities, including those of your audience members and their friends and families.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Jean Butler is the President and CEO of enCourage Kids Foundation, a renowned nonprofit organization which helps humanize healthcare for children and their families through resourcing impact-driven pediatric programs. Jean works with hospital administrators, community leaders, corporations, private enterprise and a committed staff team to improve the hospital experience for pediatric patients.Jean came to EKF with more than 25 years’ experience in a variety of executive roles in business and philanthropy, including at Time Warner Inc., where she received the Award of Excellence for Outstanding Financial Contribution from Time Warner’s Executive Management.

Jean holds a BA in Economics from the College of the Holy Cross and an MBA in Marketing from the Fordham University Gabelli School of Business, and was an adjunct instructor in the global MBA program at Fordham’s Gabelli School of Business.

Name of your organization: enCourage Kids Foundation

Website: www.encourage-kids.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/encouragekidsfoundation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/encouragekids/LinkedIn Profilehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/encourage-kids-foundation/

‍

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Overcoming the ravages of Alcohol and Drug Abuse

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Join Tommy D in the attic this Friday, April 14 at 10 AM Eastern when he invites Steve Chassman, Executive Director of the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (LICADD).

LICADD's mission is to address the addictive climate of our times by providing initial attention and referral services to individuals, families, and children, through intervention, education and professional guidance to overcome the ravages of alcohol and other drug-related problems.

Read more about LICADD here: https://licadd.org/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Alzheimer's & Dementia

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

They will learn all about the free and wonderful services we provide to Long Island families. We are an amazing resource and want more folks to be aware of our services.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Lauren Vlachos is the ED for the ADRC. Before joining ADRC in March 2022, Lauren served as the COO for the Suffolk County Boy Scouts. Lauren worked for the scouts for 18 years serving youth throughout Long Island. Before joining the Scouts, Lauren served as a US Peace Corps Volunteer for 2.5 years inNiger, West Africa. Lauren earned a BA from Gettysburg College, MS from The New School, and is a certified Fundraising Executive as well as a Master Gardener. She has 3 kids, and 3 pets, and lives in WestIslip.

Website: www.adrcinc.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADRCInc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alzheimer 's-disease-resource-center-inc-/?viewAsMember=true

‍

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

They will learn more about our organization.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Life’s WORC’s mission is to provide services and support that facilitate an independent and fulfilling life experience for people with intellectual disabilities and autism.

We envision a community that values, embraces, and empowers people with intellectual disabilities and autism to maximize their choices and to realize their potential to lead productive and rewarding lives.

Website: https://lifesworc.org/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/life%27s-worc/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes_worc/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifesworcagency

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Small Business Assistance and Greater Nexus, our co-working space

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

The audience will get to hear the great work we are doing in the community and we have expanded our services through Greater Nexus. Our CDFI had one of our best years in 2022 re: number of loans and funds distributed in the community.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Justin is a recognized leader with over 20 years’ experience in the private and not-for profit sectors. His expertise includes real estate development as well as construction management for both private and publicly funded projects. Justin has experience in affordable housing, hospitality and commercial markets.

In June 2022, Justin was unanimously voted President & CEO of Greater Jamaica Development Corporation (GJDC) by the Board of Directors. He is responsible for promoting growth and development in Downtown Jamaica, Queens; including creating strategies and initiatives to expand and enhance Jamaica’s retail, industrial and economic base. Justin has facilitated more than a billion dollars of development projects in the area including commercial, mixed-income housing and hospitality.

Name of your organization: Greater Jamaica Development Corporation

Website: www.gjdc.org

Facebook: Greater Jamaica Development Corporation

Instagram: @GJDCPREZ

LinkedIn: Greater Jamaica Development Corporation

‍

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

The BIG DADDY BRAND: Where it started and where it's heading

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

How a learning disabled, hispanic used his athletic abilities to further his college career and then take his business to national recognition.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Attended and played football at the University of Maryland. Started Coastal Advisors, LLC in 1996. We have insured over 500 Pro Athletes, entertainers, media personalities.

Name of your organization: Gas It Up, Inc

Website: www.gasitup.com

Facebook: Richard M Salgado

Instagram: Bigdaddyinsures

LinkedIn: Rich " Big Daddy" Salgado

‍

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc.

Baby Essentials of Long Island

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

I hope all who listen will feel empathetic towards babies in need and realize that if all of us do a small good deed (or mitzvah) daily it gets amplified.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Born out of necessity at the start of the covid-19 pandemic, Gillick-Goldberg realized families who relied on cash incomes were no longer welcome in their employer’s homes out of fear, leaving them without funds for even the most basic essentials. Through her connection with Help Me Grow and diligent contact tracers, as well as generous community donors, volunteers, and former kgg client the Allied Foundation, she was able to provide door-to-door deliveries of diapers, wipes, and formula to those desperately in need or suffering with covid.

‍

Websitel

www.babyessentialsofli.org

‍Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/BabyEssentialsLI

LinkedIn:

kerry gillick-goldberg

‍

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Access to healthcare regardless of your ability to pay

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

No one should go without healthcare regardless of their ability to pay. They will see how HarmonyHealthcare Long Island provides for the communities we serve beyond healthcare and how we help with all social determinants of health.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About David: David Nemiroff has been the President and CEO Director of Harmony Healthcare Long Island since April 2014. Harmony Healthcare Long Island currently provides over 150,000 medical and support visits to more than 40,000 patients per year in multiple sites across Nassau County.

About org: To provide access to equitable, optimal healthcare by improving the overall wellness of all individuals in our communities and delivering high-quality comprehensive patient-centered care.

Name of your organization: Harmony Healthcare Long Island

Website: https://www.harmonyhealthcareli.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harmonyhealthcareli

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harmony_hcli/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hhli

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Working with volunteers -- rewards and challenges

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

‍

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

Well, I'm not totally sure who the audience is, but if they are interested in learning more about small nonprofits in the area, I can speak to this! I can also discuss the challenges and rewards of founding a nonprofit--seeing a need in the community and addressing it, as well as how to recruit, train, and maintain a team of volunteers.

‍

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About org: READ 718 is a nonprofit literacy organization located in Brooklyn, NY. We provide 1:1, individualized reading instruction to children in grades 1-8 who are from low-income households and who are reading below grade level. We recruit and train hundreds of community volunteers each year to implement tutoring.

About Emily Kirven: Emily began teaching in the New York City public school system in 1997. As an English Language Arts teacher in a Brooklyn public middle school, Emily faced a particular challenge: many of her middle school students were reading far below grade level and her training as a secondary English teacher did not help her address these students’ needs. Frustrated by her inability to help the students efficiently and directly, and recognizing the problem as widespread, Emily returned to TeachersCollege, Columbia University to earn an MA and state certification as a Reading Specialist to better understand the problem of how to help to struggle middle-grade and adolescent readers. After graduating from Columbia, Emily worked to develop and build READ 718, opening the reading center doors to the community in January 2015. Since then, READ 718 has provided thousands of hours of targeted, 1:1 instruction to over 500 children.

‍

Organization: READ 718, Inc.

Website: www.read718.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/read718

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/read718/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/read-718/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Young Athletes

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is not a rare occurrence. SCA is the third leading cause of death in theU.S., affecting more than 356,000 people each year, including more than 23,000 young people under age18. SCA survival rate has remained at about 10 percent for

30 years because we aren’t as prepared as we should be to help save lives. Is your home, school, sports league, business, organization, or place of worship heart safe? Knowing CPR, how to use an AED (automated external defibrillators), having an AED on site

and a defined emergency action plan is critical.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Melinda Murray-Nyack is the Founder and President of the Dominic A. Murray 21 Memorial Foundation (DomHeart21). DomHeart21 was established in 2010 after the tragic death of 17-year-old Dominic Murray. Dominic was stricken by sudden cardiac arrest while playing

basketball at school. Those who witnessed Dominic’s collapse did not recognize that he was in cardiac distress, which delayed CPR and an AED wasn’t used until EMS arrived. By then it was too late. The real tragedy is, it was not until Dominic’s autopsy, that

his congenital heart condition was revealed. Just three years before Dominic's sudden death, his father had a fatal heart attack at the age of 42. Suddenly a widow and a parent who lost her only child, Melinda devoted her life mission to championing life-saving Outreach.

Name of your organization: Dominic A. Murray 21 Memorial Foundation, Inc.

Website: DomHeart21.org

Facebook: @DomHeart21

Instagram: @DomHeart21

LinkedIn: Dominic A. Murray 21 Memorial Foundation, Inc.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Young Athletes

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

‍

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

30 years because we aren’t as prepared aswe should be to help save lives. Is your home, school, sports league, business, organization, or place ofworship heart safe? Knowing CPR, how to use an AED (automated external defibrillators), having an AED on site

and adefined emergency action plan is critical.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Name of your organization: Dominic A. Murray 21 Memorial Foundation, Inc.

Website: DomHeart21.org

Facebook: @DomHeart21

Instagram: @DomHeart21

LinkedIn: Dominic A. Murray 21 Memorial Foundation, Inc.

‍

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Club houses as a solution to mental health crisis

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

To learn about a (still unknown) free and lifelong service for people living with mental illness. The clubhouse model is essentially recovery through work and meaningful relationships. To understand why and how to access this resource. What is Venture House?

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Venture House: Venture House is a community based non-profit mental health agency that provides free and life long services to individuals living in NYC with serious mental illness. Venture House utilizes an internationally recognized approach to psychosocial rehabilitation, known as the Clubhouse Model, which originated in NYC and has since been replicated in 33 countries around the world.

About Juliet Douglas: Experienced CEO providing over 20 years of clinical and administrative oversight in the field of mental health. Business development and grant-writing expertise. Knowledgeable in evidence based practices, supporting the use of data to drive strategy and promoting strength based, person centered approaches to psychosocial rehabilitation. Proven track record of expanding funding resources, facilitating partnerships and affiliations among various entities: service providers, business leaders, elected officials, and other community stakeholders. Instrumental in supporting the goals of Medicaid Redesign, including HCBS service delivery.

Name of organization: Venture House

Website: www.venturehouse.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeAreVentureHouse/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/venturehousenyc/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/venture-house

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Caring for the caregiver who is the "invisible patient"

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

LIAD is a resource for families dealing with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Located in Westbury and accessible from most highways. Our hands-on programs and services are not only for the diagnosed individuals but for the caregivers. We want to make sure that anyone that needs help in navigating this journey can come to our professionals for help and support.

‍

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Tori: Tori has been the Executive Director of the Long Island Alzheimer’s and Dementia (LIAD) Center since 2015; however, her history with the organization goes back to 2003, when she began as a Social Worker with the organization then called the Long Island Alzheimer’s Foundation (LIAF).

It is under Tori’s leadership that LIAF became the LIAD Center, representing the organization’s continuing evolution to meet the changing needs of the ever-increasing population of those on Long Island who are affected by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Tori is a zealous advocate for LIAD Center, pushing the organization to step to the forefront of community and professional education about cognitive impairment.

About LIAD Center: We are passionate about what we do — it’s in our roots. Long Island Alzheimer's and Dementia Center was originally founded by five Long Island women in 1988. Our founders are like millions of other Americans impacted by Alzheimer’s — they had a parent or grandparent with Alzheimer’s disease and shared the frustration of not knowing where to turn for much-needed help.

Out of this dire need, our founders decided to be their own solution, and the Long Island Alzheimer's and Dementia Center was started. Today, we’ve spent 30 years providing supportive community-based services to Alzheimer’s families in Long Island.

‍

Website: lidementia.org

Facebook: Long Island Alzheimer's and Dementia Center

Instagram: liadcenter

LinkedIn: Long Island Alzheimer's and Dementia Center and Tori Cohen

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

How to find a way to make a difference in your community?

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

We have big challenges to tackle in our community. We know volunteering and civic engagement are good for individuals and the community. These challenges have been around for a long time and can feel overwhelming and hard to address and we know they are not being solved with money alone. Challenges like this require meaningful engagement from across the community if things are going to change in a sustained way. “Civic engagement confers a sense of empowerment, agency, and efficacy in oneself, others, and institutions. Taken together, this adds up to greater hope, health, and well-being” in a community.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Volunteer New York!: is THE central place for volunteering in Westchester, Rockland, and PutnamCounties. We are a one-stop resource devoted to increasing volunteerism and delivering impact in these communities.

About Jeanette: Jeanette joined Volunteer New York! in 2010 and became Executive Director in July 2020 after serving as an Executive Fellow for Capacity Building and Networks with Points of Light. In her previous role as Deputy Executive Director, Jeanette focused on mission delivery, overseeing programmatic strategy and cohesion and supporting revenue generating specifically related to corporate outreach.

Website: https://www.volunteernewyork.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/volunteerNYnow/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/volunteernynow/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/volunteernynow/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Allied Foundation Diaper Bank & Allied Foundation Period Project

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

We aim to inspire others with our efforts to make a difference and bring hope and compassion to those in need.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Heather is a mission driven development professional who is passionate about generating philanthropic support to advance the mission of the organization that she serves. She is the Executive Director for Allied Foundation, a for-impact, 501C3 organization committed to improve the health and well-being of people in the community. Her career in development spans 20 years and she has held leadership positions in healthcare, higher education and social service agencies. Heather also spent 7 years building brands for national products including Post Kids cereals, Avon, US West and Tri-State Cadillac. She is happily married to Kevin and mom to Jack, Katie and Linda.

Website: www.alliedfoundation.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thealliedfoundation

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allied_foundation/?hl=en

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alliedfoundation/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here

I'm - Possible

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

Hope. Together we can create systemic change. Omnium is planting those seeds in young people and families with joy and positive energy. Join the fun! See a show, bring us to your school or community, and support belonging. We are creating a template all can follow so we can all thrive.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Org: Circus Omnium was founded on the belief that full inclusion and representation in the arts lead to self-actualization, increased tolerance, and a better society. Through the celebration of our diverse cast, crew, and staff with multiple abilities and providing access for audiences of all abilities, we demonstrate that anything is possible-all people can achieve their greatness regardless of their challenges (physical, emotional, neurological, or societal).

About Lisa: Lisa Lewis began her career as a graduate of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College. She has a BA from Brandeis University and earned a Master’s Degree in Clown/Circus History from NYU, co-founded the Super Scientific Circus, and spent many years working with the Big Apple Circus in multiple capacities.

Lisa’s passion for sharing the magic of the circus combined with her many years of experience inspired her to reimagine the art form of circus for 21st Century audiences asOmnium: A Bold New Circus. Sharing in the joy and excitement of the performing arts is an experience that should be available to everyone, regardless of background,race, gender or ability. Omnium makes that happen.

Name of your organization: Omnium Circus

Website: www.Omniumcircus.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OmniumCircus.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omniumcircus/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/68002371

‍Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Suicide prevention and the high rates of suicidal thinking among children & teens

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 15:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

They will learn important information on how to help children and teens who are struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, suicidal thinking, and other challenges, all of which have been greatly exacerbated by the pandemic. They will learn that they are not alone and that there is compassionate, expert help available for their families.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center: is the preeminent not-for-profit children’s mental health agency on Long Island. Dedicated to restoring and strengthening the emotional well-being of children and families, the Guidance Center leads the way in diagnosis, treatment, prevention, training, parent education, research and advocacy.

About Kathy Rivera: She is the Executive Director and CEO of North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center. Ms.Rivera took on the leadership role at the Guidance Center in June 2021 and has been successfully managing the operations of the renowned agency during the unprecedented mental health crisis brought on by the pandemic, which has created an epidemic of anxiety, depression, and fear among our children and teens. Ms. Rivera has 22 years of experience as a social worker, along with management expertise. Her deep knowledge of clinical treatment, mental health policy, and agency operations provides profound insights and perspective on the ever-changing landscape of mental health.

About Jennifer Rush: Associative Executive Director, has a diverse operations background in medical, educational, and community-based services, including hospital and substance abuse settings at Northern Berkshire Health care and the Brattleboro Retreat. Most recently, Ms. Rush was the Vice President of Residential and Clinical Services at Berkshire County Arc in Pittsfield, Mass., where she oversaw all residential services, including the autism outreach services program and the brain injury services program.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Can you Imagine a World Without Nonprofits?

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 21:23:45 +0000

Fridays 10:00am - 11:00am (EDT)

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

More information about what the Imagine Award really is

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Ken Cerini is the founder and managing partner of Cerini & Associates, LLP. Like many of the nonprofits he serves, Ken is passionate about making a difference, believing that it is important to be deeply invested in every client relationship and providing real value to each of his clients.

He is one of the top accountants/consultants in the State of New York working with special education providers, is well versed in nonprofit issues, and also is heavily involved in the healthcare industry.

Website https://imagineawardsli.com/ & https://nycimagineawards.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImagineAwardsLongIsland & https://www.facebook.com/NYCImagineAwards

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imagine_awards/ & https://www.instagram.com/nyc_imagineawards/

‍Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

The very first NRH Half Day Board Development Conference

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

They will learn more about the Nonprofit Resource Hub, how the association provides education, resources, support and services to nonprofit organizations. The audience will also learn about the Hub's first half day professional board development conference taking place on November 15th in NYC.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Alison La Ferlita serves as the Executive Director for the Nonprofit Resource Hub. She is widely recognized as a strong and committed advocate of business and community development. She is the CEO of Plum+ Copper, LLC, an executive management consulting firm supporting nonprofit organizations and trade associations and an active community volunteer, having served on the boards of the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, the Association for Professional Fundraisers, Long Island (AFPLI), and participates in the Long Beach Community Collaborative(LBCC).

In addition, she serves as a Parent Advocate for parents of children with special needs and has served as a foster mom to rescue dogs. In 2021, Alison was recognized for her work and honored with a Women of Distinction Award, presented by Assemblywoman, Melissa Miller. She and her husband of 19 years reside in Long Beach and is the proud mom to two great boys, Shane and Reilly and dog mom to Bear and Maisy.

Name of your organization: Nonprofit Resource Hub

Website: nonprofitresourcehub.org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaferlita/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

People will learn how they can help to transform lives, families and communities

‍

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About SJI: We know education is core to rehabilitation and ultimately to individual, family and community restoration. As educators and community leaders we have firsthand seen the transformative power of education. And we are transforming lives and the way things can be done.

About Kerry: Dr. Kerry Spooner is a professor, writer, founder and President of Sound Justice Initiative a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit that provides liberal arts courses in county jails and, through SJI’s Education Pathway Program, help court-involved people into post-secondary educational programs and high-skills vocational training. Dr. Spooner worked for the Suffolk County Department of Labor helping clients become financially self-sufficient. Before teaching in the jails, Dr. Spooner has years of experience assessing the barriers of those who are in conditions that put them at risk of poverty and incarceration and creating a pathway out.

Website: https://sound-justice.org/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sound-justice-initiative/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SoundJustice

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

The Holiday Light Show and STEM Center

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

No girl or volunteer is ever turned away from Girl Scouts. The revenue from this event is essential to delivering vital programs and services, providing financial aid for our families in need, as well as to help us maintain our two camp locations in Bayport and Yaphank, one of which includes our community-accessible Discovery World STEM Center.

The STEM Center offers girls a first-rate, hands-on approach to exploring a whole new world through experiments and demonstrations, special guest presentations and field trips. A place for girls to feel comfortable and be themselves. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive environment for all girls.

‍

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Girl Scouts bring their dreams to life and work together to build a better world.

Through programs from coast to coast, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges- whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends.

Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.

Tammy Severino is an experienced leader in the area of Women's Empowerment. President & CEO at Girl Scouts of Suffolk County. As the Interim President and CEO, responsible for providing leadership, along with strategic and tactical management. Direct day-to-day operations of the Council and carry out the vision of the Council's Board of Directors in order to meet the organization's goals in serving the girl and adult volunteers of Suffolk County. Responsible for stewardship of the Council's human, material and fiscal assets, and advancing the Council's relevance in communities we serve. Responsible for advancing the Girl Scout brand and image throughout the Country. Ensure sufficient resources for the Council to provide critical programming through effective planning, managing and implementation of the Council's revenue generating and fund development programs and initiatives.

‍

EPISODE QUOTE:

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Trust-based Philanthropy

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

They will learn more about our extraordinary community of grantees and donors.

‍

EPISODE SUMMARY:

North Star Fund is a social justice fund that supports grassroots organizing led by communities of color building power in New York City and the Hudson Valley. We organize people across race and class to give, in support of these movements.

‍

Kofo Anifalaje joined North Star Fund as a development assistant in 2011 and over the years earned and learned her way to development director. Kofo studied political science and African American studies at Wesleyan University. She completed her graduate degree at Carnegie Mellon University in public policy and management. While in grad school, Kofo was the policy director at New Voices Pittsburgh—a reproductive justice organization led by women of color. There she learned how all questions of public policy impact women in very specific ways.Upon achieving her master’s degree, Kofo returned to Brooklyn where she was born and raised, heeding her mother’s words to “be useful, be of service, and make the world a better place.” North Star Fund was the place for her to do just that—an organization where everyone understands the interconnectedness of the issues.

Website: https://northstarfund.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northstarfund/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NorthStarFund/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/north-star-fund/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Compassion+Dedication+Respect+Integrity=IMPACT!

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

The audience will learn about the plight of families caring for critically ill children; the resources available at no cost through Friends of Karen; and the many opportunities that are available for getting involved and making a difference to help children and families experiencing an unimaginably difficult time.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Judith Factor:

Judy received a Master of Fine Arts degree from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Boston University. In addition, she earned a certificate from Columbia University Business School’s Institute for Not-for-Profit Management. Her many years of experience in the non-profit sector include National Director of Development for Women’s American ORT in New York; Director of Development and Administration for The Synergos Institute; Director of Development and Public Relations for the International Peace Academy; and Executive Director of Metro International (now known as One to World). About

About Leslie Bellissimo:

She is the Regional Director for Friends of Karen since March 2021 overseeing the LI & NYC Metro markets. The primary role is to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of current and prospective individual and corporate donors and special event sponsors. Leslie has a Bachelor of Science, Business Marketing degree from the New York Institute of Technology in Old Westbury, NY.

About 'Friends of Karen':

The core belief is that no family should have to face their child’s illness alone. They are proud of our more than four decades of experience guiding families from all walks of life and all cultural backgrounds. Friends of Karen serves families with a child (newborn through age 21) who has been diagnosed with and is actively in treatment for cancer or another life-threatening illness. These services are provided at no cost to families.

'Friends of Karen' Information:

Website: www.friendsofkaren.org

Facebook: @friendsofkaren

Instagram: @friendsofkaren

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/friends-of-karen/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Walk 4 Valor - Run 4 Life

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

Hopefully, the audience will be able to:

1- Recognize and Honor those who Support our Country

2- Support the Education of Military, Veterans, and their Families

3- Support Veteran Causes

4- Educate the next generation using the Bob Feller Story

EPISODE SUMMARY:

The mission of the Bob Feller Act of Valor Foundation is to recognize and honor our service members and those who support them; to provide support to military families and veteran causes; and to educate on the lessons of citizenship, sacrifice, and service to one’s country.

Website: https://www.actofvaloraward.org/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bob-feller-act-of-valor-award-foundation/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/ActofValorAward/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actofvaloraward/

EPISODE QUOTE:

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

BeStrong & GiveStrong with YOLO Strong

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

They will learn how Nonprofit goes hand to hand with Real Estate.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Danielle Taylor:

As the founder and leader of a highly successful non-profit foundation for the past 10 years, the YOLO Strong Foundation, Dannie has proven that it’s possible to be a successful Realtor while giving back to the community. With a relentless passion to help local families, Dannie has made the bold commitment to donate a portion of her real estate sale proceeds to benefit local children in need.

About YOLO: We are strong women with the passion, determination & unwavering ambition to give back & make a meaningful impact. We will make a difference in the lives of sick children & their families in our local communities who are suffering from adversity & trying to overcome life-changing circumstances.

Website: https://www.yolostrong.com/home

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielletaylorhomes/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YOLOstrong/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

Who are Young New Yorkers and what is the role of Restorative Art in diversion-based programming?

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

Hopefully, the audience will become inspired to learn more about why art-based diversion programs, like Young New Yorkers, are needed to alter the way we think about alternatives to incarceration options for our young people. Further, I anticipate an engaging conversation with listeners that will connect them with the mission of Young New Yorkers’ work.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Bobbie Brown:

Bobbie brings over 10 years of experience in community development, criminal justice, and education, including her recent role as the Assistant Corporation Counsel for the New York Law Department.

Previously, Bobbie served as the Associate Director of Community Partnerships for the BrooklynDistrict Attorney’s Office. Ms. Brown has held directorial positions with the Harlem Children’s Zone, Brooklyn College, the New York City Department of Education, and the charter school network, Success Academy. She holds a B.A. from Johnson C. Smith University, an M.A. in Government and politics from St. John's University, and a J.D. from the CUNY School of Law. Ms. Brown is also an artist.

Name of your organization:Young New Yorkers

Website: https://www.youngnewyorkers.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YoungNewYorkers/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youngnewyorkers/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/young-new-yorkers

EPISODE QUOTE:

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Love is Healing

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

The opportunity to learn more about our initiatives, partnerships, and funds that serve and are led by girls, femmes and women of Color.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Maheen Kaleem:

Maheen (she/her) has dedicated her life to creating a world where girls of color are safe and free. She has almost twenty years of experience supporting youth and families impacted by interpersonal and state violence, and making way for those traditionally marginalized from formal sites of power to lead efforts to advance racial and gender justice. In the various roles she has held, she has always grounded her work in the wisdom of women and girls of color who have survived the carceral system, sexual exploitation, and abuse.

About Grantmakers: G4GC is a philanthropic organization with a mission to cultivate and mobilize resources in support of girls* of color. Our mission to resource and support transformative organizing work that dismantles systems of oppression in the U.S. and territories is founded on an infrastructure that reflects our values, a culture of partnership, healing, reciprocity, and love.

Org Name: Grantmakers for Girls of Color

Instagram: @g4gc_org

Twitter: @g4gc

Facebook: Grantmakers for Girls of Color

EPISODE QUOTE:

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Of Substance Films For Healing

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Mental Health in Children

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

‍

EPISODE SUMMARY: The Little Saint Nick Foundation (LSNF) was founded in 2004 by Raymond Mohler, Jr. at age six. Ray suffered from Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease (LCPD) a rare childhood hip disorder found mostly in children between the ages of four to six years old that is initiated by the temporary disruption of blood flow to the femur. Feeling fortunate that he did not have a life-threatening nor permanent disease, but rather one that is treatable and fully recoverable, Ray decided he needed to give back to the kids whom he left behind at the hospital who were not as fortunate as he was. Ray’s mission – even at his young age – was to help relieve the fear, anxiety, and isolation experienced by children related to the child hospital visit and recovery. Over the past 18 years, Ray has become a well-respected youth philanthropist. Ray and LSNF have developed many anxiety-relief programs in conjunction with pediatric hospitals and have successfully changed how kids experience their hospital visits, serving over two-million kids.

Website: littlestnick.org

Social Media -

Facebook: @littlestnick

Instagram: @littlestnick

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/little-saint-nick-foundation/?viewAsMember=true

EPISODE QUOTE: “Not only did this one kid help thousands of kids but he inspired these hundreds of kids give back.”

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Veterans Ending Suicide Together

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

Dan Lombard and Mo Vafai as guests.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

One Military Member (Past/Present) and First Responder at a time

Project Refit is looking to change the negative connotation of mental health.

Project Refit is doing this by helping implement and support simple, make-sense programs for military members (past/present) and first responders. We incorporate family into these programs, as well as, creating programs for only military and first responders.

Website: https://www.projectrefit.us/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/projectrefit/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/projectrefitus

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/projectrefit/

EPISODE QUOTE:

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

HEALING WOUNDED VETERANS THROUGH SAILING - IN ALL WEATHER, IN ALL SEASONS

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

How can you get involved with our mission? Special Guests: Sean Duclay & Kilian Duclay

EPISODE SUMMARY:

Use sailing and the ocean as a therapeutic platform to foster healing in our military community. It can be easy to believe that the only ones impacted by war are those who travel overseas to fight it. In reality, the impact of war touches the lives of everyone around the soldier or veteran as well. This community includes active duty soldiers, retired veterans, and family members or friends of our fellow citizens in green. Through our events, we aim to connect the sailing and military communities, in order to employ the curative powers of sailing and curb the veteran suicide epidemic.

Spread post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and veteran suicide awareness. The first step to solving any problem is to raise awareness of the cause. We do this through our sailing programs and annual events across the country.

Honor and remember Our Mates. We are on the front lines of a war for veterans' mental health at home. Our Mates ensure that the memories of those who lost this battle live on. Carrying Our Mates with us also functions as a physical symbol of just how urgent this crisis is.

Website: www.sailahead.org

Instagram: Sailahead219

Facebook: SailAhead

Linkedin: SailAhead

EPISODE QUOTE:

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

The 14 Veterans that are committing suicide that are not coming into the Veteran Administration

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN: If they really care what happens to a Veteran that is still suffering from Post-traumatic Stress who might take their life. You will have the information to share with them and give the foundation a chance to assist them in their time need and reduce the chances of them committing suicide.

A comprehensive understanding of the struggles faced by Veterans. The importance of developing additional housing, specifically permanent affordable housing and programs to support their needs.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Beacon House: Beacon House provides emergency, transitional & permanent housing to homeless and at risk veterans and veteran families. Each year we provide housing, intensive case management and specialized wraparound services to more than 550 veterans. Beacon House tends to every aspect of life for our residents, helping them regain their independence.

‍

About Operation-Initiative Foundation: Operation-initiative foundation publishes a Resource Manual for veterans and their caregiver, and it is available for free in hardcover, or it can be downloaded from our web at www.operation-initiative.com . Our Foundation also introduces a program called "The Holistic Nucleus'', which is a network of Holistic treatment that can assist in reducing the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress.

‍

United Veterans Beacon House, Inc.

Website: www.uvbh.org

Facebook: @unitedveterasbeaconhouse

Instagram: @unitedveteransbeaconhouse

LinkedIn: United Veterans Beacon House

‍

Operation-Initiative Foundation

Website: www.operation-initiative.com

EPISODE QUOTE:

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Overall about Ranch - From backyard to 6acres

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 14:00:00 +0000

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?

Learn about WRF and understand that more needs to be done to help our veterans and first responders. If they love their freedom, they should listen and appreciate who gives that freedom to them.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

About Eileen: - Study horses for 20 years- Television Production Business since 1984- Began WRF in 2016- Love my country and love horses.

About WRF: America's Heroes Rescuing America's Icon, giving a second chance to human and horse.Warrior Ranch Foundation envisions a world where veterans and rehabilitated horses realize theirproductive future in society.

Name of your organization: Warrior Ranch Foundation

Website: www.warriorranchfoundation.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/WarriorRanchFoundation

Instagram: www.instagram.com/warriorranchfoundation

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28985329/admin/

EPISODE QUOTE: Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

ABRI/Homes for the Brave

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Programs and resources that are serving Veterans AND the challenges that we face

About Vincent:

Vincent Santilli is currently the CEO/Executive Director of ABRI/HomesfortheBrave, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing safe housing, vocational services, mental health treatment, and life skills coaching to homeless individuals, almost all of whom are Veterans.

Previously, he held multiple leadership roles in his 30+ years at People’s United Bank, including First Vice President of the Retail and Business Banking Division and Executive Director of the $51 million People’s United Community Foundation.

About Org:

With an emphasis on Veterans, ABRI/Homes for the Brave provides the housing and services necessary to help individuals experiencing homelessness return to a productive and meaningful life.

Website: www.homesforthebrave.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homesforthebravect

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesforthebrave/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/applied-behavioral-rehabilitation-institute-inc/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Helping The Community Through Our Programs

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Insight on what we do, why we do it and how people can get involved!

At RISE Life Services we help the community around us with services for the developmentally disabled, mental health population, and individuals with special needs. Led by our dedicated Executive Director, Charles Evdos. Along with our 32 residences, we have an array of programs that include: The without Walls Day Program, Main Street Food Pantry, Huntington Cultural Center, Elevations Clinic, and Sensory Garden. All of our community-based programs focus on elevating lives and lending a helping hand to those who need it.

About Charles Evdos:

Charles is the Executive Director of Rise Life Services, an Aid to the Developmentally Disabled company. Established in 1980, Rise has 32 residential facilities, 2 “Without Walls” day programs and ever-evolving programs that ensure our special neighbors can live productive and independent lives. Charles is a natural leader with the heart of a philanthropist. Having had an extensive background in journalism and business, he sought to renew his life’s work by helping others. “My career has been built on empowering others and making a difference in their own lives,” says Evdos.

Name of your organization: Rise Life Services

Website: riselifeservices.org

Facebook: @RISElifeservices

Instagram: riselifeservices

LinkedIn: Rise Life Services

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Let's Stop Bullying Together

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0000

The awareness that bullying is real and how we can be a part of the solution to stop it.

About Joe Salamone:

A Long Island native from North Babylon, is the founder and Executive Director of The Long Island Coalition Against Bullying, a position he has held since 2013. A victim of bullying himself, Mr. Salamone’s vision is simple: to reach as many children and families experiencing bullying as possible. His driving force is to create an environment that keeps the emphasis on the importance of the issue all while demonstrating financial diligence and respect for the public's generous contributions.

About LICAB:

Its mission is to emphasize the importance of bully-free communities on Long Island through education, increased awareness, and therapeutic outlets.

Organization: The Long Island Coalition Against Bullying

Website: https://www.licab.org/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joesalamone43/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joseph.salamone.56

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Our Definition of Poverty

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Our definition of poverty and how we have the answer in our own personal experiences to solve our society's most wicked problems. What is getting in our way?

An ability to better see themselves and those with differences, to see the simple, yet complex ways we as a society can get to better at solving our wicked problems and how each of us can be part of the work that pains them most.

About Katie:

Katie Nzekwu has a Master of Social Work Administration degree from the University of Cincinnati and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from MarshallUniversity. She is a licensed clinical social worker in the State of Ohio. Katie’s work at Found Village is informed by her personal experience of living in a detention center for a year as a teenager. Having been served by dozens of therapists and providers as a vulnerable youth, Katie has firsthand experience of the negative impacts of well-intentioned service providers, when the foundation of love, belonging, and safety has not been met.

About Iloba:

Iloba has a Master of Science in Economics from Miami University and a Bachelor of Economics degree from Marshall University. Before joining Found Village full-time in 2019, Iloba worked as a business strategy consultant and data scientist for 11 years for home healthcare companies including Mercy Health and Care Center. Iloba’ s extensive business strategy experience in the healthcare field allows him to oversee Found Village’s finances and operations as well as create a vision and a plan for executing and measuring Found Village’s relationship-based model of care to serve system-involved young people in Cincinnati. Iloba brings his passion for the city, belief in young people, and business knowledge to his role.

Name: Found Village

Website: www.foundvillage.org

Facebook: FoundvillagecincinnatiIt

Instagram: Takes A Village

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

The Chamber Journey and the Change of the Business Model for a Non-profit

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0000

The importance of the results to drive economic support for nonprofits. The money will follow the results. The Membership business model is no longer viable.

About Org: Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey

Helping our members (both Hispanic and non-Hispanic) find expanded business opportunities –through networking and mutual support. Encouraging and facilitating mutually beneficial ties between the private and public sectors. Serving as an active and visible advocate for small businesses in the political process. Actively promoting trade for the New Jersey business community.

About Luis DeLaHoz

The First Vice President, Regional Director Community Lending NJ at Valley Bank and is responsible for helping local small and mid-sized businesses with their financial needs. He also works with businesses to develop strategies for growth, with particular emphasis on the support of organizations with Latino and minority leadership.

Website: www.shccnnj.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SHCCNJ

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shccnj/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luisodelahoz/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Come Light A Candle with VYP

Fri, 27 May 2022 14:00:00 +0000

The act of lighting a candle will not only honor those who have died in service to our country but bring recognition to PTSD awareness month in June. To raise public awareness about issues related to PTSD and help ensure that those suffering from the invisible wounds of war receive proper treatment. We will discuss how VYP’s Mindful Resilience tools, rooted in yoga and grounded in science, are helping transform post-traumatic stress into post-traumatic growth.

About Org:

Veterans Yoga Project is a grassroots educational and outreach organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of military veterans. Veterans Yoga Project is on a mission to support recovery and resilience among veterans, military families, and communities.

About Deb Jeannette:

Deb has been President of the Board since 2015 and has been an integral and invaluable part of the growth of VYP. She has engaged in all aspects of that growth from the formalization of the group structure and instrumental in the development of the fund-raising activities of VYP.

Website: https://veteransyogaproject.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veteransyogaproject.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veteransyogaproject/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/veterans-yoga-project/

‍

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Personal Branding in the Non-Profit Sector

Fri, 20 May 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Perhaps some insight on matching your message to your mission to your image -- and how this may impact your success.

About Hit The Books:

Hit the Books (“HTB”) provides after-school educational programs, mentorship, and mixed martial art classes to kids in Harlem aged 6-13 to help our Students progress outside of the classroom intellectually, emotionally, and physically. HTB exposes its Students to educational and professional opportunities that may otherwise pass them by, fostering an environment of educational equality. In addition to enhancing the educational resources available to children, HTB serves as a community within a community, where children feel safe and view the facility as a second home.

About Kazz Alexander Pinkard:

Kazz is an experienced executive with 20 years of experience in nonprofit management and education. Before joining HTB, he served as the Chief Program Officer at The Boys' Club of New York and as Deputy Director at Ramapo For Children. Kazz holds a B.A. in history and has also earned a master’s degree in education from the University of Virginia, as well as post-graduate certificates from FordhamUniversity, Baruch College, and NYU. As an independent consultant, Kazz founded Teachable NYC, an organization whose mission is to help support the creation of diverse and inclusive programs for children.

Name of your organization: HIT THE BOOKS

Website: http://www.hitthebooksnyc.org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kazz-alexander-pinkard-5b446779/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

The Backyard Players & Friends are living proof of kindness, generosity & support

Fri, 13 May 2022 14:00:00 +0000

The Backyard Players & Friends are living proof that the kindness, generosity and support of a community can change and challenge the trajectory of a local non-profit organization.

Ellen White is co-founder and Executive Director of Backyard Players and Friends. Ellen serves as an integral resource for children with developmental disabilities on the South Shore of Long Island.

Typically, students with developmental disabilities attend school until 21 and then “age out.” Ellen and her sisters, Cristine Daly and Joan Kelly, along with Ryan Delaney, created BackYard Players and Friends as a resource to address the needs of these individuals.

About Backyard Players & Friends:

Backyard Players & Friends is a local, inclusive arts-based community program for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Many of our participants attended High School until the age of 21 when they graduated from the traditional education system. Most families have the opportunity to send their children off to college or the work force after graduation.

Parents of students with developmental disabilities don't usually have those options and they are left to find classes & programs for their children to attend...These students are then at risk to lose their network of friends, their social interactions and their community involvement.

Young adults with developmental disabilities spend the first two decades of their lives preparing to be full members of our communities. We should not break that promise just as it's about to be achieved. The focus at BYP is to simply include.

Website: https://www.bypandfriends.com/

Instagram: @bypandfriends

Facebook: BackYard Players & Friends

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Building the Future Economy of the Bronx

Fri, 06 May 2022 14:00:00 +0000

The way how to support this amazing initiative and how you can do the same in your community

About Michael Partis:

For seven years, he led social enterprise incubation and equitable community development programming at Young Movement Inc. As Director of South Bronx Rising Together, he facilitated a collective impact initiative dedicated to improving health, grade-level reading and math, and post-secondary outcomes in the Melrose, Morrisania, and Crotona Park West neighborhoods.

Michael is also an experienced educator and researcher. He’s been an Instructor at CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College, a Lecturer in the Department of Anthropology and Archaeology at CUNY Brooklyn College, and an Assistant Adjunct Professor of Urban Studies at LIU Brooklyn. He is the co-founder of The Bronx Brotherhood Project, a community-based college success program for Black and Latino teens at the New Settlement College Access Center.

About the Bronx Cooperative Development Initiative: The Bronx Cooperative Development Initiative (BCDI) is a community-led effort to build an equitable, sustainable, and democratic local economy that creates wealth and ownership for low-income people of color—what we call economic democracy.

Website: https://bcdi.nyc/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bronx-cooperative-development-initiative/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bronxfuture/

‍Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Don't Stall, Just Call

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 14:00:00 +0000

The audience will learn what binge drinking & high-intensity drinking is along with how to avoid them from happening. Learning to identify alcohol poisoning symptoms is key to helping someone in need- make a call and save a life! Underage folks must be confident knowing that they can make a call for help without the fear of getting in trouble if someone is exhibiting the symptoms. Don't Stall, JustCall!

‍

Mary Ciammetti is the Founder of The CTC Wellness Foundation and Don’tStall, JustCall, an alcohol poisoning education and prevention mission for students and families. In 2015, Mary experienced a great tragedy—the death of her beloved youngest child, Christian, a 20-year-old thriving college student. He died from complications of alcohol poisoning due to binge drinking. Through grief, her purpose became clear: Don’t Stall, Just Call was created along with the nonprofit The CTC Wellness Foundation, a 501C(3) that focuses on alcohol education, anxiety reduction strategies and wellness opportunities for students to incorporate healthy lifestyle choices on campus and beyond. Under Mary’s vision, The CTC Wellness Foundation has established an endowed scholarship at Temple University.

‍

Name of your organization: The CTC Wellness Foundation dba Don't Stall, Just Call

Website: https://www.dontstalljustcall.org

Facebook: Don't Stall, Just Call

Instagram: @dontstalljustcall

LinkedIn: Mary T Ciammetti or The CTC Wellness Foundation

‍Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Remembering Scott ♥

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 14:00:00 +0000

The audience will get a true sense of Linda's dedication to gun safety and ending the epidemic of senseless and preventable gun violence in our country. Linda has turned the ultimate tragedy of the loss of a child into a call for action. Linda believes in celebrating Scott's life, not mourning his death. Ending the epidemic of gun violence is twofold; legislation and education. Linda does this through both her legislative efforts in the passing of landmark gun safety legislation and through education with the Scott J Beigel Memorial Fund. It was once said that someone who saves a child, saves the world. Linda's goal is to save as many children as possible to make the world a better place. People should listen because senseless and preventable gun violence can only be eradicated with the community and national effort. We need the help of your listeners to support the cause of ending gun violence in this country. As Linda has said, "We all have the right to be safe" "We all have the right to live without fear"

Linda Beigel Schulman is the mother of Scott J. Beigel, the geography teacher and cross-country coach who sacrificed his life while saving the lives of 31 of his students at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School massacre in Parkland Florida on February 14, 2018.

Linda lives in Dix Hills, New York. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from the University of Arizona and her Master’s Degree in Science from Long Island University. Linda is a licensed teacher and has taught in Arizona and abroad.

Linda is a strong and staunch advocate for reasonable gun safety legislation on both a State and Federal level. Linda has chosen to turn the senseless murder of her son into her life’s mission on multiple levels.

Linda was instrumental in the passage of the “Red Flag Law” in Florida right after the killing of her son Scott. Within weeks of Scott’s murder, Linda flew to Tallahassee to speak before both the Florida Senate Appropriations Committee and the Florida House Appropriations Committee. Linda has also met with various Florida state legislators to help ensure the passage of Florida's Flag Law.

In March of 2020, the Town of Huntington, New York recognized Linda as a Woman of Distinction for her dedication and work on behalf of the Scott J Beigel Memorial Fund.

In 2021, the New York State Senate and Assembly passed the “Scott J Beigel Untraceable Receiver Act” which was signed into law by Gov. Hochulon on October 28, 2021. The law will ban the possession, manufacture, or sale of “Ghost Guns”. A Ghost Gun is a Do It Yourself firearm that can be purchased online, assembled in less than an hour, and does not have a serial number, thereby making it untraceable.

Org: Scott J. Beigel Memorial Fund, Inc

Website:

www.sjbmf.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LindaBeigelSchulman

https://www.facebook.com/scottbeigelmemorialfund

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/lindabeigelschulman/

https://www.instagram.com/scottjbeigelmemorialfund/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Survival of the Arts

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 14:00:00 +0000

The audience will get a high-energy view of how the arts are making a big comeback after covid and the excitement of the returning audiences. Not only will they learn about the importance of supporting live performing arts, but they also hear about the importance of supporting a highly successful and well-respected international film festival. Listeners will become energized by this conversation with Alan Inkles as he shares his 38 years of experience and enthusiasm for the arts and how that translates to organically generating critical support for the Staller Center for the Arts and the Stoney Brook Film Festival at Stony Brook University.

‍

Alan Inkles has been the Director of Staller Center for the Arts at Stony Brook University for the past twenty-nine years and the Founder/Director of The Stony Brook Film Festival for the past twenty-seven years. Prior to serving as the Director, Alan served in various capacities at Staller including Acting Director, Managing Director, Associate Director of Programming, and Director of Operations. During his 38 year tenure at Staller, he founded and created the award-winning and long-running International Theatre Festival, introducing dozens of International Theatre Troupes to America and producing many first American tours for these Internationally renowned companies.

‍

Name of your organization: Staller Center for the Arts

Website: https://www.stallercenter.com//

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stallercenter/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stallercenter/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-inkles-20031967/

‍Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

The Impact of Health Disparities on Pediatric Populations

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 14:00:00 +0000

More than likely, at some point in a child’s life, they will need to visit an emergency room or hospital clinic. The statistics on health disparities across the country based on factors such as race, zip code, socioeconomic status, and language spoken are staggering, and for many children, challenges that existed before March 2020 became magnified during the pandemic, particularly in low-income communities that were hardest hit by the virus. enCourage Kids is helping to spread awareness of the challenges many hospital systems are facing in addressing these disparities and how we are supporting the child life community in meeting the needs of their communities, including those of your audience members and their friends and families.

Our special guest, Michele Hall-Duncan's career at enCourage Kids began as a volunteer and joined the staff full-time in 1996. She has always felt a deep connection to the mission and quickly rose within the organization to her current position as President and CEO.

During her tenure, Michele has cultivated strong relationships with the child-life community and all levels of healthcare administration, as well as a comprehensive, integral understanding of trends in creative therapies, while identifying and meeting the needs of our hospital partners. These attributes have helped Michele to position enCourage Kids at the forefront of state-of-the-art programming in pediatric healthcare.

enCourage Kids Foundation helps humanize healthcare for children and their families by resourcing impact-driven pediatric programs and supporting the Child Life Community.

Org: enCourage Kids

Foundation Website: www.encourage-kids.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/encouragekidsfoundation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/encouragekids/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/encourage-kids-foundation/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

What Makes A Nonprofit Successful?

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 14:00:00 +0000

- Discuss challenges that were overcome - What is an effective leader - How do you maximize productivity and pivot when needed

Michael Magro Foundation is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization founded by Paul and Terrie Magro to honor the life of their son Michael, who passed away from leukemia at the age of 13.

The Foundation works with the Cancer Center for Kids at NYU Langone LI Hospital, Stony Brook Children’s CancerDivision, Cohen's Children's Hospital, and other pediatric specialties where treatment of chronic diseases is ongoing.

Terrie Magro is a Registered Nurse. She started her clinical career at St. Francis Hospital in Roslyn. Completed her graduate degree in nursing from NYU and transitioned into a Clinical Nurse Specialist role part-time and accepted an adjunct faculty position at Adelphi's undergraduate school of nursing.

"The opportunity arose to move into the corporate sector and I joined a medical supply company and diabetes supply company in a sales capacity. I have recently retired from NYU Langone Long Island where I worked as a physician liaison in the department of pediatrics. In 2004 when my boys became sick and Michael passed away I started with my husband Paul a 501c3 in Michael's memory; Michael Magro Foundation. I am the VP of the organization, we incorporated in 2005 and are in our 17th-year as a non-profit. I now run the foundation along with my all-volunteer board full-time."

Name of your organization: Michael Magro Foundation Website: www.michaelmagrofoundation.com

Facebook: Michael Magro Foundation

Instagram: @michaelmagrofoundation

LinkedIn: Michael Magro Foundation

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

One Tour Can Last a Lifetime

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 14:00:00 +0000

They will understand the process that allowed the development to create the system that will change policing in the most positive way in decades.

‍Robyn Cannariato

‍Post Tour Processing is an independent not-for-profit group of committed and concerned retired police officers and police professionals, formed to address a gap in the services available for law enforcement.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy tells his listeners about his mission to tell stories about the nonprofit sector and amplify their message. He reminds his listeners that NYC Imagine Awards applications are out now for anyone working in a nonprofit organization that’s involved in the five boroughs in NYC. Tommy introduces his guest Psychologist Jean Cirillo and Police officer Robyn Cannariato. Robyn shares some of her experience working in the field and the different units she’s transferred to throughout her career. She talks about her most memorable unit, Early Intervention Unit, where she had to review and possibly terminate problematic officers. Robyn expressed her concerns for the unit because it didn’t give the officers a chance to identify their problem. She says it was better for peers to run the unit so officers in distress could have someone who can understand and relate to their troubles.

Segment 2

Robyn continues to talk about the traumatic experiences police officers face and how it can affect their life outside of work. She discusses the difficulties officers face when it comes to emotionally processing a traumatic event. This anonymous program is designed to help officers share what they are experiencing with their peers. If the situation boils into something more severe they are referred to a psychologist. Tommy references his previous episode where his guests run an agency, Transitional Services of NY, where they’ve served over 4,000 individuals with mental health issues. Before the break, Tommy and his guest discussed how we are in a state where we can all use a little more compassion and support.

Segment 3

Tommy and his guest continue to discuss the benefits of the program established by Robyn. It’s an outlet for officers under distress who want to keep their matters anonymous in fear of losing their job security. This program was designed to create a space for officers and their peers to share their experiences and support each other. Tommy asks Robyn the future of the organization and if they plan on expanding. She is focused on funding at the moment and looks to license the program to share with other departments around the nation.

‍Segment 4

Tommy and his guest discuss the struggles officers face when they are out of uniform. It can be hard to turn off and live a normal life when you are consistently met with intense situations as a police officer. Jean talks about the effects of PTSD and how it can lead to a more severe situation. Tommy connects the current conditions since the start of the pandemic and how we all have been under greater stress. Before the end of the show, Tommy informs his listeners that they can find him on TikTok and Instagram at TommyD@Philanthropy in Phocus. You can also find him at TommyD.NYC. Check out more information on Post Tour Processing on their website at TTMPT.com

Fostering Hope

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 14:00:00 +0000

How an almost 100 year old human services organization continues to address the changing needs of those in its community with a social determinant of health and DEIB lens.

We hope listeners will walk away from the episode with a better understanding of Little Flower’s work and feel inspired to be an ally in our mission. By tuning in, they can learn more about our programs and how they can get involved. They will hear more about local services available to them and their loved ones in their communities. Listeners will also learn how they can make a direct impact through events such as our 2nd annual virtual fun-raiser, Fostering Hope on May 12, or donating to support essential programs and services. Most of all, they can gain further insight into the challenges many in our local communities are facing and how they can partner with us to help our neighbors combat those challenges to bring about positive change.

Little Flower transforms caring into action to deliver services, programs, and direction to improve the lives of children in crisis, families, and adults with developmental disabilities.

Corinne Hammons is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Little Flower Children and Family Services of New York. She is responsible for implementing the strategic vision and mission for Little Flower’s services for children, families, and developmentally disabled adults in New York City and Long Island, including its affiliate St. John’s Residence for Boys. She is responsible for the sustainability, effectiveness, and stewardship of the affiliated organization

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy kicks off the show telling his listeners how he started Philanthropy in Phocus. He talks about the benefits of networking and how it's a way to help each other build relationships in the nonprofit industry. Tommy mentions his other radio show PALS that airs Wednesday at 2 PM on TalkRadio.NYC. He talks about his part in Horseability and the knowledge that he’s learned regarding how horses affect us and the science behind it. Tommy introduces his guest Corinne Hammons, President and Chief Executive Officer of Little Flower Children and Family Services of New York. Corinne shares her humble beginnings in nonprofit service and how she spent over twenty-seven years at Little Flowers. Before the break, Tommy and Corinne discuss the benefits starting at entry level and working your way up the ranks.

Segment 2

Coming back from the break, Tommy and Corinne continue to talk about the impact of nonprofit organizations and how to be a part of their program. Tommy tells Corinne he randomly contacted the Institute for Nonpractice because he wanted to get more involved despite not knowing anyone on the team. He talked to Kevin Cummings of INP and was given an opportunity to do service for their organization. Tommy and Corinne talk about the importance of mentorship and the opportunities that are there for people to get involved. Corrine tells Tommy about Little Flower’s mission and the lives that have changed along the way.

Segment 3

Corinne shares her appreciation for her front line workers at Little Flowers. She applauds their dedication and resilience through the pandemic and their ability to still connect with clients. Tommy and Corinne talk about a priest, Father Quinn, who was concerned about orphans after World War I. They discuss his impact and how his service is still in effect nearly a hundred years later. Corrine segway the conversation to Father Fagan and the work he did for his community. She talks about his vision and how he took orphan children out of the city and gave them a life in the country. Corrine talks about her team and the work they’ve accomplished over the years. She talks proudly of the campus and amenities that are offered to the children in the cottages.

‍Segment 4

In the last segment, Tommy and Corrine discuss upcoming events for Little Flowers. Corrine mentions their Spring Gala, a family friendly event that is now offered on zoom for anyone who would like to attend virtually on May 12. She also mentions their golf outing that will be held on September 12th. It has been a tradition for nearly twenty-five years and welcomes all. Corrine shares Little Flowers’ vision before the end of the show. To learn more about Little Flowers you can find them on Facebook, Linkedin, and or their website at LittleFlowersNy.org. You can also reach Tommy D on all social media platforms including Tiktok!

50 Years of Senior Activism - What?!

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Information on how to improve the quality of life of senior citizens and families in NYS.

María Alvarez is the Executive Director of NY StateWide Senior Action Council and Brooklyn-wide interagency Council on Aging. These organizations strive to improve the quality of life of New Yorkers of all ages through consumer leadership, advocacy, and empowerment.

Maria has worked with senior citizens and advocacy groups as an organizer, advocate, and director of housing and caregivers programs for over 28 years. She has designed and implemented educational, social service, and leadership programs for older adults.

She holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Marquette University and a Master’s Degree in Nonprofit Management from the New School for Social Research where she was a Sloan Fellow.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy kicks off the show telling his listeners about the impact of nonprofit organizations and the leaders that make it on the show. He also informs people on the application information for Imagine Awards NYC at ImagineAwards.com. You can also contact Tommy at TommyD@PhilanthropyinPhocus.com He introduces his guest, Maria Alverz, who received her Masters Degree in Nonprofit Organization Management at The New School. Maria is an Executive Director at the StateWide Senior Action Council. She tells the listeners a little bit about her background and how she found herself in senior services. Originally working with underserved adolescents, Maria found an opportunity to work for the Institute of Puerto Rican Hispanic Elderly, a widely known senior service organization in NYC. Tommy and Maria talk about their admiration for the elderly and the life experiences they are able to share in conversations. Before the break, Maria tells Tommy how her organization aims for proactive advocacy that provides services to improve policy concerns.

Segment 2

Tommy asks Maria what is considered a grass-roots organization. Maria explains that though StateWide has been established for 50 years, it’s about being involved in the community and connecting with people. Maria says StateWide was founded due to the high percentage of senior citizens living below the poverty line. She gives a brief history of health care acts and how seniors were affected before its existence. Before Social Security was enacted in 1935, seniors would retire with little to no income or health insurance. Maria shares how her organization strives to empower elderly to advocate for themselves and fight for their rights. She talks about memberships that StateWide offers and the communal conventions that are celebrated annually. StateWide prides themselves on being hands-on in their community and ensures advocacy to all elders who are seeking support.

Segment 3

Coming back from the break, Tommy shares his screen through the live stream on Facebook.com/TalkRadio.NYC. We can see the StateWide website and the number to the hotline they offer at the top of the page. In 1995, Maria was named one of NYS’s delegates to the White House conference on aging. Tommy lists the number of boards that Maria actively participates in. Tommy says it’s about staying current, polishing your craft, and staying involved in order to find your space. Maria breaks down the way StateWide works and how they are able to provide services for their members. Tommy asks Maria how often does StateWide engage with caregivers. Before the break, Maria tells the listeners a little more about StateWide’s memberships and how they encourage people of all ages to get involved.

‍Segment 4

Final segment, Tommy and Maria discuss the life expectancy of senior citizens. Tommy reads that 16% of NYS is 65 years of age or older. Maria noted that in eight years that number can jump to 25%. They talk about the image of retirement and how it’s changed over time. Maria talks about some seniors who suffer to make ends meet or are caregivers and can’t save for retirement. Maria tells listeners ways to get in contact with her or StateWide at nysenior.org. You can find her on Linkedin at Maria Alverez. Before the end of the show, Tommy and Maria encouraged listeners to get involved and check out this year's annual celebration September 12th-14th in Saratoga Springs, NY.

Equipping Adults, Empowering Youth!

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 15:00:00 +0000

We will learn how to eradicate exploitation before it starts.

After learning of and encountering the atrocities of human trafficking, several socially-minded creative activists partnered together to start iEmpathize. We came from varied backgrounds with varied skill sets, but each understood that because exploitation is all around us, we all can and should do something to engage it.

Don't miss this episode with a special guest, Mariana Loboguerrero.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy kicks off the show greeting his audience and setting up the focus for today's episode. He introduces his guest Marina Loboguerror who is an employee at IEmpathize. Tommy shares how he met Marina at his Nonprofit executive leadership round table. Marina tells the audience how she heard about the opportunity and the power of networking. Tommy shares Marina’s extensive background and how she witness the effects of human trafficking in Guatemala. Marina says she’s always been engaged in volunteering and nonprofit work. She was invited to accompany local officers in a raid where she was met with horrific images that are imprinted in mind forever. Before the break, Marina shares how she was given the opportunity to chaperone a filmmaker during a festival where she met the founders of IEmpathize. She talks about the impact that she was able to make while volunteering with them and how their training can save lives and prevent traumatic experiences.

Segment 2

Marina defines the meaning of human trafficking. Tommy plays a clip from the IEmpathize.org website. Marina breaks down the signs to look for from traffickers and how they can spring on their sense of control out of the blue. Marina talks about the different training that IEmpathize offers to various industries to help prevent future cases. She even shares how their training is available for schools to educate children on how to stay protected. Marina tells Tommy the five disguises to look for in a trafficker and how an easily accessible training can prevent and educate our community. Marina explains how IEmpathize training offers different learning tools based on the industry. For example, A hotel training might differ from an office training because of the interactions with their clients.

Segment 3

Tommy shares his screen to show a clip from IEmpathize.org. Marina shares the red flags to look for in a trafficker. She says to look for the five P’s; Pretender, Provider, Protector, Promiser, and Punisher. She explains that someone who engages with you promising to provide a certain lifestyle, while pretending to be your protector out of control and ends up punishing you is a predator. Tommy asks how the training is designed to be digestible for children? Marina says she talks to kids to ensure they have the tools and knowledge to get out of a bad situation. She says IEmpathize offers training in-person for a group setting and online for individual learning. Before the break, Marina shares how businesses can get involved and keep their employees and clients safe.

‍Segment 4

Marina explains that the key to the training was to make sure it was teachable and digestible for her clients because there is a lot of information to cover. Marina says her team guides companies on what training would best suit their business and why. Marina explains how IEmpathize is made up of a team of six that is grateful for the sponsors that they have. She tells specific stories of clients she's worked with and how she was able to provide training for that business. Marina also talked about the importance of donations and how much that has helped the organization. Before the end of the show, Tommy tells his audience how to find him on social media and where to find more information about human trafficking at IEmpathize.org

Reclaim the Day! Reclaim Sláinte!

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0000

As the world finds its way through the global pandemic and enters the post-pandemic landscape, non-profit organizations are strategically positioned to show leadership and direction in solving some of the challenges communities and sectors face. The Sober St. Patrick's Day® community was born at a local celebration in NYC in 2011—created by Irish -Americans fed up with how the feast day of Ireland’s patron saint has been hijacked by the misuse of alcohol and disrespect of the true spirit of the day. We think your audience will relate to this :)

After two years of pivoting during the global pandemic—producing our own and encouraging other digital, healthy sober celebrations—now in 2022 SSPD’s global reach continues to grow.

•Starting with Irish emigrants and their descendants in the NYC area

• And now connections with the global Irish Diaspora

• They both share and celebrate an Irish identity and value their links with Ireland and share their time, treasure, and talents in diverse and creative ways.

Sober St. Patrick’s Day® was created by award-winning theater and television producer, WilliamSpencer Reilly, who almost lost a member of his family to addiction in 2004. He first proposed the idea to leaders in the recovery and Irish American communities, a pitch that led, a year later, to the 2012inaugural party.

The mission of Sober St. Patrick's Day ® is to reclaim the true spirit of St. Patrick's Day by changing the perception and experience from an occasion for binge drinking and another misuse of alcohol to a celebration of the richness of Irish culture and the legacy of St. Patrick.

Name of your organization: Sober St. Patrick's Day® Foundation, Inc.

Website: www.soberstpatricksday.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sober.st.patricks.daynyc

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soberstpatricksday/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/71509054/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

Tommy kicks off the show telling his audience to get involved in our community. He says to do something that supports nonprofit organizations. Tommy talks about the drinking culture around St. Patrick's day and how we’ve created the tradition to binge drink the day away. He introduces his guest Bill Reilly and Tami McLaughtin discuss their mission to change the common misperception of St. Patrick’s Day. Sober St. Patrick’s Day is an organization that gives an alternative celebration for families and individuals who want to celebrate Irish culture. Tommy talks about growing up around bar culture and how it influenced his drinking as a young adult. Bill shares a time he attended the St. Patrick’s Day parade and was taken back by an intoxicated group of young men that wore clothing that celebrated binge drinking.

Segment 2

Tommy and his guest discuss how much was lost in Irish culture due to the glorification of binge drinking on St. Patrick’s Day. Bill says Sober St. Patrick’s Day is a way to reclaim the true meaning of Irish culture; kindness, friendliness, and open for all. He shares how proud he is of Irish culture and what they have to offer. He praises the food and music and how the environment welcomes families and individuals of all ages. Bill also reminds the audience that Sober St. Patrick’s Day isn’t to shame anyone, it's a way to remind people what the holiday is truly about. Tami shares how she became a part of the organization. Bill and Tami also add how they are including a 5k run before the NYC St. Patrick’s Day parade as a way to promote healthy habits.

Segment 3

Tommy shouts out Mary Ciammetti, founder of CTC Wellness Foundation and Don’t Stall, Just Call. He tells the tragic story of Mary losing her son, Christian to lack of education around binge drinking. Tommy and his guest jump back into the discussion around Sober St. Patrick’s Day. Tommy tells his guests to register at Soberstpatrickday.org to march with Bill, Tami and their members along with special guests that they’ll be providing. Bill informs the audience what they can expect if they register, including a fun celebration. Tami and Bill share how grateful they are for their global audience. They received a grant from the Irish government that solidified their part in reclaiming Irish culture.

Segment 4

Bill tells Tommy what is in the future for Sober St. Patrick’s Day organization. He shares that their website offers guidelines on how to host personal sober St. Patrick Day celebrations. Bill says that the organization will help newcomers get started with their own celebration and advises them to start small. He says the key is to have people embrace the idea that Irish people offer more than just binge drinking. Bill praises the community for their talents in story-telling, music, and dance. Tommy talks about the importance of partnership with organizations and sponsorship. Tommy asks his audience to sign up for sober St. Patrick’s day newsletter at SoberStPatricksday.org.

Changing the world, one swipe at a time

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Information on how to overcome the loss of things and the hope of how to start all over again.

Renee Vanheel started Every Swipe Benefits Charity in 2014. After losing her home in the 2007 San Diego wildfires, she started an organization called Fired Up Sisters to help the victims and their families.

Renee applied for a grant to help fund Fired Up Sisters and won. One of her dear friends working for another nonprofit lost her job due to not receiving that grant. Renee knew a new way of fundraising was desperately needed.ESB Charity was born.

Renee continues to put herself second when people are in need. When the time to herself appears, she is stimulating her mind by piecing to get her puzzles or taking a break from life by vacationing in different parts of California.

Andi Vanheel has always had an indescribable passion for nonprofits and helping others. From numerous mission trips with her church and school to working with World Vision and Compassion International, she gained the experience needed to run ESB Charity.

Before moving to California for this position, Andi traveled the world with an organization Youth With A Mission(YWAM) where she witnessed what long-term help and relationship building looks like. Andi also created a successful health and wellness company.

When Andi isn’t working hard at helping others achieve their dreams of changing the world, she spends quality time with her wonderful husband Cade VanHeel usually going hiking, or random adventures at the beach, or camping and road-tripping all over the U.S.

Website: www.esbcharity.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/esbcharity

Instagram: www.instagram.com/esbcharity

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/esbcharity

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

Tommy begins the episode by introducing his guest Andi and Renee from California, and Renee begins introducing the beginning of her organization. Renee begins to talk about how she loves a challenge, and how she loves and wants to bring people together; Renee begins to share her beautiful story which began with a fire that struck her home in San Diego, California. She began an organization called Fired Up Sisters which originally acted as a support group, but soon turned into a non profit organization because of the fire that had hit San Diego. There were so many people that had lost their homes who were not fully insured just like Renee; this fire also took place during a recession so Renee really did act like a superhero to help other women as well as business in the area.

Teen and Aids in 2021

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Information about HIV stigma and how to break it.

Sarina DiBianca, started 26 years ago in the midst of the AIDS pandemic to help with the mind, body, and spiritual wellness of those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.

She is now an Executive Director with passion and support for those living with HIV/AIDS. She made the jump from corporate to non-profit 10 years ago. "I let my heart lead the way, not my head."

Org: Siloam Wellness Center

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Leading a Charity with GRIT!

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0000

The help, hope, and healing for people during times of grief, loss, and tragedy through healing art, education, and counseling/support services.

Org: About org: Hearts of Hope helps people with trauma and loss and hope so they can heal and grow. Our vision is a sustainable environment of caring, compassion, and hope.

About Judith Pedersen: I have the very best job in the world because I get to marry my two passions of serving those who have experienced trauma, tragedy, and loss with the overwhelming power of art.

Specialties: Postgraduate work includes certification and appointment by the Association for Death Education and Counseling.

Website: www.ourheartsofhope.org

Facebook: OurHeartsofHope

Instagram: heartsofhope

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judithpedersen/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Avenues for Justice’s Angel

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 15:00:00 +0000

In the world's most carceral state (the US), what is often overlooked is the human cost of locking away people for their crimes, big and small.

The most failed group behind bars is our country's youth.

At Avenues for Justice, we expose the injustice of locking up youth and highlight the human potential that can be captured by providing a second chance to a young person that is caught up in the justice system.

Angel has been doing this work for over 40 years and was one of the first to actively try to solve the problem with Avenues for Justice.

Launched in 1979, Avenues for Justice (then known as the Andrew Glover Youth Program) was one of the first alternatives to incarceration (ATI) programs for youth in the US and remains one of the few to have continuous Latinx leadership.

Avenues for Justice was instrumental in fighting for youth to be separated from adults in the justice system. Through our 40+years, we have maintained among the highest success rates in the country - 95% of our participants do not commit a crime during a post-graduation three-year tracking period.

Avenues for Justice currently serves 300+ ATI court-involved, at-risk, and re-entry youth and young adults per year at our centers in Harlem and the Lower East Side, and at our Manhattan Criminal Courthouse offices.

For over four decades, Angel Rodriguez has served as AFJ's Executive Director, working with youth in the community in which he grew up, went to school, and still lives today.

Part youth worker, part organizational leader, Angel has direct and daily involvement with clients, supervising the most sensitive advocacy procedures and carrying a heavy caseload. A known and respected figure both in the courtroom and on the streets of the Lower East Side, Angel's work continues around the clock as he moves through the neighborhood.

Under Angel's leadership, AFJ has been the recipient of many awards including the New York State Bar Association's Public Service Award, Manufacturers Hanover'sCommunity Development Award, and the Exxon Corporation Community Service Award.

For his personal dedication to AFJ, Angel received an honorary law degree from the CUNY Law School atQueens College and in 1994, Angel was selected as one of three outstanding community activists inNew York City to receive the Robin Hood Foundation's Hero Award in 1996.

Organization: Avenues for Justice

Website: avenuesforjustice.org

Facebook: facebook.com/avenuesforjustice

Instagram: instagram.com/avenuesforjustice

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avenuesforjustice/

Organization: Avenues for Justice

Website: avenuesforjustice.org

Facebook: facebook.com/avenuesforjustice

Instagram: instagram.com/avenuesforjustice

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avenuesforjustice/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

A Need We Feed

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Ways on how they help people in need, through serving them

Cliff Baker proudly served our country as a Sonar Technician on the fast frigate, USS W. S. Sims (FF-1059) in the United States Navy. After experiencing the world and returning to the area, Cliff quickly developed a niche for the many aspects of the foodservice industry with Singer Equipment Company.

With a strong customer service drive, Cliff has built valued relationships with restaurants and suppliers throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania. In June of 2010, Cliff's lifelong passion for basketball grew from a pick-up (when they searched to find a tenth player for a 5 v 5 game) to one of the largest leagues that are now 300 players strong, The Baker League.

The Baker League continues to develop into a fabulous community asset on and off the court. On the court men, women, and children gather for exciting games and development clinics. Off the court, the Baker League works with various Ocean County community groups and charities to help in their growth and development. When Cliff isn't in a restaurant or on the court, he resides in Toms River and enjoys time with his wife, Terrie, his children, family, and friends.

Website: https://www.aneedwefeed.org/

Instagram: ANeedWeFeed

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aneedwefeed/

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

Tommy loves non-profit organizations and helping people tell their stories; today he talks to Cliff Baker, who served in the United State Navy, about his organization, The Baker League. Cliff and Tommy open up the show by talking about how competitive they are, and how much they love playing any games whether it be board games or active games. After a long chat about Pickleball and board games, Tommy starts to talk to Cliff about why he joined the Navy, which turned out to be a funny story where Cliff and four of his friends went to a Navy recruiter and all signed up together.

Segment 2

After the first break, Cliff and Tommy dive into Cliff’s experience from the six years he spent serving our country. Cliff was sent to San Diego for his basic training, where he says they were all installed with fear immediately. His first motto he learned from his very first breakfast was react, adapt, overcome from his first funny breakfast story. Cliff describes himself as someone who is always laughing, but he learned really fast that he could not serve his time at bootcamp with his smile always on his face. Cliff was eventually assigned the position where he was in charge of getting everyone up and ready for the day, after he got himself ready, and if someone did not follow these rules, it was Cliff who would be punished. Cliff’s biggest takeaway from serving in the Navy is the mental capacity you have to have as well as the mental capacity you take away.

Segment 3

Cliff talks about how The Baker league had an awesome opportunity to serve first responders and the military members who were helping them rebuild Ocean County after a tragic tornado. Two confused service members walk into a restaurant Cliff was working at, and this turned out to be the service members who were in Ocean County to rebuild the tornado damage. This turned into Cliff feeding, out of his own house, a Thanksgiving meal to the 350 first responders that were helping Ocean County after their tornado disaster. After this incredible feeding a friend reached out to Cliff about the first responders in a different area that he wanted to feed. A local restaurant owner overhears the story, and offers them her restaurant to prep, make, and feed these first responders. That following Christmas they delivered 650 meals, and that is how they started, A Need We Feed.

Segment 4

A Need We Feed had to change a little bit of their organization due to covid which caused them to shut down. Cliff did not let this stop him, and he began raising money to give meals to those in need. This is when A Need We Feed went from a small $30,000 budget to raising over $400,000 from his fundraising. At the beginning of 2021, New Jersey put out a grant for a non-profit organization who purchased 25,000 meals in 2020 and bought meals from restaurants who stayed open during Covid, and this is exactly what Cliff’s organization was doing. A Need We Feed received the grant, and received through 2021 $460,000 as well as the additional money they raised. From the beginning of Covid through today, A Need We Feed has raised over $1 million to feed those in need. Cliff Baker and his organization, A Need We Feed, has done incredible work and is such a light in his community. In 2022, Cliff’s main goal is to feed the active service members and their families who are struggling to find food. Cliff strives to continue growing his organization, and A Need We Feed isn’t done growing.

Fighting Against Domestic Violence

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Ways on how you can receive support if you are or have been a victim of domestic violence

Jennifer Capezza has a diverse background beginning in live theatre production and special events. Transitioning from this to receiving her Master's of Public Administration from LIU Post to enter into the Non-Profit field to focus on special events in the fundraising departments. Along the way she founded and built All CAPZ Consulting. A social media marketing, management, and training firm dedicated to empowering you to take control of your digital footprint. While she enjoyed this work, especially working alongside others mall businesses and helping them to build their digital platform and grow their customer base, it was missing something. She missed the excitement of building and launching special events and the satisfaction of working towards the greater good. Joining the team at LIADV brings her career full circle and applies all her experience, both on the ground and online to achieve successful fundraising campaigns.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

Tommy opens up today’s show talking about how important the non-profit field is and it’s impact for the community. Tommy’s guest today is Jennifer Capezza, who has a background in live theater production and special events. She transitioned from this to working on her Master’s Degree in Public Administration to enter into the Nonprofit field to focus on special events in fundraising departments. Currently, Jenn is part of the team at LIADV, applying her experience to help achieve successful fundraising campaigns. LIADV is a nonprofit organization that helps with prevention, support and healing for abuse victims in the Long Island area. Jenn gets right into some info about their hotline that someone can call when they need help. People who have experienced domestic violence in need of counseling, legal assistance, or even shelter can call the LIADV 24 hour hotline 631-666-8833.

Segment 2

As a teenager and into adulthood, Jenn always worked in live theater production and special events. She has always been very passionate. Jenn would work as a stage manager and production manager. Although Jenn was able to participate in events such as the Tribeca FIlm Festival, she felt even more excited putting together special events that dealt with nonprofits because of her contribution and its impact. Jenn has worked with LIADV for 10 years as a volunteer and has been with them full time for about 4 years now. Going from theater to nonprofit and doing incredible work for her community, Tommy comments that even if you don’t know where you are currently or where you are going in your life and career, your journey will take you places you never thought you’d be in.

Segment 3

Coming back from the break, Tommy recalls being in school and how they had a play to raise money for disability awareness month. This was a time when certain topics were almost taboo. Jenn says that LIADV was the first domestic violence organization in Long Island when it first started. It started off as a hotline number which now can translate to over 100 languages. Unfortunately domestic violence affects more women than illnesses do. Jenn also makes a point that domestic violence can happen to anyone, men and women. Jenn and LIADV are always there to make sure everyone feels safe. Jenn talks about the complication that happens when leaving a relationship; it’s not as easy as just leaving for reasons such as abusers in relationships having power over their victim. Jenn explains that abuse doesn’t always mean that it’s physical as it can also be emotional and mental abuse.

Segment 4

Coming back from the final break, Jenn talks about services available through LIADV. They offer a shelter house that can bring in 16-17 people to stay, including children who are fleeing their homes to escape domestic violence and have no other options. People are allowed to stay at the shelters as long as they need to. The organization also offers a variety of assistance and training in financial literacy education as well as help with resume writing, interview prep, courtroom advocacy, and legal assistance. Jenn says that the organization is open to working with schools, sponsor partners, community groups and more. On October 1st, they have an event called Pause for the Cause that will raise awareness of the link between domestic violence and animal abuse, and raise funds to support LIADV's services.

They have more events earlier in the year which you can find out more about on their website. So much to talk about as always but to close out the show, Tommy thanks Jennifer Capezza for joining him today. You can find and connect with LIADV through Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and liadv.org. Next week, Tommy will be speaking with Cliff Baker from the organization, A Need We Feed.

Helping Women Reach Economic Independence

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 15:00:00 +0000

They will get tools to go and get their dreams come true by working smart every day

Founder/CEO of the social enterprise Working for Women, Beth Bengtson, firmly believes that business can and should be a force for social good.

She has dedicated her career to designing purpose-driven business practices for corporate clients and her own small business.

Working for Women's goal is elevating women who are economically marginalized to financial independence by transforming the way businesses support nonprofits working for women.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

Tommy kicks off the show talking about the importance of nonprofit organizations for his 50th episode. He amplifies the sectors of non-profit work, from strategic partnerships and alliances/opportunities. He goes on to introduce the organization Working for Women, whose purpose is to elevate women who are economically marginalized by transforming how businesses support non-profits that support women. Following he introduces his guest, Beth Bangston, who is the CEO/Co-founder of Working for Women. Both joke how they are working from their attic. As a non-profit sector connector, Tommy, thanks his position and connections for being able to network with others such as Beth. He goes further into providing listeners with Beth’s education and career background. Tommy asks Beth what led her to start her organization which she dives into. Beth always believed businesses could be a force for social good. Businesses over the years have shifted in fundamentals including social and environmental change. People want to be aligned with purpose and flexibility and thats one of the big reasons Working for Women runs the way it does.

Segment 2

Tommy and Beth continue their conversation of purpose of flexibility, and why people are not settling for opportunities that don’t align with their beliefs. People are re-evaluating their work life which is puting pressure on companies/corporations to shift their purpose. While businesses purpose was to maximize shareholder profit, they are redefining the purpose to be about mazimizing the return for all stakeholders which includes employees, community, including shareholders which is at the end of the list. It’s a fundamental change that is causing businesses to consider the environment, community and employees. While businesses aren’t all there yet, they are shifting and the pandemic is helping that shift. Tommy mentions negative and positive incentives entirely effect businesses and their people. Competitive differentiation is causing businesses to address social and environmental justice, measuring their footprint.

Segment 3

Tommy reintroduces Working for Women, and their purpose in helping women to gain financial independence. They dive back into the leverage employees have in incentivising businesses to shift and improve their methods and purposes. Businesses have resources and its not just money, but it’s also skills. Beth goes on to say that non-profit and business are often seen as separate but in fact it is one and the same, non-profits are like businesses except their values have different alliances. Working for Women, focuses on their skills as resources that leads to a return on impact. Beth has seen first hand that experiential learning and growth opportunities that provide opportunities to employees to use and learn new skills are beneficial for both employees and businesses. They share the website for working for women.

Segment 4

Coming back from the commercial, Tommy thanks Beth for being on the show. Beth runs down the deliverables of Working for Women. Their purpose to invest dollars in skills from businesses into non-profits that are working to help women who are economically marginalized entering and staying in the work force. She explains why the focus is on women. She states that when you support women it gives back to businesses. They don’t get the same economic support. Research has shown once you invest in women, they turn and invest back into their families and in turn back into communities. Women are by largely the biggest consumers which helps the GDP. They are also a good environmental investment. All this information is provided on the organization website.

Being A Kid Again

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000

A Kid Again brings hope, happiness, and healing to families raising kids with life-threatening conditions.

The Greater Philadelphia Chapter of A Kid Again serves more than 230 families in PA, NJ, DE, and NY. We are condition-agnostic, meaning we serve kids ages birth to 20 with ANY life-threatening condition. We also serve the entire family, as the siblings and parents are included in all of our Adventures, not just the child with the illness.

Our Adventures are year-round, year after year, and they are cost-free for our families. We exist to give people a time out from illness.

Rachel Lippoff has worked in nonprofits in the Greater Philadelphia and South Jersey region for more than 20 years. She has worked with organizations large and small, with varying missions. But she has never felt so deeply about her work as she does with A Kid Again. It truly feels like she changes lives, every day.

Rachel lives in South Jersey just outside Philadelphia with her daughter and their two dogs. In her spare time, when she's not hanging with her daughter, Rachel is an artist working with resin, ink, and macrophotography. She enjoys exercising, reading, cooking, and baking.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

The first segment begins with a brief introduction of Rachel Lippoff and then a bit of banter between Tommy D and Rachel about the music styles they are listening to and are enjoying. Tommy then asks a question about what drew Rachel to non-profit work. Rachel shares that her parents raised her to have an orientation towards community involvement and helping other people. Tommy D then provides a brief summarization of Rachel’s contributions and work within the nonprofit sector.

Segment 2

In the second segment of the interview, Rachel briefly describes the work she’s done with her non-profit organization; she discusses some of the programs her organization has facilitated and hosted with. The conversation then heads into a more light-hearted discussion between Rachel and Tommy and a little bit of banter between them.

Segment 3

In the third segment of the interview, Rachel shares more about the programming her non-profit organization does. She emphasizes that her non-profit organization offers services to the entire family and not just the child who has special needs or an illness. Rachel emphasizes how the programs enable children to just be themselves without feeling as if they are out of place or being made to feel that they are less than ‘normal’. Rachel shares that her organization has chapters all over the country and she highlights information about the different types of programs hosted by her organization throughout the year. Finally, Rachel speaks about the impact of her organization on different families.

Segment 4

In the final segment of the interview, Rachel shares a bit about some of the challenges that are faced by children who are in need of the services provided by her organization. Tommy then asks Rachel what her organization needs in terms of support of donors, stakeholders, volunteers and assistance from the general community. Rachel shares that her organization is looking for more partnerships with different companies and organizations. She shares about a recent partnership which was done with a farm and how this partnership has been very beneficial and advantageous to the children who participate in her organization's programs. She also shares that her organization is also looking for donors, companies and sponsors who can help the organization achieve its mission. Finally, Rachel shares that her organization is always looking for individuals and families who are in need of and can be supported by her organization's programs.

A Real-Life Fairytale

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000

A Moment of Magic operates on the mission of restoring the magic of believing at a time when a child needs to ‘just-be-a-kid’ and reminding them to be brave, strong, and fearless.

Kylee McGrane is the Founder and Executive Director of A Moment of Magic Foundation, a President George H. W. Bush Daily Point of Light Honoree, a Sara Blakely and Spanx Red Backpack Fund Recipient, New York Yankees HOPE Week Honoree, and AERIE Change maker.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

Tommy begins the first segment of the show by listing Kylee’s credentials and accomplishments within the nonprofit sector. He then asks her what drew her to non-profit work. Kylee then talks about how her parents, who were both teachers, instilled the belief within her that one person is able to make a change in the world. She then attended a school in the Bronx which enabled her to learn while also engaging in community work. She then tells a story about how she had an idea to visit a children’s hospital and dress up as Elsa from Frozen. The amount of support she received inspired her to grow this idea and this eventually led to the creation and development of her nonprofit organization.

Segment 2

Kylee discusses the first time went to the hospital dressed up as Elsa from Frozen. She had only expected to be there for an hour or an hour and a half and she ended up being there for about five hours. Kylee discusses the impact her presence had on the children in that hospital and how one person can change the trajectory of another person’s day. Kylee then discusses the level of outreach that occurred after her initial success; she realized that she was not able to travel to different areas of the country to do this work. This sparked an idea to begin different chapters of A Moment of Magic at different colleges in the U.S. She was then shadowed by a major media outlet who broadcasted her work and enabled the organization to reach new heights.

Segment 3

In the third segment of the interview Kylee shares about the challenges that occurred when the Covid-19 pandemic first started. It became harder to do hospital visits with college student volunteers and sick children in hospitals and clinics. These challenges created a shift in the way the programs were able to be done. Kylee then discusses how the organization would like to do as much as possible, however, because they are a grassroots non-profit organization, they are limited in the amount of outreach they are able to do. She states that hospitals and other medical institutions would be the best institutions to partner with.

Segment 4

In the final segment, Kylee discusses the magnitude of the impact college students realize they can create while doing this work. She discusses the importance of college students having community and how that sense of community is achieved through this work. Kylee and Tommy further discuss the impact of the organization and Tommy emphasizes how this program is changing lives. Finally, Kylee shares her vision for the organization in the coming years. She shares upcoming events and encourages others to get involved.

Colorful Talks Board President

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Colorful Talks originated in 2020 from a mom, Vera Jones, living in Astoria, Queens NY who was concerned about the increasing violence and evidence of racial unrest in America.

She realized there wasn't a group or organization she knew of that aimed to specifically help parents facilitate positive and healthy discussions about race and diversity with their school-aged children....so she created one!

Their mission is to provide educational tools for families that will facilitate meaningful conversation and activities while developing an emerging awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion with their school-aged children and creating a lasting, positive impact on their communities and the world.

Vera Jones is the President of Colorful Talks and is also a motivational speaker, author, and professional development trainer with over 30 years of experience in varied disciplines. She offers leadership, communication, resilience, diversity, and inclusion, and conflict resolution coaching and consulting.

Vera has her master’s degree in television and radio from Syracuse University and ascertained in conflict dynamics and workplace conflict. A former ESPN and Big Ten Network basketball analyst, Vera is also featured in a 47-million view Goalcast viral video called “Trust Your Vision”-- the inspiring story of her young son overcoming the challenges of a brain tumor and blindness. Vera is a Prince George’s County, MD native, who now resides in Jacksonville, FL.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

The segment begins with a discussion about how Vera Jones came into the non-profit work. Vera tells a story about how her love for basketball led her to a sports broadcasting career. She shares that due to the disability of her son, she was able to learn more about the emotional challenges and struggles that arise due to issues such as bullying. She thought about the intersection between racism and ableism and discovered that children are often ill-equipped to deal with these sorts of challenges. She then created a grassroots organization to address these challenges and was eventually promoted to the role of president of the organization.

Segment 2

The second segment begins with a discussion about the value of this type of non-profit work and the importance of giving people the tools to succeed. Vera shares that time is often the resource that is limited or constrained when it comes to the work done by her organization. Vera is looking to get more people involved in the organization’s mission in addition to more sources of funding. Vera also shares that they also need parents to get more involved in the organization’s programs. Her organization would also like to form more connections and find more networking opportunities to grow the organization.

Segment 3

The third segment begins with a brief overview of the different types of modules which teach students how to acknowledge and accept differences; these modules are used to begin conversations with children about social differences. Vera briefly goes over the module and shares that the ultimate purpose is to teach children that across differences, we are all still human. Tommy then discusses the importance of the conversations and he shares that many people are not well informed about racism. Vera then reinforces the need for these kinds of conversations so that people are able to navigate differences. Vera emphasizes the importance of helping children understand that the world is full of differences and that differences don’t have to be negative.

‍Segment 4

The final segment of the interview focuses on the mission and the vision of the non-profit organization. Tommy then discusses that although there have been structures created to create divisions amongst people, all of us are members of ‘the human race’. Vera shares details on how to get in contact with her organization and Tommy re-emphasizes the needs of vera’s organization.

Let's All Say YES!!!

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 15:00:00 +0000

About Org: The League of YES is a baseball league for children with all "abilities." We are the League of YES because we do not say no to the children or their families. It doesn't matter your age or disability, you can always play baseball with our help!

Our mission is to establish and sustain baseball programs for people (of all ages) with disabilities. Our objective is to provide an opportunity for those individuals to experience the joy and benefits that come from playing our national pastime.

About Kristine: Executive Director and Founder of the League of YES. Kristine Fitzpatrick founded the League in 2010, formally known as the Miracle League of Long Island in association with the Miracle League Organization.

In 2014 Kristine made the bold decision to leave the Miracle League and create her own organization named, “The League of YES”, YES- where You Experience Success." Her mission is to establish and sustain baseball programs for people (of all ages) with disabilities and to make a positive difference in the lives of disabled children through recreation, and provide physically active outlets.

Kristine’s goal is to spread the word and joy of this program nationally. Currently, Kristine is a sales representative for American Recreational Playgrounds. Kristine is a proud mother of two sons Peter and Wade and resides in Dix Hills, NY.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

The first segment begins with a question about what catalyzed Kristine’s involvement in the non-profit sector. Kristine tells a story about a non-profit role she was offered in 2006 while she was still working in sales. While visiting the job site, she had an experience which touched her deeply and which motivated her to engage in non-profit work.

Segment 2

The second segment begins with a continuation of the story Kristine shares in the first segment; while visiting at the aforementioned job site, she met a young boy named Julian and her experience with him helped her to realize her calling in the non/profit sector. Kristine remarks that she never anticipated starting her own non-profit organization until this moment. She shares about her experiences gathering resources and community support to start her non-profit organization.

Segment 3

In the third segment, Kristine continues to share about the development of her non-profit organization. She discusses networking and the connections she was able to build through networking with individuals and organizations in the non-profit sector. She also shares how the networking and meeting process has been made so much easier through the normalization of Zoom meetings.

Segment 4

In the fourth and final segment of the show, Kristine shares a story about being contacted by a woman whose brother is on the autism scale. Kristine’s organization helped to connect her to people who have family members on the autism scale and these individuals created a support group for one another. Tommy asks Kristine to share about what her organization needs. Kristine shares that they accept volunteers of all ages. Young volunteers may be accompanied by an adult or guardian. Kristine shares that her organization is also looking for board members with experience to help the organization grow to a national level.

Neve Hanna Children's Home Is Changing Children's Lives

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 15:00:00 +0000

American Friends of Neve Hanna (AFNH) is a non-profit children's 501(c)(3) organization associated with the Neve Hanna Children's Home in Kiryat Gat, Israel. They are the only Masorti Kehillah of its kind in Israel that assists with youth at risk children. American Friends of Neve Hanna raises funds to help support and sustain the individualized therapeutic programs, projects and extracurricular activities at the children's home.

In addition, they raise funds to maintain and develop the campus, fund birthday parties, bar/bat mitzvahs and holiday outings, provide psychological services, social workers, special tutors and religious instruction for the children.

Lisa Pollack is the Director of Business Development and Social Media Marketing for American Friends of Neve Hanna, a non-profit children's organization for the Neve Hanna Children's Home in Kiryat Gat, Israel.

Lisa was born and raised in Bayside, Queens, New York. Her background and education is in marketing and communications. Lisa has 30 years of work experience in the business world. The last 8 years have been concentrated in the nonprofit industry. Lisa specializes in publicity, marketing, fundraising, building and maintaining business relationships within the community.

Lisa has organizational relationships and ties within the Jewish Community including Masorti, Alpha Epsilon Pi (Aepi), Stand With Us, MERCAZ-USA, Women's League for Conservative Judaism, and the Federation of Jewish Men's Clubs. She is also a Public Speaker, Israel Advocate, Activist and Photographer. Lisa blogs for the Times of Israel where she tells and shares the stories of Neve Hanna Children's Home.

Gilit Ullman Stein's grandmother, Hanni Ullmann, founded Neve Hanna in 1974. When I was 11 years old I ew to Israel to accompany my grandmother to the President's ceremony where she was granted the Israeli Prize for Volunteer Work. From that year forward I went to Israel every summer and stayed at Neve Hanna. I became very friendly with the children living at Neve Hanna that time and would assist them with painting the dormitory houses, cooking in the kitchen, cleaning the petting zoo and other chores around the Neve Hanna campus. I loved going to Neve Hanna each summer and it is the time of my life that I remember with fondest memories. My grandmother's legacy lives on through Neve Hanna and the children who live there today.

Janet Tobin is the Co-President for American Friends of Neve Hanna, a non-profit children's organization for the Neve Hanna Children's Home in Kiryat Gat, Israel. Janet attended and graduated Brooklyn College with a B.A., major: Education and Psychology. She was a Teacher and Assistant Director of the Summer School Program for Great Neck Schools. Janet also served on the Health Education Committee of the Great Neck Public Schools. Janet has a long history of volunteerism within the Jewish Community including serving as President for Women’s League for Conservative Judaism (WLCJ) as well as the Membership Chair, Adult Education Chair, Vice President and Israel Affairs Chair and many other roles.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

The first segment of the show begins with Tommy introducing all the guests of this interview. Each interviewee provides a brief overview of the non-profit work they do and how they came into this kind of work. They share about how they are connected, through their Jewish heritage, to do service work within the Jewish communities they were within.

Segment 2

The second segment begins with Gilit sharing about her connection to non-profit work; she talks about the legacy of social work which her grandmother created and her desire to continue and extend that legacy. They then discuss how the American friends of Neve Hanna came to be established. Janet then discusses a bit about the success of Neve Hanna and shares an anecdote to highlight this success.

Segment 3

This segment begins with a discussion about the value of connection and community which are created through this non-profit work. The conversation then shifts to a discussion about American Friends of Neve Hanna award-winning bakery. In addition to creating some of the most delicious and amazing breads, the bakery also helps to bridge together disadvantaged and disconnected families. The bakery also provides an opportunity for people to learn about how to run a business and to gain the necessary skill set for running a business.

Segment 4

The final segment explores programs which are offered by American Friends of Neve Hanna which assist children who may be socially or otherwise marginalized. Tommy and the interviewees discuss the value of these programs in what they contribute to the lives of the children who are involved and participate in the programs. The guests share that they need more exposure and a broader donor base in order to be able to continue to be able to do this work and to offer services through their organization. They share their contact information for those who are interested in connected with them and their work

Challenging The Stigma On Mental Health

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 14:00:00 +0000

The mission of the Jordan Porco Foundation is to prevent suicide, promote mental health, and create a message of hope for young adults. JPF provides engaging and uplifting programming emphasizing peer-to-peer messaging promoting help seeking behavior, self-care, and coping skills. Their programs challenge stigma by talking openly about mental health, and educating about the risk factors and warning signs of suicide and other related mental health concerns.

Through awareness, education, and innovative programming, JPF is challenging stigma around mental health and help-seeking, creating open conversations about the prevalence of suicide and mental health issues, and saving young adult lives.

Marisa Giarnella-Porco is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Jordan Porco Foundation (JPF). JPF was founded in 2011 after the Co-Founders lost their son, Jordan, to suicide when he was a freshman in college. Prior to starting the Jordan Porco Foundation, Marisa has worked in human services since 1985.

She obtained her Masters of Social Work from the University of Connecticut in Administration. Her employment experiences range from the CT Department of Children and Families to various positions with local mental health authorities in Eastern Connecticut. She has volunteered for decades in her community and is currently an active member of the CT Suicide Advisory Board.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

In the first segment of the episode, the interview begins with Tommy asking Marisa how she became involved in this type of non-profit work. Marisa responds by sharing about how she grew up seeing the different issues within her family which were not openly discussed due to stigma and shame surrounding mental health issues. This inspired Marisa to study psychology and sociology and this enabled her to develop an understanding of the troubles that affected her family and other members of society. As she continued her studies, she developed an understanding of systemic problems that contribute to mental health issues.

Segment 2

This segment begins with Melisa telling the story about how the organization came to be; she recounts the story about the circumstances and the aftermath of her son’s suicide. She describes her son, Jordan, as one of the last people who she ever expected would commit suicide. She discusses the expectations and ideas that must’ve led her son to feel isolated in that moment of his life. When Melisa decided to develop a program to promote suicide prevention and awareness, she first gathered the input from several individuals in order to develop a program that students would be willing to engage with. The program was very well received by students and the program was thus expanded to include more students. The foundation has since hosted hundreds of events which have impacted thousands of lives to date.

Segment 3

This segment begins with a discussion about the prevalence of suicide within society. Marisa shares a few stories about participants of her program whose lives were positively affected by the program: one young woman sought help after deciding against commiting suicide and another young woman realized, through her participation in the program, realized that she had been struggling with anxiety. Marisa and Tommy then discuss the specific mental health challenges faced by young people due to phenomena such as social media. Finally, Marisa offers a few ways in which young people can navigate these challenges.

Segment 4

In the final segment, Marisa emphasizes the significance of mental health programs, especially for college students. She frames the work of her organization as a form of preventative care which helps to prevent deeper and more significant mental health problems later in their lives. Marissa and Tommy highlight the importance of social work and share some information about how to get involved with the organization.

Shining A Bright Light On Our Strength & Weakness

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Exponents is a nonprofit organization located in the heart of New York City serving those impacted by substance use and other chronic health conditions.

Their mission is to deliver these services through a client-centered, strength-based approach, which greatly improves health outcomes and promotes overall wellness in our communities.

Joe Turner is the co-founder and current CEO of Exponents, a 30-year-old community based human services and harm reduction program in NYC. Exponents provides compassionate and person-centered drug treatment, recovery and wellness services to the most vulnerable New Yorkers. Since its founding in 1988, over 11, 000 program graduates have completed its programs-many of whom are in management positions of nonprofit agencies.

At Exponents, “…we meet people where they are, but we don’t leave them there”!

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

The segment begins with a conversation about how the Exponents philosophy came to be. Joe Turner recounts his experiences and memories of the AIDS pandemic. He remembers how terrifying that time was and how the response of the LGBTQ+ community shaped the outcome of the lives of many individuals; instead of a philosophy of abstinence, Joey says the Act Up movement promoted ‘safer sex’ and in doing so, were able to provide a feasible alternative to the AIDS pandemic.

Inspired by this philosophy, Joe Turner wanted to find alternatives to substance abuse treatments which are rooted in compassion. Joe states that his organization meets people at the stage of recovery they are in.

Segment 2

The second segment begins with a discussion about how the intersection of different social issues contribute to substance abuse and addiction. Joe says recovery “cannot be done in a vacuum”. Joe stresses the necessity of substance abuse programs which take into consideration or address different issues that contribute to addiction and the social effects of addiction. Furthermore, Joe highlights the conditions within different systems (such as the asylum system) which can actually exacerbate addiction.

Segment 3

The third segment of the interview begins with a discussion about the services they offer. Exponents offer multiple programs, some of which complement one of another. Joe refers to the variety of services as a ‘constellation’ of services which can help those who are addicted to substances to rebuild and reshape their lives. Exponents strives to create an atmosphere which allows people the agency to make choices. These services are low threshold services meaning abstinence is not a required condition to participate in these programs. All that is required to access these services is a willingness to show up and to make a choice about their recovery. After going through the programs, Joe says about 90% of people choose to participate in recovery programs

Segment 4

The final segment centers on a discussion about the needs of Exponents; certain services are not funded by grants and this creates a need for greater support from the community. Joe and Tommy also discuss the value of strategic connections and the importance of community engagement in the efforts of this non-profit organization. Joe shares some of the contact information of the organization for those who would like to connect with and get involved with the organization.

Teaching The Extraordinary

Sat, 23 Oct 2021 19:41:30 +0000

Tiegerman is a New York State approved non-public school program (K-12) for students with language disorders and developmental disabilities. Our programs focus on providing language-based learning for students to establish the foundation for their educational and social development and prepare them for a world filled with words, sentences, stories, and messages. We focus on the relationship between language development and academic success, providing intensive language immersion and academic instruction. The Tiegerman mission of “teaching the extraordinary” reflects the organization goal to substantively transform the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities from preschool throughout adulthood.

He received his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland in 2000. Dr. Jeremy Tiegerman further pursued his education in the field of psychology and received his doctorate in school/community psychology from Hofstra University in 2005. Following this achievement, Dr. Jeremy Tiegerman acquired his NY State Psychology Licensure in 2006 and earned an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Educational Leadership from Stony Brook University in 2011.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

The segment begins with Jeremy sharing a story about how he became involved in this non-profit work. Jeremy tells a story told about his aunt who, at a young age, sustained a traumatic injury. This injury created certain “deficits” which resulted in learning difficulties. At the time, the only options available for special education students were very limited and Jeremy’s family felt unable to commit his aunt to the learning institutions that were available for his aunt. His grandfather then decided to take matters into his own hands; he purchased educational materials and developed an intensive learning regimen for Jeremy’s aunt. His aunt finished highschool, attended university, and then attended medical school. Jeremy’s mother then became inspired to do this kind of educational work and then Jeremy eventually came into his family’s legacy of providing educational services for people with learning disabilities.

Segment 2

This segment begins with a discussion about how Tiegerman became involved in offering adult learning services. Jeremy discusses the development of these services which led to Tiegerman becoming a state-approved non-public school. Jeremy highlights that Tiegerman is approved to offer special education services in New York and Long Island. He also discusses the wide span of services offered by his agency for learners from preschool to adulthood.

Segment 3

The third segment focuses on the Tiegerman language method. At Tiegerman, the subject teacher and speech pathologist work together to create a methodology to help students learn according to the students’ specific needs. Jeremy emphasizes the importance of learning strategies for languages as language skills are a necessary component of everyday life. Finally, Jeremy discusses the inequity in the distribution of funding and resources between public schools and non-public schools. He highlights that public school is not for every type of learner and emphasizes the need for different types of learning environments for different types of learners.

Segment 4

This segment begins with a discussion about how Jeremy would like to see Tiegerman grow as an organization. Jeremy remarks about how he would like to see the organization expand to include a vocational training program. He feels that this would help students to become work-ready after graduating from highschool. He highlights the importance of work-based learning and he shares the practical work experience that his organization has offered to students with special needs. This helps to ensure that students are able to take care of themselves after completing their highschool studies.

Breaking The Homeless Cycle With New Ground

Sat, 16 Oct 2021 07:39:01 +0000

New Ground works with struggling Veterans and families to help break the cycle of homelessness and poverty. New Ground focuses support in key areas to achieve long-lasting success, including financial, literacy, career development, educational advancement, and more. Services are also provided to the children in the households to ensure the next generation will successfully complete school and move on to higher education programs and independent futures.

Shannon Boyle has been with New Ground since 2002, first serving as a front-line Social Worker, and then becoming Executive Director in 2006, She is a licensed clinical social worker in NY State with a master's degree in Social Work from Boston College. She has worked with the homeless for over twenty years, with experience also in psychiatric, addiction, and medical social work settings.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

The segment begins with a discussion about how Shannon became involved in the non-profit sector. She discusses her passion for community involvement and her work with homeless populations. Shannon and Danny then discuss homelessness as a social problem; Shannon describes the phenomenon of the ‘working homeless’ whereby homeless people may work one or multiple jobs and still be unable to afford rent. This keeps the homeless trapped in a cycle of poverty due to low wages and high rent costs in Long Island.

Segment 2

This segment begins with a discussion about the unique challenges that families often face due to homelessness. Shannon also highlights the fact homelessness is often a long-term issue that can affect families and children for years. She shares some statistics of homelessness in Long Island, but she does state that many individuals and families are excluded from these figures. Shannon highlights that a large portion of the homeless population are composed of veterans, most of whom struggle with mental health issues that are related to PTSD. Finally, Tommy and Shannon briefly discuss the stigma around mental illness in our society.

Segment 3

This segment begins with more discussion about how homelessness keeps people trapped in a cycle of poverty. New Ground helps homeless people in many ways such as helping the homeless to manage their finances. Shannon also highlights the multiple barriers the homeless have to overcome and New Ground’s vision to support families through these challenges. For example, they help to pay for transportation to and from work and school, day-care fees and other expenses that need to be paid in order to keep a job and eventually maintain long-term stability.

Segment 4

In this final segment, Shannon shares some of the upcoming events her organization will be hosting. Shannon also states that New Ground is funded by private donations which allows them to be much more flexible in the services they are able to offer. Finally, Shannon shares that her organization is always looking for volunteers. Her organizations have different committees and boards that cover wide areas of interest- anyone can get involved with New Ground and support the organization’s mission.

In Your Honor

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 14:00:00 +0000

The Dominic A. Murray 21 Memorial Foundation provides heart screenings for children, teens, and young adults for the early detection of risk factors and conditions that may lead to sudden cardiac arrest, training in CPR-AED, and life saving AED equipment to prevent sudden cardiac arrest and death in the young. DomHeart21 provides heart screenings for early detection, training, and lifesaving equipment in all communities, so no child is at risk for sudden cardiac arrest or death, no matter where they live, learn and play.

Melinda Murray-Nyack is the Founder and President of the Dominic A. Murray 21 Memorial Foundation, a 501c3 established in 2010. Melinda is on the Board of Queens Chamber of Commerce, National Board of Parent HeartWatch, American Heart Association volunteer, Member of the Bayside Business Association, Member of the Health and Business Alliance and is a certified HeartSaver CPR-AED Instructor.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

The interview began with a question about what drew Melinda to the non-profit sector. She shares a story about her only child, Dominic, who passed away after experiencing sudden cardiac arrest during a basketball match. After his passing, it was discovered that Dominic had a congenital heart defect that had gone unrevealed during his life. She shares that 23,000 young people die of cardiac arrest each year and 7,000 of these deaths are young people under the age of 18. She says the majority of these deaths are completely preventable and she stresses the importance of educating parents and school staff about how to spot the symptoms of cardiac arrest.

Segment 2

Melinda highlights that her organization provides training and donates medical equipment for non-profit and other organizations that can’t afford equipment. She emphasizes the desire of her organization to hear from members of the community who would love to get involved with her organization. Melinda also shares that she was a part of the lobbying effort in New York to make it compulsory to have CPR taught in schools and she emphasizes the importance of having this information.

Segment 3

During the third segment of the interview, Melinda distinguishes between a heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest. She emphasizes the importance of knowing one’s family history and for parents and student athletes to take the time to accurately complete medical history forms. She also discusses the screening grants her organization provides. This screening is offered free of charge to students who may be at risk; to date the program has screened about 6,000 youth.

‍Segment 4

Melinda emphasizes the need for public and non-public schools to educate students on the signs of sudden cardiac arrest. She also highlights the importance of school coaches to be well informed about the signs of sudden cardiac arrest. She states that this knowledge should also be incorporated into their training along with the mandated concussion training. Finally, she announces that her organization is hosting a virtual fundraiser which will help raise funds for training and AED equipment. The details for this event can be found on her organization’s website under the “21 under 21” tab.

We Are All Extraordinary!

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Extraordinary Lives Foundation - We provide Piggie Bear tool kits to help increase children's social emotional learning. The HUGS for Life Healing Center bridges the gap between medical professionals and approved holistic healers. Their mission is to improve children's mental health & wellness and support families by providing educational tools, resources and awareness events.

Originally from New York, Mara James relocated to California with her husband and her three children in 2007. They established Dr. James’s OBGYN practice, and for seven years, Mara managed the busyoce.

Then, in 2014, Mara unexpectedly experienced a manic episode and was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Through her battle with mental health, many wellness professionals helped Mara heal and transform her life. Mara’s experience—in addition to the experience of some of her close family members—has kindled in her a passion for forwarding the cause of children’s mental health. She established the Extraordinary Lives Foundation and created Piggie Bear to promote mental health awareness and provide both children and their parents with the resources they need to pursue holistic wellness in any and all avenues available. Mara lives with her family in Orange County, California.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

The segment begins with Mara discussing her story about what led her to create this foundation. After she experienced a manic episode, she was treated with medication and worked with therapists and psychiatrists to become better. She then experienced a moment of spiritual awakening and began to work with holistic healers to help her heal her inner wounded child. This inspired her towards holistic approaches toward healing.

She then discusses the origins of piggy bear: she felt compelled to purchase a stuffed piggy bear while shopping one day. The piggie bear, in addition to an insight received during meditation, led her to realize that she should publish a children’s book.

Segment 2

Mara discusses how her organization raises funds for Piggy bear kits which contain tools to help children cope and manage emotional health challenges. She describes children as empaths who often take on the feelings and states of minds of their parents. Mara remarks that children aren’t often given the tools to manage ‘big emotions’ and that the Piggie bear book helps children to master their emotions. Mara and Tommy then discuss the importance of holistic approaches to healing which need to be incorporated into everyday life.

Segment 3

Mara discusses the Hugs for Life Healing Center. She describes it as a space to bridge the gap between medical professionals and holistic healers.

She tells a story about her son who was diagnosed with a few different conditions. She discusses his journey with different types of healing and how he has managed to maintain his wellness. She finally tells a story about an energetic chiropractor who is able to uncover and heal deeper spiritual issues that affect his clients.

‍Segment 4

Mara discusses her podcast called ‘Let’s talk Wellness’ which hosts conversations with different wellness practitioners. Her vision for Piggie bear is to have Piggy bear sold to Build-A-Bear and to have it be a part of Disney theme parks. She hopes to rent or to be donated a space for Hugs for Life Healing Center. She hopes to create a healing space through the center for children and celebrities who experience emotional pain. Her organization does monthly donations with organizations, homeless shelters and military families. The segment ends with a discussion about the interconnectedness between humans and the Universe.

Healing Together

Sat, 25 Sep 2021 02:10:48 +0000

Camp Good Mourning! is Long Island's ONLY nonprofit organization that provides FREE, overnight, weekend bereavement camp programs for children, ages 7-17, who are coping with the loss of a parent/guardian, and/or sibling.

Paul Rubin, Founder and Executive Director of Camp Good Mourning!

Empathic bereavement support group leader with significant experience serving youth, adults and seniors coping with the death of a loved one
Award-winning educator and engaging classroom facilitator recognized by Suffolk County officials for Community Education and unwavering commitment to children, adolescents, and teens
Trusted source for information on bully and cyber bully prevention and intervention, internet safety, sexting, and sexual harassment
Engaging public speaker with exceptional communication and interpersonal skills

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

The first segment begins with a question about what drew Paul to the kind of work he does. Paul shares that he has always felt drawn towards service work with children. He describes different volunteering opportunities he’s been involved with over time. He then shares a story about a volunteer experience at a children’s bereavement camp in New Jersey. While volunteering there, he shared a special connection with a little boy whose family survived 911. The impact of this experience later inspired him to start an overnight bereavement camp in Long Island.

Segment 2

The second segment begins as a continuation of the conversation in segment 1. Paul discusses his observation for a need for an overnight bereavement camp in Long Island; although Long Island did offer bereavement camps, at the time, none of them provided overnight services. Paul found that overnight camps allowed for opportunities for more bonding and connections to form between children and camp staff. Paul discusses the unique services offered by his non-profit organization which also includes services for grieving parents such as support groups.

Segment 3

This segment begins with a discussion about volunteer work within the organization. Paul describes the stringent volunteer recruitment process which ensures the camp children are in the best possible hands. He then discusses the one-on-one buddy system in which volunteers work one-on-one with camp children.

Next, Paul discusses how he has created and sustained his nonprofit organization. Pro-Bono services have helped him to get the organization started and his organization is supported by grants, donations, and sponsorships. Finally, Paul discusses how camp services and processes are adapted to boost the wellbeing of the children involved.

Segment 4

In the final segment, Paul highlights his organization’s goal to fill in the gaps in bereaved services offered in Long Island. Paul also discusses the organization’s need for male volunteers and support group leaders. His team offers education and training for dealing with grief so that volunteers are prepared to serve in their designated role. Paul shares that the camp and volunteer applications can be found on the organization’s website and he shares the organization’s contact information. Finally Paul shares his organization is interested in growing their board and working with organizations with similar goals.

Empowering Futures - The Center for Great Expectations

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 20:17:59 +0000

The Center for Great Expectations (CGE), a non-profit located in Somerset, NJ, provides transformational mental health and substance use disorder treatment to women, children, men, and families impacted by trauma, abuse, and neglect. CGE is comprised of approximately 115 staff who deliver comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate services to over 1,000 individuals/year across 7 different counties.

In his role as Chief Operating Officer, Tim Cummings has the privilege of providing administrative oversight to CGE’s six unique programs, in addition to managing the Finance, Human Resources, Development, Compliance, and Facilities Departments. His leadership has contributed to the implementation of an agency-wide Performance Management system that promotes staff development, the launch of a 403(b) retirement plan, upgraded software and technology tools, and a robust agency-wide communication platform. Prior to joining CGE, Tim spent 13-years with an affordable and supportive housing provider in New York City. Tim has also had the unique privilege of providing care for, and living in community with, marginalized individuals in inner city Philadelphia, as well as homeless youth in Haiti and Peru.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

The first segment of the show begins with a question about how Tim became involved in the non-profit sector. Tim discusses how, from a young age, he was exposed to opportunities to get involved in social justice, equity, and inclusion work. By spending time in communities that were different from his own, he began to discover his power and the amount of impact he was able to make.

Segment 2

In the second segment of the show, Tim discusses a program he participated in during the gap year he took after graduating from college. The program took place in an inner city Philadelphia community and its purpose was to serve the residents of that community. He lived within this community for about two years and he discovered the level of privilege he had been afforded in life. He then decided to dedicate himself to giving back to the community through social work and by engaging in everyday acts of kindness and compassion.

Segment 3

In the third segment of the show, Tim discusses his professional non-profit work within CGE. He has worked with CGE for about 4 years and is incredibly passionate about the impact that has been and will be created by them.

CGE primarily serves women and children who struggle with mental health issues and substance abuse disorders. They offer various programs and centers which support mothers and children as they try to break cycles of abuse and trauma. They also offer outpatient services which men are able to access.

Segment 4

The final segment focuses on the programs offered by CGE. They offer a supportive housing program which offers housing and counseling services to women in need. They also offer an outpatient program for both women and men. Finally, they offer a start program which offers medical and mental health care and support services within the homes of the families they serve.This enables the non-profit staff to gain a greater understanding of the living situations of the families they support. This also enables non-profit organizations to provide better services to the communities they serve.

Human Options - Living a Violence Free Life

Sat, 11 Sep 2021 02:03:01 +0000

Human Options ignites social change by educating Orange County to recognize relationship violence as an issue that threatens everyone, advocating for those affected by abuse, extending a safe place for victims, and empowering survivors on their journey of healing.

As Chief Executive Officer, Maricela Rios-Faust provides vital leadership, support and vision to the continued growth and success of Human Options. Since 2006, she has capitalized on her 30 year experience working with vulnerable populations and been a key driver in Human Options becoming the most comprehensive domestic violence service providers in Orange County. Her commitment comes from a desire to raise her daughter in a world where relationship violence is not tolerated.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

The segment begins with a question about what drew Maricela into the non-profit world. Maricela remarks on the community involvement of her parents which inspired her to participate in civic engagement. During her college experience, she had different opportunities to get involved in community efforts such as the prevention of gang activity and relationship violence prevention efforts.

Segment 2

The second second segment begins by exploring Maricela’s journey into the non-profit world. She began by working with a gang prevention program in Huntington Beach. There, she formed meaningful connections with the women whom she worked with; one of these women shared with her a story about the domestic violence her family members experienced at the hands of her father. The woman was ultimately unable to leave her situation as her mother and brothers would be left vulnerable and unprotected. This situation inspired Maricela to get involved and to help children who were stuck in these situations. Maricela then discusses her work with different organizations who impacted families and children around issues of relationship violence.

Segment 3

The third segment begins with a discussion of what unrestricted support means in the context of non-profit work. This allows non-profit organizations to become more flexible in the delivery of their services. This also enables nonprofits to develop programs and services that meet the specific needs of a community. The segment then moves into a discussion which outlines the services provided by Human Options. The organization started by offering a 24-hour hotline and an emergency safe haven. However, over time, the services provided by her non-profit began to expand and evolve according to the needs of domestic violence survivors. Maricela then discusses the importance of changing the narrative around domestic abuse and relationship violence.

Segment 4

The segment begins with a discussion about how Human Options handles domestic survivors who have animals and pets: Human Options partners with animal shelters to accommodate pets. Human Options cannot accommodate animals in emergency safe havens, however, pets may be accommodated in the “in-between” safe houses which relationship violence survivors may be placed in.

Maricela then discusses how her organization partners with police forces to enhance support for victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

The episode concludes with Maricela sharing options for getting involved with her organization and upcoming events.

Importance of Newborn Screening with ALD Alliance

Sat, 04 Sep 2021 01:29:47 +0000

The ALD Alliance helps families across the United States that are newly diagnosed with adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) by giving them the resources they need to fight this rare and devastating disease. This fight begins by making sure every baby born in the United States is tested at birth for ALD. The ALD Alliance was established to address the need for information and newborn screening with respect to Adrenoleukodystrophy.

After losing her son, Aidan to ALD in 2012 at the age of 7, Elisa Seeger started this foundation in his honor with the primary goal of having ALD Newborn Screening passed in every state. New York became the first state to start screening for ALD with the addition of “Aidan’s Law” in 2013.

Since then, Elisa has worked to help other states add ALD by traveling across the country to speak at newborn screening committee meetings. Elisa had federal bills introduced in 2016 which would mandate newborn screening for ALD nationally. This is still a work in progress and as of 2020 has changed this directive to include all diseases added to the federal recommended uniform screening panel.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

The interview begins with Elsa telling the story of the ALD alliance: she tells the story of her son, Aidan, who was diagnosed with ALD and ultimately succumbed to the disease. Throughout her story, Elisa describes the symptoms and treatment of the disease. She learned that when ALD is screened for at birth, it is much more treatable and the chances of a child’s survival are higher. She also discovered newborn ALD screening options were available in hospital labs, but rarely used in many states. At this point, Elsa realized it was her mission to raise awareness about early diagnosis and screening for ALD.

Segment 2

This segment describes Elisa’s journey with having Aidan’s law which includes ALD in newborn screening. She highlights that each state has its own newborn screening panel, but there is a disparity across states for what testing each panel includes. In the latter part of 2012, Elisa moved to have a bill passed into law which would include ALD screening as a part of the newborn screening panel in New York State. On March 29 of 2013, exactly 11 months after Aidan’s passing, Aidan’s law was passed in New York State which ensured that each newborn was screened for ALD.

Segment 3

After Aidan’s law was signed into effect, Elisa realized her work wasn’t done. In many other states of the U.S., ALD screening was not a part of the newborn screening panel. She highlights that many states were reluctant to engage her at first, because she was not a constituent of that state. However, she managed to find other families in different states who were willing to share their story about how their children were impacted by ALD. At the moment, 23 states include ALD as a part of their newborn screening panel.

Elisa then begins to discuss how, at a federal level, diseases are recommended to be added to newborn screening panels: the federal government reviews conditions and adds them to a panel of recommended diseases to be screened for. As of 2016, ALD has been on this list of recommended diseases to screen for, but it is up to each state’s discretion to screen for each recommended disease.

Segment 4

Elisa discusses her efforts to have ALD screening mandated at a federal level, however, it has not been an easy journey. She is working towards having the federal government allocate funding towards testing for newborn screening; this is because many individual states do not have funding to ensure that this screening happens. She also highlights that this is not specific or exclusive to ALD, but that this also occurs with other diseases which the federal government has recommended for newborn screening and testing.

Finally, Elisa shares some details about Aidan’s ride which is a fundraising effort that will take place in West Virginia on October 9th. More details can be found on aldalliance.org.

Rewarding The NonProfit Sector

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 17:38:46 +0000

CPA, CFP, FABFAManaging Partner, Cerini & Associates, LLP Ken Cerini is the founder and managing partner of Cerini & Associates, LLP. Like many of the nonprofits he serves, Ken is passionate about making a difference, believing that it is important to be deeply invested in every client relationship and providing real value to each of his clients. He is one of the top accountants/consultants in the State of New York working with special education providers, is well-versed in nonprofit issues, and also is heavily involved in the healthcare industry.

This gala event was created to offer formal acknowledgment to some of Long Island's and the City's Most effective and innovative non-profit organizations.

The Imagine Award is an Award Program That was Designed for 3 reasons:

1) To shine a spotlight on those nonprofits that are truly unique those with strong leadership

2)To foster relationships having the ability for nonprofit leadership to come together and communicate

3)To provide education it’s a little bit of a cliché, but we don’t know what we don’t know.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

On this week’s episode of Philanthropy in Phocus, Tommy D interviews Ken Cerini, the managing director of Cerini & Associates, LLP to discuss the Imagine Awards. These awards seek to recognize the efforts of unique non-profit organizations, to provide networking opportunities for those in the non-profit sector, and to educate those in the community about the efforts being made by non-profit organizations. Tommy D begins the interview by asking Ken Cerini how he made the decision to become involved in the non-profit sector. Ken responds by speaking about his desire to make a social impact within his community. Ken also highlights the need for alignment in partnerships between corporate businesses and non-profit organization; this ensures the sustainability of mutually beneficial partnerships.

Segment 2

The second segment of the interview discusses how to find the right business or non-profit organization to form a partnership with. Ken highlights how important it is for non-profit organizations to understand what it is they have to offer within a business alliance; this requires thoughtful consideration of what qualities would enable fruitful alliances. Some factors to take into consideration also include: the reputation of the businesses which a non-profit organization seeks to create partnerships with and the alignment of the visions of the business and non-profit organizations. Ken also discusses trends he has observed which affect the stability of such alliances such as changing government regulations and the need to retain quality staff and board members in non-profit organizations (which usually necessitates the need to increase wages). Finally, Ken remarks on the need for strong leadership within non-profit organizations; this enables the fulfilment of the vision and mission of these organizations.

Segment 3

In the third segment of today’s episode of Philanthropy in Phocus, Tommy and Ken continue their discussion on the sustainability of corporate and non-profit organization alliances. Ken emphasizes the importance of balancing the need to benefit the community with the need fulfil the mission of the non-profit organization. Ken and Tommy then discuss the Imagine Awards which have been going on for 10 years and which took about 10 years to actualize. Ken discusses his realization of a need for a space to recognize the impact created by the non-profit sector. He describes the Imagine Awards as a place to bring non-profit leaders together to create a stronger sector. The awards consist of 5 distinct award categories: Leadership, Arts and Culture, Innovation, Social Impact, and the Rising Award. The last two categories assess the micro and macro impact of the non-profit organization on the community.

Segment 4

In the final segment of the interview, Tommy asks Ken what he imagines the award series to become several years from now. Ken describes his hope that this award series will enhance the visibility of the non-profit sector. Ken also highlights the Fan Favorite Award and he announces that voting for this award goes live on Monday September 9th. Any 501c org providing services in and around long-island can be considered for this award. He also mentions that organizations need not have a brick and mortar establishment to be

considered for this award. Ken also mentions the Let’s Imagine Awards. He encourages organizations to attend as there will be a large presence of several non-profit leaders and this will provide a rare networking opportunity for those in the non-profit world. Finally, Tommy and Ken wrap up the show by re-emphasizing the importance of recognizing the work done within the non-profit sector.

Bravehearted At Ground Zero

Sat, 21 Aug 2021 00:53:31 +0000

The Ray Pfeifer Foundation is a 501c3 charitable organization dedicated to assisting September 11th first responders, firefighters and police, with medical needs not covered by insurance. The foundation was established in memory of Ray Pfeifer, a NYC firefighter who died on May 28, 2017 from 9/11 cancer. Ray never stopped putting the needs of others before his own. He was a leading force in lobbying to extend the Zadroga Act through 2090, ensuring health care coverage for 75,000 people who need, or will need, treatment for health conditions developed as a direct result of 9/11 exposure.

“Do the right thing, even when no one is looking,” words you’d often hear from Ray Pfeifer. A member of the FDNY since 1987, Ray was going with other FDNY firefighters the morning of September 11, 2001.When he learned of the attacks, Ray went to his rehouse at Engine 40/Ladder 35, grabbed his gear, and spent the next eight months searching and digging at Ground Zero.

Rob Serra sits on the board of directors of The Ray Pfeifer Foundation.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

Tommy introduces his guest Rob Serra a member of the board of directors of the Ray Pfeifer Foundation. Rob shares his story on how he got involved with the Ray Pfeifer Foundation. Rob also shares his passions and how they’ve played into his life. Tommy and Rob focus on the topic growing up with hockey and that large part of Robs life. Tommy makes the connection that his team work mindset may have influenced how he works together with other firefighters.

Segment 2

Tommy mentions how he makes connections with the nonprofit organizations that he meets so they have better opportunities to reach more. Tommy asks the hard question of if we truly do forget how much September the 11th effects people. Rob talks about the aftermath and health issues that many of the firefighters had contracted. He continues to explain how not only was it firefighters getting sick but anyone who was near the site.

Segment 3

Rob talks about Ray and how the foundation started. Tommy shares the knowledge he has on the Ray Pfeifer Foundation and Rob further explains to create a immaculate idea of who Ray Pfeifer was. Rob tells how Ray was more than a mentor.

Segment 4

Tommy asks Rob to share how he and the audience can pitch in. Rob tells the many different volunteer positions and how anyone could help out. Rob talks about different events that are happening and which Ray truly enjoyed.

Building Strong Foundations - Habitat for Humanity

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Habitat for Humanity of Suffolk is an affordable home ownership program for families earning between 40% and 60% of average median income. We are the only home ownership program that services this income range. We build in partnership with the local government which donates land, local businesses which fund our operations, volunteers who help build and our families that must complete 300 hours of sweat equity building their home or others that we have under construction.

Lee Silberman consistently generates revenue for organizations by using scientific methodologies to attack business problems. After earning his BS in Organic Chemistry from MIT in 3 years, he graduated with an MS from UCLA. Immediately after, he joined a 40-person, privately held textile company, and went on to learn all aspects of organizational leadership from the ground up. Silberman led the firm before, during, and after a merger, when it became one of the world’s largest decorative fabric wholesalers with a workforce of 550 employees.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy brings listeners up to date with what has been happening on the show and gives insight for what the show will look like in the future. After Tommys recap he introduces his guest Lee Silberman Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director at Habitat for Humanity of Suffolk County. Lee tells his experience and how he got to the position he holds today.

Segment 2

Lee shares the moments that make his work worth all the labor and love. He shares how he feels after he passes the keys onto the new owners seeing their excitement and joy. Lee talks about the give and take of working in non-profit organizations. He shares how the corporate companies and other vendors are two sided as it is a relationship that is giving donations for the recognition. Tommy and Lee share that this give and take is not a bad thing as it is how companies work and function as it keeps the relationships strong.

Segment 3

Lees talks about the three myths of Habitat for Humanity. He explains the process to what really goes on from raising money to build a home all the way to how Habitat houses are sold. He also tells how they receive income and support as well as where that funding goes. Tommy asks Lee what the biggest struggles are and Lee shares what hurdles the company goes through and how they get over them.

‍Segment 4

Lee shares with the listeners some opportunities to get involved with Habitat for Humanity. He shares some of Habitat for Humanity of Suffolk County's events and volunteer opportunities that are coming up. Tommy offers Lee to use this platform to engage with listeners to get involved and join the work that is being done. Lee encourages business to get involved because it not only helps the cause but it gives good publicity and shows the public eye the community that will help serve them.

A Tale of Two Nonprofits

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Homes for the Brave has provided housing, vocational training, and life skills coaching to help individuals leave homelessness behind. To date, we have worked with nearly 1,200 men and women, most of whom are Veterans.

Robert Kozlowsky is a 21 year veteran with the Shelton, CT Police Department currently assigned to administration duties. Outside of work, he has been a volunteer basketball coach, involved with the Shelton Exchange Club, a member of the Knights of Columbus, and a money counter for his church. However, his real passion has been veteran related organizations.

Robert has been a board member of Homes for the Brave (HFTB) since 2015 and has served as chairman of the board at HFTB since 2019. He recently joined the board of directors for General Needs as well. He has a bachelor’s degree in business marketing and computer science from Southern CT State University and a master’s degree in criminal justice management from the University of New Haven.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy is joined by two guests this week as he talks about Homes for the Brave. Tommy introduces Bob Kozlowsky, 21 year veteran with the Shelton, CT Police Department and board member of Homes for the Brave. Lonnie Sherman is Tommy's second guest on Philanthropy in Phocus and is the president of General Needs Ltd. Bob is also a board member of General Needs Ltd. and that is how he and Lonnie work together to make a difference for Veterans that struggle with homelessness and any other needs.

Segment 2

Lonnie shares the struggles he and Bob have seen throughout the years of their work, they explain what they do to directly help veterans and other individuals. The two share that they go directly to the source and will find ways to provide any needs that people may need. Lonnie tells a story of how a woman in need had lost her confidence and through the simple aid of helping her find appropriate apparel helped her feel better.

Segment 3

Tommy defines what Philanthropy is and tells what service is to him and what his goal is by participating in nonprofit service work. Bob tells Tommy about their Step Out For the Brave campaign and fundraiser that helps provide aid to the veterans who need homes and materials. Lonnie talks about their volunteers that are the heart of the organizations and how they couldn’t do it without them. Tommy asks the pair what they need for their organizations. Lonnie and Bob share that they need all the help they can get, whether that be volunteers, supporters, donations, or partners.

‍Segment 4

Tommy asks about the details behind getting the supplies for the veterans and how he could lend a hand to the cause. Lonnie and Bob share how donations help support the veterans physically and help keep their organizations flowing so no veteran will have to wait to receive aid. All the financial donations go straight to supporting the veterans and getting them what they need.

Phocus on the Arts with Pentacle's Clarissa Soto Josephs

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Like many other professionals, performing artists value support in administrative disciplines which enables them to focus on what they do best “create art and engage with audiences.

With an unwavering focus on providing artists with individualized administrative support and tools to build their infrastructure, Pentacle’s hands-on programs and services each year directly serve over 300 companies and project-based artistic entities providing employment to more than 1,500 artists and providing work to more than 750 independent contractors; 350 youth are served through its Education & Outreach programs; and more than 1,300 audience members attend its performances and showcases.

By providing artists with the support, they need to make their high-quality work, Pentacle enriches the cultural landscape through cross-sector partnerships in multiple communities across NYC and the U.S. As a not-for-profit management support organization for the performing arts, Pentacle designs and provides unique and robust programs of support for artists at critical stages in their careers.”

Tommy D will meet with Clarissa Soto Josephs – Pentacle’s Executive Director and will discuss:

How Clarissa got involved in the arts and how she made her way to Pentacle
Pentacle’s history and how we have remained flexible and adaptive over the last 45 years
Clarissa’s new role as Executive Director, the first non-founding director in this position, and how she can pay tribute to Pentacle’s legacy while still bringing in a new vision for the company
Why the arts are important, now more than ever. How Pentacle plays a role within the arts ecosystem. We’re not the artists but we help the artists run their artistic entities as a business and help them find a sustainable business model.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Connecting with The Viscardi Center

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Founded by Dr. Henry Viscardi, Jr., who served as disability advisor to eight U.S. Presidents and became one of the world’s leading advocates, The Viscardi Center is a nonprofit organization that educates, employs, and empowers people with disabilities. It serves children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of disabilities, providing Pre-K through High School education (up to age 21), school-to-work youth transition services, vocational training, career counseling and employment placement, and assistive technology.

John D. Kemp, Esq. is President & CEO of The Viscardi Center. A renowned, global speaker and a person with a disability, he inspires others to achieve the impossible through knowledge, experience, vision, and persistence. He graduated from Georgetown University in 1971 and Washburn University School of Law in 1974. He has received two honorary degrees, the first a Doctorate of Law from his alma mater, Washburn, and the second a Doctorate of Humane Letters from the University of Connecticut.

In 1995, Mr. Kemp co-founded the American Association of People with Disabilities with Paul G. Hearne.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

Tommy introduces John D Kemp the President and CEO of The Viscardi Center. Tommy voices his appreciation due to his fascination and appreciation for all John has done. John shares his story and all his influences. John tells about his disability and how he has grown and lived through it. John shares the impact his father had had on his life and how he taught him resilience. Tommy talks about how important goals are to growth in individuals.

Segment 2

Tommy dives deeper into The Viscardi Center and it’s message behind the facility. John talks about his education and how although his disability gave him different obstacles he did not let them slow him down. John recognized the difference in his culture growing up where some were not as lucky as he was. Both Tommy and John voice the importance of service and how it adds to a person. Tommy talks about the evolution of service and inclusion from different organizations and individuals.

Segment 3

John tell about his disability and what others go through having disabilities. John goes into public policy and how different groups of people that are not with social norms are seen as different and as lower. John tells about his prosthetics and how he has to think three jumps ahead when doing many tasks. John speaks about how his father has been his ultimate supporter and has continued to encourage him to achieve whatever he wants despite his disability.

Segment 4

John tells about how he has even spoke to congress appealing to certain disability related issues. He continues to point out how The Viscardi Center provides community and health services for individuals with disabilities. The goal is for all students with disabilities to graduate and create a plan for after school. Tommy and John talk about the future of the The Viscardi Center and how it will grow and help others.

Restoring Our Youth - Project Reclaim

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Project Reclaim is a leadership training program for youth who may not be ordinarily selected for leadership training. Their focus is to provide the involved youth with the requisite skills to become successful, contributing members of society by helping them to be positive young leaders in their homes, schools and their community.

Ron Anderson is the Executive Director of Project Reclaim of Minden, Inc. which provides:

Juvenile delinquency prevention programs for youth
Parental involvement activities and parenting training

His public service awards include:

The National Conference of Community and Justice “Brotherhood/Sisterhood Humanitarian” Award
Blue Cross/Blue Shield “Angel” Award Finalist
First recipient of the Volunteers for Youth Justice “Ron Anderson Champion for Youth” Award
Louisiana Association of Educators “Human and Civil Rights Trailblazer” Award
Shreveport, Louisiana Bar Association “Liberty Bell” Award
Twice named “One of the 10 Most Outstanding Leaders of the Community” by The Shreveport Times

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Segment 1

This week on Philanthropy in Phocus Tommy DiMisa welcomes Ron Anderson, Executive Director of Project Reclaim of Minden. Tommy starts the show by reminding his listeners the importance of the ripple effect and the long lasting effects it can have on individuals. Tommy shares Rons list of awards and achievements that he has gained throughout his nonprofit work. Ron tells his history and how that impacted his decisions to take part in his nonprofit organization. Ron talks about how important foundation is and how it was a major role in his life, he specifies how his foundation made him realize he had a choice to do better. Tommy mentions how leaders and educators are critical to kids' upbringing. Ron notes that children are able to notice genuine individuals and those are the people who will have the most impact.

Segment 2

Tommy discusses different programs that Project Reclaim offers and their mission. Ron gives more of his history, how he struggled in school with violence and how he had to make the decision to reach out to someone. Ron talks about how he was an angry kid not a bad kid. It was the situation surrounding him that provided an unhealthy outlet. Realizing his rage helped him change his path, he now shares to educators and leaders the tactics that helped him turn his life around. Ron talks about how service work called him and drew him in to share his knowledge.

Segment 3

Tommy recites the Project Reclaims mission from their website to remind listeners of Ron's mission. Ron tells of different programs he went through and worked for before identifying with Project Reclaim. Ron then tells the beginning of his work with Project Reclaim. He tells of the planting of branches and his work with the kids. Ron tells how he saw that all students should be given the opportunity to receive leadership training.

Segment 4

Ron shares about Project Reclaims programs and leadership training. There is an emphasis on leadership training as some leaders are bad leaders so through the program there are different trainings that can make more effective leaders. There are other programs that range from educational training to parental meetings to reach most of the community. For the community to support their youth gives them better opportunities.

Long Island Select Healthcare

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 14:00:00 +0000

In 2014, the clinics of three Long Island Human Services agencies: Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI), Family Residences and Essential Enterprises (FREE), and United Cerebral Palsy Association of Greater Suffolk Inc. (UCP), formed Long Island Select Healthcare, Inc. (LISH). Our first day of operations providing low income medical services in Long Island, NY and the surrounding area as Long Island Select Healthcare, Inc. was on August 22, 2016.

Long Island Select Healthcare provides services to all of those who are in need of medical services, regardless of their ability to pay or if they need uninsured primary care services in Long Island, NY. The uninsured are charged for services on a board-approved program for sliding scale health services in Long Island, NY and Suffolk County, NY, which is based on a patient’s family income and size and we are also financed through a mix of Medicaid and Medicare. A large portion of our 6,000 patients served include Intellectual/Developmentally Disabled (ID/D) individuals, we provide primary, behavioral health, dental, specialty services and OT/PT/speech therapy within our organization. We are a Patient Centered Medical Home that places focus not only on what our patients’ medical needs are but focus on the whole patient experience, seeking what barriers our patients may face that may negatively impact their outcomes. Through screenings such as PRAPARE, we will work with patients and assist with any linkage to resources that they may need to support their overall well-being.

Dr. James R. Powell, Jr. is the Chief Executive Officer for LISH. Dr. Powell is a board-certified Internist as well as the Medical Director for both DDI and UCP of Suffolk.. He is currently on staff at Mather Memorial Hospital, St. Charles Hospital, and Peconic Bay Medical Center.

A former board member of the American Academy of Developmental Medicine and Dentistry, Dr. Powell has presented lectures nationwide in which he has championed the healthcare needs of the underserved. Thanks to LISH’s experience with a pre-COVID-19 telehealth program he has been quoted in journals and lectured on topics regarding virtual care and the need for long term sustainability.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Show Notes

Segment 1

Tommy introduces James R. Powell Jr. Chief Executive Officer for LISH. Tommy gives Powell’s background and James shares how he was lead to the non-profit profession. He tells how he thought he knew about patience but he realized that he had so much to learn. He shares his passion to take care of others and share his knowledge and learning experience through his work. Powell tells how his passion to help others led him to go from private practice to non-profit organizations. Tommy connects that Powell’s passion may come from the feeling of helping others who need it most.

Segment 2

Tommy gives the background for LISH and all the organizations it is connected to. James tells how LISH came to be. He tells about the three health centers that were in need and how they came up with a separate entity that could serve all three companies. James talks about how important the board was in creating this new organization. He talks about how the changing of dynamics and different cultures played into forming a unified organization. James talks about being conscious about where their care comes from and the quality of care the patients get. James further explains how they do not stop showing concerns for their patients as he explains how they prioritize after-care.

Segment 3

James explains how they collaborate with bigger health care providers. James explains partners and how they set up programs to keep connected to services outside their own organization. Tommy explains how reaching out helps organizations keep connections with other organizations for support. James tells about an in-person event to celebrate five years of growth, to showcase the partners efforts in making a difference in the nonprofit community. The nonprofit organizations deal with budget strain and James explains his goals in aiding that process towards growth for the organizations to make the process easier. Tommy talks about the change and ingenuity that James and his organization have come up with over the years and how the changes they have made have helped so many.

Segment 4

Tommy asks how James reaches out to other companies to receive support and partnership. Tommy reaches out to see different ways to connect with other organizations to network and share support. James shares he wants his organization to gather more donors and solidify their partnerships. James shares contacts for organizations and individuals who need care or want to be a part of James' nonprofit organization. James shares the partnerships the company has now and how that supports and expands the outreach his organization reaches.

Fighting Against Suicide

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Project Refit is a non-profit organization, focus and committed to combat isolation and change the negative connotation around mental health.

PR efforts are for military members (past/present) and first-responder along with their families. They have created a new strategy of the hybrid model, combine technology and in-person support to meet the modern military member and family where they are both online and off. They are confident that combating isolation will reduce suicide rates.

James Corbett, Co-Founder of Project Refit, will be meeting with Tommy in the attic.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy uses his skill as the non profit sector connector to introduce James Corbett the Co-Founder of Project Refit. James has helped other nonprofits get off the ground with the combination of his education and his passion to help others. James is drawn to nonprofit work because it provides hope, he has taken on himself to make sure he leads with a voice filled with hope. James describes Project Refit as a wake up call for those who need help. The non-profit is reaching to change the stigma around communication between the men that serve our country. James talks about Dan and Chris the other two founders of Project Refit and how they formed the non-profit.

Segment 2

The word Refit comes from the refitting of vehicles so they can be ready for another mission. Project Refit uses this refitting technique for life situations for the people who served. James tells his connections to Chris and Dan and how they formed Project Refit and really set in stone their plan to reach out to others. Tommy and James talk out about how these men come back broken and hurt but will not ask for help yet there is not a community for them to confide in for support.

Segment 3

Tommy and James talk about the process of how the men can reach help. James talks about the different programs that they provide to give the individuals a means of community. James told how the program even raises money for certain members that need financial help to alleviate some stress and pain. James introduces their app which helps the serving men and women keep in touch with each other.

‍

Segment 4

James talks about the need for monthly donors and their program 1776. The program fuels the ability for Project Refit team members to show up and help others in need. James explains their plan to expand and how their different chapters will work locally and over zoom. If you need to reach out to James and his team go to ProjectRefit.Us

Bedtime, Books, and the Pajama Program

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Finding Your Pajamas began when I made it my mission to get children across New York City a pair of pajamas. From there we expanded across the country! Before I began volunteering to read bedtime stories at shelters, I had no idea that tens of thousands of children were going to bed every night without pajamas. Once I knew, my heart seemed to know what to do.

Genevieve Piturro was a TV executive in NYC for 20 years when a little girl’s question changed the course of her life - and she jumped off the corporate ladder. She began delivering pajamas and books to children in shelters and in 2001 founded Pajama Program, a national non-profit which is recognized for both its success - to date having delivered 7 million new pajamas and new books to children through its 63 chapters across the US - and Genevieve’s story.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

This week Tommy introduces Genevieve Piturro, founder of Pajama Program. Tommy gives some insight to Genevieve’s working past in television. While working in the entertainment business, she felt inside that she heard “Is this what you want to do for the next 30 years of your life.” Genevieve explains she was reading to a children's shelter when a little girl's question changed what she wanted to do with her life, she decided she wanted to help others by providing pajamas to them.

Segment 2

The two talk about the impact of one idea, and how Genevieve turned one idea into 7 million pajamas. Genevieve tells how she was inspired by the children and became obsessed with helping them, then began to plan and organize her non-profit. She recalls being a workaholic and waiting to leave to get pajamas, she explains the feeling like juggling her time. Genevieve explains how she realized that she could make her purpose her job.

Segment 3

Genevieve talks about her journey to get to where she is today. She explains that in her corporate setting there was not much purpose or inspiration, but now she feels that it has changed. Tommy talks about getting involved in things you are passionate about, that could be things separate from work or in your work. Genevieve also admits that she did not know what she was doing in the beginning but learned as time went on.

‍Segment 4

Genevieve explains what Pajama Program does for children and how the non-profit works. She further explains that they focus on bedtime and how important it is for children to have comfort and stability. Tommy and Genevieve talk about networking and other non-profit organizations leaders they know and share stories with, and how they are all so passionate about the work they do.

Connecting with Career Day Inc.

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Career Day Inc.™ organizes a program that aims to change the lives of young adults by introducing high school students to the paths others have taken to reach their career goals. By working in partnership with a variety of professionals and school staff, Career Day Inc.’s program creates an atmosphere of acceptance and opportunity for all students at every academic level.

Beth Bucheister (Executive Director/Board Chair) is the founder and Executive Director of Career Day Inc., a not-for-profit organization created to inspire young adults to reach high and believe that with endurance and positive self-esteem they can achieve their goals. Beth is a Certified Professional Coach who has been advocating for those in need all her adult life. Her ability to identify, prioritize and plan a positive course of action is a strength she uses as a Life Coach. Her late husband, Arie, is the inspiration for the scholarship awarded to students who are inspired by Career Day.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by Clicking Here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy introduces Beth Bucheister founder and Executive Director of Career Day Inc. Going from protesting the vietnam war to being a life coach, Beth highlights her passion for reaching out to others almost her whole life. She credits her awareness to her mentors throughout her life. The two elaborate on how doing what you love is important and should be taken more seriously when considering an individual's career.

Segment 2

Beth explains how certain students take opportunities to meet with professionals that last their whole career. Students that take the time to understand the opportunities that will further them in the future are the students who take advantage of scholarships and networking. Tommy brings up the ripple effect that he mentioned last week and applies it to changing the trajectory of life. Beth talks about how she has seen the ripple effect in her work with different students.

Segment 3

Beth talks about Career Day Inc. and their achievements they have had this past year. Beth talks about how her non profit organization had to go virtual and the success that it had with the students. Beth and her team came up with sending the students to learn about jobs they may not have thought about before. Tommy admires how Beth had integrated flexibility into Career Day Inc with all that is going on in the world today.

‍

Segment 4

Career Day Inc tells students about not only careers but about perseverance and learning to adapt to change. Beth tells her desire to get into more schools, expanding into New York City and to spread career awareness world wide. She tells her goals for Career Day Inc. of reaching more schools, more professionals, and more volunteers. Tommy wraps up the show by offering a hand to Beth for volunteering for any position she needs for Career Day Inc.

Combating Hunger One Sandwich at a Time

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 14:00:00 +0000

One Sandwich at a Time is a nonprofit organization with a mission to combat hunger and homelessness through volunteerism, kindness, compassion, and our two hands! It is the simple action of making a sandwich that creates a ripple effect of change.

Erin Dinan is from Chicago and went to college at Auburn University and graduate school at Harvard University. She moved to NYC to pursue photography and one night, while going through a personal struggle, said a prayer for guidance, to make a change in this world that can help those in need.

Shortly after, while running through Grand Central Station to catch the last train, she shared her sandwich with a man who was hungry. This eventually led to One Sandwich at a Time!

Dinan lives in NYC and loves art, travel (have been to over 30 countries!), family/friends, and humanity. They are her greatest passions!

‍

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

Segment 1

Tommy DiMisa introduces Erin Dinan, Founding Executive Director of One Sandwich at a Time. Tommy goes through the creation and origin of One Sandwich at a Time and how it creates a ripple effect with its mission of fighting hunger and homelessness. Erin tells what inspired her to make a change in the world. The two dive deep into how humanity plays into how we treat each other.

Segment 2

Erin gives detail about the connections that she has made through the community of volunteers, companies, schools, and organizations she works with. She even admits that she did not plan on One Sandwich at a Time becoming a nonprofit organization. One Sandwich at a Time has provided over half a million meals to those in need. Tommy and Erin talk about collaboration and partnerships with other nonprofit organizations and how important they are.

Segment 3

Erin talks about the impact of school events and how students learn that they can create a difference no matter how old you are. Erin tells multiple stories about how One Sandwich at a Time has reached so many different groups of people who face hunger and how the ripple effect of the organization has changed so many lives. Not only has One Sandwich at a time supplied food for the homeless and hungry, but it also provides hope and inspires others.

Segment 4

With the corona virus being a large obstacle for much of the world, Erin and her organization had to figure out how to help with food insecurity. Erin created a challenge to reach out to more families and individuals to make 100 sandwiches, they have reached around 20,000 sandwiches just from reaching out in times of need. Tommy voices his interest about getting involved and encourages others to truly get connected with One Sandwich at a Time. Erin shares that they strive for One Sandwich at a Time to grow and she encourages others to get involved and volunteer because it takes two hands to create one world.

Meeting The Need - Nonprofit Resource Hub

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 14:00:00 +0000

NRH is a trade association whose mission is to serve, be a resource to, educate, and connect its members to the nonprofit community.

At the same time, NRH serves the nonprofit sector as a bridge connecting nonprofit organizations to each other and to helpful resources.

Danette O’Connell, the Co-Founder and President of the Nonprofit Resource Hub and the CEO of Triumph International. Her passion is helping both national and international NONPROFITS by providing expertise in growth, sustainability, strategic planning, operations, technology, and financial management.

She had been assisting organizations for over 20 years with her entrepreneurial spirit.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Overlooked, underfunded, and underrecognized Tommy brings to light that nonprofit organizations are run by strong passionate individuals that want to help others. Danette and Tommy know each other as both took part in the creation of the Nonprofit Resource Hub. Tommy projects Danettes passion as he introduces her and all she has done in her 20 years of experience. Danettes passion to serve and to give back is what drives her to continue to reach out and not only educate, but connect with communities domestically and internationally.

Segment 2

Seeing that Danette is a Co-Founder and the President of the Nonprofit Resource Hub she has to go though a process of project management. Danette shares what she goes through when meeting with a client and observing what can be done to grow their business. Tommy and Danette go through opportunities that can be uncovered from project management for Nonprofits. She not only takes into consideration what will benefit the nonprofit as a whole but the individuals that are working as well.

Segment 3

Danette has had satisfied businesses in Malawi, Uganda, the United Kingdom, China, and more. Danettes experiences had led her to the creation of the Nonprofit Resource Hub. After countless nonprofits turning to her for resources and help she and the other founders brought the Nonprofit Resource Hub to life. It is a free resource that can connect the nonprofit community to resources that they need to thrive. For more information nonprofits can get in touch with the hub and become partners.

‍Segment 4

Tommy and Danette talk about hub offers to its members. Danette goes into detail about what connections can be made and the different opportunities the Hub provides to nonprofit organizations. One of the main functions of the Hub is to connect communities and reach out to others. If you need to reach out head to the Nonprofit Resource Hub or connect with Danette at Doconnell@nonprofitresourcehub.org

Find Comfort with Solace House

Fri, 28 May 2021 14:00:00 +0000

At Solace House, their services include free, easily accessible counseling and support for individuals who are experiencing suicidal distress, have made a suicide attempt, engage in self-harm and/or have been bereaved by suicide.

They also offer Family Support for our clients' loved ones, group bereavement counseling and community awareness workshops. All of the programs we provide are completely free of charge, confidential and conducted by highly qualified Licensed Clinical Social Workers.

Danielle came to Solace House in 2017 after working on the Communications and Development team at the Center Against Domestic Violence (CADV), a non-profit providing shelter for survivors of domestic violence. Danielle’s role at CADV supported the organization’s fundraising/development, events, marketing, communications and outreach efforts. While at CADV, she participated on Cities for CEDAW, New York City Steering Committee. Along with representatives from multiple New York City organizations, she advocated for a local women's bill of rights ordinance based on the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Connector.

Join us with our special guests, Danielle Gallagher & Elizabeth McInnes.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

The first segment starts with Tommy introducing the show and today's guests, Danielle Gallagher and Elizabeth Mclnnes. Tommy then sets up the conversation with some background on Danielle, Elizabeth, and Solace House. After Tommy gives some setting background, Danielle gives more specific background on her career. Elizabeth then follows Danielle in giving more specific detail on her background. Solace House began in Ireland and came to New York when a few members came to New York to perform the walking out of darkness into light events. Members walk the streets as the sun is rising and in this event they found that the need for their services were needed in America. Solace House then began their international venture to help more people in America and hopefully one day globally.

Segment 2

The second segment starts with the show coming up from break. Tommy then asks Danielle and Elizabeth to give more detail on their transition to New York. The first location opened in 2017, located in Yonkers. Danielle then urges the audience to take advantage of the program because it is an absolutely free service. Danielle and Elizabeth then give some detail on the exact process of getting started with Solace House as a client and getting the help you're seeking out.

Segment 3

The third segment starts with the show coming back from break and Elizabeth then speaks directly to the LGBTQ+ needs regarding mental health. Elizabeth explains that a lot of the times sexual orientation or gender identity are often not tracked when trying to find the reason for suicidal tendencies. This leads to the statistics being skewed and not accurate. Tommy then switches the conversation to what the Solace House needs to grow. Danielle explains that geographical expansion is their main priority. Putting a headquarters in every state and major city. Next, Danielle says funding and collaborations is the next step in growing the organization.

‍Segment 4

The final segment opens up with Tommy bringing the conversation to the walk out of darkness event. Danielle explains it is about breaking through the stigma of mental health in our country. Starting in the darkness represents the alone feeling most people may feel when first signing up for the service, but eventually bringing themselves to light. The show closes out with Elizabeth giving some insight on how we can see the signs of degrading mental health in our loved ones.

Story Hour With The Book Fairies

Fri, 21 May 2021 14:00:00 +0000

The Book Fairies is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that collects reading materials for people in need throughout metropolitan New York. The reading materials foster literacy and academic success, provide a respite from personal struggles, and nurture a love of reading across age groups.

Amy Zaslansky is the founder of The Book Fairies, a nonprofit organization that provides books to people in need across metropolitan New York. Since its inception in 2012, The Book Fairies has donated more than 2.7 million books to underserved schools and nonprofit organizations including hospitals, homeless shelters, soup kitchens and correctional facilities. Amy, a lifelong avid reader and lover of books.

She is a Maryland native, graduated from Emory University with a BA in Psychology and earned her MS in Occupational Therapy from Temple University. Her earlier careers included being an Occupational Therapist, and operating an e-commerce site. Amy resides on Long Island with her husband, three children, and a small menagerie of pets.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

The first segment opens with Tommy introducing the show and today's guest. Amy Zaslansky, founder of the book fairies, a non profit organization that provides books to people in need across metropolitan New York. Also on today's show, Eileen also from the book fairies. Tommy then goes into some background about Amy and Eileen. After Tommy is done reading their accomplishments, they both give some more detailed background.

Segment 2

The second segment starts with Tommy giving a testimony to the book fairies service and opening up the conversation to Amy and Eileen. They both explain that the people coming to get books have an unlimited amount they can take. This is due to having a surplus in books to donate. Amy and Eileen explain that in their warehouse, they are starting to overflow in inventory and truthfully approaching not having enough room to store the books. Roughly 50,000 books are given out a month and half of one million a year. Amy explains that her love for reading and becoming aware of the statistics regarding the correlation between poverty and certain social impacts and not being able to read led her to finding the book fairies.

Segment 3

The third segment starts with Tommy bringing the show back up from break and giving a reintroduction of the guests, Amy Zaslansky and Eileen. Tommy brings the conversation back to how The book Fairies goes about getting books to the community. Amy explains through an incredible partnership with life's work, she was able to grow over 30 special needs organizations and get books to the community. Tommy then discusses the impact of the book fairies over the last decade. Amy and Eileen explain that without the volunteers and organizations, they wouldn't be able to move the books to the people that need them. Amy says that without the relationships with these organizations, the book fairies simply wouldn't be able to function.

‍Segment 4

The final segment starts with the show coming back up from break. Then Tommy moves the conversation to what the future looks like for the book fairies. Amy and Eileen explain that funding is their top priority. Funding will allow them to upgrade their current platform and allow them to fill a void in the community that even the government isn't filling today. The main form of funding for the book fairies comes through donations, Amy and Eileen explain that even the slightest donation could have a massive impact on their mission.

Connecting with The Corporate Source

Fri, 14 May 2021 14:00:00 +0000

The Corporate Source (TCS) is a 501(c3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving employment equity for individuals with disabilities. TCS achieves this with dynamic collaborations within the federal, state and private sector by providing outsourcing business services including: disinfecting and janitorial services, total facilities management, mailroom operations, call center support, messenger services, kennel care and more. In the process, TCS helps its partners meet their Corporate Social Responsibility objectives to increase disability employment, inclusion and acceptance.

Michael Kramer is Chief Executive Officer of The Corporate Source, a nonprofit organization based in Garden City that is dedicated to creating employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and providing services leading to independence and fulfillment. Celebrating its 25th year changing lives, TCS creates these opportunities through outsourcing service fulfillment to federal, state and private sector contracts, employing a workforce of nearly 400 throughout New York City, Long Island, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

The first segment starts with Tommy reintroducing the show to the audience. Tommy then introduces today's guest, Michael Kramer, chief executive officer of the corporate source. A non profit organization based in garden city that is dedicated to creating employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and providing services leading to independence and fulfillment. Tommy then opens the conversation to Michael to give a brief history of his career. Michael then tells Tommy how his company, the corporate source, how exactly they place people in jobs and the resources they have to keep them there.

Segment 2

The segment starts with the show coming back up from the break. Then, Tommy gives the audience a run-down of some of Michael Kramers accomplishments. Tommy then gives the conversation back to Michael to discuss a large societal shift that needs to happen so more opportunities can open for people seeking employment with disabilities.

Segment 3

The third segment starts with Tommy bringing up a quote Michael Kramer once said about the corporate source. Tommy then opens the conversation up to Michael to expand on the quote. This gives Michael the opportunity to tell the audience how they can get out and help but more importantly sometimes, listen. Michael says, “it's not about what people can't do, it's about what they can do.”

‍Segment 4

The final segment opens with Tommy bringing the show back up from break. Michael then talks about the corporate source and what they do for the people they work with. Michael gives the example of his organization being a nonprofit, which means they dont bring in a profit. Obviously, but the point is that every resource they have goes into training people to ensure they can do whatever job available to them.

Everyone Wins with Heroes to Heroes

Fri, 07 May 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Heroes to Heroes provide spiritual healing and peer support for American combat veterans who have attempted suicide or are on a path to self-destruction due to moral injury/PTSD. Judy Isaacson Elias founded Heroes to Heroes in March 2010.

She spent most of her career in Broadcast Media in radio advertising sales and management with Regional Reps Corporation, XM Satellite Radio, Emmis Communications, CBS Radio, and Viacom.

Judy lives in Boynton Beach, Florida, with her husband Zev, their dog, Benji, and is enjoying being a Grandma while following her passion of helping our veterans through Heroes to Heroes.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

The show opens with Tommy introducing the show and guest to the audience. Today Tommy and his guest, Judy Isaacson Elias, will be discussing Heroes to Heroes. Judy's non profit helps veterans who are on a self destructing path due to injury or ptsd. Judy explains to the audience that operating a non profit was never her plan for life, but as she worked in the world she saw the need to implement lessons learned as a child to her life and career as an adult. Tommy reflects on a time where even he didn't have a mind for philanthropy, but like Judy, saw the need to give more wherever he could.

Segment 2

The second segment opens with Tommy bringing the show back up from commercial and giving the conversation over to Judy. She then goes into a brief explanation of where her passion for philanthropy originated. Judy explains that growing up with a father suffering from PTSD drove her to leave home at 16 to, how she explained, escape her household. Leaving home, having problems with school and family, drove a wedge between her and her father specifically. Although Judy found clarity when she went on a retreat to Israel and in that retreat she found a deeper connection to her faith. That deeper connection to her faith led to a need to become more charitable and involved in her life. Judy lost her father in a car accident while he was driving to a reunion for jewish soldiers. When talking to some of her fathers friends they explained that even they, his friends, felt like he was too broken due to the trauma inflicted by the horrors of war. Judy explains she couldn't have had a more clear sign to get involved in veteran affairs and their mental challenges.

Segment 3

The next segment opens with Judy bringing back the conversation to some of the early research she did on mental health and suicide rates across veterans. This research was shocking for Judy, but she found a sliver of hope when she found out people connected to a faith or community were 5 times less likely to commit suicide. Judy explains that a massive blanket stigma regarding mental health affects the veteran community harder due to the black and white nature of war. Something discussed at length is the non defined difference between killing for your country and murder. Judy explains that difference is a gray area but without breaking through the mental health stigma in our country then no veteran will get the help they need. Judy explains the retreat veterans take across Israel with Heroes to Heroes, and how she has seen so much improvement with these veterans in her work.

‍Segment 4

The final segment opens with Tommy giving the conversation to Judy to discuss how she helped over 300 people with her program. Judy gives a detailed story about a man named Harrison. He was an angry, depressed individual, wanting no help whatsoever. Judy explains Harrison was desperately looking for a sign to stay alive. Just when he decided to take his life, Judy explains, the phone rang and it was Heroes to Heroes telling him he's been selected to take the retreat to Israel. This emotionally intense experience going to some of the holiest places on earth changed Harrisons outlook on his life. He seeked the help he needed with Judy and is now a spokesman for the organization. Judy gives a sign off and a call to action to the audience and the show ended.

Come to the Table with RWCF

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation is an advocacy and action nonprofit created by and for restaurant workers. RWCF was founded in 2018 to advocate for – and raise funds for other nonprofits working toward – gender equity, racial justice, fair wages, and healthy work environments in the restaurant industry. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, RWCF’s additional focus is on supporting workers in crisis and small business owners with the Restaurant Workers COVID19 Crisis Relief Fund.

Michael Hamill Remaley is Board Vice President and Fundraising Committee Chair or Restaurant Workers' Community Foundation. For the first three years of its growth, Michael Hamill Remaley was board Treasurer and the Lead Consultant to Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation. As an independent consultant to nonprofit and philanthropic organizations with his firm Hamill Remaley, he works with a client roster that includes the New York Community Trust, Bridgespan, J.M. Kaplan Fund, Public Agenda, the Support Center for Nonprofits and Inside Philanthropy.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

The first segment opens with an introduction of the show and this episode's guest, Michael Hamill Remaley, Vice president and fundraising committee chair of restaurant workers community foundation. Tommy then gives a history of how he met today's guest and the networking group TNG. Through multiple networking opportunities, Tommy met Michael and ultimately led to appearing on today's episode. Michael and Tommy give a history of his organization and their impact on the restaurant and non profit industry. Michael gives a semi detailed story about his beginning days working in philanthropy and nonprofits. For Michael, these early days were crucial for establishing his love for helping others and forming his mentality of leaving the world a better place than you found it.

Segment 2

The second segment opens with Tommy discussing the main topic of the episode which is Michael's Restaurant Workers Community Foundation. In 2018 Michael started RWCF as an action nonprofit. Michael and his foundation raise and distribute funds through grants for workers in the labor sector. He believes that in 2018 his foundation became the first to focus specifically on issues facing these labor workers and the organizations that support them. Michael and Tommy share their experiences over some of the most damaging factors facing the restaurant industry and their workers. For Michael and his husband, the results of the 2016 election was proof to them that either restaurant workers were unaware of the policies impacting their lives or they didn't care. Either way, this was enough motivation for Michael and his husband John to start RWCF as a way to help these workers.

Segment 3

The next segment opens with Michael discussing RWCF program goals. Michael hopes to provide the services needed to help restaurant workers with wage fairness, gender equity, racial justice, support for the immigrant community, mental health, and substance abuse. Michael explains that the best way to reach these goals is through grant making, community organization, and impact investing. In the first fiscal year of the organization, Michael saw growth he wasn't expecting and was able to raise $40,000 in 2019. He then distributed $13,000 over 11 different companies. This was working well for Michael, even growing a board of 20 people. Michael explains that this helped survive the incoming year. In one notable way. The board signed off on hiring a part time employee to handle all of their social media. Michael explains this was insanely helpful due to the fact that he and his husband were doing most of the work for the foundation all through 2020. What RWCF needed, according to Michael, in this time was a more diverse leadership across their committees. Michael got that diverse leadership he was looking for and was able to start other projects in the foundation to get even more people help. This was of course 2020 so the one thing on their mind, like everyone else's, was the global pandemic. More relief funds were set up to help workers and restaurants with being able to survive the lockdown in New York, not only as business but in general. Michael and his team raised over 8 million dollars. Yes, 8 million dollars, to be distributed to workers and businesses.

‍Segment 4

The final segment opens with a reintroduction of the show and a reminder that yes, what you before was right. 8 million dollars. Michael gives a hopeful yet complex vision of the future for his foundation. Michael explains that he and his team have distributed funds to over 40 companies working with COVID relief and how he plans to network his foundation and those nonprofits to work together because they all have similar goals. Michael explains that the Restaurant Workers Community Foundation will continue the work they have been doing, but actively looking for new ways to help the people in the restaurant industry. This means informing the roughly 15 million restaurant workers in the United states of their existence and their services.

Discussing a Brighter Future with Jennifer Singer

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Today’s Guest is Jennifer Singer – Executive Director of Bright Futures for Youth

Bright Futures for Youth is a community-focused nonprofit organization committed to addressing the ever-changing needs of youth, from sixth-graders to those in their mid-20s, in Nevada County.

Teens and adolescents face many challenges and many changes that are part of growing up. It’s a time to figure out who they are, what they value and hope to achieve. A little extra support, tools and resources along the way can make a big difference and help youth overcome obstacles. There certainly are more challenges today than when we started in 1995.

Bright Futures for Youth, created by the merger of The Friendship Club and NEO in summer 2020, has three programs to address the issues and help youth in numerous ways, from after-school programs and a drop-in Youth Center to ensuring access to services. Our focus areas are health and wellness, healthy relationships, goal setting, self-awareness, self-sufficiency and community connectedness.

We’re about helping youth today to ensure a better future for tomorrow.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

The show opens with host Tommy D discussing how the nonprofit sector often goes overlooked and underfunded, but the goal of his show is to spread more awareness to what nonprofits can do. Tommy goes on to introduce Jennifer Singer, Executive Director of Bright Futures for youth. Before Tommy and Jennifer start discussing her position and nonprofits, Tommy talks about the growth of his reach with his TalkRadio show. Tommy shares his goals of learning and helping. Learning as much as possible and helping others just as much. The interview begins and Tommy explains how Jennifer was part of the Friendship club in 1995 and has gone on to grow in many organizations and positions. Jennifer Singer makes her presence known to the audience. Tommy goes on to start the interview with Jennifer and she explains where her passion for service and leadership started. Jennifer shares how in high school she gained perspective to others in her community and how they might not be as privileged as her. This led her to wanting to work with many organizations helping elementary school kids all the way up to high school aged kids. Jennifer took a focus on young women and showed them that there are other choices to make to better your life and not to get caught in the same predicaments their family and friends may have got in. Jennifer discusses how a boat trip around the world inspired a lot of people to go travel and help others but it inspired her to go home and help her own community.

Segment 2

The second segment opens with Tommy bringing back the conversation Jennifer and him were discussing before the segment break. This led to Jennifer to finish her conversation on Semester at Sea and how that led to finding a program to help with in her hometown. Jennifer began with summer activities for young women but then realized in order to be more effective it needed to be a full time, year round effort. Jennifer and her colleagues worked for over 20 years with these young women in her community to ensure they had the plans to be successful after high school. Jennifer talks about a big move for her organization and how that opened her eyes to new opportunities. Growing the building in size led to a domino effect of more ways Jennifer and her organization could help the community. For example, homeless youth and families became more of a priority. Jennifer and Tommy discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic affected nonprofits everywhere due to the very social nature of most programs. Jennifer goes on to explain the change to operating virtually hit her organization hard but that wasn't going to stop her mission. Jennifer kept in individual contact via phone calls and zoom meetings. Although, this made her and her coworkers come together and discuss what the heart of the mission is and this inspired them to work harder than ever for this increased need for her community.

Segment 3

The next segment opens with reintroducing the show and Jennifer Singer. Tommy brings up the challenge of sharing geographical areas with similar organizations with similar goals and how working together could benefit both organizations. Jennifer goes into discussing how her organization recently merged with another and the challenges of going through a merger. This could be things like structure, culture, and mission priorities. Jennifer often looks to her mentors for help with situations like this. People in the industry had confusion about Jennifer's merger but she continued to explain how both organizations are working wonderfully together. Jennifer tells how both organizations did work well together but mostly succeeded in focusing on their individual goals and affected the community better ways that way. Jennifer looks out to the audience and others and gives a call to action to just get out and help anyway you can. Tommy moves the conversation to discussing Jennifer's current goals and how they have changed since her days of first starting the friendship club. Jennifer wants to show young kids that your unfair start to life does not determine what you do with the rest of it.

‍Segment 4

The final segment opens with a conversation about where Jennifer thinks her mission is going to end up moving forward. Jennifer explains big plans to open a youth center in her community. This will only boost their efforts in getting kids reliable internet and a place to go for help. The next step for Jennifer after that is opening up an emergency center for teenagers. Currently there is nowhere reliable for teenagers to go and Jennifer wants to change that with her organization. Jennifer wants to create absolute zero barriers for teenagers to get help in her community. Funding has proven to be the biggest issue with finding housing and basic needs for teenagers on their own. Jennifer closes the show with addresses and links to get in contact with her, her organizations, and to help.

Connecting with the Allied Foundation

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000

The Allied Foundation, Inc. is a for impact, designated 501C3 that was formed in 2015 by a group of concerned pediatric physicians who saw a lack of access to essential resources within their patient population and joined together to actively make a difference in the greater community. Ending diaper need is one way in which we fulfill our mission. Diapers are an essential need no baby should ever have to go without.

Heather Edwards is a mission driven development professional who is passionate about generating philanthropic support to advance the mission of the organizations she serves. Her career in development spans 17 years where she held leadership positions in healthcare at academic medical centers, higher education and social service agencies.

Heather also spent 7 years of her career building brands for national products including Post Kids Cereals-Honeycomb, Avon, US West and Tri-State Cadillac. Heather is happily married to her wonderful husband Kevin and proud mom to Jack, Katie and Linda.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy introduces his host Heather Edwards, who has 17 years of development experience and is the current Executive Director of the Allied Foundation. During her time working on building brands, heather realized that she wanted to make a change and start a family. Heather wanted to make a difference and decided that the nonprofit sector was the best fit for her to make an impact. She now works for the Allied Foundation. This organization was created by a group of concerned pediatric physicians who wanted to address the lack of access to essential needs for health and well being. They are currently in the process of developing period projects to bring menstrual products to those in need.

Segment 2

Tommy shares his experience purchasing diapers for his own children. For some families, the cost of diapers alone can be nearly 14% of their income. A member of Allied Physicians, Doctor Sher, noticed that many of her patients were developing diaper rashes and bacterial infections due to their family’s inability to afford diapers. The Allied Foundation has been serving Long Island and Queens but 2020 the need has become exacerbated. Last year they assisted 40,000 families, and Heather believes that there are even more in need. They recently distributed 966,000 diapers and are closely approaching 1 million. Heather thanks Flexible Systems, a company that has assisted them in the distributing the diapers

Segment 3

‍

Segment 4

Taina takes it away by talking about how for small organizations it can be expensive to get the resources to strengthen their professional work community and that's why many nonprofit organizations struggle because they can't access those tools. This is where Nonprofit New York comes in, they specialize in providing them those tools at an affordable cost. The new membership campaign launched by Nonprofit New York to provide support to nonprofits that are bipoc (Black, Indigenous, People of Color)running organizations and provide them a two year membership. This means that the organization and everyone in it has unlimited access to the tools and resources - provided by Nonprofit New York - needed for an extended period of time. This would give them access to 77 labs, training, resources and tools - and Tommy has pledged to help 10 businesses for two years. Tommy introduces ‘Always Freyday’ and says goodbye.

An Inspiring & Motivating Conversation with Hey There Beautiful

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Today Tommy D is joined in The Attic by Hey There Beautiful Foundation Founder & Executive Director Dailisha Rodriguez

Whose goal is to empower women and young girls with the confidence they seek in order to achieve success and abundance. Their vision is to provide support, connection, trust, inspiration and leadership skills. With workshops continually beautify communities while creating personal human connections to support empowering the world. They believe anything you can dream will flourish with hard work and perseverance.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy introduces the show from his attic and gives the audience a brief introduction about his guest Dalisha Rodriguez. The two jump right in by talking about Dalisha’s Non-profit, Hey There Beautiful. Dalisha gives the audience an introduction to her past, talking about her need to leave the corporate sector and stray from the societal norms that constrained her, as she was unsatisfied in the legal world. The two go over Dalisha’s story and she describes how it is important for girls to look within themselves and rather than be given the answers to find their path in this world. Dalisha emphasizes that “beauty is loving yourself,” as 90% of young girls want to change their bodies - but according to Dalisha, we must help change mindsets around us.

Segment 2

The two dive in by talking about Dalisha’s TedX talk - she talks about how the beginning of her momentous speech was a little chaotic, however it came together with a great ending. Tommy then transitions to talking about some of the programs that ‘Hey There Beautiful’ has; Get your life together, live on facebook is a show that is hosted by two coaches. This show talks about moving forward and discusses difficult situations in comedic ways, this program is made to motivate individuals to do more, succeed and rise up. One of the programs offered spanked inspiration for Tommy as well, Dalisha says that she had a similar experience - she said that while making her Non-profit she was letting go of friendships and relationships, as she was trying to grow and people were choosing not to push her up at that moment in her career.

Segment 3

Both Dalisha and Tommy talk about the impact the organization is making on the ground. Dalisha talks about the STEM program that is run by ‘Hey There Beautiful,’ teaching kids all sorts of things, including coding. They just initiated their STEM program and the innovative platform already has about a dozen students, this is to motivate entrepreneurship - according to Dalisha it would be great to see more students with the power of developing their own ideas on their own. Dalisha talks about her toy drive that was extremely successful and she was happy to have brought so much joy to the community. Dalisha talks about one of her students who is selling cupcakes and making $500 a week, at the age of 13. Dalisha presses that it is important to partner with other non-profit organizations, collaboration brings a lot more success compared to working alone.

‍

Segment 4

The two dive in and talk about connecting each other to various nonprofit organizations. Dalisha talks about the organizations that she plans to connect with; organizations that are large, financially beneficial and organizations that are prepared to be as ambitious as Dalisha. They go over on how to get connected and in touch, and Dalisha talks about how her social media is all public to be a s accessible as possible. They thank all the supporters on facebook live.

Diving Into Swim Safety With Swim Strong

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Shawn Slevin started Swim Strong Foundation in 2006 to reduce unintended drowning by teaching water safety and swimming skill education. Swim Strong offers Learn to Swim (including Adaptive) through Competitive programs for ages 3 through Seniors. They have taught more than 10,000 students how to swim and given more than $1 Million in free swim lessons to families in need.

Swim Strong’s newest offering is “Know Before You Go™” series of four environmentally focused water safety educational programs which may be taught in person, remotely or in blended fashion. Shawn is a passionate advocate for water safety and has been featured in two documentary films, many articles, tv and radio appearances and been recognized for her community work by several local civic and governmental agencies and nationally by USA Swimming Foundation.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy D introduces the show and talks about how the non-profit on today's episode is one that is close to his heart. Tommy emphasizes the importance of bringing non profit organizations on his show to give them recognition, because according to him they are often overlooked. Tommy then introduces Shawn Slevin, the founder of ‘Swim Strong,’. Tommy Continues to talk about the work Swim Strong does, and how they have raised over 1 million dollars for the cause. Shawn takes the reins to talk about how she became a water safety advocate, and her story on being a drowning victim.

Segment 2

In this segment Tommy and Shawn dive into the large numbers of drowning victims, and how climate change is making it more necessary to know how to swim. According to Shawn, the increase of strength and number of storms has opened up an opportunity for people who don't have the skills to swim, to learn. Tommy reflects on his experience on living with the fear of water bodies, and transitions into talking about the various programs that Swim Strong has. Shawn takes the lead in this portion providing a summary of the various statistics on drowning. According to Shawn one of the more prominent parts of their non profit is that they teach them about the importance of water safety as well as teaching people how to swim. Swim Strong has reached out to whomever they can, and now have approximately 9000 students and 4 different programs that look at water safety from an environmental and seasonal point of view.

Segment 3

Tommy dives right in talking about the programs association with schools, but he asks about the post covid lockdown situation that has molded the entire program. Shawn mentions how due to covid they have seen more people who are dedicated to learning how to swim, and the skills they are learning here are being transported to other areas of their lives - they are even being able to create income out of this. Swim Strong has also been working very hard to bring swimming to places and communities that don’t have access to it. The non profit organization has been actively going into areas where people of color reside as according to shawn disadvantaged people should be able to learn life skills without struggle. Shawn also mentions a film that Swim Strong has been involved in with a production company, this film shows how people of color have been disadvantaged when it came to learning how to swim. Shawn also talks about all the packages they have at swim strong, from school based packages to individual packages.

‍

Segment 4

Shawn talks about the various collaborations that Swim Strong is doing, especially in the environmental conservation field - as climate change increases and various water levels rise it is important to learn about water safety and how to swim. Swim Strong has partnered with the board of Education and several politicians to implement swimming and water safety into modern educational systems. Shawn plans to take this program global and has already implemented Swim Strong in 3 countries, with international sponsors. Tommy thanks shwan for being on the show and introduces ‘Always Freyday’, and says goodbye to the listeners/viewers.

Inclusion - Best Buddies International with Tommy D

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 00:47:16 +0000

Tommy D interviews Sophie Dubuisson, State Director of NY, for Best Buddies International.

They will discuss Best Buddies Programs that increase inclusion for the IDD - Intellectually & Developmentally Disabled community.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy D Introduces himself and the show from his attic. Tommy gives a reference to what his show is about and then talks about general philanthropic organizations that are underrepresented and underfunded, he also gives reference to how these nonprofits need more attention and be more in the spotlight. Tommy then introduces Sophie Dubuisson and talks about her professional career and her connection to the organization Buddies international. Sophie takes the reins by giving her introduction about her profession in event management, and then talks about ‘Best Buddies International.’ The two go into the history behind Best Buddies International, and how the organization that helps people with intellectual or developmental disabilities. They give an emphasis on inclusion and how integral it is to keep them in the conversation as well as a part of the conversation

Segment 2

Steve begins by sharing the story of how he learned about the program ‘Best Buddy’s’, and how Best Buddies International won at the ‘Imagine Awards’ all in the same night. Sophie then begins by talking about the Best Buddies program – starting from Georgetown University to a program that is diverse and can be associated with or added to any school. Sophie talks about Best Buddy’s presence in New York, and their intention to continue to grow. She gives the audience an idea of how involved people can get, from 20 to sometimes 200. It is very common to have students get involved in the Best Buddies program, According to Sophie.

Segment 3

Tommy asks Sophie about the jobs program at Best Buddies. Sophie talks about how this program is different from the one they hold at schools – it is an adult based program for people who are 18 – they work with various organizations to pair people with intellectual or developmental disabilities with jobs in a professional environment. Sophie mentions this past year has been difficult due to the pandemic, however, she is grateful that they have been able to maintain their partnerships with their organizations.

‍

Segment 4

Tommy and Sophie talk about the various events for Best Buddies in 2021 to grow awareness and attract the audience to their cause. Sophie mentions a Covid Safe friendship walk that is hybrid. Sophie compares the event to last year and how the organization has more opportunities because last year the pandemic forced their event to be completely online. The walk has been able to raise $50,000 but their goal this year is $20,000 as the organization understands the financial difficulties that have risen this year. Sophie also spoke about how without this funding they can’t grow, start more programs, and develop. Towards the end, Tommy gives the show a send off and then a shout out to the next show ‘Always Freyday.’

A Conversation About Hour Children

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 19:00:00 +0000

With Special guest Sister Tesa Fitzgerald the founder of Hour Children, a home in Long Island City, Queens for children whose mothers were incarcerated.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy introduces his guest, Sister Tesa Fitzgerald. She is the founder of Hour Children This is an organization that provides resources for children whose mothers are incarcerated. Tommy reads Tesa’s bio which includes her education, awards and acknowledgments, and the founding of her organization. Tesa tells a story about how children would refer to her organization as “Mother’s House”. She talks about the significance of the “hour” in “Hour Children”. Hour Children is based in Queens with nine houses so far. They provide basic needs for the mothers and their children. They have a thrift shop and food pantry,

Segment 2

Sister Tesa goes into detail about the food pantry. She talks about the elevated need for food due to the pandemic. She also talks about the donations she gets for her organization. Some of these basic needs include: diapers, coats, socks, and other articles of clothing. She says, “We are very attentive to what the people are asking for”. Sister Tesa tells the public who they can reach out to if they want to volunteer. Tommy and Sister Tesa talk about some of the guilt people may feel when getting help from a food pantry. Sister Tesa talks about the importance of volunteers having conversations with people in the food pantry lines. This creates a human connection.

Segment 3

Tommy asks Sister Tesa to talk about the transition of a woman from being incarcerated back into the real world. Sister Tesa describes the process of smoothly being women back into society. They set up housing and create routines for them to get them accustomed to the real world.The women are then enrolled in the Working Women training program. This program provides resources for women to start working. Sister Tesa also talks about the discrimination the women face due to their criminal records.

‍

Segment 4

Sister Tesa talks about some of the projects her organization is working on such as the stereotype of Rykers and poverty.There is also a parole advocacy virtual event. Sister Tesa plugs Hour Children’s website. She recommends coming in person and meeting the women. Sister Tesa says her organization needs laptops.

The Spirit of Huntington Arts Center’s Michael Kitakis Visits the Attic!

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 20:53:38 +0000

The Spirit of Huntington Arts Center is a nonprofit organization with a focus on serving 2 specific communities individuals with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities(IDD) and veterans. They serve these communities through educational art classes and their unique ArtWorks program. ArtWorks is a program that provides technical training to prepare students for a career in digital arts.

‍

Tommy D will lead us through a conversation with The Executive Director of the Spirit of Huntington, Michael Kitakis. As always, we will learn about the history of the organization, a deep dive into the programs, and the future of Spirit of Huntington.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

Segment 1

Tommy welcomes his guest, Michael Kitakis. Michael is the founder of The Executive Director of the Spirit of Huntington Arts. Michael goes on to talk about his background in marketing and how Spirit of Huntington Arts got started.

Segment 2

Michael continues his story about the founding of his non-profit/ He asked his friend, Eric, to paint a mural over some graffiti on one of his buildings. Michael emphasizes the importance of “going back to your roots”. Michael has always had a passion for art. Michael and Eric started teaching art classes to three students in a garage. Michael and Tommy talk about Michael’s work with Special Education PTA. Michael says, “It’s not always about the art. It is about the process”.

Segment 3

Michael tells a story about how one of his students inspired him to add digital art to the curriculum in his art class. ArtWorks is a class Michael added that shows students how to secure a career in the art field. Michael talks about how he values the work other non-profits do and why most of his clients are non-profits. Michael’s programs provide people with a purpose and a sense of belonging. Michael plugs his website, www.spiritofhuntington.com Tommy mentions his socials and closes the show.

Transitional Opportunities

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 22:20:12 +0000

Transitional Services for New York, Inc. is a comprehensive, community-based mental health organization located in New York City. We provide a continuum of rehabilitative services to enrich the lives of those recovering from mental illness and facilitate their transition to increased levels of independence.

Each year TSINY serves more than 4,000 NYC individuals going through mental health challenges.

This week on Philanthropy in Phocus, Tommy D will have the great opportunity to interview, Dr. Larry Grubler, CEO of TSINY. As always, during the discussion, we will talk about the history of the organization, the programs and how they address the needs of their constituents and stakeholders & What’s the future of TSINY and how do we address Ending the Stigma of Mental Health Conversation?

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy greets his audience and talks, his passion for nonprofit work, and his role in helping non profit organizations network with others. Tommy then reads a passage about TSI and talks about their work with mental health. Tommy then reads a bio about his guest, Dr. Larry Grubler. Grubler is the CEO of Transitional Services for New York, which focuses on mental health counseling in Queens, NY. He started at the organization in 1981. Tommy asks Larry how he realized he wanted to work with patients who have mental illnesses and disabilities. Tommy and Larry discuss the stigma surrounding mental health.

Segment 2

Tommy and Larry continue their discussion on the stigmas of mental health. Larry talks about his personal experiences with mental health in his family and how it inspired him to start the organization. In the 1960s, medicine was starting to be used as a means to treat mental health. Larry continues with talking about how those with mental health illnesses were often hospitalized for long periods of time without proper treatment. Larry says his organization was inspired by trying to help those who are checked out of mental institutions smoothly transition back into the real world. Tommy says, “We all need support”.

Segment 3

Tommy talks about the importance of supporting each other. He compares physical injuries and mental illnesses and the stigma surrounding mental health . Tommy shows a chart highlighting various statistics on mental illnesses in young people. Larry shares the hotline for suicide prevention and his views on the statitics. Tommy recalls a relevant quote,“Everyone you meet is going through a battle you know nothing about''. Larry and Tommy talk about how people are more inclined to discuss their physical challenges than their mental challenges.

‍

Segment 4

Segment 4: Larry talks about the services TSI offers, such as housing, counselling, day programs and mobile outreach programs. TSI also has “Turn The Page Again”. This is a book store and program that teaches people how to transition back into the workplace and how to talk about your mental illness to your employers. Larry gives his contact information. Here is the website, www.tsi.org.

What's with Horsability?

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 22:14:32 +0000

For his premiere on TalkRadio.nyc, Tommy D interviews Katie McGowan to learn about Horsability.

Horsability’s mission is to improve the lives of individuals with special needs through Equine Facilitated Therapy.

Through this interview, Tommy and his listeners will learn about the history of this organization, the programs they have to serve the community and stakeholders as well as who the collaborate with and others that they would like to work with.

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.

Show Notes

‍Segment 1

Tommy welcomes his audience to his premiere show. He refers to his show as the “nonprofit sector connector”. He talks about his passion for non-profit work and the goal for his new show. Tommy gives some background information about Horseability and his connection with his upcoming guest, Katie McGowan.Horseability is an organization that promotes therapeutic horse riding and accessibility for handicapped individuals. It was founded by Katie on1993. Tommy then welcomes Katie to the show. Katie expands on the history of her organization and her love for horses. Horseability was born when Katie lent a horse to her horse to a friend and physical therapist who used hippotherapy as a treatment modality for a child with cerebral palsy. Tommy asks Katie about the growth of Horseability over the years. Katie talks about an important lesson she teaches her students. She says, “If someone asks you to try nothing new, as long as it is legal and safe, try it.”

Segment 2

Katie tells a story about how the siblings program at Horseability came to be. She expands on the importance of communication between the families and community and staff at Horseability. Horasebilit has had to expand their programs to address the needs of the community. She says, “There’s something here for everyone”. Horseability works with 300+ clients a week! Tommy then asks Katie about the effect the animals have on the guests. She talks about non verbal communication and the emotional impact the animals have on patients who have a hard time verbally communicating with humans. Tommy asks Katie about the positive health effects of Horseability. Katie also teases a new program where they could bring the horses and animals to you. She gives an example about a patient who had alzimers. She also introduces her volunteer program.

Segment 3

Katie brings in a special guest, Aidden, a pony from the farm. Katie then talks about the reactions of clients when they meet the animals for the first time. Katie is appreciative that she can say she “loves what she does”. Tommy asks Katie to talk about the connection between volunteering and mentorship. She talks about her first volunteers, her dad, a gynecologist, and various teachers. She expands on the inclusivity of Horseability and variety of skills that can be used on the farm. Katie provides her perspective as a former mentee and current mentor. She talks about the importance of sharing what you know. She says, “If you’re asking for help, be humble”.

‍

Segment 4

Tommy asks Katie who she wants to connect with. She says we would love to connect with other nonprofits. She talks about the benefits of working with nonprofits and the benefits from a donor’s perspective. She expands on the versatility of assistance Horseability can provide: autism, veterans, eating disorders, etc. Tommy and Katie talk about the experience of being on the farm and a possible trip the staff at TalkRadioNYC will take. Tommy then asks where she sees Horseability going in three years. She talks about the sudden change in strategy the pandemic caused in her plan. She says she is focusing on mental health within her programs. Katie then shares her website, www.horseability.org. Tommy thanks Katie, promotes his socials, and closes the show.