Podcasts about chicago eco house

In this Episode of A Modern Nonprofit Podcast, host Tosha Anderson met with Quilen Blackwell, president and co-founder of Chicago Eco House, to discuss his journey in scaling a nonprofit organization. Blackwell's story of transforming vacant lots into thriving flower farms offers valuable insights for nonprofit leaders looking to grow their impact. About Quilen: Quilen Blackwell is the president and co-founder of the Chicago Eco House, whose mission is to train inner city youth in sustainable social enterprises to alleviate poverty. The Chicago Eco House's signature program is Southside Blooms, an off-grid flower farm youth social enterprise where participants convert vacant lots into commercial flower farms using solar powered rainwater irrigation. This creates jobs for young people on the south and west sides of Chicago. Find out more about Quilent and his mission: outreach@chicagoecohouse.org southsideblooms.com/ outreach@chicagoecohouse.org southsideblooms.com/ https://www.facebook.com/SouthsideBlooms/ https://www.instagram.com/southsideblooms/ What to watch next… Episode 106: Balancing Mission with Human-Centered Leadership https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8ev9bT-AHo&feature=youtu.be Episode 97: How to Scale a Nonprofit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4iw33f5gC0 What's new on our website? Accounting as a Shared Responsibility: https://thecharitycfo.com/accounting-as-a-shared-responsibility-why-the-most-effective-nonprofits-share-financial-management-across-leadership-teams/ Follow Us Online Stay connected and get more exclusive content on: Website: www.thecharitycfo.com Instagram: @thecharitycfo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecharitycfo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-charity-cfo-llc/posts/?feedView=all TikTok: @thecharitycfo Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6hofQXPCxiPZuZy3OecW8y Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-modern-nonprofit-podcast/id1542301310 Get Involved Subscribe for more videos: Don't forget to hit the bell icon so you never miss a video! About The Charity CFO We are an accounting partner that truly understands nonprofits. We know the missions that drive you, the obstacles that challenge you, and the dedication your job demands. We “get” nonprofits, because nonprofits are all that we do. If you need help with your accounting and bookkeeping, let's talk. Book a FREE consultation here: https://thecharitycfo.com/contact/

Send us a textIn this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria sits down with Quilen Blackwell, President and co-founder of Chicago Eco House and Southside Blooms. Quilen shares his remarkable journey of founding and growing a nonprofit with a thriving $2 million social enterprise. With a focus on sustainability, community development, and economic resilience, Quilen offers invaluable tips for nonprofits looking to scale effectively. Key Topics: Social enterprise success: from zero to $2 million Challenges of scaling a nonprofit and a business How Southside Blooms converts customers into donors The pros and cons of business-to-business (B2B) versus business-to-consumer (B2C) social enterprise models Quotable Moments: “As a nonprofit, we didn't want to be dependent on a few big donors telling us what to do. Running it like a serious business gave us the freedom to stay true to our mission.”  “Focus on the foundation of the business, not just the money. If you're not ready to handle growth, it can quickly turn from a blessing into a burden.” “Our flowers are our ambassadors. They go into spaces we can't, and they open doors we never expected.”  Actionable Tips: ➜ Start Small: Focus on building a solid foundation before scaling. Test your ideas on a smaller scale to work out any kinks and ensure your model is sustainable. ➜ Invest in Technology: Use technology to streamline operations and customer service, especially when managing a social enterprise. Tools like Routific for route optimization can be game changers in last-mile delivery ➜ Leverage Customer Relationships: Turn customers into donors by integrating donation opportunities into your sales process and engaging them through events like farm tours. ➜ Do B2B and B2C: Diversify your income streams by engaging in both B2B and B2C models. This approach not only stabilizes revenue but also opens unexpected doors for media coverage and large grants. ➜ Prepare for Growth: As your organization scales, be ready to tackle complex challenges, including human resources, compliance, and maintaining quality across a growing operation. Connect with Us: Connect with Maria Connect with Quilen: Personal Instagram, Southside Blooms, Chicago Eco House Chicago Eco House: Website Southside Blooms: Website Support the Podcast: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to The Small Nonprofit on YouTube, and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us create better content and reach more listeners like you. Watch this episode on YouTube. Support these conversations by becoming a member here. What's next? Don't forget to tune into next week's episode where we chat about the pros and cons of hiring a Fractional Fundraiser with Nina Horvath!  Support the show

On this episode, Quilen Blackwell shares how he's using a sustainable flower farm, shop, and delivery company to mentor at-risk youth. Quilen Blackwell is the cofounder of the Chicago EcoHouse and Southside Blooms, organizations dedicated to eliminating poverty through sustainability. He's the grandson of Arkansas sharecroppers who moved to Milwaukee so his grandfather could secure a factory job in the aftermath of the Civil Rights Movement when racial tensions were high.  After earning his Bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Blackwell went on to serve in the Peace Corps in Thailand. When he returned to the United States, he enrolled in a Chicago ministry school where God led him to commit to a life of community service.   He began by tutoring high school students in Englewood, where he saw the devastating impacts of inner-city poverty. Eventually he and his partner (now wife), Hannah Bonham Blackwell founded the Chicago Eco House to transform blighted urban lots into sustainable flower farms. That grew into Southside Blooms, which provides jobs on these farms and in a flower shop to at-risk youth.  Quilen is always amazed to see how God's hand moved through the suffering his grandfather endured working the land in the Jim Crow South all the way to the freedom he now enjoys and shares with others.  https://southsideblooms.com  Christianity in Business is the show that helps Christian business leaders to integrate biblical values into business. | Entrepreneurship | Marketing | Nonprofit | Church | Author | Startups | Marketplace | Ministry | Business as Mission | Faith and Work | Faith | Success | Leadership | www.ChristianityInBusiness.com 

On this episode, Quilen Blackwell shares how he's using a sustainable flower farm, shop, and delivery company to mentor at-risk youth. Quilen Blackwell is the cofounder of the Chicago EcoHouse and Southside Blooms, organizations dedicated to eliminating poverty through sustainability. He's the grandson of Arkansas sharecroppers who moved to Milwaukee so his grandfather could secure a factory job in the aftermath of the Civil Rights Movement when racial tensions were high.  After earning his Bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Blackwell went on to serve in the Peace Corps in Thailand. When he returned to the United States, he enrolled in a Chicago ministry school where God led him to commit to a life of community service.   He began by tutoring high school students in Englewood, where he saw the devastating impacts of inner-city poverty. Eventually he and his partner (now wife), Hannah Bonham Blackwell founded the Chicago Eco House to transform blighted urban lots into sustainable flower farms. That grew into Southside Blooms, which provides jobs on these farms and in a flower shop to at-risk youth.  Quilen is always amazed to see how God's hand moved through the suffering his grandfather endured working the land in the Jim Crow South all the way to the freedom he now enjoys and shares with others.  https://southsideblooms.com  Christianity in Business is the show that helps Christian business leaders to integrate biblical values into business. | Entrepreneurship | Marketing | Nonprofit | Church | Author | Startups | Marketplace | Ministry | Business as Mission | Faith and Work | Faith | Success | Leadership | www.ChristianityInBusiness.com 

I'm not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: Quilen, what is your superpower?Quilen: My primary superpower—it may seem a little corny, but it's true. I would say it's love.Devin: Hannah, what's your superpower?Hannah: I would say my superpower is faith.In today's episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Quilen Blackwell and Hannah Blackwell, the inspiring co-founders of Southside Blooms. They shared their journey of transforming vacant lots in Chicago into off-grid solar-powered flower farms, creating not just beautiful floral arrangements but also vital job opportunities for local youth.Quilen recounted how his faith led him from an affluent background to the heart of Chicago's South Side, where he faced the stark realities of urban poverty. This eye-opening experience motivated him to create Chicago Eco House, the parent organization of Southside Blooms. “Our mission is to use sustainability to alleviate poverty,” Quilen explained. “Chicago has about 30 to 40,000 vacant lots, mostly in Black neighborhoods. We saw an opportunity to remake our communities in an ecological way.”Hannah's journey was equally compelling. Her early experiences on a youth trip to the South Side left a lasting impression on her. “I could not believe in my country we had this kind of poverty,” she said. Moving to Chicago, she immersed herself in community work, eventually meeting Quilen and aligning with his vision. Together, they transformed their passion into action, moving to Inglewood and starting their project from their home.Southside Blooms is unique in its dual focus on environmental sustainability and youth empowerment. The organization operates flower farms that are completely off-grid and chemical-free, using innovative methods like rainwater irrigation and composting. This sustainable approach not only beautifies the community but also teaches youth valuable skills. “We incorporate the youth in everything we do, from farming to designing wedding bouquets,” Hannah said proudly. “Their creativity and confidence blossom alongside the flowers they cultivate.”The impact of Southside Blooms extends beyond mere employment. It offers the youth a sense of ownership and pride in their work. “They're not just learning a trade; they're transforming their neighborhoods and themselves,” Quilen emphasized. “Working with Mother Nature teaches them that sustainability can meet their material needs.”Southside Blooms is a testament to the power of combining environmental stewardship with community development. Through their innovative approach, Quilen and Hannah Blackwell are not only growing flowers but also nurturing hope and opportunity in Chicago's most underserved areas.tl;dr:1. Background and Mission: Quilen and Hannah Blackwell are co-founders of Southside Blooms, a nonprofit in Chicago that transforms vacant lots into off-grid, solar-powered flower farms to employ local youth. The initiative aims to provide job opportunities and skills development within the floral industry.2. Personal Stories: Quilen, originally from Madison, started the project in 2011 after moving to Chicago for ministry school and encountering inner-city poverty firsthand. Hannah moved to Chicago in 2005, driven by an impactful youth trip at age 15, and later aligned with Quilen's mission to address poverty and joblessness in the community.3. Operations and Impact: Southside Blooms operates both farm and flower shop teams. The farm team cultivates flowers in various vacant lots, utilizing sustainable methods like rainwater irrigation and composting. The flower shop team includes youth who learn floral design at different levels, from basic bouquets to wedding arrangements. This holistic approach nurtures creativity, confidence, and environmental stewardship among the youth.4. Sustainability Efforts: The organization is committed to sustainability, using chemical-free farming techniques and compostable materials. They aim to reclaim urban blight areas and transform them into ecologically sustainable spaces, actively involving youth in every aspect of the operations, thus connecting them to the larger sustainability movement.5. Superpower Philosophy: Quilen and Hannah attribute their drive and success to profound values—Quilen cites love as his superpower, particularly his enduring love for the community and commitment to the cause. Hannah identifies faith as her superpower, maintaining an unwavering belief in their mission despite challenges. Their deep personal convictions have helped them persevere and inspire change within their community.How to Develop Unconditional Love As a SuperpowerQuilen Blackwell's superpower is his unconditional love for the community he serves. Despite his background and initial lack of connection to Chicago's South Side, Quilen has dedicated himself wholeheartedly to improving the lives of those around him. His love, driven by his faith and past experiences, has empowered him to endure hardships and risks, ultimately fueling his mission to create positive change through Southside Blooms.Tips for Developing Quilen's Superpower:* Reflect on Your Legacy: Consider what you want your life's contribution to be. Think about how you want to be remembered in terms of helping others.* Identify Your Passions: Focus on who and what you genuinely care about. Let these passions guide your actions and decisions.* Embrace Challenges: Be willing to make sacrifices and face hardships for the causes you believe in. Let love and commitment drive you through difficult times.* Shift Your Perspective: Move away from conventional success metrics and focus on the impact you can make on others' lives.By following Quilen's example and advice, you can make love a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!How to Develop Unwavering Faith As a SuperpowerHannah Blackwell's superpower is her unwavering faith. She has always believed in the potential to make a difference, even in the face of danger and adversity. Her faith has kept her grounded and determined, guiding her through the toughest moments and enabling her to persevere. This steadfast belief in their mission has been instrumental in the success and impact of Southside Blooms.Tips for Developing Hannah's Superpower:* Maintain a Positive Outlook: Always believe that change is possible, even when faced with challenges.* Stay Committed: Do not waver in your commitment to your goals, regardless of the obstacles you encounter.* Seek Miracles: Look for and appreciate the small and large miracles that support your mission and reinforce your faith.* Take Consistent Action: Keep moving forward with small steps, trusting that your efforts will lead to significant change.By following Hannah's example and advice, you can make faith a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileHannah Bonham Blackwell (she/her):Co-Founder, Southside Blooms About Southside Blooms: Southside Blooms provides jobs and job training to at-risk youth on its four sustainable urban flower farms on the South Side of Chicago and one in Gary, Indiana. Southside Blooms is a project of the Chicago Eco House, a 5013c nonprofit organization, so every purchase of their “flowers that empower” supports their mission of using sustainability to alleviate poverty. Learn more at SouthsideBlooms.com.Website: southsideblooms.comCompany Facebook Page: fb.com/SouthsideBloomsInstagram Handle: @southsidebloomsBiographical Information: Hannah Bonham Blackwell is Lead Creative Director and Co-Founder of Southside Blooms, heading up everything design and style-related for the company. From her early days as a child growing up in the Great Plains, creativity came about in the form of dandelion bouquets and mud pies mixed with interesting things found in the woods behind her house. After her family moved to South America, she found ways of expressing that creativity through made-up games on the playground Growing up in a Mennonite home and community, service went hand-in-hand with faith, which included yearly service trips with her youth group. Led by her parents, the very first trip she would be on would take her to the south side of Chicago, only a few miles from where she would eventually settle in her forever home. That trip left a lasting impression on her. It was there that she came in contact with youth her own age, young people she would never forget who were bold in faith in the face of severe challenges and trauma, most living in the infamous Robert Taylor Home housing projects at that time.Hannah continues to love serving her community while expressing her creativity through her work at Southside Blooms. Along the way, she and her husband Quilen added three little Blackwells to their team: Twins Olive and Josiah, and a year and a half later, Carver Jo - the honorary triplet! She loves being a mom and homeschooling her children while also still being involved in the neighborhood.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/hannah-bonham-blackwell-56310036/Quilen Blackwell (he/him):Co-founder, Southside BloomsBiographical Information: Quilen Blackwell is the president and co-founder of the Chicago Eco House, whose mission is to train inner city youth in sustainable social enterprises to alleviate poverty. The Chicago Eco House's signature program is Southside Blooms, an off-grid flower farm youth social enterprise where participants convert vacant lots into commercial flower farms using solar-powered rainwater irrigation. This creates jobsfor young people on the south and west sides of Chicago.Quilen is originally from Madison, WI, and moved to Chicago to attend ministry school. While in ministry school, he volunteered at a local high school in the Englewood neighborhood on Chicago's south side. This is where he first got acclimated to the realities that young people face every day in the inner city. He decided to commit his life to creating opportunities for the young people in the inner city by utilizing his skills in community organizing and renewable energy.Quilen holds a bachelor's degree in history from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a master's degree in environmental policy and sustainability from the University of Denver. He worked in the biodiesel industry as a procurer of feedstock and served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Thailand prior to starting the Chicago Eco House.Quilen resides on the south side of Chicago with his wife Hannah (the other co-founder of Eco House) and their three children, all under six years old.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/quilen-blackwell-2b00781/Upcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* SuperCrowdChicago, June 12, 2024. This in-person event at Columbia College Chicago features some of Chicago's prominent citizens and community leaders, along with crowdfunding experts. Use the discount code “SuperCrowd” to save 50 percent! Watch the recording here!* SuperCrowdHour, July 7, 2024, at 1:00 Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At this month's webinar, Pooja Mehta, crowdfund investor and advisor to entrepreneurs, will join us to share her dual perspectives.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on July 16, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, you must first become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* How Small Businesses Can Raise Capital from the Crowd, Thursday, July 11, 1 – 2 pm ET: Explore transforming your community connections into capital to start or grow a small business through regulated investment crowdfunding.  Learn more about how this type of crowdfunding works and the benefits and challenges of raising capital from the crowd. About our Presenter: Author and journalist Devin Thorpe has over 25 years in finance and a rich background as a former CFO and investment banking firm founder.  He's also a champion for social good, publishing his Superpowers for Good newsletter and show.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 7,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

At RSVPify, you can host ticketed events for free - no subscription required. Host any free event with a monthly or annual subscription. Use the code NONPROFITNATION50 at checkout for an 50% off any annual subscription (discount applied for first year only) - or 50% off any monthly subscription for three months (billed at full rate subsequently).Financial sustainability is crucial, but social impact is the heart of nonprofits. With the social enterprise model, how can we ensure that our organization prioritizes its social mission while maintaining a viable business? My guests today are Quilen and Hannah Blackwell, the co-founders of Southside Blooms, an off-grid flower farm youth social enterprise where participants convert vacant lots into commercial flower farms using solar powered rainwater irrigation. This creates jobs for young people on the south and west sides of Chicago.Hannah and Quilen were married in 2015, and immediately set up the Chicago Eco House, a rehabbed two flat greystone property in the heart of Englewood and got to work getting to know the community. Soon they were farming several vacant lots close to their house, constantly researching what would fulfill their mission of using sustainability to alleviate poverty. It became clear that flowers would be the avenue to do this and Southside Blooms was born.In this episode, we discuss:How Southside Blooms empowers at-risk youth through urban flower farming.The benefits of the social enterprise model for long-term financial sustainability in nonprofits.Balancing earned income with maintaining a charitable mission.Real-life examples of how Southside Blooms has transformed lives.Guest BiosQuilen and Hannah Blackwell are the co-founders of Southside Blooms, an off-gridflower farm youth social enterprise where participants convert vacant lots intocommercial flower farms using solar powered rainwater irrigation. This creates jobsfor young people on the south and west sides of Chicago.After a whirlwind dating and engagement, Hannah and Quilen were married in 2015, alittle over a year after meeting and moved to Englewood a few months later. Theyimmediately set up the Chicago Eco House, a rehabbed two flat greystone property inthe heart of Englewood and got to work getting to know the community. Soon theywere farming several vacant lots close to their house, constantly researching whatwould fulfill their mission of using sustainability to alleviate poverty. It became clearthat flowers would be the avenue to do this and Southside Blooms was born.Quilen holds a bachelor's degree in history from the University of Wisconsin-Madisonand a master's degree in environmental policy and sustainability from the Universityof Denver. Hannah holds a BA in Justice Studies from Northeastern Illinois University.The Blackwells reside on the south side of Chicago with their three children, who areall under six years old.Check out Southside BloomsTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

In this episode, Srini Rao interviews Hannah Bonham Blackwell, co-founder of Southside Blooms and Chicago Eco House. Hannah shares her journey from growing up in South America to starting a florist business in the South Side of Chicago. She discusses the impact of her experiences on her life and how she became a social chameleon in high school. Hannah also talks about the challenges and rewards of working in an underserved community and the importance of creating job opportunities for youth. She shares her insights on race, resilience, and the power of community. Subscribe for ad-free interviews and bonus episodes https://plus.acast.com/s/the-unmistakable-creative-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we're delving into a topic that's not just about industry specifics—it's about creating meaningful change in our communities. We understand that as a Black entrepreneur, you're not just building a business; you're sowing seeds of transformation and empowerment. That's why we're thrilled to bring you this conversation with Quilen Blackwell, president and co-founder of Chicago Eco House, as we explore the powerful connection between urban sustainability and economic empowerment.   At the heart of today's discussion is the profound impact of urban sustainability initiatives. Through projects like Southside Blooms, Quilen and his team are turning neglected urban landscapes into vibrant hubs of activity, creating jobs, providing skills training, and instilling a sense of pride and ownership in local youth. We'll uncover how these initiatives are not only revitalizing communities but also fostering economic resilience and environmental stewardship.   DURING THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN: The significance of urban sustainability for fostering economic empowerment How initiatives like Southside Blooms are transforming abandoned lots into vibrant community spaces The role of social enterprise in empowering marginalized youth and building resilient communities Strategies for overcoming challenges and scaling sustainable projects to reach more communities Practical ways individuals and businesses can contribute to urban sustainability efforts   But this isn't just a story about flowers; it's a story about empowerment. Black entrepreneurs like Quilen are leveraging their passion and expertise to address pressing social and environmental issues. And while the challenges they face may be daunting—from navigating regulations to securing funding—they're met with unwavering determination and a commitment to making a difference.   Quilen Blackwell brings a wealth of experience and dedication to this conversation. As the president and co-founder of Chicago Eco House, his mission is to train inner-city youth in sustainable social enterprises to alleviate poverty. The Chicago Eco House's signature program, Southside Blooms, has garnered recognition through awards like the UL Innovation Education Award, Delta Institute BOOST Award, the Keep Chicago Beautiful Community Vision Award, and the African American Legacy Award.   Join us as we explore the transformative power of planting seeds of change and discover how you can be part of the blooming success of urban sustainability and economic empowerment. ------------ Support:    This episode is sponsored by Harvard Business School Executive Education.    Transformation requires a catalyst. For thousands of business leaders, Harvard Business School Executive Education has been that catalyst. Here, senior leaders join in a transformational learning experience, networking with executives from around the world. During the day, participants take part in dynamic lectures led by distinguished faculty. In the evening, the learning continues in unique on-campus living groups. And a wide range of virtual leadership programs offer the types of interactivity and connectivity formerly reserved for in-person engagements. Prepare for the next step in your career. Learn More.   Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/189   Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!   Connect with us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/    Don't miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter: https://blacktobusiness.com/mailinglist

How can we help the inner city's economy? Quilen Blackwell, president and founder of the Chicago Eco House, discusses how his non-profit uses sustainability to alleviate poverty. Quilen talks about his grandfather, who was a sharecropper, and his parents, who moved to Wisconsin from the South. After doing Peace Corps in Thailand, Quilen volunteered in the Englewood neighborhood on Chicago's South Side, where he got the idea for Chicago Eco House. He and his wife, Hannah, started Southside Blooms, a solar-powered flower farm on a vacant lot on Chicago's Southwest Side, and have expanded to Detroit, Milwaukee, and Gary, Indiana. Blooms is hyper-local; they grow and deliver their own flowers in communities without using any herbicides, pesticides, or chemical or synthetic fertilizers. Quilen says he is blending community organizing and a sustainable environmental business while exposing young people to opportunities in areas of crime and trauma. The Green Sense Show is sponsored by CEA Technology, providing a sustainable modular indoor growing system. To sponsor this program, go to www.greensenseshow.com

Last week I had the opportunity to meet my guest this week at the ASCFG conference. I can say that he genuinely is making every effort to impact the community that he chose to make home in the south-side of Chicago. Quilen Blackwell and his wife Hannah, are the founders of Chicago Eco House and Southside Blooms in the Englewood area of Chicago where they have encountered hardcore inner-city poverty and it's effect specifically on the young residents there. Today Quilen shares how his passion for the inner city became the foundation for the organization that brings life to people by sowing love into a community through flowers. Learn more about Quilen and all of our past guests on TheFlowerPodcast.com Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon Music, Gaana, and many more! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for access to all of our Zoom chats, tutorials, IG Lives, and video extras. Thanks to the Sponsors of The Flower Podcast Curate Accent Decor Rooted Farmers Real Flower Business Society of American Florists ASCFG Intrigued Experience Conference

Hello Friends! I've been sitting on this episode forever, and I'm so excited to get this episode out, and what more perfect time, when people will be getting flowers and wreaths to decorate their homes for the holidays, as well as honey to sweeten your various holiday teas. This episode I had the pleasure of chatting with Cade Kamaleson, program officer of Chicago Eco House, a local flower farm located on the south and west sides of Chicago. This is a great conversation, and we talk about all of the awesome work the organization is doing.  Listen and Share!  Resources: Chicago Eco House Southside Blooms Chicago Reader Article on Chicago Flower Farms WTTW: On South and West Sides, Business is Blooming for Eco-Friendly Florist  Youtube: Can YOU Fix Climate Change? Signup for the newsletter here: Off The Beaten Podcast Newsletter Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any upcoming episodes. Also, please take a moment to rate and review OTBP on your favorite podcast app. Follow OTBP on Social Media: Instagram / Facebook / TikTok / Website / Podchaser I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Got something to say? Give us a call and leave a voicemail: (312) 488-9068 Email us: beingsillyinthecity@gmail.com Also don't be afraid to slide into my DM's on any of the social media platforms.  You can also support the podcast by Buying Me a Cup of Coffee. Every dollar donated goes into helping me make the podcast better. buymeacoffee.com/OffTheBeatenPodcast

Today we're visiting with Hannah Bonham Blackwell of Southside Blooms in the Englewood community of Chicago, Illinois. Southside Blooms, which is a project of Chicago Eco House (a 501c3 nonprofit with a mission of using sustainability to alleviate poverty), is a farm-to-vase florist providing unique and fashion-forward arrangements, while maintaining an uncompromising dedication to both the environment and the surrounding communities. One hundred percent of their money goes directly towards fulfilling this mission. That means every flower purchased from Southside Blooms creates jobs for at-risk youth, converts vacant lots into safe and productive community assets, and actively contributes to the health and resilience of the environment through regenerative farming practices. We hope you'll join us for this conversation as we talk with Hannah about: using sustainable practices in flower farming unlocking creativity in the youth who work at Southside Blooms the importance of being based in the area where Southside Blooms employees live how Southside Blooms acquired land for 4 urban farms in Chicago (plus another in Gary, Indiana) thoughts on expansion staffing wins and challenges finding farming techniques that work for the Southside Blooms business model the key to offering opportunities that are compatible with the community you serve LEARN MORE ABOUT SOUTHSIDE BLOOMS HERE: Website | Instagram | Facebook TODAY'S EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY: EVERYSTEM A SPECIAL EVERYSTEM OFFER FOR BB LISTENERS: Enter referral code:  flowerwithpurpose when you create your EveryStem account to receive a free month of service. Monthly members receive their 2nd month free. Annual members receive 13 months for the price of 10. Host: Amy McGee (Botanical Brouhaha + Bloom Trust Co.) BB Podcast Sound Engineer: Grayson McGee Music Written & Performed by: Landon McGee

Billie Branham talks with Chicago Eco House founder and president Quilen Blackwell about his impact on neighborhoods in Chicago

Billie Branham talks with Chicago Eco House founder and president Quilen Blackwell about his impact on neighborhoods in Chicago

In this episode we interview the President and Co-Founder of Chicago Eco House, Quilen Blackwell. Chicago Eco House's mission is to train inner-city youth in sustainable social enterprises to alleviate poverty. The Eco House has won several awards for its work including the UL Innovation Education Award, Delta Institute BOOST Award, and the Keep Chicago Beautiful Community Vision Award. Website linked below! https://www.chicagoecohouse.org/

My guest this week is the founder of the Chicago Eco House, Quilen Blackwell. I read an article about Quilen in the Chicago Tribune in early November and was moved by his dedication to using sustainability to alleviate poverty, his commitment to the south and west sides of Chicago, and his passion for integrating his faith into all of his work. To learn more about Chicago Eco House, you can go to their web site or go to the Chicago Eco House Facebook page.

Happy Monday family!! Conversations with Friends, episode 22, is a conversation with a new friend, Ben Anderson. Ben and I were connected through another recent friend of the show, Quilen Blackwell. Here is a little bit about Ben. "Ben Anderson is the Chief Development Officer at Chicago Eco House where he works with neighbors to convert blighted lots into beautiful off-grid flower farms running on rainwater & the sun. This role combines his experience in corporate sales with his passion for the environment and his neighborhood in on the southside: West Woodlawn. He is most of proud of working alongside his neighbors when they built Vernon Park Gardens, an Eco House flower farm plus a community garden & neighborhood stage in the summer of 2018. You can find Ben in his backyard feeding his ten chickens or at one of the many local neighborhood meetings he attends." Eco House is leading the way in creating sustainable opportunities for our youth today and for the generations that are to come. Tune into the work of Ben and Vernon Park Gardens on Instagram and make sure you are following Chicago Eco House to stay up to date on all of their new developments https://www.chicagoecohouse.org/ . If you are interested in starting your own community organization, there is only 1 thing that matters most. Just do it!!! Follow your heart and take the BIG steps needed to get it done! Your entire community and all the resources needed to create your project will show up and right on time! Thank you Ben for sharing your high vibes and love with the show! Thank you for not giving up and for pushing yourself through the process of being true to yourself. I am cheering for you brethren!!! Go Vernon Park Gardens GOOOO!!! To a beautiful week fam XO Peace --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/conversationswithfriends/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/conversationswithfriends/support

Happy Monday family!!! Conversations with Friends, Episode 16 is a conversation with my friend, Quilen Blackwell. Quilen and I met years ago in Lents Oregon, right as my family and I transplanted into the neighborhood from Arizona. Quilen is a part of a very important family in my life and I am truly honored to share his voice, his passion and his work with you all! Quilen is currently living in Chicago, IL and is the founder and facilitator of Chicago Eco House, a community investment organization, sharing energy, skills, time and love with the humans living in Englewood Chicago.  Chicago Eco House was created to help stimulate the current resources in the community Quilen and his family live in. The most valuable asset any community has is its human resources. When we focus on this gift and encourage its ability to transform things, we see true healing and wellness develop. Chicago Eco House is walking this talk with local neighbors and community organizations dedicated to regenerating the economic and spiritual stability of Chicago (and the work is spreading to new communities too!!!) There is so much to share about Chicago Eco House and the work of Quilen and his super star wife Hannah. Today's conversation will dig into this project and the passion behind its creation. Quilen shares so much inspiration and knowledge with the show!!! I am so grateful for his time and energy and super excited to share this with you all! Tune into Eco House Chicago at https://www.chicagoecohouse.org/ . Support a grassroots movement making change! Quilen, thank you for following you hearts call family! Having friends like you in the sphere to learn and grow with means so much. Your willingness to empower others through your own love of life, makes the difference in the work you do. I am thankful for our meeting at Glenwood park that beautiful summer afternoon. Your entire family (Blackwell's, Bonham's and Eads :) hold very significant places in my heart. I have learned so much from you all and value the commitment you all naturally have to enrich our world and leave it just a little bit better than when you arrived. This is why we are family.  Tune into this super special episode of Conversations with Friends and learn more about Chicago Eco House, what investing in a community can really look like and what you can do in your own community to help restore and energize the priceless resources flowing all around you. Truly an episode to sit down and listen to ... and take notes! To a beautiful week fam!!! XO --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/conversationswithfriends/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/conversationswithfriends/support

In our third episode we talk with Chicago Eco House founders Quilen Blackwell and Larry Jackson about their work in Englewood

Quilen Blackwell & Larry Jackson join Ricky to discuss their Chicago Eco House project! The three cover what inspired Larry & Quilen to do so, the planning that has taken place and the long term goals of the project. If you'd like more information on the Chicago Eco House you can visit their website from the AUA Activism page (auamovement.org/activism) or visit their page directly at http://www.chicagoecohouse.com/ Produced and Edited By Ricky Hinds II