Generous Impact

In this thought-provoking episode of Generous Impact, hosts Bret and Amanda Brummitt sit down with Lisa Sugarman, a mental health advocate and crisis counselor, to uncover her inspiring journey from personal tragedy to becoming a force for change in the realm of suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Lisa opens up about the heartbreak of losing loved ones to suicide and how these experiences shaped her mission to help end the stigma surrounding mental illness. Through her roles as a storyteller with the National Alliance on Mental Illness, a facilitator with Samaritans, and a crisis counselor with The Trevor Project, Lisa is committed to empowering others by normalizing discussions about mental health, grief, and loss. Discover the creation of The HelpHUB, Lisa's innovative platform designed to provide resources and support for individuals facing mental health challenges tailored to various communities. This episode serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement, emphasizing that no one is alone and resources are available for those in need.

In this episode of Generous Impact, hosts Bret and Amanda Brummitt welcome Dr. Tim Packer, the Executive Director of The Cove in Waco, Texas. Dr. Packer shares his extraordinary journey from working in housing and homelessness services in Scotland to making a significant impact on homeless high school youth in Texas. He delves into how The Cove provides a nurturing environment for these youths, offering stability, hope, and crucial relational connections essential for their development. Listen as Dr. Packer sheds light on the complexities surrounding youth homelessness, exploring both systemic issues and individual struggles. The discussion highlights how The Cove's holistic approach addresses the educational and emotional needs of the youth, aiming to make their homelessness experience rare, brief, and non-recurring. Join this insightful conversation to learn more about how communities can support homeless youth in achieving successful transitions into adulthood, and the role of advocacy and legislative efforts in this process. Find them at TheCoveWaco.org.

Join Bret and Amanda Brummitt in a deeply insightful conversation with Mark Hilbelink, the Executive Director of Sunrise Homeless Navigation Center in Austin. In this episode, Mark shares his unexpected journey from pastorship to leading a groundbreaking homeless navigation center. Learn about the innovative, trauma-informed services Sunrise offers, which include connecting people experiencing homelessness to essential resources and housing opportunities. Discover how the interconnected model and compassionate community focus are making significant impacts in Austin and beyond, ultimately striving to solve the complex problem of homelessness in a holistic way. Find them at SunriseNavigationCenter.org.

In this episode of Generous Impact, hosts Bret and Amanda Brummitt are joined by Jose Ferrua, Vice President of Finance and Business Development at Lone Star Circle of Care. Discover how this Texas-based organization provides healthcare to over 100,000 patients annually, regardless of their financial situation. Jose shares insights from his journey from the Dominican Republic to becoming a healthcare leader at Lone Star Circle of Care, highlighting his commitment to eliminating health inequities and expanding access to care. Dive into Lone Star's initiatives, such as their innovative mobile mammogram bus and the expansion of the 340B drug program, designed to lower medication costs for patients. Learn about the organization's vision to bridge healthcare gaps, providing quality and affordable care to all. This episode also touches on the importance of partnerships, community involvement, and continuous improvement in the healthcare sector.

Join Bret and Amanda Brummitt in this inspiring episode of Generous Impact as they sit down with Matt Vestal, co-founder of Junction Health. Discover how Junction Health is making a significant difference in the healthcare landscape by establishing infusion centers within Federally Qualified Health Centers. These centers aim to provide much-needed life-promoting infusions to patients who face financial barriers in accessing traditional healthcare models. Matt Vestal shares his professional journey, starting from his early career at Cerner to co-founding Junction Health dedicated to serving underserved communities. Dive deep into the challenges and triumphs of operating infusion centers, the importance of the 340B pharmacy program, and how Junction Health is successfully partnering with federally qualified health centers to address healthcare access constraints. Listen in to hear stories that depict the real-life impacts of Junction Health's innovative approach, which not only delivers critical medications to patients in need but also injects vital revenue into health centers that serves the community. Discover the collaborative and compassionate culture fostered by Junction Health's team, determined to bring meaningful change to the world of healthcare. Learn more at Junction-Health.com.  

Join Bret and Amanda Brummitt as they delve into the transformative work of Texas Native Health in Dallas with special guest, Dr. Cassandra Self. This episode highlights the organization's comprehensive support system for the Indigenous community, ranging from primary care and diabetes management to behavioral health counseling and career training. Discover how Texas Native Health is not just providing healthcare but is also building a healthier future for Native Americans by addressing unique challenges such as human trafficking victim support and promoting cultural awareness and revitalization. Learn about Cass' personal journey and her dedication to community service amidst her background as a healthcare executive. Explore how her insights and experiences contribute to Texas Native Health's mission of empowering Indigenous populations throughout Texas, and how you can support their impactful initiatives. Learn more at TexasNativeHealth.org. 

Join Bret and Amanda Brummitt as they welcome their esteemed friend and colleague Tawnia Wise, founder of WISE Resource Development. In this insightful episode, Tawnia shares her journey to becoming a transformative force in the nonprofit sector. Discover how WISE Resource Development supports nonprofits by alleviating the burdens of fundraising and recruiting while fostering dignity and respect for all involved. Tawnia's personal and professional growth fuels her mission to empower those around her and create lasting partnerships that strengthen communities. Listen in as Tawnia discusses the importance of nonprofit sustainability and the vital role of leadership and culture in achieving this goal. From her heartfelt commitment to lifelong learning to the recent achievement of B Corp certification, Tawnia and her team continually strive for excellence and greater impact. Whether you're involved in nonprofit work or simply want to make a positive difference, this episode offers invaluable insights and inspiration for supporting the causes you care about.

In this touching episode of Generous Impact, hosts Bret and Amanda Brummitt sit down with Jennifer Lee, a remarkable software engineer and mother of two, who is making a significant difference in the lives of homeless women in her Austin neighborhood. Despite her full-time job and family commitments, Jennifer finds time to offer crucial support and resources to those in need, driven by a genuine care for her community. Jennifer shares the organic journey that led her from being a regular neighbor to a vital support system for women like Jen, Tanya, and Shay, who faced homelessness. Through perseverance, empathy, and tireless advocacy, Jennifer has helped these women find stable housing and access to essential services. Listeners will be moved by Jennifer's dedication and the personal sacrifices she makes to help her neighbors in need. Tune in to be inspired by Jennifer's message of empathy and her call to action in recognizing and humanizing our unhoused neighbors.

Welcome to Generous Impact with Bret and Amanda Brummitt. In this episode, they sit down with their longtime friend Adama Iwu, who brings over two decades of experience in government affairs. Adama shares invaluable insights on how engaging with politics at the local level and being an informed voter can significantly impact your community and the nation. Adama details her journey from starting as a fellow in the Schwarzenegger administration to becoming a lobbyist for a large financial services company. She discusses the importance of civic engagement, the various dimensions it encompasses, and practical ways to get involved. They explore the necessity of voting, the influence of local elections, and how outside money can shape local politics. Adama also provides tips on trustworthy news sources, tracking campaign finance, and the importance of having a voting plan. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their community. Election Assistance Committee to help at the polls: https://www.eac.gov/help-america-vote Vote Forward to write letters to voters to encourage election turnout: http://votefwd.org/ 

We are joined today by Andi Gillentine, Vice President of the Board for Gazelle Foundation and Plan Chief Operating Officer at Fidelis Care. In this episode, you'll hear how Gazelle Foundation is bringing clean water to the people of Burundi. Andi shares her personal and professional background, highlighting her journey from Texas to New York, and her extensive experience in healthcare and public health. She explains how she first became involved with the Gazelle Foundation through a transformative encounter with its founder, Gilbert, a genocide survivor from Burundi. We delve into the impactful work of the Gazelle Foundation, which has built 70 water systems in Burundi, providing clean water to over 100,000 people. Andi discusses the profound health and educational benefits of clean water, including reduced infant mortality rates and improved opportunities for young women. Andi emphasizes the importance of clean water for public health and shares her vision for the foundation's future. She also draws parallels between her work in healthcare and the foundation's mission, highlighting the role of health equity in both areas. If you're in the Austin area, consider participating in the Run for the Water event on November 3rd to support their mission. Learn more about their work and how you can contribute at GazelleFoundation.org.

Welcome to Generous Impact. In this episode, Bret and Amanda Brummitt are joined by Ira Kaufman, a rabbi, social worker, and healthcare executive. Instead of focusing on a single organization, this episode delves into how Ira spends his life serving his community in various impactful ways. Ira shares his journey from New Jersey to Cincinnati, exploring his background in rabbinical school, social work, and healthcare. Amanda discusses his work with Halcyon IV and how their approach to caring for people with dignity and hope left a lasting impression. The conversation reveals how Ira's dedication to meeting the needs of his community has shaped his life and that of his family, who are all deeply involved in community service. The episode highlights several of Ira's initiatives, including the Bikur Cholim of Cincinnati, which provides kosher meals and support to hospital patients, and the soon-to-be-launched volunteer emergency medical service service, Hatzalah of Cincinnati. Additionally, Ira talks about his involvement with the local Burial Society and ritual baths. Other organizations where Ira humbly spends his time include Congregation Zichron Eliezer, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, and Mesivta of Cincinnati.  They also discuss that having a healthy business while also doing good is possible.  Really caring for the team is vital and Ira mentioned the book Patients Come Second by Britt Berrett and Paul Spiegelman that really inspired him.  And, small world moment.  Amanda had the joy of working for Britt earlier in her career! Ira also offers valuable insights on balancing a demanding career with a commitment to community service, emphasizing the importance of seeing the beauty in others and fostering a supportive work environment. This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have through dedication, compassion, and a genuine desire to help others. It's a family affair in the Kaufman household with the whole family giving back to the community from meal prep to transportation to just being there for people. We hope you'll be inspired to be there and care for your own community and see the beauty in other people.  

Join hosts Bret and Amanda Brummitt on this heartwarming episode of Generous Impact, featuring Brian Allison from NMDP (formerly National Marrow Donor Program) and inspiring transplant recipient, Briana Donis. Discover how NMDP saves lives through cell therapy, and listen to Bri's incredible journey of survival and her unwavering gratitude for her donors. This episode is a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of marrow and stem cell donation. Brian shares the mission and operations of NMDP, including the challenges and triumphs of matching donors with patients in need. Bri recounts her personal story, from diagnosis to recovery, highlighting the critical importance of donor registries. Learn how you can get involved, whether by registering as a donor or supporting the cause through various volunteer opportunities. Be inspired by Bri's resilience and Brian's dedication, and find out how you can make a difference in someone's life. Visit Be The Match to learn more and get involved.

Welcome to Generous Impact! In this episode, hosts Bret and Amanda Brummitt are joined by Marshay Love, Partnership Manager with Rise Against Hunger. Marshay shares her inspiring journey from a probation officer to a key player in the fight against global hunger. Discover how Rise Against Hunger aims to eradicate hunger by providing immediate food assistance and building sustainable food systems for the future. Marshay delves into the organization's impactful programs, including meal packaging events and sustainable agriculture projects, and highlights their ambitious goal to end world hunger by 2030. Learn about the incredible stories of volunteers and beneficiaries, and how you can get involved in making a difference. Whether through hosting a meal packaging event or simply spreading the word, there are numerous ways to contribute to this noble cause. Tune in for a heartwarming and enlightening conversation about the power of community, resilience, and the drive to create a hunger-free world.

In this episode, we are joined by Thurman and Torrence Thomas, founders of Tankproof. Listen in as they share their incredible journey from the swamps of Louisiana to becoming full-time musicians and nonprofit professionals. Discover how Tankproof is making a difference by teaching swimming lessons, providing food security, and fostering community connections in Texas, Louisiana, California, and New York. Hear about the life-changing impact of their programs and their inspiring personal stories, including a near-drowning experience that fueled their mission. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with two dedicated and humble individuals who are changing lives one swim lesson at a time. Visit Tankproof.org for more information and to support their cause.

We are joined today by Jodi Schrobilgen, Executive Director of Hope Clinic.  A big thank you goes out to our friend Alliance Samaragwa for introducing us to Jodi and Hope Clinic.  In this episode, you'll hear how Hope Clinic provides free, compassionate, and quality healthcare to underserved and uninsured people in Austin including resettled refugees.  They remove barriers to accessing crucial medical resources to Austinites in need regardless of race, ethnicity, gender or religious affiliation.  Learn more about them at HopeClinicAustin.org.

Today, we are joined by Kam Galeazzi Neth of Little Heroes. In this episode, you'll hear how Kam has filled a need by focusing on photography for families in the midst of a terminal illness. Knowing that a professional photo session is never on the forefront of anyone's mind when they hear that themselves or a loved one has a few months or a year left to live, Kam and her team step in to provide a gift and an experience that the family will get to enjoy after their family gets a little smaller.   Find them at LittleHeroesInc.org.

We are joined today by Michelle DeGrate, Executive Director of Lightpath Health.  A big thanks to Tawnia Wise for the introduction!  When Tawnia says a nonprofit is doing good stuff, you know it's true!  In this episode, you'll hear how Lightpath Health is dedicated to developing and investing in programs that expand access to primary care for their neighbors without health insurance in the communities that need it most.​ Keeping the needs of their neighbors as the number one priority paired with a braintrust like Catalyst Health make this small non-profit incredibly powerful.  Find them at LightpathHealth.org.

We are joined today by Dr. Amy Grosso with American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).  In this episode, you'll hear how AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide, including those who have experienced a loss.  This includes funding scientific research, educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention, advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention, and supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide.  Learn more at https://afsp.org/.

In the latest episode of Generous Impact, our hosts, Bret and Amanda Brummitt, welcome Dr. Amy Goddard, a seasoned physical therapist and devoted board member of Transform DRC. Spanning from Webb City, Missouri to Texas and making significant strides in healthcare, Dr. Goddard shares her inspiring journey, engaging endeavors, and how her life experiences have fueled her passion to transform lives beyond the physical therapy landscape. Amy details her first mission trip to Nairobi, Kenya, and her subsequent volunteer work in several African countries such as the Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Sudan, and South Sudan. It was during these travels that she met two extraordinary individuals, Marie Jeanne and Theo, whose selfless contributions to their community left an everlasting impact on Amy and her 60-year old mother who accompanied her on one of these life-altering trips. The episode also delves into the troubling history and present-day challenges of the Democratic Republic of Congo, covering chapters from being colonized by King Leopold II of Belgium to the ongoing modern-day slavery and exploitation related to cobalt mining. Throughout the profound conversation, listeners gain an enlightening perspective on Transform DRC's mission and the inspirational stories of resilience and transformation. Providing a compassionate narrative attached to Transform DRC's formation and progress, the episode highlights the pivotal contributions of their many programs. The episode ends on a hopeful note, emphasizing the immense value of empathetic involvement, individual efforts, and every act of goodwill. It underscores the necessity to continue shedding light on the under-reported humanitarian crisis in the DRC, as we collectively strive for significant, lasting change. Learn more at TransformDRC.org.

In the Generous Impact podcast, hosts Bret and Amanda Brummitt, explore the vital work of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) North Texas, with its Executive Director, Dr. Athena Trentin. This illuminating conversation delves into the organization's efforts to combat mental health stigma, the barriers to treatment, and their work in cultivating a culture of help and hope. Dr. Trentin shares her inspirational journey, from small-town Northern Michigan to being a voice in mental health advocacy in North Texas. She opens up about her personal experiences, shedding light on the transformative power of mental health care. This moving narrative tells the story of NAMI's mission to turn tales of trauma into narratives of empowerment. The podcast emphasizes the importance of mental health education and community, discussing how organizations like NAMI empower individuals to seek help and offer support. It highlights the power of family conversations, the challenges related to laws about adult patients, and the role of diverse treatment strategies in mental health care. NAMI's role as a provider of rich resources for recognizing the impact of mental health issues on families is discussed, with a focus on their various offerings such as classes, support groups, and programs. The show underlines the need for culturally sensitive mental health resources as a means to empower individuals and families navigating mental health challenges. Charting the unique experiences of diverse racial, faith-based, ability-based communities and particularly the Indigenous community, the episode emphasizes the need for bespoke services. It also explores the contributions and drive for inclusivity that form the core of NAMI's approach. The discussions shed light on key factors shaping mental health service delivery, from trauma and advocacy to cultural significance. With a strong note of sincerity, this episode concludes by highlighting the development of community programs designed to support first responders and emphasizes the importance of self-care and community service. It amplifies the call for volunteers, donations and more engagement with NAMI to keep providing free services and inspire more individuals in their journey towards mental health. Learn more at NAMINorthTexas.org. 

Welcome to a special edition of Generous Impact. Hosts Bret and Amanda Brummitt discuss an upcoming event on April 25th for Water is Basic in Dallas and the ongoing efforts to provide clean water in South Sudan and Democratic Republic of the Congo. This episode features guest Mike Guaglione, an advertising and communications specialist and member of the board of Water is Basic. Mike shares enlightening stories from South Sudan, illustrating the transition of the organization's work from solely drilling wells to facilitating sustainable well repair. This initiative empowers local communities, especially women, with the knowledge and resources needed to maintain their water sources, paving the way for self-sufficiency. Examples of resilience and resourcefulness are presented throughout the episode, such as the story of Simon, the Country Director in South Sudan. We also discuss insightful experiences with Founding Board Member, Dr. Amy Goddard, who shares evocative stories of women facing tough struggles amidst the ongoing conflict in South Sudan and how Water is Basic serves as an urgent lifeline. Each story underscores the positive impact of grassroots empowerment. Mike and Amy highlight the potential for transformative change and assert the importance of fundraising events 'Thirst No More' on April 25th in Dallas, a unique opportunity to support clean water and women. Be a part of creating a community of generous supporters who share a vision of universal access to clean water, particularly in South Sudan and Democratic Republic of the Congo. And, if you missed our full episode on Water is Basic, check it out here.  

We are joined today by Gilbert Tuhabonye, Founder and Downtown Coach for Gilbert's Gazelles. In this episode, you'll hear how Gilbert has created a community of runners that train together, encourage each other, support each other and challenge one another. They don't just run with joy together, they are a community.  And, Gilbert is the glue that holds them together. 

We are joined today by Lisa Marshall, Founder and CEO of Fighting Homelessness.  In this episode, you'll hear how they are dedicated to identifying and addressing the root causes of homelessness.  To learn more about how you can help, go to FightingHomelessness.org.

We are joined today by Angela Enright, Chairman of the Board for Light Up To Live.  In this episode, you'll hear how they are tackling veteran health issues with polychromatic light therapy systems to treat chronic pain, service dogs, and physician assisted psychedelic drug therapy for severe PTS cases.  Learn more about the organization at LightuptoLive.org.

We are joined today by Hanna Cofer, Interim CEO of The Trail Conservancy in Austin.  In this episode, you'll hear about their work on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake is 10 miles long and has 250+ acres of green space bordering downtown Austin.   It's a regular part of our daily enjoyment and how we travel to places throughout central Austin by foot or bike. We recommend you check it out the next time you are in Austin. Find them at TheTrailConservancy.org.

We are joined today by Dr. Kim Ross with Ross Nutrition Team. In this episode, we are combining two incredible topics – personalized nutrition and mental health.  Today, we'll focus on Dr. Ross' research on psychobiotics and amino acid therapy for mood disorders and how it is truly improving healthcare.   It's logical that what we feed our bodies affects our mental health.  But being about to fix it on a basic level blew our minds when we first learned about it. If you'd like to learn more on the topic, definitely check out Dr. Ross' research and you can find her at RossNT.com.

We are joined today by Jeff Middleton, Co-Founder of Boise Vertical Farms.  In this episode, you'll learn a little bit about farming and a lot about offering people in recovery a hand up. Boise Vertical Farms creates a safe community that provides hope and employment resources for individuals in substance abuse recovery through growing local produce. If you don't personally know someone impacted by substance misuse, it's hard to understand how difficult it is to obtain and keep employment during and after recovery. The system truly is stacked against them.  I hope that today's show gives you a glimpse into the good work they are doing and how it benefits all of society. Find them at BoiseVerticalFarm.com.  

We are joined today by Eric Paulus, Operations Director and Land Manager for Ecology Action in Austin, Texas.  In this episode, you'll hear how they took a former landfill and turned it into an amazing nature preserve. Bret and I have hiked it and it's gorgeous, not to mention the good they are doing for animals and plants. To learn more about the Circle Acres Nature Preserve, check out Ecology-Action.org.

We are joined today by Jaime Cabrera, Vice President of Advancement for Girls Inc. of Metropolitan Dallas. In this episode, you'll hear how Girls Inc. delivers life-changing programs and experiences that equip girls to overcome serious barriers to grow up strong, smart, and bold. If you want to learn more, check them out at GirlsIncDallas.org.

We are joined today by Phil Baker, PharmD. Phil is the Founder of Good Shepherd Pharmacy, RemediChain, and Halo Scripts.  In this episode, you'll learn about his two incredible nonprofit pharmacy organizations that help patients in need access medications. While Phil is humble about his accomplishments, we aren't!  He worked with lawmakers to drastically change laws so he could reclaim expensive cancer drugs that patients no longer needed to give them to patients in need at no cost. And, last year they reclaimed $18 million worth of drugs and redispensed them to almost 500 patients.  And, the inventory and logistics system they've created to synchronize their fills is incredibly keeping costs low for patients. If you want to learn more about Phil Baker and the good work his team is doing, find them at GoodShepHealth.com and DonateMyMeds.org.

We are joined today by our friend, Steve Roese of Water is Basic and a special co-host, our youngest daughter, Mattison. She joined us on a trip to South Sudan last year where she got to see the impact firsthand. In this episode, you'll hear how they are bringing clean water to the people of South Sudan and Democratic Republic of the Congo while changing the lives of women for generations to come. If you want to learn more, find them at WaterisBasic.org. 

We are joined today by Britt Udesen, Executive Director of City of Good. In this episode, you'll hear how they are helping food insecure neighbors across Boise enjoy nutritious and culturally appropriate food while also supporting local farmers and restaurants. To learn more about this great non-profit, you can find them at CityofGood.com.

We are joined today by Jami Dybik, Vice President and Rodbel Rodriguez, Director of Community Engagement both from Sagebrush Health.  In this episode, you'll hear how they are preventing and treating sexually transmitted infectious diseases at no cost to patients. They are in the community breaking barriers, spreading awareness, and preventing infections through testing! And, they offer extensive treatment at no cost to patients.  We think you'll be inspired at their aim to eliminate new infections.  Find them at SagebrushHealthcare.org.

We are joined today by our friend Diana Pfaff talking about the Irving Schools Foundation. It's near and dear to our hearts as Bret and I both served on their board for many years. In this episode, you'll hear about the amazing work this foundation does for the students and teachers in Irving ISD. It really is an incredible organization serving a very worthy population. Find them at IrvingSchoolsFoundation.org.

We are joined today by our friend Rev. Dr. Jackie Roese of The Marcella Project.  In this episode, you'll hear how The Marcella Project ennobles women and reshapes the view of women in the church. And, Jackie's work ripples far beyond the church creating dialogue about what it means to be a woman. To learn more, visit TheMarcellaProject.com and check out Jackie's podcast called Jackie Always Unplugged.

Our guest today is Martha Day, Co-Founder and President of Vitamin Bridge.  A self-described ordinary person, you'll hear how Vitamin Bridge and Martha are doing extraordinary good by providing prenatal vitamins and nutrition information to under-resourced moms across Texas and Georgia. Their contributions today will pay dividends across communities for an entire generation by reducing the risk of preterm births, low birthweights, and birth defects. Find them at VitaminBridge.com.

The always fabulous Lian Loop was kind enough to introduce us to our guest today and agree to co-host.  Our guest Corey Ladd of Camp John Marc.  He is a Board Member and Communications Chair and Former Chairman of the Board. In this episode, you'll hear how they serve children, teens, and families with year round programming and specialized camp facilities for kids with chronic medical and physical challenges.  And, you can find them at CampJohnMarc.org.

We are joined today by Emily Allbright, a nonprofit executive with a rich history in giving back to the community and connecting with people.  In this episode, you'll hear a theme around people – listening to them, connecting with them, and intentionality in maintaining relationships.    

We are joined today by Jason Dyke, the CEO and Founder of Carson's Village. In this episode, you'll hear how through his own loss and the support of his village, Jason and the team now serves others in times of unexpected loss. From burial arrangements to support groups to proactive check-ins on families, they truly serve as the village for those in need.

We are joined today by Garry Merritt, the CEO of Great Springs Project. Get ready to be inspired by his deep affection for Texas and his unwavering dedication to the Great Springs Project which aims to connect a 100-mile trail between San Antonio and Austin over the recharge zone of the Edwards Aquifer while also protecting an additional 50,000 acres of land. It's a powerful vision that promises to bring about not only a direct and positive economic impact but also significant improvements in health, recreation, and transportation for the communities involved.

Today, we are joined by Jorge Medina, the CEO of Texas Diaper Bank.  Listeners are in for an inspiring story of meeting people's basic needs with dignity and respect without judgement.  And, the show is full of leadership pearls of wisdom such as, “You don't want to be solving a problem while creating a problem.”  Jorge talks about how he keeps his emotional cup full and focuses on ensuring his team stays mission driven and not burned out. Learn more at TexasDiaperBank.org. 

Today we are joined by Lian Loop of Generous Benefits.  But, she's not been asked to be on the show for Generous Benefits.  She's been asked here because she's been a selfless volunteer in many organizations over the years and through many seasons of life.  We hope her volunteering experience will inspire others to find the time to give back in some way to make their little corner of the world a little better.

In this episode, you'll meet Timothy Robinson and Lauri Kelley of Inspired to Help. Timothy is the Founder and Chairman of the Board and Lauri is the Director of Corporate Giving. We think you'll be inspired when you hear about their work with the unhoused, senior citizens, and youth. Where there is a need, they will find a way to help. Learn more at InspiredToHelp.org.

Meet Kevin Reichle and Alliance Samuragwa from More Than Welcome.  They are dedicated to helping refugees and asylum seekers smoothly integrate into new communities, ensuring they feel truly welcome. Alliance shares his refugee journey from Burundi, where he was tortured and left for dead during the Hutu-Tutsi conflict depicted in "Hotel Rwanda." Now in Austin, Alliance has assisted over 1000 refugees, embodying the organization's mission of making people feel more than welcome.

Bret and Amanda Brummitt, our hosts, share the concept of Generous Impact.  It's a show dedicated to sharing the stories of humans improving their communities and making the world a better place.