Podcasts about united way

Get More at LVwithLOVE.com! Become a partner or contact us On this special series of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, we sat down with candidates running for U.S. House in Pennsylvania's 7th Congressional District ahead of the May 19, 2026 primary. To keep this fair and useful, every candidate was asked the same core questions. We also reached out multiple times to Congressman Ryan McKenzie's office and did not receive a response. In this episode, we speak with Carol Obando-Derstine, who shares why she is running and what she is hearing from residents across PA-07. Campaign: https://www.carolforpa.com/ Day to day financial stressObando-Derstine says people are struggling to make ends meet and pay for the essentials of life, specifically naming housing, healthcare, groceries, utilities, and childcare. She cites the United Way ALICE report and says it shows 41 percent of district families are struggling to cover the essentials, which she describes as roughly 124,000 households. Healthcare and ACA premium tax creditsObando-Derstine supports extending the ACA premium tax credits. She frames healthcare as personal, sharing stories of people she knew who could not afford care and how costs can financially devastate families. She argues that access to care helps families and also strengthens the economy because prevention and early treatment keep people healthier and working. In this conversation, she focuses on why the subsidies matter and does not detail a specific funding mechanism. Immigration enforcement, legal pathways, and work authorizationObando-Derstine says immigration policy is personal to her as an immigrant who came to the United States at age three with parents who fled violence in Colombia. She says the system needs fixing in a way that is legal, effective, and humane. She criticizes what she describes as cruelty, racial profiling, and unaccountable enforcement, and says fear is widespread in immigrant communities, including among documented Latinos. She also says she supports secure borders, but argues the current approach creates chaos and does not make communities safer. She calls for more immigration judges and support staff, modernizing immigration courts, speeding up asylum processing, and opening up DACA applications so people are not kept in limbo. Warehouses and data centersObando-Derstine notes that local governments make many of the key decisions, and she emphasizes a robust local stakeholder process so residents have meaningful input. Drawing on her background as an energy engineer, she describes work connecting projects to the electric grid, including warehouses. She argues against a top down approach that overrides state and local authority and says local voices should guide what gets built and how communities are impacted, especially when projects use significant resources and create limited jobs. HomelessnessObando-Derstine says she has direct experience with this issue through service on the Homeless Veterans Task Force for Lehigh County, volunteer work with North Penn Legal Services, and her work advocating for prevention programs to keep families off the streets. She calls for federal action that prevents unjust evictions and proposes establishing a federal Office of Tenant Rights so people understand their rights and landlords are accountable. She also points to the role of legal aid and says cuts to legal aid programs affect the ability to prevent evictions. She supports expanding and strengthening incentives for affordable housing, including the Low Income Housing Tax Credit, and suggests reform to reduce bureaucracy and improve consistency in how states administer that federal credit. She also names local organizations doing the work, including New Bethany and the United Way. Third place in the Lehigh ValleyObando-Derstine says her third place is her church community, specifically the Spanish service at the Cathedral Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, which she attends with her parents. She describes it as a gathering place with a strong community focus and notes that it also hosts local meetings such as housing related committees. Sign up for our Newsletter!  Thank you to our Partners! WDIY 88.1 FM Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company Advertisement Advertisement Email your news release to info@lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com Subscribe to our email list

A winter storm shouldn't decide who eats, who stays warm, or who can afford next month's rent. When Winter Storm Fern pushed Northeast Louisiana past the breaking point—power out, roads blocked, fridges thawing—we moved fast with our friends at United Way of Northeast Louisiana to meet families where they were and get help into their hands with dignity.Meghan Jones, United Way's Director of Marketing and Communications, walks us through the real-time activation: 211 call data lighting up with urgent needs, a wave of applications crossing 11,000 families, and a clear shift from heat to food as the primary crisis. We talk through the unseen failures that compound a storm—medications that require refrigeration, missed wages for hourly workers, and the impossible tradeoffs ALICE families face between groceries, gas, and rent. You'll hear why direct, flexible aid often beats one-size-fits-all relief and how partnerships keep efforts focused, fast, and free of duplication.Together with Centric Credit Union, United Way distributed no-cost gift cards so families could buy what mattered most—formula, prescriptions, fuel, food—without red tape or fees. Centric also offered skip-a-pays and emergency loans to ease the financial shock past the first week. Along the way, we share the stories that guided decisions, like a mother trekking for baby formula in the cold, and the grit of teams working from generators and car chargers to keep 211 and outreach online. Recovery doesn't end when the lights return; debris, displacement, and budgets need time to heal.If you want to help, you can text FAMILYRELIEF to 91999, donate at unitedwayneela.org, or stop by 1201 Hudson Lane in Monroe. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who cares about community resilience, and leave a review with one insight you're taking forward—your support helps more neighbors find the help they need, faster.

A Community Comes Together to Honor Local Excellence Fresh off a Parisian adventure, Kaleigh Fincham returns to the Top of Virginia region with renewed energy and a mission: to orchestrate one of the Chamber's most meaningful events of the year. As Director of Events for the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber, Kaleigh joins host Janet Michael on "The Valley Business Today" to unveil the details of the 2026 Greater Good Awards, presented by Valley Health. More Than Just an Awards Ceremony The Greater Good Awards stand apart from typical business recognition events. Rather than simply celebrating success, this gathering honors the individuals and organizations whose vision, leadership, and dedication actively strengthen the region's quality of life. "This event is a little different," Kaleigh explains. "It really shows the community at its finest and celebrates the outstanding individuals and businesses whose vision, leadership and hard work strengthened the quality of life in our region." Scheduled for March 12th at Shenandoah Valley Golf Club, the semi-formal evening event runs from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. However, prospective attendees need to act quickly—tickets sell out rapidly, and Kaleigh warns that availability may be extremely limited by the time listeners tune in. The Theme: Gathering Gratitude This year's theme, "Gathering Gratitude," reflects the heart of what makes this event special. Kaleigh crafted the concept around the idea of pausing amid busy schedules, growing businesses, and packed calendars to recognize those making genuine differences in the community. "It's about taking that pause in the middle of busy schedules, growing businesses, and full calendars," Kaleigh shares. "Overall, just basically coming together as a community to recognize the people and organizations who are making a real difference here in the top of Virginia region." The theme resonates particularly well with presenting sponsor Valley Health, whose daily work embodies the spirit of community service. Kaleigh draws parallels between the healthcare provider's mission and the awards' purpose: "I think about the hands of doctors and nurses in our communities, the way they show up every single day for our families, our neighbors, and our businesses. It's a powerful example of how people come together in service of something bigger than themselves." Valley Health: A Partner in Community Excellence Chris Rucker, Chief Administrative Officer for Valley Health, joins the conversation to discuss why his organization continues to serve as the presenting sponsor year after year. His perspective reveals the deeper connection between healthcare and community prosperity. "Healthcare is an essential part of every community," Chris emphasizes. "It's an essential part of what determines the success and the livability and the trajectory of growth, the prosperity in every community." As the region's largest employer, Valley Health views its role as extending beyond patient care to include being a positive role model for other organizations. Moreover, Chris highlights Valley Health's extensive community involvement, which often happens behind the scenes. "We have some relationship and some involvement with just about every nonprofit organization in the community," he notes. The organization's mission of serving the community by improving health requires partnerships, collaboration, and avoiding redundancy—values that align perfectly with the Greater Good Awards' celebration of community impact. Eight Categories of Excellence The 2026 Greater Good Awards recognize achievement across eight distinct categories, each highlighting different aspects of community contribution: Small Business of the Year nominees include Capon Valley Bank and Summit Events, representing entrepreneurial spirit and local economic vitality. Large Business of the Year features First Bank, Shenandoah University, and Timber Ridge School - organizations whose scale allows them to make substantial community investments through volunteering, product donations, and strategic partnerships. Nonprofit of the Year acknowledges Access Independence, Winchester CCAP, and NW Works for their dedication to serving community needs. With nine to ten initial nominations, this category demonstrates the region's robust nonprofit sector. Entrepreneur of the Year celebrates Kelly Botta with Smartypants Medicine and Will Sparrow with Blue Bay Tech/Shallow Creek Electrical for their innovative business ventures. Citizen of the Year honors Kimberly Wilt with United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley, Tamara Green from Frederick County Department of Social Services, and Tracy Fitzsimmons of Shenandoah University for their individual community contributions. Emerging Leader Award recognizes rising stars Emily Windle from Winchester City Council Ward Two, Lauren Clouse from Winchester Rescue Mission, and Mario Wisdom with Crystal Clear Business Solutions—individuals just beginning their careers but already making significant impacts. Career Pathways Impact Award, recently renamed from the CTE Award, broadens its scope to include educators, CTE instructors, workforce development professionals, training providers, and community partners. This year's nominees are Devon Smith with Frederick County Public Schools, Michael Diaz with Virginia Works, and Sarah Weinstein with Winchester Public Schools. Finally, the Lifetime Community Impact Award remains shrouded in mystery. Unlike other categories, this recipient's identity stays secret until the evening of the event, creating an element of surprise and anticipation. "You've had to put your time in," Kaleigh notes. "Absolute dedication at its finest." The Selection Process: Rigorous and Fair The path to nomination involves more than popularity. Kaleigh receives nominations from various sources—Chamber members, community members, and even self-nominations from businesses and individuals. However, getting nominated represents just the first step. A committee composed of past Chairs of the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber Board reviews all submissions against specific criteria. These include community involvement, ethics and character, leadership, creativity, growth, and for businesses, economic impact. Additionally, nominees must maintain good standing as Chamber members for at least three years. "We want the meat, not just, 'Oh, this person or this business is great to work for, work with,'" Kaleigh emphasizes. "We want the details." She encourages nominators to provide facts, numbers, and supporting documentation to help the committee make informed decisions. The rigorous process ensures the awards maintain their significance. "They're trying to bring the significance of the award ceremony back," Kaleigh explains, noting that without clear criteria, recognition risks becoming merely a popularity contest. Community Participation Opportunities While sponsorship opportunities have closed, community members can still contribute to the event's success through silent auction donations. Kaleigh welcomes creative contributions beyond standard gift cards—themed baskets, experience packages, travel opportunities, or unique local offerings that will capture bidders' attention. Janet herself offers to create an auction package featuring a guest appearance on "The Valley Today," complete with an orange microphone. Interested donors can contact Kaleigh at kfincham@regionalchamber.biz or call the office at 540-662-4118 extension 16. The deadline for auction item donations is Monday, March 9th, and Kaleigh offers to pick up items directly from businesses. A Partnership That Extends Beyond One Night The conversation reveals that Valley Health's relationship with the Chamber extends far beyond the Greater Good Awards. Kaleigh notes their involvement in Business at the Bloom, the Community Leadership Program, and the recently added Arising Leadership Program for high school juniors and seniors. "We greatly appreciate our partnership with Valley Health because it's not just this event that I've worked with individuals from Valley Health," Kaleigh shares. This ongoing collaboration demonstrates how meaningful partnerships strengthen the entire community ecosystem. Chris acknowledges the value of these diverse connections: "The number of nonprofits demonstrates, in my mind, and I'm sure to your listeners, just how many people are out there that really have care and passion to serve their community and whatever their particular area of interest is." Additional Sponsors Make It Possible While Valley Health serves as presenting sponsor, the event requires support from multiple community partners. Kaleigh gives special recognition to First Citizens Bank, YHB, Zwiesel Fortessa Tableware Solutions, City National Bank, and CNB Bank for their sponsorship commitments. Many of these organizations return year after year, demonstrating their belief in the event's community impact. The Bigger Picture Throughout the conversation, a central theme emerges: recognition matters. Being nominated alone represents a significant honor, as it means someone in the community values your contributions enough to put your name forward. Winning amplifies that recognition, but participation in the evening creates something equally valuable—a collective pause to appreciate the good work happening throughout the region. "Simply showing up is important," Kaleigh reflects. "So the night is about gratitude, but for work being done, for the partnerships being formed, for the impact that happens when we gather together as a community. It's not just an award ceremony. We all come together in gratitude and we, at the end of the day, strengthen as an entire region." As tickets dwindle and the March 12th date approaches, the Top of Virginia region prepares to gather in gratitude, celebrating not just individual achievements but the collective spirit that makes the community thrive. In a world that often rushes past moments of appreciation, the Greater Good Awards create space to pause, recognize, and honor those who make the region a better place to live, work, and grow. For those interested in attending, tickets remain available at regionalchamber.biz, though Kaleigh cautions they won't last long. The dress code calls for semi-formal attire in colors like sage green, gold, and champagne—fitting for an evening dedicated to celebrating the golden contributions of community champions.

As heard on The Morning Show with Ken & Friends, this is the weekly United We Thrive segment from United Way of Southwest Michigan. This podcast is your opportunity to learn more about the mission, vision, and programs of the local United Way organization and find out how you can get involved to make a difference! For more information: https://www.uwsm.org/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Statler, R, Monongalia, 77, on the Hope Scholarship and the budget Current Marion County Schools superintendent Donna Heston on her contract situation with the board and the future of education. Executive Director of the United Way of Mon and Preston Counties on the Give to Win Raffle and Auction 

Jeannie discusses the allocation grants, the ongoing campaign, coverage territory, the Hispanic Heritage Festival, and more, while Madison shares her education studies on the WRAM Morning Show.

The Happy Headline is brought to you by United Way of Southwest Michigan - United Is The Way We Create Lasting Change in Southwest Michigan for Over 80 Years. Give, Advocate or Volunteer now at UWSM.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Happy Headline is brought to you by United Way of Southwest Michigan - United Is The Way We Create Lasting Change in Southwest Michigan for Over 80 Years. Give, Advocate or Volunteer now at UWSM.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

February 19, 2026 - Debbie Bogle of the United Way joined Byers & Co to talk about helping ALICE families, ALICE for Work, and Power of the Purse. Listen to the podcast now!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the root of your exhaustion isn't burnout, but loneliness? In this thought-provoking episode, DeDe HalfHill—retired Air Force colonel turned leadership expert—shares vulnerable stories about the hidden costs of leadership and reveals why addressing “the messy human side” is non-negotiable. Together Marli & DeDe explore the power of authentic leadership, emotional intelligence, and what happens when leaders give themselves and their teams permission to be real. You'll hear surprising examples from the military and beyond, plus practical mindset shifts for navigating chaos, self-doubt, and the ever-present imposter syndrome. Ready to upgrade your leadership toolkit and banish the myth of the lonely leader? Tune in and discover why normalizing messy emotions might be the ultimate performance hack.DeDe Halfhill Bio:Colonel DeDe Halfhill, USAF (Ret.), is a leadership strategist, keynote speaker, and founder of TAIOH Partners who helps organizations turn hidden friction and burnout into trust, momentum, and measurable performance. Her leadership has been featured on CBS's 60 Minutes and in Dr. Brené Brown's Dare to Lead, where Brown describes her as one of her “leadership heroes and a total badass.” Through her Master the UnseenTM framework, DeDe gives leaders practical language and tools to navigate hard conversations, name what's really going on, and build resilient, deeply connected teams, especially amid uncertainty and change. Her clients include Salesforce, Lockheed Martin, Bank of America, Hearst, FEMA, and other organizations where courageous, emotionally intelligent leadership is a non‐negotiable.Marli Williams is an international keynote speaker, master facilitator, and joy instigator who has worked with organizations such as Nike, United Way, Doordash, along with many colleges and schools across the United States. She first fell in love with transformational leadership as a camp counselor when she was 19 years old. After getting two degrees and 15 years of leadership training, Marli decided to give herself permission to be the “Professional Camp Counselor” she knew she was born to be. Now she helps incredible people and organizations stop waiting for permission and start taking bold action to be the leaders and changemakers they've always wanted to be through the power of play and cultivating joy everyday. She loves helping people go from stuck to STOKED and actually created her own deck of inspirational messages called StokeQuotes™ which was then followed by The Connect Deck™ to inspire more meaningful conversations. Her ultimate mission in the world is to help others say YES to themselves and their big crazy dreams (while having fun doing it!) To learn more about Marli's work go to www.marliwilliams.com and follow her on Instagram @marliwilliamsStay Connected to The Marli Williams PodcastFollow us on Instagram: @marliwilliamsOur Website: www.podcast.marliwilliams.comHire Marli to Speak at your next event, conference, workshop or retreat!www.marliwilliams.comReally love the podcast and want to share it??Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a...

Crime Prevention Conversations: The frightening abduction case of Nancy Guthrie that's been making headlines for the past two weeks has many people reevaluating their home security systems... How secure is yours? (at 13:14) --- Community and Business Spotlight: After totaling up the pledges and receipts, the United Way of Hancock County had a banner fundraising campaign this year (at 22:30) --- Ask Google: With Norway on track to take home the most medals for the third straight Games, something that hasn't been done in 20 years... Where does the United States rank in Winter Olympics success? (at 40:27)

ETP Red River Valley Today with guest Lamar County United Way Executive Director Jenny Wilson - Jenny gives an update on rental and utility assistance and how it works. Eric and Jenny also talk about spring activities, including the Kids Marathon and scholarships. Of course, they conclude with some Bravo talk. 

Weekend recap, United Way free tax service info and Robert Duvall passingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As heard on The Morning Show with Ken & Friends, this is the weekly United We Thrive segment from United Way of Southwest Michigan. This podcast is your opportunity to learn more about the mission, vision, and programs of the local United Way organization and find out how you can get involved to make a difference! For more information: https://www.uwsm.org/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SEC football 2025 quick questions, "Listen In" Greg McElroy Title Contender Sereis - USC, and the Rousey-Carrano fight (sad but man back in the day).Every Tuesday at 1:50pm is the Community SpotLight and today Louie visited with the United Way of the Brazos Valley.

For some people, activism is an accident. They come into this work by way of a core issue, and either become experts on that matter, or they expand, becoming experts in activism. But for some, activism is an ethos. A lifelong calling to give and care for others. Angela Williams is one of those activists. Angela is now the outgoing President and CEO of United Way Worldwide, one of America's oldest and most visible charities, and this position is a culmination of a lifetime of service.She has served in government and led private efforts at the YMCA, Easterseals, and Sears Roebuck.  Angela and Jay discuss the state of American giving in 2026, the positive connection between spirituality and activism, and much more. Today's episode was produced by Tani Levitt and Mijon Zulu. To check out more episodes or to learn more about the show, you can visit our website Allaboutchangepodcast.com. If you like our show, spread the word, tell a friend or family member, or leave us a review on your favorite podcasting app. We really appreciate it. All About Change is produced by the Ruderman Family Foundation. Episode Chapters 0:00 Intro 1:17 How Angela stays upbeat despite the world's challenges 2:43 Angela's diverse activist history shapes her work 9:04 The instinct to “just start” helping other people 11:47 Angela's bird's eye view of American philanthropy in 2026 15:27 How the United Way's volunteers react so quickly in moments of crisis 19:23 Angela's book and her philosophy on flexible activism 24:58 Outro and Goodbye For video episodes, watch on⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation⁠⁠ Stay in touch: X:⁠⁠ @JayRuderman⁠⁠ |⁠⁠ @RudermanFdn⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠ Jay Ruderman⁠⁠ |⁠⁠ Ruderman Family Foundation⁠⁠ Instagram:⁠⁠ All About Change Podcast⁠⁠ |⁠⁠ Ruderman Family Foundation⁠⁠ To learn more about the podcast, visit⁠⁠ https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/⁠⁠ Jay's brand new book, Find Your Fight, in which Jay teaches the next generation of activists and advocates how to step up and bring about lasting change. You can find Find Your Fight wherever you buy your books, and you can learn more about it at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.walmart.com/ip/Find-Your-Fight-Make-Your-Voice-Heard-for-the-Causes-That-Matter-Most-Hardcover-9781963827071/10817862336⁠⁠

The Happy Headline is brought to you by United Way of Southwest Michigan - United Is The Way We Create Lasting Change in Southwest Michigan for Over 80 Years. Give, Advocate or Volunteer now at UWSM.org See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dating in Nashville can be a nightmare. With Valentine's Day around the corner, host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek are “taking calls” from locals sharing truly unforgettable dating horror stories — from cringe first dates to ghosting, and people who asked zero questions. Get cozy… and maybe stay single. A very special thank you to our City Cast voice actors for today's episode: Annie Rees, Nikki DaVaughn, Mallory Falk, Emily Means, Anna Weggel, and Hayley Sperling. And to all the Nashvillians who wrote in with their dating horror stories, we salute you for getting out there. Truly.  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 12th episode: United Way of Greater Nashville Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

It's Giving Hearts Day 2026 and live from Dakota Medical Foundation Afternoons Live with Tyler Axness is joined by Sandy Piatz the President and CEO of The United Way of Cass-Clay.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

February 12, 2026 - Debbie Bogle of the United Way joined Byers & Co to talk about Power of the Purse, their new website, and helping ALICE families. Listen to the podcast now!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1975, Win and Patti Myint opened International Market & Restaurant on Belmont Boulevard. More than 50 years later, their son, chef and James Beard Award nominee Arnold Myint, is carrying that legacy forward as his new cookbook Family Thai earns national praise. Arnold joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to talk about his family's early beginnings, what International Market has meant to generations of Nashvillians, and what's next for one of the city's most beloved Thai restaurants. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 11th episode:  United Way of Greater Nashville Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Megan Lynch speaks with Cathy Vaisvil, Community Partnership Director with the United Way of Greater St. Louis, on how the 2-1-1 helpline gives resources to those seeking help with housing, shelter, utilities, food insecurity, and transportation.

The landscape of local philanthropy and social change is constantly evolving, requiring organizations to innovate and adapt. Douglas Nelson has a great conversation with Dan Clement, President & CEO of United Way Centraide Canada, about the organization's unique role as a “local impact, national platform” backbone for social good. Dan shares the three core pillars of their work—engaging Canadians, investing in frontline services, and community planning—and discusses how the movement is strategically renewing its business model to meet current challenges like the national housing crisis and shifting philanthropic trends. He also emphasizes the critical need for an “abundance mindset” within the social profit sector to drive resilient and long-term positive change across the country.

Tony Bryson, Mike Pieri and Wayne Barton discuss the start of the Michael Carrick era and the positive changes he has made since beginning his role. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today is the 50th anniversary of United Way of Connecticut 211. Operated by the United Way of Connecticut, 211 is a free, confidential information and referral service that connects people to essential health and human services support. We spoke about the significance of this milestone for 211 with Lisa Tepper Bates, President and CEO, United Way of Connecticut.For more information: 211ct.org

The state of Central Ohio's childcare industry impacts parents, employers, the region's overall economy, and of course, the children who depend on quality childcare facilities and professionals. With so much riding on the state of childcare, we unpack the new 2025 Action for Children's Central Ohio Child Care Provider Survey. This comprehensive survey collects vital information from licensed child care providers about the local landscape of child care, and is the only continuing study of its kind in Ohio. Join CMC as a panel of experts and leaders unpacks this newest data to better understand the current state of childcare and the critical trends that will impact us all. Featuring panelists: Dr. Katherine Glenn-Applegate, Director of Child Care and Education Initiatives, Action for Children Hannah Halbert, Executive Director, Policy Matters Ohio Kara Wente, Director, The Ohio Department of Children and Youth Rhonda West, Owner and Administrator, Rhonda's Daycare Service Opening remarks by Tasha Booker, CEO, Action for Children.  Closing remarks by Franklin County Commissioner Erica Crawley.  The host is Jennifer Bullock, Anchor, NBC4. This forum was sponsored by The Care Economy Organizing Project, The Franklin County Board of Commissioners, Mollard Consulting, PNC, and The United Way of Central Ohio. The presenting sponsor of the CMC livestream is The Center for Human Kindness at the Columbus Foundation. CMC's livestream partner is The Columbus Dispatch. This forum was also supported by Downtown Columbus, Inc. and The National Veterans Memorial and Museum. If you would like to keep exploring this week's forum topic, our partners at The Columbus Metropolitan Library recommend reading "The Daycare Myth: What We Get Wrong About Early Care and Education (and What We Should Do About It)" by Dan Wuori, 2024. This forum was recorded before a live audience at The National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio on February 11, 2026.

The Happy Headline is brought to you by United Way of Southwest Michigan - United Is The Way We Create Lasting Change in Southwest Michigan for Over 80 Years. Give, Advocate or Volunteer now at UWSM.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UNITED WAY JODIE CROSS TRT: 11:36 ***THRU APRIL 15 TAX RETURN PREPS/211

As heard on The Morning Show with Ken & Friends, this is the weekly United We Thrive segment from United Way of Southwest Michigan. This podcast is your opportunity to learn more about the mission, vision, and programs of the local United Way organization and find out how you can get involved to make a difference! For more information: https://www.uwsm.org/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode Heather Fuglum and Nancy O'Hara from United Way of Grand Forks, East Grand Forks & area discuss their plans for Giving Hearts Day (Feb 12), an open house at 1013 N 5th St, and the fundraising goal of $50,000. They explain how to donate at givegfegf.org/ghd and outline the day's events—tours, donuts & coffee (8 AM–5 PM) and Deke's pizza (5–7 PM). The guests also highlight local programs like the Backpack Program (now packing 1,400–1,500 bags weekly), Kids Closet, Families First, and the Laramore food pantry, and invite listeners to visit, volunteer, and support their community-driven efforts.

Gov. Bill Lee has submitted a letter of interest to the NFL to bring the Super Bowl to Nashville in 2029. The morning after the big game, producer Daniel Sumstine is chatting with David Boclair, a longtime sports writer and digital producer at the Nashville Banner, about what it would actually take to make that happen, from infrastructure and emergency preparedness to economic impact and who really benefits. With recent extreme weather, transit challenges, and major public investments on the line, we ask the big question: Is Nashville ready for a Super Bowl? Learn more about the sponsors of this February 9th episode: United Way of Greater Nashville Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Republican House Speaker Cameron Sexton is threatening state oversight of NES, as locals continue to call for accountability in the wake of Winter Storm Fern. On today's Friday News Roundup, host Marie Cecile Anderson, newsletter editor Margaret Kingsbury, and executive producer Whitney Pastorek are breaking down that fallout. Plus, advice on how to manage our tree damage, ALL the sports happening this weekend (we're rooting for the Nashville Humane Association dog in the Puppy Bowl), and the mayor's incredible quote about the Tesla Tunnels. Visit our running resource page of opportunities to help and be helped here. Donate to the United Way and Community Foundation Winter Storm Recovery Fund at UnitedWayGN.org Donate to NewsChannel 5's Winter Storm Relief Fund in partnership with Hands On Nashville and Second Harvest by texting NC5 to 50155. If you need assistance with ANYTHING, call 211 or visit nashvilleresponds.com. Report power outages to NES by texting OUT to 637797. Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Understanding the True Landscape of Community Services United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley is tackling one of the region's most persistent questions: Are there too many nonprofits, and do they overlap in their services? To find definitive answers, CEO Andy Gail announced a comprehensive regional nonprofit survey during a recent episode of The Valley Today with host Janet Michael. "We've heard so many people from elected officials to community members say, 'Oh, there's so many nonprofits. There's a bunch of overlap,'" Andy explains. "We said, let's actually get the data and provide real answers instead of conjecture." Beyond the Numbers: What the Survey Reveals The survey goes far deeper than simply counting organizations. Instead, it captures critical details about each nonprofit's operations, including their specific programs, service areas, collaboration efforts, and capacity challenges. Participating organizations answer questions about which populations they serve, whether they're meeting current demand, how many people sit on waiting lists, and crucially, what services they believe are missing in the region. Moreover, the survey asks nonprofits to identify their biggest challenges and common misconceptions about their work. Early responses already reveal telling patterns: funding remains the top concern, with organizations citing high food costs, rising demands, and aging volunteer bases as significant obstacles. A 21-Minute Investment with Lasting Impact While Andy initially worried the survey might take up to an hour, data shows nonprofits complete it in an average of 21 minutes and 47 seconds. The survey accommodates organizations with multiple programs, allowing them to detail up to five programs with specific information about each one. Furthermore, United Way has made the process as accessible as possible. Organizations can access the survey through the United Way NSV website, and Andy's team is reaching out through multiple channels—including chambers of commerce, email blasts, and social media—to ensure every nonprofit in Winchester, Frederick, Clarke, Warren, Shenandoah, and Page counties has the opportunity to participate. Collaboration Over Competition Contrary to popular belief, local nonprofits aren't fighting for territory. Instead, they're increasingly working together to maximize their impact. Andy highlights several successful partnerships that emerged simply from United Way facilitating introductions between organizations doing similar work. "There's this misconception that we're all competing," he notes. "While in some cases, yeah, you are competing for grants, you're competing for visibility, it's really not that way. No one is out to get anyone." For example, Winchester CCAP recently received United Way's largest grant—$50,000—and has since expanded to seven collaborative partners, all working together to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to food-insecure residents. Similarly, organizations serving individuals with intellectual disabilities in Shenandoah County have formalized an alliance after United Way connected them, positioning themselves to pursue larger regional funding opportunities. Dispelling the Overlap Myth When people claim there are "too many" nonprofits, they often misunderstand what that number represents. Andy clarifies that while the IRS lists over 400 tax-exempt organizations in Winchester alone, these include various categories beyond traditional human service nonprofits. "A 501(c)(3) is what we're talking about—organizations eligible for tax-deductible charitable donations," he explains. "But there are also 501(c)(4) advocacy groups, (c)(6) chambers of commerce, (c)(7) recreational clubs like Little League teams. When you filter down to human services organizations actually serving our local community, the picture looks very different." Additionally, even among similar services, nonprofits often serve distinct needs. Food pantries, for instance, may appear redundant until you consider that some operate as drive-throughs while others accommodate walk-up clients, some distribute in mornings while others serve evening hours for working families. These organizations increasingly coordinate to ensure they're complementing rather than duplicating each other's efforts. The Funding Reality One critical misconception the survey will help address concerns nonprofit funding sources. Many community members assume local nonprofits receive substantial government support, but the reality tells a different story. "City of Winchester used to give out local funding but stopped that program back in 2016, 2017, 2018," Andy reveals. "The county still gives a little, but when federal funding cuts happened recently, we lost over $2 million from our local nonprofit space. The localities simply can't make that up—the city would have to raise taxes through the roof." Consequently, local nonprofits rely heavily on private philanthropy and strategic partnerships to stretch every dollar. United Way itself demonstrates this efficiency: every dollar invested now generates $1.77 in community impact through their grants and collaborative initiatives. Andy's goal is to reach a 2:1 return by fostering even more collaboration. Building a Living Resource Guide The survey data will serve multiple purposes beyond answering the overlap question. First, United Way will create an updated public-facing resource guide, replacing their 2022 printed version with a searchable online database. Second, they'll share the information with Virginia 211, the statewide resource navigation hub, ensuring residents can easily find help when they need it. Third, and perhaps most importantly, the data will inform community leaders, funders, and elected officials about actual service gaps and needs. When nonprofits—the organizations on the front lines—identify missing services or insufficient capacity, their insights carry significant weight. "They're the ones dealing with people," Janet emphasizes. "If you've not been in one of those situations, you don't really know what they may need at any point in that journey." A Call to Action United Way is accepting survey responses throughout February, with plans to analyze the data in March and release a comprehensive community report in the second quarter of 2025. Nonprofit leaders, board members, and volunteers can access the survey at unitedwaynsv.org or by contacting the organization directly at info@unitedwaynsv.org or 540-536-1610. As the region faces a frigid winter weekend, Janet offers a practical suggestion: "What better way to spend it? Spend 20 minutes of your time filling out a survey." Ultimately, this initiative represents more than data collection. It's an investment in understanding and strengthening the safety net that supports the Valley's most vulnerable residents. By mapping the nonprofit landscape with precision, United Way aims to foster collaboration, eliminate inefficiencies, and ensure every dollar donated creates maximum impact in the community.

The Happy Headline is brought to you by United Way of Southwest Michigan - United Is The Way We Create Lasting Change in Southwest Michigan for Over 80 Years. Give, Advocate or Volunteer now at UWSM.org See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly two weeks after Winter Storm Fern paralyzed Nashville, questions are swirling about damages, insurance, and where to get help — especially if you're a renter. Elizabeth Leiserson, an attorney with the Legal Aid Society, joins executive producer Whitney Pastorek to help break down the recovery process. What's your landlord responsible for? Can you withhold rent? When do you need a lawyer? And who can you call for help? If you or someone you know is facing eviction or mortgage foreclosure due to the storm, or missed an eviction court date, please visit las.org/evictionhelp or call 833-837-HOME (4663). If you have an upcoming court date, do not skip it. Your chance at getting help from the Eviction Right To Counsel program dramatically increases if you show up — look for the blue table. If you need to check your court date or the status of your case, call the General Sessions Court Clerk at 615-862-5195. Visit our running resource page of opportunities to help and be helped here. Donate to the United Way and Community Foundation Winter Storm Recovery Fund at UnitedWayGN.org Donate to NewsChannel 5's Winter Storm Relief Fund in partnership with Hands On Nashville and Second Harvest by texting NC5 to 50155. If you need assistance with ANYTHING, call 211 or visit nashvilleresponds.com. Report power outages to NES by texting OUT to 637797. Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Are you searching for ways to build courage and live your most authentic life during uncertain times? This episode of the Marli Williams Podcast welcomes Patricia Velasquez, acclaimed actor, author, and humanitarian, as she shares her inspiring journey from challenging beginnings in Venezuela to becoming a global changemaker. Explore the meaning of “certainty” when the future feels unclear, and learn why embracing your unique truth can unlock confidence and possibility. Patricia and Marli offer real-talk on overcoming self-doubt, finding your “why,” and taking small, actionable steps toward personal growth. If you're ready to claim permission for the next chapter of your life, you'll find insights and inspiration here. Tune in for powerful stories, empowering strategies, and a reminder that even small acts of bravery can create a ripple effect of transformation.Patricia Velásquez Bio:Patricia Velásquez is an award-winning actress, humanitarian, entrepreneur, transformational keynote speaker, author, and mother. Best known for her iconic roles in “The Mummy”, “The Mummy Returns”, “Arrested Development”, and “The Curse of La Llorona”, Patricia also became the first Latina supermodel gracing the covers of major fashion magazines like ‘Vogue”, “Elle”, and “Harper's Bazaar”. She has been the face of campaigns for top brands such as “Chanel” and “Cover Girl”.Born in Venezuela, Patricia's early life was marked by resilience and purpose. Growing up in Maracaibo, she carried water up 15 flights of stairs for her family, an experience that taught her the power of determination and community. That's when her certainty was born. This deep sense of purpose inspired her lifelong commitment to giving back, leading her to establish “The Wayuu Taya Foundation” in 2002. Founded to improve the lives of unprivileged communities across Latin America, the foundation has benefited over one million people through education, health, water access, and sustainable development programs, all while respecting their traditions and cultures.Her humanitarian work has earned her global recognition. Patricia serves as a “UNESCO Artist for Peace” and a “Goodwill Ambassador for the Organization of American States (OAS)”. She has been honored by the “United Nations” and the “Human Rights Campaign” for her dedication to creating opportunities and improving quality of life for those in need.As a transformational keynote speaker, Patricia shares her journey with global audiences, empowering them to move through fear with certainty, lead with courage, take action rooted in values, draw from wisdom, and create lasting change in their lives and communities. Her powerful storytelling has inspired thousands at major platforms, including “Stanford University”, “TEDx”, the “Milken Institute”, the “Clinton Global Initiative”, and many more. Patricia's message speaks to the universal desire for growth and purpose, offering actionable steps to transform challenges into opportunities.Patricia is also an accomplished author, sharing her journey and insights to inspire others to embrace their truth and break through limitations. Her experiences as a Latina, a mother, an entrepreneur, and a lifelong supporter of education and community development shape the authenticity and depth of her message.Whether on stage, in front of the camera, or working directly with communities through her foundation, Patricia Velásquez lives the principles she speaks about certainty, courage, action, wisdom, and change. Her story is one of purpose, resilience, and a commitment to empowering others to lead with heart, authenticity, and confidence.Marli Williams is an international keynote speaker, master facilitator, and joy instigator who has worked with organizations such as Nike, United Way, Doordash, along with many colleges and schools across the United States. She first fell in love with...

After nine years of January, it's nice to be in February, our shortest month! Host Marie Cecile Anderson is joined by newsletter editor Margaret Kingsbury and executive producer Whitney Pastorek to talk about everything they're excited to eat, hear, and do this month. If you're looking for even MORE options, we've featured some great activities and important news stories across the city in recent episodes. Catch up at nashville.citycast.fm/podcasts. Visit our running resource page of opportunities to help and be helped here. Donate to the United Way and Community Foundation Winter Storm Recovery Fund at UnitedWayGN.org Donate to NewsChannel 5's Winter Storm Relief Fund in partnership with Hands On Nashville and Second Harvest by texting NC5 to 50155. If you need assistance with ANYTHING, call 211 or visit nashvilleresponds.com. Report power outages to NES by texting OUT to 637797. Please reserve 911 for emergencies, including downed power lines. For non-emergencies, call 311 or visit hubNashville.  Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Most organizations approaching their 100th anniversary would be looking back and celebrating past achievements. United Way of Rhode Island is doing the opposite. Under Cortney Nicolato's leadership, they're taking bigger swings than ever, from meeting a $100 million racial equity commitment ahead of schedule to becoming the go-to source of real-time community data for state policymakers.Cortney returned to her home state after building a national career because she wanted to help the communities that helped her growing up as a latchkey kid in Pawtucket. She transformed United Way from the inside first, rebuilding the board and staff to reflect Rhode Island's diversity, before asking anyone else to change.And when others began backing away from equity commitments, her response was clear.This is a conversation about what it takes to be both an emergency responder and a long-term systems builder, about earning a seat at the policy table with data instead of survey results, and about building organizational culture that will outlast any single leader.It's Cortney Nicolato on The Business of Giving.

Mayor O'Connell has issued an executive order to create a commission to review the response to Winter Storm Fern. We've got the latest on that, plus: Although time currently has no meaning, the Super Bowl is this weekend! But before you create that parlay on a gambling app, you might want to know a little more about how online sports betting works here in Tennessee. We're revisiting a conversation between executive producer Whitney Pastorek and Ryan Nanni, co-host of the Phantom Island podcast, about the way gambling on sports is impacting our community, for better or for worse. ** This episode originally aired Sept. 22, 2025. Visit our running resource page of opportunities to help and be helped here. Donate to the United Way and Community Foundation Winter Storm Recovery Fund at UnitedWayGN.org Donate to NewsChannel 5's Winter Storm Relief Fund in partnership with Hands On Nashville and Second Harvest by texting NC5 to 50155. If you need assistance with ANYTHING, call 211 or visit nashvilleresponds.com. Report power outages to NES by texting OUT to 637797. Please reserve 911 for emergencies, including downed power lines. For non-emergencies, call 311 or visit hubNashville.  Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

As heard on The Morning Show with Ken & Friends, this is the weekly United We Thrive segment from United Way of Southwest Michigan. This podcast is your opportunity to learn more about the mission, vision, and programs of the local United Way organization and find out how you can get involved to make a difference! For more information: https://www.uwsm.org/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we move into Week 2 of the freezing fallout from Winter Storm Fern, we've got the latest on the city's response and the resources available to help you survive this. Plus, will the traffic gridlock nightmares at our airport ever get any better? Nashville Scene reporter Lena Mazel joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to discuss her recent article about how we got here, and what the airport authority and Metro leaders are planning to make it better. Spoiler alert: You're gonna need some patience. Visit our running resource page of opportunities to help and be helped here. Donate to the United Way and Community Foundation Winter Storm Recovery Fund at UnitedWayGN.org Donate to NewsChannel 5's Winter Storm Relief Fund in partnership with Hands On Nashville and Second Harvest by texting NC5 to 50155. Get information on discounted hotel rates here. If you need assistance with ANYTHING, call 211 or visit nashvilleresponds.com. Report power outages to NES by texting OUT to 637797. Please reserve 911 for emergencies, including downed power lines. For non-emergencies, call 311 or visit hubNashville.  Metro has opened emergency warming locations at fire stations and community centers. These will be open 24/7. Bring what you need to stay as long as you need. To request a ride to a warming shelter, call 615-401-1712. Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

As a freezing and frustrating week for Nashville draws to a close, we're giving you the latest updates on today's Friday News Roundup. Host Marie Cecile Anderson, City Cast contributor Nicole Williams and executive producer Whitney Pastorek are debunking the rumors and analyzing our city's response to the disaster thus far. Plus: Hot Chicken Week got extended, y'all, don't worry! Visit our running resource page of opportunities to help and be helped here. Donate to the United Way and Community Foundation Winter Storm Recovery Fund at UnitedWayGN.org Donate to NewsChannel 5's Winter Storm Relief Fund in partnership with Hands On Nashville and Second Harvest by texting NC5 to 50155. Get information on discounted hotel rates here. If you need assistance with ANYTHING, call 211 or visit nashvilleresponds.com. Report power outages to NES by texting OUT to 637797. Please reserve 911 for emergencies, including downed power lines. For non-emergencies, call 311 or visit hubNashville.  Metro has opened emergency warming locations at fire stations and community centers. These will be open 24/7. Bring what you need to stay as long as you need. To request a ride to a warming shelter, call 615-401-1712. Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

A Broadcast with Purpose Host Janet Michael and cohost Andy Gail transform Handley Regional Library into a podcast studio, broadcasting from the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber's Community Leadership Program (CLP). The energy in the room is palpable on this episode of The Valley Today, as this year's class gathers for their media and nonprofit session. Meanwhile, Andy, a 2016 CLP graduate and current United Way CEO, reflects on how the program shaped his professional network nearly a decade ago. Three Decades of Community Connection As the program approaches its 30th anniversary, its impact continues to resonate throughout the Shenandoah Valley. Janet herself graduated from the inaugural class 29 years ago, and she still keeps her certificate as a reminder of that transformative experience. The program's longevity speaks to its relevance—bringing together emerging and established leaders for nine months of intensive community exploration. Nonprofits on the Front Lines Throughout the episode, several nonprofit leaders share their missions and challenges. First, Pam Haefner introduces the Yellow School House, a volunteer-run organization serving families with children five and under. Having moved to Winchester during COVID in 2021, Pam joined CLP specifically to build connections in her new community. "Winchester is the best place I've ever lived," she explains, "because people really want to get to know other people." Next, Chris Brigante from Family Promise Winchester Area addresses a critical community need: family homelessness. His organization works with families experiencing housing instability, providing case management and financial assistance. Chris dispels a common misconception, emphasizing that the families they serve are hardworking individuals who've faced unexpected crises. "Any one of us can end up in their situation," he notes, pointing out that Winchester's housing wage sits at $29 an hour—far above what most local businesses pay. Additionally, Grace Vaughan from Girls on the Run of the Shenandoah Valley describes their afterschool program spanning 13 counties. The program goes far beyond running, teaching girls in grades three through eight essential life skills like empathy, goal-setting, and self-confidence. With studies showing that one in three girls experiences bullying and 57% report feeling persistently sad or hopeless, Grace emphasizes the program's critical role in supporting young women during formative years. Finally, Eric Rollins represents Timber Ridge School, celebrating 55 years of serving adolescent boys ages 11 through 17. He challenges the stereotype that they only work with "bad boys," instead focusing on helping young men navigate difficult situations and reintegrate with their families and communities. The Power of Hands-On Learning Director of Programs, Missy Spielman joins the conversation to explain CLP's unique approach. Rather than sitting through lectures, participants tour local farms, businesses, government offices, and nonprofits. They learn parliamentary procedure, select a nonprofit for a service project, and explore sectors ranging from healthcare to public safety. "Learning is not a spectator sport," Missy emphasizes, drawing on her education background. Furthermore, the program attracts a diverse mix of participants—from longtime residents to newcomers, business owners to nonprofit leaders. This diversity creates organic partnerships and unexpected collaborations. Missy shares how one graduate was inspired to run for school board after completing the program, demonstrating CLP's ripple effect throughout the community. Building Networks That Last For many participants, the connections prove invaluable. Andy notes that several of his current colleagues, including United Way team member Kim, were his CLP classmates. Chris, transitioning from his former career as a public defender, uses the program to build the community partnerships essential for Family Promise's collaborative approach. Grace describes connection as her biggest takeaway, discovering organizations and resources she never knew existed. Looking Ahead As applications open in April for the Class of 2027, the program continues evolving while maintaining its core mission. The nine-month commitment—one Friday per month from September through May—represents an investment in both personal growth and community development. For a region experiencing rapid change, with new residents arriving and housing challenges mounting, programs like CLP ensure that tomorrow's leaders understand the community's full scope and their role within it. The conversation concludes with Janet reminding listeners about local events, embodying the very community connection that CLP fosters. After 30 years, the program remains Winchester's greatest opportunity for transforming strangers into engaged, informed leaders who shape the valley's future.

On Monday, we met the new President and CEO of United Way of Erie County, Mike Jaruszewicz, and his vision to continue the work of crushing poverty through the data-based Community Schools model, and what's ahead for 2026.

#thePOZcast is proudly brought to you by Fountain - the leading enterprise platform for workforce management. Our platform enables companies to support their frontline workers from job application to departure. Fountain elevates the hiring, management, and retention of frontline workers at scale.To learn more, please visit: https://www.fountain.com/?utm_source=shrm-2024&utm_medium=event&utm_campaign=shrm-2024-podcast-adam-posner.Thanks for listening, and please follow us on Insta @NHPTalent and www.youtube.com/thePOZcastFor all episodes, please check out www.thePOZcast.com  Takeaways- The biggest misconception is that most people are excited about transformation.- A small percentage of the workforce drives the majority of results.- The top 20% of employees contribute to 80% of outcomes.- The top 1% can drive a quarter of the results.- Most employees are tied to their current work methods.- Transformation may not feel significant to the majority.- Business leaders often assume support without engagement.- Engaging employees is crucial for successful transformation.- There is often an under-investment in change management.- Leaders must facilitate change rather than just declare it. 00:00 – Welcome & Jeff's Backstory in HR TransformationAdam kicks off the POZcast and introduces Jeff Williams, president and CFO at Aptia, walking through his career leading massive HR and business transformation efforts at Paychex, ADP, Alight, Aon and more.01:13 – Growing Up With a Self-Made FatherJeff shares his family story: born Canadian, raised American, youngest of eight, and the journey of his dad going from drafting apprentice to CEO at the same company over 33 years—and the lessons embedded in that.02:35 – Early Lessons: Hard Work, Humor & LossJeff reflects on what he learned from his father before losing him at 19: the value of hard work, eating fast at a crowded table, and keeping humor and lightness at the center of life and leadership.03:45 – From Telecom to the People Business (ADP Entry Point)Jeff explains how he moved from technology and telecom into human capital, taking on the role leading ADP's Canadian operations and discovering the power of the HR and benefits space.04:38 – Hiring at a High Bar: Talent, Drive & InstinctsAdam asks how Jeff hired to ADP's level. Jeff lays out his hiring philosophy: ambition beyond natural gifts, complementary skills, people better than him in key areas—and why he trusts his instincts on fit.06:25 – Real Leadership: Hiring People Better Than YouThey dig into succession, “making yourself dispensable,” and the idea that if you can't take a vacation without everything falling apart, that's a failure of leadership, not a badge of honor.07:30 – Pre-Email Days & The Human Side of WorkJeff remembers the 286/386 era and talks about how, before digital tools, people invested more in each other in person—inside and outside of work—and how that shaped deeper relationships.08:43 – Remote Work, COVID, and an Isolated WorkforceThey go deep on the pandemic: the rapid shift home, the early productivity spike, inflation pressures, relocation, and the rise of isolation and mental health issues as remote work took hold.11:10 – Young Workers, Office Longing & Loyalty ShiftsAdam shares what he's seeing with candidates who actually want to be in-office to learn through osmosis. Jeff talks about building the next generation of leaders and how in-person time rebuilds fabric and loyalty.13:32 – Mental Health, Home Setups & Productivity RealityThey unpack the assumption that everyone has an ideal home workspace—calling out caregiving, cramped spaces, kids, and distractions—and how that's quietly driving some people back to the office.14:51 – Why Jeff Bet on Aptia & the Move to BostonJeff explains what drew him to Aptia: the chance to build something differentiated and lasting, formalize his cross-border life, and finally live and work in the same country as his family.17:42 – The Big Vision: Building the Best Benefits Company in AmericaJeff outlines his ambition to build the best (not necessarily biggest) benefits services and administration company—one loved by clients, employees, and partners while supporting the communities they serve.19:04 – Benefits as a Talent Magnet: Total Rewards, Not Just SalaryThey talk about smart candidates, how benefits (health, financial, time off, ancillary) close offers, and why companies need to position total rewards early and clearly in the hiring process.21:13 – Closing the Benefits Understanding GapJeff shares the reality: most employees don't fully understand or appreciate their benefits. He talks about accessibility, education, and surfacing value in ways employees actually grasp.22:33 – Introducing Aptia One: Seamless, AI-Led Benefits ExperienceJeff breaks down Aptia One—how it's designed to create simple, AI-led, consumer-grade experiences for employees, employers, and partners across phone, web, and natural language interfaces.25:14 – How Jeff Is Personally Upskilling in AIJeff shares his approach to AI as a leader: consuming everything he can, learning from experts, applying lessons from previous waves of tech disruption, and staying hyper-relevant to where markets are heading.26:54 – Realistic AI: Simplicity, Accuracy & Avoiding AI-WashingThey discuss using AI to simplify journeys, NOT over-hyping capabilities, and why, in a business where you must be nearly 100% accurate on benefits, you must apply AI carefully and responsibly.28:43 – The Hard Truth About TransformationJeff calls out a big misconception: leaders assume everyone's excited about transformation. He explains why frontline employees often aren't enlisted as deeply as leaders think and why change enablement is under-invested.30:18 – Service, Soul & Corporate PhilanthropyThe conversation shifts to service: Jeff's history with DEI, United Way, and community work, and why doing something for others makes him feel more complete as a human and leader.31:25 – Why People Want Companies With a SoulJeff explains how corporate philanthropy, whether via one flagship cause or hyper-local initiatives, shapes belonging, engagement, and the desire to work for companies that care about more than profit.33:55 – Jeff's Son's Cancer Journey & Life Perspective ShiftsJeff shares the powerful story of his son Kevin's osteosarcoma diagnosis at 13, the grueling treatment, and how that battle reshaped his view on perseverance, priorities, and what really matters.36:26 – Adam's Own Cancer Battle & Shared PerspectiveAdam opens up about his recent Hodgkin's lymphoma remission, the physical and emotional toll, and how surviving cancer reframes life, work, and gratitude for both of them.40:04 – What Keeps Jeff Up at Night: Stewardship & FamilyJeff talks about being a “work in progress,” how life is now about his kids, his wife, and his responsibilities, and the ongoing chase to be a good steward for his family, business, and community.41:48 – Optimism About Humanity & The Future of BenefitsJeff shares a global perspective: wherever he goes, people want similar things for their families and communities. He then lays out the “big three” of benefits—health, wealth, and time off—as core holdings.43:26 – Designing Benefits Like a PortfolioThey dig into tailoring benefits to your population (e.g., menopause benefits, pet insurance, nonprofit-oriented perks), feeding what works, starving what doesn't, and iterating to truly serve your people.44:37 – Redefining Success: Energy for the Journey AheadIn closing, Jeff defines success not by titles or money, but by whether you still wake up excited for what's ahead—at work, at home, on the golf course, and in life overall.46:08 – Wrap-Up & Where to Find Jeff and AptiaAdam closes the episode, sharing where listeners can learn more about Aptia, connect with Jeff on LinkedIn, and reminding everyone to review, subscribe, and keep being good to themselves and better to others.

If a corporate partner had to tell a story about working with your nonprofit, what would they say? What companies want from nonprofit partnerships has FUNDAMENTALLY changed. That's why I'm excited for you to meet a great friend of mine, Matthew Sutton, Director of Corporate Partnerships at United Way of Greater Atlanta, to talk about how corporate partnerships are evolving and what nonprofit leaders need to understand right now. Matthew shares why companies are going deeper with fewer partners, why a multi-layer approach matters, and how nonprofits can become collaborators in a shared narrative.We're digging into real-world examples too, including a 24-month relationship-building process, and the growing role of social enterprise as nonprofits look for more predictable revenue.Resources & LinksConnect with Matthew on LinkedIn or send him an email at matthewsutton2018@gmail.com. Check out Matthew's book recommendations, including my book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, and Beyond Checks & Halos by Cynthia Eads Currence. Letter Labs is the proud presenter of Missions to Movements. Letter Labs helps nonprofits build lasting donor relationships through real, handwritten mail that's fully automated - turning moments of intent into meaningful connection. From thank-yous to impact updates, they help you cut through with mail donors actually open, remember, and trus Register now for the FREE Monthly Giving Summit on February 25-26th, the only virtual event where nonprofits unite to master monthly giving, attract committed believers, and fund the future with confidence. The Mini Monthly Giving Mastermind: A high-touch Mini Mastermind + optional in-person retreat (May 6-8) for nonprofit leaders that have an existing monthly giving program and ready to take it to the next level with 1:1 and peer support. Apply now! Let's Connect! Send a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and let us know what you think of the show! My book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, is here! Grab a copy here and learn my framework to build, grow, and susta...

Are you ready to break through the walls of team disconnection and transform the way you work with others? In this episode of the Marli Williams Podcast, Nathan Hall, an award-winning culture transformation expert, shares surprising truths about building authentic team culture, experiencing a sense of belonging, and rethinking what it takes to create genuine connection at work and beyond. Ever wondered why simply finding "common ground" isn't enough for true connection? Learn more about the power of “contested ground,” and discover why friction within teams may be the very ingredient you need. If you're a leader, manager, facilitator, or someone seeking new strategies for more meaningful professional and personal relationships, you'll want to hear Nathan Hall's personal story and unique framework for moving "in rhythm" together, even with those you disagree with. Authentic leadership and better team dynamics start here!About Nathan:Nathan Hall is an award-winning culture transformation expert, keynote speaker, passionate storyteller, and community builder. His work is rooted in both his professional and deeply personal experiences, which shape his understanding of leadership, inclusion, and togetherness. Check out Nathan's work here!Stay Connected to The Marli Williams PodcastFollow us on Instagram: @marliwilliamsOur Website: www.podcast.marliwilliams.comHire Marli to Speak at your next event, conference, workshop or retreat!www.marliwilliams.comReally love the podcast and want to share it??Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Let's Lead Together and reach more people - we appreciate your support!!Marli Williams is an international keynote speaker, master facilitator, and joy instigator who has worked with organizations such as Nike, United Way, Doordash, along with many colleges and schools across the United States. She first fell in love with transformational leadership as a camp counselor when she was 19 years old. After getting two degrees and 15 years of leadership training, Marli decided to give herself permission to be the “Professional Camp Counselor” she knew she was born to be. Now she helps incredible people and organizations stop waiting for permission and start taking bold action to be the leaders and changemakers they've always wanted to be through the power of play and cultivating joy everyday. She loves helping people go from stuck to STOKED and actually created her own deck of inspirational messages called StokeQuotes™ which was then followed by The Connect Deck™ to inspire more meaningful conversations. Her ultimate mission in the world is to help others say YES to themselves and their big crazy dreams (while having fun doing it!) To learn more about Marli's work go to www.marliwilliams.com and follow her on Instagram @marliwilliams

Ole Gunnar Solskjær's suckle on the teat was too hard, Ruben Amorim's too soft, but Michael Carrick's is just right. That, ladies and gentlemen, is the Manchester United way. There's no Blue Monday at the Football Ramble when Marcus, Luke and Jim have got more managerial chaos to enjoy at Spurs and Crystal Palace. Plus, Marcus' aunt is still giddy from an absolutely extraordinary climax to AFCON.Join the Football Ramble WhatsApp.Find us on Bluesky, X, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, and email us here: show@footballramble.com.Sign up to the Football Ramble Patreon for ad-free shows for just $5 per month: https://www.patreon.com/footballramble.***Please take the time to rate us on your podcast app. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.