Podcasts about volunteers

Larry Sharpe returns to dismantle the NY GOP's culture of losing with a fusion voting strategy that weaponizes state matching funds to eliminate property taxes and bring nuclear power to the Empire State. Larry Sharpe, candidate for New York Governor, joins Brian Nichols to reveal his "Fusion Voting" strategy to break the Democrat stronghold and why the NY GOP's "weak resistance" results in a 24-year losing streak. Larry explains how running on the Republican, Conservative, and Libertarian lines simultaneously allows him to bypass the "spoiler" effect while weaponizing New York's matching funds system to finance a liberty-focused revolution. He breaks down the failure of the current establishment to address the exodus of residents and details why the "Red Team, Blue Team" mindset is destroying the Empire State. We expose the reality of New York's broken political machine and how Larry plans to use a Sovereign Wealth Fund to eliminate school property taxes overnight. You need to hear this blueprint for decentralizing education, rejecting federal funding to fire bloat-heavy administrators, and empowering local communities with 50% ownership of new nuclear power plants. This isn't just a campaign speech; it's a tactical guide on how to dismantle a one-party state from the inside out using actual policy solutions rather than empty rhetoric. Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 2:47 - The 24-Year GOP Losing Streak 4:33 - Fusion Voting Explained 6:22 - Exploiting State Matching Funds 9:00 - The "Tipping Point" for Victory 11:06 - Why Elise Stefanik Refused to Run 14:49 - Gov. Hochul: "Get on a Bus to Florida" 16:02 - The GOP Establishment Hates Me 22:30 - The Sovereign Fund Solution 23:32 - Eliminating School Property Taxes 26:12 - Nuclear Power & Local Ownership 31:38 - The "One in Six" Voter Problem 35:36 - Politicians Stealing Larry's Ideas 36:40 - How to Help (Volunteer & Donate) Studio Sponsor: Cardio Miracle - "Unlock the secret to a healthier heart, increased energy levels, and transform your cardiovascular fitness like never before.": CardioMiracle.com/TBNS Links Section Larry Sharpe's Website & Volunteer: larrysharpe.com ❤️ Order Cardio Miracle (CardioMiracle.com/TBNS) for 15% off and take a step towards better heart health and overall well-being!

Livestream with Jonathan MS Pearce where we talk to an American fighter training in Ukraine to fight against the Russians. His unit Revanche is fundraising for equipment through Dzyga's Paw.Donate to help out:https://dzygaspaw.com/signal-revanche?project=Revanchehttps://dzygaspaw.com/projects----------SILICON CURTAIN LIVE EVENTS - FUNDRAISER CAMPAIGN Events in 2025 - Advocacy for a Ukrainian victory with Silicon Curtainhttps://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrasOur events of the first half of the year in Lviv, Kyiv and Odesa were a huge success. Now we need to maintain this momentum, and change the tide towards a Ukrainian victory. The Silicon Curtain Roadshow is an ambitious campaign to run a minimum of 12 events in 2025, and potentially many more. Any support you can provide for the fundraising campaign would be gratefully appreciated. https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrasWe need to scale up our support for Ukraine, and these events are designed to have a major impact. Your support in making it happen is greatly appreciated. All events will be recorded professionally and published for free on the Silicon Curtain channel. Where possible, we will also live-stream events.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Save Ukrainehttps://www.saveukraineua.org/Superhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyslhttps://kharpp.com/NOR DOG Animal Rescuehttps://www.nor-dog.org/home/-----------

Phillip Dukes of "The Scoop with Dukes" looks at Auburn as things begin to come together under Alex Golesh. Chuck and Heath discuss LaNorris Sellers unique status as one of just five QBs from the class of 23's top 35 to still be with his program, and the only one with three OCs in that time. Jon Reed of Fox Sports Knoxville analyzes Tennessee and Joey Aguilar's hopes of continued eligibility.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unfortunately, there are still more humans than dogs in the average airport terminal. Still, it's not uncommon to see dogs as you run to catch your flight. Some dogs, like humans, are just travelers passing through. But others, increasingly, are at the airport to take care of business. Today on AirSpace: it's Canine Career Day! We discuss the surprisingly wide variety of airport dog jobs, and hear from a few lucky humans about their unique coworkers. Matt and Emily learn about therapy dogs with trading cards; beagles and Labradors sniffing luggage for safety (and prohibited agricultural products); and even an elite doggie duo chasing wildlife off the runway.  Thanks to our guests in this episode: Pam Baird, Volunteer, CATS Program, Denver International Airport Chris Keyser, Wildlife Specialist, West Virginia International Yeager Airport Find the transcript for this episode and more information at s.si.edu/airspaces11e6.Subscribe to our monthly newsletter at s.si.edu/airspacenewsletter.AirSpace is made possible with the generous support of Lockheed Martin.AirSpace logo courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution. Episode photo courtesy of West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW).

What if you never had to panic-recruit volunteers again? Scrambling to find 25 volunteers by next week is stressful, reactive, and exhausting. In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson shares a smarter approach: build a volunteer pipeline before you need it using simple marketing tools like lead magnets, nurture emails, and even interactive quizzes. Instead of chasing people at the last minute, you'll learn how to create a steady stream of mission-aligned supporters who are already warmed up and ready to say yes. This is recruitment that feels calm, proactive, and repeatable. Full show notes: 201. How a Lead Magnet Can Help You Recruit On-Demand Volunteers Lead Magnet - Episode Highlights [00:27] - Understanding On-Demand Volunteers [01:28] - Emotional Reality of Volunteer Recruitment [02:33] - Building a Volunteer Pipeline [05:17] - What is a Lead Magnet? [08:11] - Creating Effective Lead Magnets [13:10] - Advanced Lead Magnet Strategies [28:41] - The Power of Volunteer Quizzes [34:15] - Practical Steps to Start Building Your Lead Magnet  Helpful Links Volunteer Management Progress Report  VolunteerPro Impact Lab  Volunteer Nation Episode #002: How to Recruit Volunteers by Building a Following First Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause. For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at WeCare@VolPro.net.

Becky Ruska's path into the nonprofit world didn't follow a traditional trajectory. After spending more than two decades in retail leadership as a district manager for Express, she made a bold decision to step away in her early 40s. What began as a period of rest and reflection quickly evolved into something more meaningful when she started volunteering weekly at the newly formed St. Croix Valley Food Bank in Wisconsin. That volunteer role turned into an opportunity and ultimately a second career rooted in service, community and purpose. Today, Becky plays a central part in connecting volunteers, donors, businesses and community members to the food bank's mission. From managing volunteer programs and community events to growing brand awareness through social media and partnerships, she brings people together around a shared goal: making sure food gets to those who need it most. Since its launch just over four years ago, the St. Croix Valley Food Bank has grown rapidly and now distributes nearly five million pounds of food annually across four counties through more than 55 partner programs. With a new permanent facility on the horizon, the organization is preparing to scale its impact even further, aiming to distribute up to eight million pounds of food in the coming years. Becky believes that fundraising and community building aren't about asking for money—they're about relationships. Whether she's giving a tour to a first-time volunteer, standing at a local festival booth or calling a donor who scribbled “call me if you need a volunteer” on a donation slip, Becky shows how meaningful impact often starts with simply showing up. In this episode of the RKD Group: Chat podcast, Becky reflects on career change, building trust from the ground up and what it takes to create lasting community connections around a growing nonprofit.

In this episode of Undercurrents, host Ken Ogasawara goes behind the scenes with the Material Resources team at Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) to explore how relief kits, hygiene kits, school kits, and canned meat are prepared and shipped to communities facing crisis around the world — and right here in Ontario.What does it actually take to send a relief kit overseas? Why is MCC so specific about items like metal pencil sharpeners, heavy-duty nail clippers, toothbrush colours, towel sizes, and notebook page counts? And how does a brand-new 10,000 square foot industrial meat cannery help feed families experiencing food insecurity?Transcription is here.Discussion guide is here.Volunteer at the meat cannery: https://mcc.org/MCCOntarioMeatCanneryEmail dylanyantzi@mcco.ca for more details.Donate toward a relief kit:https://mcc.org/get-involved/giving/designations/kits-and-comfortersPetition from Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB):https://foodgrainsbank.ca/postcard/ A major driver of crisis requiring materialresources responses, is climate change. Sign this petition so our government will respond fairly and adequately:https://mcc.org/campaign/support-fair-canadian-response-climate-change-0Undercurrents is sponsored in part by Kindred Credit Union.

Rima Jalba shares the good of the Cinnamon Trust, the UK national charity for older people, the terminally ill and their pets. The mission is as simple as it is clear: they provide hands-on assistance to pet owners across the country when any aspect of the day-to-day care of their pets poses a problem; as well as the provision of lifelong care for pets who outlive their owners. A life-long animal lover herself, Rima shares everything from her first pet as a child to how she made a life change, choosing to work for connection rather than just a paycheck. And that's exactly what brought her to the Cinnamon Trust's (doggie) door. For the animal lovers out there (just like us) and for anyone looking for inspiration on how to engage within your own community, this good one is for you. ___________________________ Steve's third book in his cozy mystery series, THE DOG WALKING DETECTIVES is finally here: SEASON'S SLAYINGS! Get your copy on Amazon: https://bit.ly/3WYTPiR or Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/4hOjILR Grab the first two: Book 1: DROWN TOWN Amazon: https://amzn.to/478W8mp Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/3Mv7cCk & Book 2: MURDER UNMASKED Amazon: https://shorturl.at/fDR47 Barnes & Noble: https://shorturl.at/3ccTy

Cole Cubelic of WJOX Brimingham and the SEC Network analyzes the impact of several SEC offensive line transfers. Chuck and Heath discuss coaching moves at Oklahoma and Tennessee. Mike Craven of Dave Campbell's Texas Football looks at possible key impact freshmen for various Texas programs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Indiana lawmakers are reviving legislation that would restrict social media use for children, this time with an emphasis on parental controls and forcing social media platforms to be less addictive. Indiana residents will no longer be able to change their gender marker on driver's licenses. An Indiana House committee moved a bill forward Tuesday to extend syringe services programs. Members of the Martindale-Brightwood community and local activists are calling on Mayor Joe Hogsett to stop the proposed data center development in the historically Black neighborhood. Volunteers gathered Tuesday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for the Million Meal Marathon, an annual event to help address food insecurity across the state. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources will host seven workshops across Indiana to allow Hoosiers to provide input on the development of a statewide water inventory and management plan under an executive order by Gov. Mike Braun. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Volunteer firefighters are the backbone of the U.S. emergency response system, but since 2008, nearly 200,000 volunteers have left the fire service, a drop of almost 25 percent. To make things worse, calls to fire departments have increased about 70 percent since 2008, leaving the firefighters who remain to do much more with much less. Despite all of this, little research has been done to find the causes of this crisis and what to do about it. But that is starting to change. Today on the podcast, I am joined by Joe Maruca, a board member of the National Volunteer Fire Council, and Ken Willette, the executive director of the North American Fire Training Directors. Both men recently worked with researchers on a massive new study looking at what effects training requirements have had on volunteer fire department recruitment and retention. During the interview, we discuss the many factors that have caused volunteers to leave the fire service, and how volunteer departments are adapting to their new reality. We also talk about what is being done to help chiefs and communities bring more volunteers into the fire service. Links:  Read the new Fire Protection Research report, "Understanding the Role of Training on Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment & Retention," coming at the end of February. Learn more about the National Volunteer Fire Council, and check out its new Make Me a Firefighter program, which matches volunteers with department needs. Learn more about the North American Fire Training Directors  

The February 9, 1976 cover of Sports Illustrated froze a moment that changed Tennessee basketball forever. Bernard King and Ernie Grunfeld weren't just winning games — they were transforming the sport. King played with raw power and fearless intent, a scorer who imposed his will, while Grunfeld brought grace, vision, and a scorer's touch that made defenses choose wrong every time. Together, they became more than teammates. They were a movement. The Ernie and Bernie Show wasn't just a hit — it was must-see basketball. What made them unforgettable was how perfectly they balanced each other. You couldn't stop one without awakening the other. King attacked the rim like it owed him something. Grunfeld punished hesitation with precision. Their chemistry lifted Tennessee onto the national stage and announced that the Volunteers belonged among college basketball's elite at a moment when the game itself was exploding into the American consciousness. For Mike Keith, those two players meant something even deeper. Long before he became the unmistakable Voice of the Vols, he was a kid watching Bernard and Ernie make Tennessee matter. On Past Our Prime, Mike reflects on seeing them play in Atlanta when the Omni first opened — how they looked like kings, on and off the court, and how that moment felt like personal validation. Tennessee was no longer just his team; it was a national treasure, and he was proud to share it with the world. Bernard King and Ernie Grunfeld didn't just shape an era — they helped shape Mike Keith's love for the Vols and the voice he would one day lend to their history. It's the Bernie and Ernie Show, decades later, meeting the man who carries their legacy forward every night. Mike Keith joins Past Our Prime — and it's a conversation that still echoes through Knoxville. Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The intersection of silence and sovereignty is revealed in Luke 1:1-25. Pastor Jordan Hansen shares a message at Christian Life Center regarding seasons of waiting and the faithfulness of God. Obedience defines success, even when fruitfulness is not immediately visible. The story of Zachariah and Elizabeth illustrates a God who hears prayers and remains in control during periods of silence. Faith provides an anchor in times of uncertainty.   Pastor: Jordan Hansen Series: The Gospel Of Luke: Spirit Led Jesus Title: Silence and Sovereignty (Luke 1:1-25) Date: 2026.02.07+08   LINKS:

Coach is joined by sports journalist Jimmy Hyams to analyze the high-stakes landscape of college athletics, beginning with a deep dive into Tennessee football's evolving roster. They explore the legal complexities surrounding quarterback Jojo Aguilar's eligibility, contrasting his case with other NCAA rulings, and discuss the ripple effects on the team's quarterback competition. The conversation shifts to the burgeoning talent of player Nate Ament, whom Hyams considers one of the most promising athletes in his 40-year career covering the Volunteers. They note Ament's significant development throughout the season, particularly his dominant performance against Texas A&M and his prowess at the free-throw line, while acknowledging that head coach Rick Barnes expects even more growth from him as the year progresses. The segment further expands into a broader discussion on the SEC's competitive hierarchy and the shifting financial realities of the sport. Hyams identifies Florida as the most complete team in the conference, while noting Kentucky’s resilience in second-half comebacks and the recent struggles of teams like Vanderbilt and Alabama. The dialogue concludes with a breakdown of the massive financial payouts within the SEC, highlighting a $72.4 million distribution to member schools. They discuss how these funds, influenced by recent legal settlements like the House case, are managed within athletic departments, balancing revenue sharing for players with the increasing operational budgets that have seen Tennessee's finances nearly double in recent years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Larry Sharpe, candidate for New York Governor, joins Brian Nichols to reveal his "Fusion Voting" strategy to break the Democrat stronghold and why the NY GOP's "weak resistance" results in a 24-year losing streak. Larry explains how running on the Republican, Conservative, and Libertarian lines simultaneously allows him to bypass the "spoiler" effect while weaponizing New York's matching funds system to finance a liberty-focused revolution. He breaks down the failure of the current establishment to address the exodus of residents and details why the "Red Team, Blue Team" mindset is destroying the Empire State. We expose the reality of New York's broken political machine and how Larry plans to use a Sovereign Wealth Fund to eliminate school property taxes overnight. You need to hear this blueprint for decentralizing education, rejecting federal funding to fire bloat-heavy administrators, and empowering local communities with 50% ownership of new nuclear power plants. This isn't just a campaign speech; it's a tactical guide on how to dismantle a one-party state from the inside out using actual policy solutions rather than empty rhetoric. Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 2:47 - The 24-Year GOP Losing Streak 4:33 - Fusion Voting Explained 6:22 - Exploiting State Matching Funds 9:00 - The "Tipping Point" for Victory 11:06 - Why Elise Stefanik Refused to Run 14:49 - Gov. Hochul: "Get on a Bus to Florida" 16:02 - The GOP Establishment Hates Me 22:30 - The Sovereign Fund Solution 23:32 - Eliminating School Property Taxes 26:12 - Nuclear Power & Local Ownership 31:38 - The "One in Six" Voter Problem 35:36 - Politicians Stealing Larry's Ideas 36:40 - How to Help (Volunteer & Donate) Studio Sponsor: Cardio Miracle - "Unlock the secret to a healthier heart, increased energy levels, and transform your cardiovascular fitness like never before.": CardioMiracle.com/TBNS Links Section Larry Sharpe's Website & Volunteer: larrysharpe.com ❤️ Order Cardio Miracle (CardioMiracle.com/TBNS) for 15% off and take a step towards better heart health and overall well-being!

Welcome to Episode 207 of Inside The Line: The Catskill Mountains Podcast! This week, Catskill fly fisher Chris Gallagher joins us to talk about his lifetime obsession with fly fishing in the Catskills. He chats about the past times, competitive fly fishing and how the sport got him hooked. We also somehow end up discussing snow blindness, Shandaken's improvements for climate change, and the woes of the Catskill Mountain Railroad. Make sure to subscribe on your favorite platform, share the show, donate if you feel like it… or just keep tuning in. I'm just grateful you're here. And as always... VOLUNTEER!!!!Links for the Podcast: https://linktr.ee/ISLCatskillsPodcast, Donate a coffee to support the show! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ITLCatskills, Like to be a sponsor or monthly supporter of the show? Go here! - https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ITLCatskills/membershipThanks to the sponsors of the show: Outdoor chronicles photography - https://www.outdoorchroniclesphotography.com/, Trailbound Project - https://www.trailboundproject.com/, Camp Catskill - https://campcatskill.co/, Another Summit - https://www.guardianrevival.org/programs/another-summitLinks: Trout Town Flies, Chris's Instagram, Catskill Mountain Railroad Woes, Eddie Bauer Bankruptcy, Roscoe Mountain Club Volunteer Opportunities: Trailhead stewards for 3500 Club -https://www.catskill3500club.org/trailhead-stewardship, Catskills Trail Crew - https://www.nynjtc.org/trailcrew/catskills-trail-crew, NYNJTC Volunteering - https://www.nynjtc.org/catskills, Catskill Center - https://catskillcenter.org/, Catskill Mountain Club - https://catskillmountainclub.org/about-us/, Catskill Mountainkeeper - https://www.catskillmountainkeeper.org/ Post Hike Brews and Bites - Hudson North, Roscoe Beer Company, Roscoe Junction#flyfishing #catskillflyfishing #catskills #catskillmountains #hudsonvalley #hudsonvalleyhiking #NYC #history #husdonvalley #hikingNY #kaaterskill #bluehole #catskillhiking #visitcatskills #catskillstrails #catskillmountains #3500 #catskills #catskillpark #catskillshiker #catskillmountainsnewyork #hiking #catskill3500club #catskill3500 #hikethecatskills #hikehudson

(Feb 6, 2026) A small state park in Colton has become home to some of the best cross-country skiing in the North Country, thanks to some dedicated volunteers; local government leaders in Clinton County say they're optimistic about the economic outlook of the region; and we've got a preview of the Empire State Winter Games this weekend.

(Feb 6, 2026) A small state park in Colton has become home to some of the best cross-country skiing in the North Country. The secret sauce? A dedicated volunteer crew at Higley Flow State Park. Also: The deadline to change party affiliation to be able to vote in primaries is coming up on February 14th.

Bird Building Collision Monitoring: Migratory Bird Conservation Guest Elaine Carlson, Volunteer, Chicago Bird Collision Monitoring Los Angeles, New York and Chicago are the biggest U.S. cities located along major migratory flyways, and the number of birds that die crashing into high-rise buildings is astonishing. These collisions are caused by the reflective and transparent qualities of glass windows that create optical illusions and extend the perceived landscape. Citizen science volunteers have been collecting data to inspire corrective action and inform city planning policy. There are simple solutions that can drastically reduce the likelihood of bird-window collisions. Elaine Carlson is a long-time Chicago resident, having moved to the Windy City after college to pursue a theater dream. Born and raised in the Appalachian foothills of southwestern Pennsylvania, she developed a strong appreciation for wildlife. This affinity for the natural world, combined with her work in education and her (maybe slightly over-developed) sense of team spirit, made her a perfect fit for a volunteer position with Chicago Bird Collision Monitors. For the past nine years - every spring and fall – she has spent her early morning hours walking the city streets and recovering migratory birds that collide with Chicago's downtown buildings. She has responded to hundreds of hotline calls from concerned citizens: running out of the door, net in hand, to scoop up stunned and injured birds from balconies, parking lots and city streets. Elaine has rescued well over 1,000 injured birds and documented over 1,500 fatalities. And, she has met many wonderful, like-minded people along the way. In this episode Elaine shares data, knowledge, and stories to help more people become informed. Subscribe to Wendy's substack to receive notifications of new podcast and product releases -https://storywalkerwendy.substack.com/ LEARN MORE ABOUT BIRD MONITORING Chicago Bird Collision Monitoring - https://www.birdmonitors.net/ NYC Bird Alliance Safe Flight - https://nycbirdalliance.org/our-work/conservation/project-safe-flight Audubon Society of Rhode Island Bird Monitoring - https://asri.org/report-bird-strikes/action.html Bird Collisions Prevention Alliance - https://www.stopbirdcollisions.org/about-us/ Real time data on bird numbers, flight directions, speeds and altitudes -https://birdcast.info/ Window Solutions - https://abcbirds.org/strategies/solutions-for-homes/ Purchase Wendy's book, The Angel Heart - https://www.amazon.com/Angel-Heart-Wendy-Nadherny-Fachon/dp/1967270279/ref=sr_1_1 Read about DIPG: Eternal Hope Versus Terminal Corruption by Dean Fachon begin to uncover the truth about cancer - https://dipgbook.com/ Learn more at https://netwalkri.com email storywalkerwendy@gmail.com or call 401 529-6830. Connect with Wendy to order copies of Fiddlesticks, The Angel Heart or Storywalker Wild Plant Magic Cards. Subscribe to Wendy's blog Writing with Wendy at www.wendyfachon.blog. Join Wendy on facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/StoryWalkingRadio

Welcome back to another episode of the unSeminary podcast. Today we're talking with Jeremy Baker, Lead Pastor of Elevate Life Church in Connecticut. In just over three years, Elevate Life has grown from 70 people to more than 2,000 weekly attendees, becoming one of the fastest-growing churches in the country—especially remarkable in a region widely known as spiritually resistant and unchurched. Jeremy shares the honest, behind-the-scenes story of how God has moved, and what his team has learned about loving people well, building invite culture, and helping people take meaningful steps in their spiritual journey. Is explosive growth possible in spiritually dry regions? How do churches keep the focus on people instead of preferences as momentum builds? Jeremy offers a refreshing reminder that growth is less about formulas and more about faithfulness. Humble beginnings and a clear calling. // Jeremy and his wife left a comfortable ministry role at a large church in Dallas after sensing God's call to the Northeast—one of the least churched regions in North America. With no church-planting playbook and their personal savings on the line, they launched Elevate Life with high expectations and a large marketing push. When only 70 people showed up on launch day, disappointment could have ended the story. Instead, it became the starting point. Jeremy describes the journey as a “God deal” from the beginning—marked by prayer, obedience, and a willingness to go after people rather than polish programs. Loving people from the street to the seat. // One of Elevate Life's defining values is making people feel seen, heard, and celebrated. Jeremy believes every person walks in carrying an invisible sign that says, “See me.” That belief shapes their entire guest experience. From banner-waving parking lot teams to outdoor tents for first-time guests (even in winter), the church treats arrival as sacred ground. Volunteers walk guests through the building, help with kids check-in, offer tours, and even escort people to their seats. The intentional warmth sends a clear message: you matter here. Taking people where they are. // With nearly 4,000 first-time guests in a single year, Elevate Life assumes nothing about biblical knowledge or spiritual maturity. Rather than pushing people toward instant maturity, the church focuses on meeting people where they are. Grow Track, life groups, and clear next steps help people move forward at a sustainable pace. Jeremy warns that churches often forget how far they've traveled spiritually—and unintentionally expect newcomers to keep up. Invite culture that never lets up. // Elevate Life's growth hasn't come from direct mail or massive ad budgets. Jeremy says he'll never do mailbox ads again. Instead, growth flows from a relentless invite culture. Every service, hallway conversation, life group, and ministry environment reinforces the same message: Who are you bringing? Invite cards, QR codes, social media ads, and consistent language keep invitation top of mind. Jeremy believes repetition—not creativity—is the secret. Reaching people over protecting preferences. // As the church has doubled in size, Jeremy is vigilant about guarding its mission. Growth brings new pressures—parking shortages, crowded services, limited space—but he resists shifting focus inward. If churches aren’t careful, they’ll trade purpose for preferences,. Elevate Life's mission—making heaven more crowded—keeps the team outwardly focused. Jeremy regularly reminds leaders that people are not problems to solve; they are people to pastor. A challenge for church leaders. // Jeremy closes with a simple encouragement to pastors: love people deeply, steward what God has given you, and don't lose sight of why you started. Churches don't grow because they chase growth—they grow when leaders refuse to give up on people. In regions others have written off spiritually, God is still moving—and often through ordinary leaders who simply refuse to stop caring. To learn more about Elevate Life Church, visit elevatelifect.com or follow them on Instagram @elevatelifect. Thank You for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, but you chose unSeminary, and I'm grateful for that. If you enjoyed today's show, please share it by using the social media buttons you see at the left hand side of this page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes, they're extremely helpful when it comes to the ranking of the show and you can bet that I read every single one of them personally! Lastly, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, to get automatic updates every time a new episode goes live! Thank You to This Episode’s Sponsor: Portable Church Your church is doing really well right now, and your leadership team is looking for solutions to keep momentum going! It could be time to start a new location. Maybe you have hesitated in the past few years, but you know it's time to step out in faith again and launch that next location. Portable Church has assembled a bundle of resources to help you leverage your growing momentum into a new location by sending a part of your congregation back to their neighborhood on Mission. This bundle of resources will give you a step-by-step plan to launch that new or next location, and a 5 minute readiness tool that will help you know your church is ready to do it! Click here to watch the free webinar “Launch a New Location in 150 Days or Less” and grab the bundle of resources for your church! Episode Transcript Rich Birch — Hey friends, welcome to the unSeminary podcast. Pumped that you have decided to tune in today. We’ve got a very good conversation. I’m really looking forward to leaning in and learning from this leader and the story that God’s been writing at his church in the last two and a half years.Rich Birch — Elevate Church in Connecticut has grown from 70 people to over 2,000 on a weekly basis. It’s been named one of the fastest growing churches in the country. I love their mission and purpose is really simple: making heaven more crowded. Today we’ve got Jeremy Baker with us. He is the lead pastor. Jeremy, welcome to the show. So glad you’re here.Jeremy Baker — Thank you so much for having me. So excited. And what a great privilege and honor to be on on live with you today. So thank you.Rich Birch — Yeah, I’m excited that to unpack this story a little bit. It is not normal for a church to grow from 70 to 2000 in any part of the country, but even more so in Connecticut. I can say as a guy who served in New Jersey, I’m Canadian, you know – don’t hold that against against me. Jeremy Baker — Let’s go.Rich Birch — So I understand the spiritual context that you’re in a little bit. But why don’t you unpack the story? Kind of tell us a little bit what’s gone on over these last couple of years. For folks that don’t know, tell us about the kind of spiritual, you know, climate in Connecticut. Talk us through those issues.Jeremy Baker — Yeah, I first of all, it’s a God deal all the way. And I know a lot of people are asking me, hey, give me some handles, what’s some formulas, what’s some how-tos.Rich Birch — Right.Jeremy Baker — I’m just blown away by what God’s done. And I think it’s really just the heartbeat of God is going after his people and serving the community really well. So we’re in an area, I’m 30 minutes away from Yale University.Rich Birch — Okay.Jeremy Baker — I’m not too far away from New Haven, Connecticut. I’m in in a town about 100,000 people. Rich Birch — Wow.Jeremy Baker — Matter of fact, the building is actually in between two cities. Rich Birch — Okay. Jeremy Baker — The building is divided right down in half. One half being, yeah, it’s crazy. One half being Meriden, one half being a town called Wallingford. And so in those two cities is about 100,000 people. Rich Birch — Okay. Jeremy Baker — So three and a half years ago, I’m working at a big church in Dallas, Texas, mega-world, mega-church, on staff, XP, and the Lord just pressed on our heart, me and my wife that we’re comfortable. We’re we’re living the good life, we’re living the Dallas life, the big Texas life, and there’s more, you know. And nothing wrong with that, nothing wrong with the Dallas life, the big life, the Texas life, nothing wrong with big churches – God loves this, the capital “C” church, you know. And so long story short, prayed for about a year, and we said, we’re going to the Northeast. Rich Birch — Wow. Jeremy Baker — This is where my wife is originally from, the Connecticut region, this area, actually called a little town called North Haven. And we’re going to go back up here because there’s a group of people that need the Lord. And, you know, the Northeast, New Jersey, you know, New York, Maine, Vermont, Pennsylvania, these kind of, this region up here in this New England region is ah is an unchurched region. Rich Birch — Yes.Jeremy Baker — There’s great people that are God-fearing people, great good Bible-believing churches, but there’s it’s not known as a Southern, you know, Christianity. Rich Birch — Yep.Jeremy Baker — Like everybody goes to church in the South, but up here, it’s a little different region. So we came up here. We didn’t know how to plant a church, honestly.Rich Birch — Love it.Jeremy Baker — I’m just giving you all the honest, the the real, real.Rich Birch — Yes.Jeremy Baker — I wish I could tell you that I wrote the book on it and I know how to do everything perfectly. Rich Birch — Love itJeremy Baker — But i could I could tell you every horror story what not to do, you know? So we we pulled out our life savings and we started a church and we had 70 people on our launch date. Rich Birch — Wow. And we put about $100,000 into our launch date thinking we would have… Rich Birch — Wow. Jeremy Baker — …you know, 800 people, a thousand people are going to show up. We put mailers in everybody’s mailbox. So long story short, we had 70 people. Rich Birch — Wow, wow.Jeremy Baker — And then out of that, we have just been going after our city. Out of that, we have just been reaching people, inviting people to God’s house, serving our community, clean days, outreaches, food ministry, backpack giveaways, Christmas, Thanksgiving. I mean, just every major holiday, we have just attacked our community. And this last week, we had over 2,400 people in attendance.Rich Birch — Wow. Wow. Praise God. Jeremy Baker — And and so in three and a half years, it’s just been wild. And there’s so much in that story I could tell you.Rich Birch — Right.Jeremy Baker — But that’s kind of been from where we were, planning humble beginnings. God, what do you want to do? And it’s not about the size of a church, as you know, because I know there’s great churches out there that are ministering very well to the size that is in their community, and they’re doing a really good job shepherding people, caring for people.Jeremy Baker — But it’s just, you know, I always believe, God, let me not mess this up. Lord, if I can steward this well, you’ll keep bringing them to me. And so we have a brand new team, new staff. I like to call us the the misfits of Toy Island, if I could use the if i could if i could use the Christmas kind of you know… Rich Birch — Yes. Jeremy Baker — …thought process, you know. We don’t know what we’re doing, but we’re loving people well. We’re serving. We’re discipling to the best of our ability. We’re preaching the full gospel now. I don’t want people to think that we’re not preaching the gospel.Rich Birch — Yeah.Jeremy Baker — We’re preaching from Genesis to Revelations, and we’re preaching the whole Bible, the whole council. And but that’s kind of that’s a little bit of kind of like how the beginning happened, but it’s been wild.Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s cool.Jeremy Baker — It’s been wild, man.Rich Birch — Yeah. And I know, you know, we know that, well, all of our churches, you know, they they have the impact they do because God chooses to use what we’re doing at the end of the day. It’s got nothing to with us. It’s got everything to do with him. Jeremy Baker — Right. Rich Birch — But he is choosing to use something that you’re you’re doing. He’s clearly blessing something. He’s working through something. When you step back and think about the last couple of years, two or three years, What would be some of the things that you’ve seen him use that are like, hmm, this seems to be a part of the equation of what he’s pulling together.Rich Birch — And that’s not from a like, hey, we want to replicate all this, but it’s like, hey, here’s here’s your story. This is what God seems to be using in your context to reach your people. What would be some of those things that bubble up to your mind?Jeremy Baker — Yeah, great question. I would think the first thing for us is people want to be seen. People in the world that we live in today want to know that someone cares about them, that someone loves them.Jeremy Baker — We like to say it around here. We have little cultural sayings. We see you. We hear you. We celebrate you. We see you, we hear you, we celebrate you. I love what Mary Kay said, the the makeup organization. She had a quote, and if I can quote her right, she said, everybody has an invisible sign around their neck that says, see me. Jeremy Baker — And and I think it’s important. I think it’s real important that we see people the way God sees them. You know, for God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever would believe in him. So the whole thing is about seeing people the way God sees them, not seeing them through their lens of brokenness or through the lens of maybe a divorce or the pain or the regret or the shame. No, we got to see them through the grace and the mercy of God, through through what Jesus wants to do in their life. So we’re just loving people really well from the street, if I could say it like this, because I know it’s been said in church conferences, but from the street to the seat, we’re just loving people really well, you know, how to how to make people feel like they’re the big deal. Rich Birch — Right, right.Jeremy Baker — You know, that God does love them. So that would be probably one thing that I would say would kind of be our bread and butter of just loving people well… Rich Birch — Yes. Jeremy Baker — …helping people find hope, especially in a season like this, you know, holiday season. It’s like, a you know, a lot of people are hopeless and we need to give hope to people. And so that would be a big thing. Jeremy Baker — I say think the second thing I would say is taking people on the spiritual journey where they’re at. You know, I’ve been a ministry for 30 years. My dad’s a pastor. So I’ve been in church for a long time. And I think sometimes, you know, we can as as as church kids, or if I could say it that way, or church people, we are called the shepherd. We’re called to minister. We’re called the guide. But sometimes we want people to be on the road that we’re on. And and they don’t realize… Rich Birch — That’s so true. Jeremy Baker — …we have we have we have been on this journey for a long time. There’s been a lot of going to the mat, dealing with us, God doing a work in us. Like David said in Psalms 51, Lord, create me a clean heart. Help me help me grow, Lord, as a leader, as a mature, you know. Put away childish things. I, you know, I want to grow. So so we’re taking people on their journey. Okay, you’re new to faith, so we need to start you on this road or this path, if I could say, you know. Oh, you’ve been walking with God for three years. Okay, we’ve got to make sure that you know some of the foundations, some of the basics. Rich Birch — Right.Jeremy Baker — You know I think that’s been some of our greatness of helping people stick, find community, be a part. So those are, I think those are two things. Understanding people need to be seen. And the second one is taking them on a journey of where they’re at, you know?Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s good. I love that. The let’s let’s unpack that a little bit. I’d love to start with the loving people well thing – a little bit more detail. Jeremy Baker — Yeah.Rich Birch — When you say that, so what does that mean from the street to the seat? How are you how do you feel like, oh, this is something that Elevate Life’s doing well to love people as they’re coming, as they’re arriving, as they’re a part of what’s going on at the church?Jeremy Baker — Yeah, so great. So for me, it’s going to be guest experience. Rich Birch — Yep.Jeremy Baker — What does it look like when people pull on your parking lot? You know, do we have parking lot – we don’t call them attendants. We call them parking lot banner wavers. Rich Birch — Yeah. Yeah. Love it.Jeremy Baker — They’re waving a banner, a blessing over your car. Now, it’s going to be a little charismatic a little bit. There’s going to be a little bit of a, you know, my background is, you know, is I’m I’m very very energetic, very enthusiastic…Rich Birch — Sure.Jeremy Baker — …passionate as a leader. So I want people to know it’s a big deal that you’re on property today. Rich Birch — Right.Jeremy Baker — It’s a really big deal that you brought your family, that you showed up. You didn’t have to show up. You didn’t have to be here. You could have stayed home. You could have did what you wanted to do, but you gave God some time today. And so what we do is we we we we really pray that as the tires hit the parking lot, that miracles take place in people’s lives.Jeremy Baker — Whatever that miracle might be, miracle of salvation. A miracle of of of a mindset change, a miracle of restoration. So banner wavers in the parking lot, loving on people. Jeremy Baker — We have a team called the Impact Team that’s in the parking lot. They’re what we call our first time guest experience connection moments. So when they when there’s tents outside, of course, even in the winter, we got tents outside with heaters outside. You know, we just got four inches of snow the other day, but they’re still outside.Jeremy Baker — So the commitment from our servant leaders is there. The commitment from our staff is there, just to make people seen and feel loved. So as they’re walking into the property, if they’re a first time guest, our team has been trained how to identify a first time people, even with the amount of people that are coming. And they’ll walk up to them and just say, so glad you’re here.Jeremy Baker — Is this your first time? No, I’ve been here for about a month. OK, do you need anything? How can I serve you? How can we help you? Do you know how to check your kids in? Or, hey, can i can I walk you to your seat? I mean, we literally have a team over 100 plus people that are helping people walk into a building… Rich Birch — Wow.Jeremy Baker — …get a free get a get a cup of coffee, find them to their seat, make them feel loved. If they’re new, hey, let me take you on an experience tour is what we call it, an experience tour. You’re walking into a brand new building. You’ve never been into the building before. You know, lot of churches, it’s all love, but might not have the right signage of communication of where restrooms are, kids check-in nurseries, nursing mother’s room, you know, special needs, whatever. So we have these people that go and walk these people through this building. And, you know, we don’t have a large building. We’re we’re adding on to our building, but we’re about 28,000 square feet.Rich Birch — Okay.Jeremy Baker — And so even in that size, you know, you can get lost in a building that size… Rich Birch — Right, right. Jeremy Baker — …you you know, especially where there’s hallways and doorways you don’t know. And so we’re having people walk through. And then people walk up all the way to their seat.Rich Birch — Wow.Jeremy Baker — And then when they’re in their seat, we got people that are on the host team, which we’d call modern day ushers. We call them host team members. They just walking up to them. Hey, good to see you. How you doing? Good morning before service starts.Rich Birch — I love that. Yes.Jeremy Baker — So we’re creating this we’re creating this interaction culture. Now, if you’re introverted, I’ll be honest with you, it’s going to be hard. It’s going to be hard, man.Rich Birch — Yes.Jeremy Baker — It’s going to be hard. If you’re more introverted in your personality and your style, you’re going to feel overloaded at a level, you know what I’m saying?Rich Birch — Yes.Jeremy Baker — So so that that’s some of the feedback we get.Jeremy Baker — Like, hey, I love the church… Rich Birch — It’s a little much. Jeremy Baker — …but I got 18 people talking to me, man, before I even find a seat. And it’s like, I get it, I get it, I get it. But, you know, we just want you to feel seen and feel loved. So that’s part of what we do.Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s very cool. I love that.Jeremy Baker — Yeah.Rich Birch — Super practical. That’s cool. And then I like this idea of talking to people where they’re at. I think that can be a concern we run into or a it’s like we’re not even aware that in our our churches we’re we’re we’re using language or or we’re assuming everyone’s at a certain place. What does that look like for you at Elevate Life? How are you helping? Because that’s a lot of people in a short period of time to both get to know and then also try to communicate in a way that actually connects with where they’re at. Talk us through what do you mean by that when you say we’re trying to talk to people where they’re at in their spiritual journey?Jeremy Baker — Yeah, so if it so if you’re new, let me just give you context. This year alone, in 2025, we’ve had 3,919 first-time guests walk through our doors. Rich Birch — That’s great.Jeremy Baker — This year alone. Rich Birch — Yep. Jeremy Baker — So for us, we know as a new plant, as a new church, we’re going to have to really walk people through this spiritual journey. Some of these people maybe have some form of God, maybe they have been walking with God. Maybe they’ve been out of church since, you know, let’s just talk about pre, know, after or during COVID. Maybe they haven’t been back to God’s house because that’s really real in the Northeast. Rich Birch — Yeah.Jeremy Baker — I mean, some people are just now coming back to church in the Northeast that have not been in church for the last four years. You know, it’s like, oh yeah, I’ve been out of church for about three and a half years and I’m just now getting back into the rhythm of getting back in my faith.Jeremy Baker — So there’s so much I can talk about that. Like how how do we make our services flow? Like I always introduce introduce myself, hey, my name is Jeremy, and I have the privilege to pastor this church, and I just want to say welcome. If if this is your, you know, 52nd welcome this year or if this is your first welcome, I just want to say welcome. Rich Birch — Yes.Jeremy Baker — Because i want I want them to know that we’re real, that we’re authentic, and we want to help them on their spiritual journey. Rich Birch — It’s good.Jeremy Baker — So we offer stuff like, you know, first-time, you know, decision, if you made a first time decision, let’s go, let’s go into, you know, who is Jesus? You know, what does Jesus, you know, want to do in your life? So there’s, there’s, there’s classes, there’s paths that we offer there. Jeremy Baker — Grow track, you know, we have grow track that we offer every month. Hey, hey, won’t we want to teach you a little bit more about faith, who Elevate Life is, what, what our mission is, what our vision is, what, what the values of our church is. And so we walk them through that.Jeremy Baker — And then, and then what we have is we have life groups. And these life groups are from all different walks. Deep dive of Revelation, deep studies of the Old Testament. Or, hey, we’re just going to go through the book of John. We’re just going to start in John 1 and learn what Jesus, you know, who Jesus is. And we’re to start there. Or if you’re more intellectual, we’re going to go a little bit deeper. You know, so we we we we we have these these life groups, we call them, because we’re Elevate Life. So we call them life groups. We want we want these groups to bring life to people.Jeremy Baker — And and so ah so we just we we have people, we encourage them to sign up, to get involved. That’s our conversations always in the hallways. Hey, are you are you serving on a team? Are you in a life group? Here’s here’s why. The goal for me is not just gathering large crowds. The goal for me as as a shepherd, I would just say as ah as as the lead pastor now in this season of my life, is is to help people develop spiritually… Rich Birch — Yeah, so good. Yeah, definitely. Jeremy Baker — …to help people find their personal walk with God, not just come and hear a good word. You know, motivating, it’s inspiring, it’s it’s helpful. Yes, it’s practical. I’ve got handles I can live my life by throughout the week. But my my heart is, don’t just take a Sunday and give it to God, but give God every day of your life. Rich Birch — So good.Jeremy Baker — You know, sometimes we just turn the surrender switch on on Sunday, not realizing the surrender switch needs to be on every day of the week.Rich Birch — Amen. So true.Jeremy Baker — So I’ve got to turn that surrender switch on every day. And just like you a natural thought when you turn the light switch on when you’re in the room, you turn it off when you leave the room. Well, a lot of people look at church that way. I’m going to turn my surrender switch on today. It’s Sunday. I’m going to go to God’s house. And then on when they leave Sunday, they leave away the property. They pull away. The surrender switch turns off. And I think that’s where the consumer mindset, especially in the Western part of the country… Rich Birch — Sure. Jeremy Baker — …you know, we have gotten, you know, we’re, we’re inundated with consumerism. Rich Birch — Yes.Jeremy Baker — And so, and so how, do how do we help people really become disciples of of Christ? So the second part of our mission statement is making disciples that follow Jesus. So the goal is making heaven more crowded, but making disciples that follow Jesus.Rich Birch — So good. That’s great. Let’s talk about a bit like up the funnel a little bit, like at the top end, where, how are people learning about Elevate Life? You talked about when you launched, you did a bunch of marketing stuff. Has that continued to happen? Is this just like, you’re really good at Facebook ads? Help me understand. What does that look like? How, why is the church growing?Jeremy Baker — Yeah, great question. I personally, I will never do an ad in a mailbox again. That was $25,000 that I think one person showed up, and then we had a bunch of them ripped up and mailed back to us and told us to never mail them and again. It’s the funniest story.Rich Birch — Wow. Yes.Jeremy Baker — Yeah, so it’s it’s all good. It’s it’s it’s this is not the South. I’m a Texas guy, and I’m living in the New England region, and it’s it’s night and day, you know.Rich Birch — Yes. Yes.Jeremy Baker — So what we have done really well at, I believe, causes some of the growth to happen is two things, is every week we’re encouraging people to invite somebody. That is a part of our culture. Invite culture. Who you bringing? Who do you know that’s far from God that needs the Lord right now? Who do you know that’s far from Him that you know that that you could bring?Jeremy Baker — So then the second thing is we’re doing really good social media ads. We’re spending about $1,500 a month on social media ads. And our team has done a phenomenal job. And all my team is 19, 20, 21, and 22-year-old young men and women that are running all of my social media.Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s great.Jeremy Baker — I’m 50. I want to act like I’m current. But I’m not. You know, there’s things I don’t, I’m not adverse in. There’s things that are constantly changing with technology.Rich Birch — Sure. Yeah, sure.Jeremy Baker — And and and I just got to trust this younger generation.Rich Birch — Yep.Jeremy Baker — And they have done a phenomenal job.Rich Birch — Yeah.Jeremy Baker — That’s been one of our huge success for us to put us on the map in this region, to put us, make us aware.Rich Birch — Let’s pull it, but pull apart both of those. When you say you’re encouraging people every week, so you’re like ringing the bell that I want to hear churches to hear more of. You’re inviting people every week to invite their friends. Give us a sense. What does that look like? How are you doing that every single week? What’s that look like?Jeremy Baker — Yeah, so part of that is in our services. It’s in language. Rich Birch — Yep. Jeremy Baker — You know, we always say, you know thank you for being here this morning. We pray that you have brought somebody with you. And then at the end of our service, we’re saying, hey, don’t forget to invite somebody back next week. So we’re always saying that in our language. So it’s become part of our our culture. It’s become part of of who we are as a church. We are a bringer church. We are an inviting church. We are a reach the lost church. We are the great commission. Because the goal for us is not just giving information, but we’re hoping that the people will receive the information that causes some type of revelation in their own spirit that leads them to the Great Commission. Rich Birch — That’s good.Jeremy Baker — Because we want them to be a part of what Jesus said. He you know he said in in Matthew 10, he goes, the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. You know. Pray to the Lord of the harvest that he would send more laborers. So we are we are Ephesians 4, equipping the church to do the work of the ministry. We are we have to encourage people to build the local community of the church, the local house of God. And so that’s part of our language in our hallways. We have really practical things. We have invite card stands everywhere. Invite card stands everywhere. So simple. We have QR codes. You can scan. You can download all kinds of invite information. Rich Birch — Yeah.Jeremy Baker — You can invite our service times. So really practical steps like that have really helped us. And then in our life groups, it’s in it’s being said. In our midweek services, it’s being said. We do eight services a week. So that’s what we’re doing right now, eight services a week. And and and so in every service, it’s just been indoctrinated. Rich Birch — Yes.Jeremy Baker — It’s been just repetition, you know, over and over and over. Rich Birch — Yep. Jeremy Baker — And then And I think that’s a big part of why God’s allowed us to… Honestly, I don’t know church any other way. Rich Birch — Right. Sure.Jeremy Baker — I personally don’t know church any other way. I’m not the sharpest knife in the drawer.Rich Birch — I don’t know about that.Jeremy Baker — I’m just I know I’m just appreciate the love. I mean I I’m a guy who barely graduated from seminary. I barely graduated, you know. I was like everybody looked at me, all the professors, like, oh, man. I hope you make it. You know, it’s like, it’s like one of those guys, it’s like, I just, I just love people well. And I want people to know Jesus. I mean, Jesus changed my life. I mean, he changed my life. He, he did something in me that no one ever has ever done or no one could ever do. And my life is I’m indebted to him.Jeremy Baker — I’m I’m living my whole life for him. That’s why 30 years of working through whatever I’ve got to work through in ministry and working through stuff as a as a young man, now as an older man. I’ve just stayed the course, stayed faithful. Not perfect, but stayed faithful, step moving forward every season of my life. And so I just love people well, and I think people hear the heart of that through our pastoral team, through our elders. Rich Birch — Sure. Jeremy Baker — They hear the heart of loving people well, that we want people to find Christ. So that’s the language I think helped us in this last season, you know, really in this last season, really grow. A year ago, a year ago, this time, we only ran, not not only, it’s great, but we were around about 900 people a year ago.Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s crazy.Jeremy Baker — And then it’s last year, we’ve exploded.Rich Birch — Yep.Jeremy Baker — We’ve doubled our church.Rich Birch — Yeah.Jeremy Baker — I mean, we’ve doubled. I mean, we we we have no more parking. I mean, we we we have 345 parking spots. And then two out of the five weekend experiences, because we do other services throughout the week, two out of the five weekend experiences, we have to turn people away, which just breaks my heart as a pastor because it’s like…Rich Birch — Right. Yeah. Yes.Jeremy Baker — …we can’t build fast enough. We’re looking for bigger venues. Again, I could go on that, but we want to make more room. We want people to find hope. It was never about being big. I told a pastor locally, I said, and he was he was coming here to, you know, just to encourage us to keep going, which was very kind of him. But I said, pastor, it was never about being big. It’s always been about reaching the lost.Rich Birch — Yeah, it’s great.Jeremy Baker — It’s always been about reaching the lost.Rich Birch — Yeah.Jeremy Baker — So I don’t know if that makes any sense.Rich Birch — It does. It does. There’s a lot there that you, that I, you know, I, I, I didn’t want to interrupt because there’s so much packed in there that I think was so helpful for people. And, you know, that singular focus on, Hey, we’re trying to reach people. I want to come back to that in um in a minute. I want you to kind of speak to, leaders on that. Rich Birch — But I want to underline one of the, it’s a simple thing that um we miss in too many churches. And I’ve done a bunch of study on invite culture and you’re doing classically, you’re doing the best behavior classically. You’ve got to keep invite in front of people. We can’t, you can’t let up the gas pedal on that one. You’ve got to keep that in front of people, make it super practical, give them tools, all that like invite card stuff, all of that super important.Rich Birch — Years ago, I was talking to a lead pastor of a church that was growing very rapidly. And this wasn’t on a podcast. We were talking sidebar and I was like, Hey, asked a very similar question. What’s God using? And he’s like, Oh, it’s a little embarrassing. I don’t want to say it. And I’m like, no, no, tell me, what do you think he’s using? And he said, well, every weekend for this last year, We put invite cards on every single chair in every auditorium for the entire year. And we told people, take those and invite people. And he’s like, I really think that that is like just the intensity…Jeremy Baker — That’s it.Rich Birch — …of we’re keeping it in front of people. We can’t let up. So I want to I want to encourage you and that and listeners. Jeremy Baker — Thank you. Rich Birch — Hey, friends, that is that is a key part of this. Talk to us about the the focus on reaching the lost or reaching people who are far from God or unchurched people. Talk talk us through that. Rich Birch — Because what what’s happening at your church, I know we’ve kind of we’ve referenced this a few times, is super unique in in, you know, New England. What would be some of the challenges that you’re facing to keeping that singular focus of reaching unchurched people, people far from God? What’s been the challenge there and how are you having to adjust and kind of keep your culture focused on that as you continue to grow?Jeremy Baker — Such a great question. I mean, such a great question. I would, man, you’re such a great question asker, if I could say it that way.Rich Birch — Oh, that’s nice. Thank you.Jeremy Baker — Yeah I mean, a great question.Rich Birch — Sure.Jeremy Baker — I would think for me, for me, I got into ministry so that people’s lives could be changed by the good news. There’s no other way there’s no other reason why I’m in ministry. I’m here because I want people’s lives to be changed the way my life has been changed. So the the thing I’m always projecting from the the the the platform that I get to walk in, the the place that I get to stand, is it’s got to be about people. That’s why Christ came. He came and he and he died on a cross so that people would find eternal life, so that people would find hope.Jeremy Baker — And so we’re always pushing that agenda from the front. And, you know, whatever said from the platform stage, whatever you want to, however you want to articulate it, is is is is being pushed for a reason, I believe. So we’re constantly pushing this from the stage. We’ve got to reach people. People are dying and going to hell every day. And this is where I think the church sometimes trips. We got enough people now. So now let’s get let’s let’s stop making it about people and let’s start making it about preferences. Rich Birch — Come on.Jeremy Baker — And I think that’s the danger that’s the danger where guys like me can, you know, I was just having an elder meeting a few days ago, and I andI was telling our elders, because now we’ve got to implement some other pathways of discipleship, some other handles to help people grow and mature faster. And I said, you can’t push maturity. Maturity takes time.Jeremy Baker — If we’re not careful, we’ll we’ll lose the vision of what got us here. And then what happens is we’ll become inward focus rather than outward focus. said, I’ve seen it, guys. And I was talking to my elders. and I was just opening up my heart to them. I said, I’ve seen us do this. I’ve been a part of big churches where now it’s about the building. It’s about the butts.Rich Birch — So true.Jeremy Baker — It’s about the budgets. It’s about, you know, I’ve seen that. And I’m like, let us never lose the very thing that God’s allowed us to be a part of in in this season. Rich Birch — Yep, so true.Jeremy Baker — I never woke up one day and said, hey, let’s go and have one the fastest growing churches in America in the New England region. I woke up one day said, God, I’m comfortable. And I don’t want to be comfortable anymore. Rich Birch — So good. Jeremy Baker — I want you to use my life for the rest of my life until I see you to bring an impact in this region, whatever region that you send me. He sent us to the Northeast. Rich Birch — Yep.Jeremy Baker — He sent us back home to where my wife was from. And so that’s our prayer. And I want to keep the main thing the main thing. I don’t want to drift because there is a difference between, there is a difference between preferences and then and then purpose, you know. The purpose of Elevate is to make heaven more crowded. The purpose of Elevate is to make disciples that follow Jesus. The purpose is to reach our community, to make an impact. But but if you’re not careful, you’ll you’ll get you’ll get satisfied with the people. You’ll settle. You’ll get complacent. We got enough people now.Jeremy Baker — But what if but what if God really wants to change? What if God, this is my question I’ve been wrestling with, and maybe maybe you have answers for me, but I’ve been wrestling with this question in my own spirit. Like, is it possible that one church could really change a community? Is it possible that one church could, God could use a church, a group of people. Not not I’m not talking I’m not talking about domination. I’m talking about just a group of people that are passionate about making heaven more crowded, that God could use a group of people that would change the facet of a community. Rich Birch — So good.Jeremy Baker — You know? That would that that that’s the that’s the thing I’ve been wrestling with. Can God use Elevate Life in this region? What if God wants to use us to help Yale? What if God wants us to use us to, you know, to to to get on college campuses and see a revival, you know, at Yale University?Rich Birch — So good.Jeremy Baker — You know, and I mean, that’s an Ivy League school. Rich Birch — Yes.Jeremy Baker — I mean, people from all over the world go to that school. And we haven’t even, I feel like, scratched the surface. So that’s part of my my always, I got to keep the main thing the main thing. It’s got to be about people. So one of our values is, people is our pursuit. That’s what we’re, we’re pursuing people.Rich Birch — That’s so good.Jeremy Baker — And not programs, not not preferences. I got preferences. I mean, I’m sure we all got preferences. Rich Birch — Yes.Jeremy Baker — But I’m putting down my preference so that I can carry the purpose of the good news. I hope that makes sense.Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s so good. Makes total sense. And yeah, super encouraging. And yeah, I think I think God’s placed your church in a, you know, every community across the country is an important place. There’s people all over the world that need Jesus, obviously, but I i don’t think you’re, I think it doesn’t, it’s not surprising to me that the Northeast is a place that is, some call it a spiritually dead or spiritually dry part of the country, while at the same time, it is of global significance in a lot of different ways. Like the the communities that you’re serving are are different than other parts of the kind country from an influence point of view. You place like Yale, it’s not just another university.Jeremy Baker — Yeah.Rich Birch — You know. And so I think God’s placed you there for a real specific reason, which I think is you know, super encouraging. Well, this has been a a great conversation, Jeremy. I just want to encourage you, thankful that you would come on today and help us kind of peek behind the curtain a little bit. As we land today’s episode, any kind of final words you give to church leaders that are listening in to today’s conversation?Jeremy Baker — You know, the only thing I would encourage church leaders is my my my thing I always tell pastors and and people that I am connected with always is just make it about people. Make it about people. And I’ll say it this way. It’s not problems to be solved. It’s people to be pastored. It’s not problems to be solved. It’s people to be pastored. Sometimes pastors, and I get it because I’m talking to myself, sometimes we make people the problem, and the people are not the problem. The people are the purpose of why we do the pastoring. That’s why we do what we do. That’s why we do shepherding. Jeremy Baker — So, you know, when you’re dealing with when you’re dealing with people, it’s messy. It can be hurtful. There’s there’s different things that come with that, and we could list a thousand things in that. But I would just say, just love people well to the best of your ability. Give them grace. Give them mercy. Jeremy Baker — If they leave your church and they go somewhere else, just let them know the key under the mat. We’re on the same team. We’re part of the same family. We’re all going to go to heaven to we know one day. It’s not about who’s got the bigger church or who’s better? Who’s got the better kids program or who’s got ah the more youth? It’s not about any of that. It’s about just trusting God with what he’s given us stewardship over and in stewarding that really well and just loving the people that God brings.Rich Birch — Yeah, so good. Pastor Jeremy, appreciate you being on today.Jeremy Baker — Thank you.Rich Birch — If people want to track with you or with the church, where do we want to send them online to connect with you guys and kind of follow your story a little bit? I would encourage people to follow your Instagram. So where can we find that and your website and all that? Jeremy Baker — Yeah, so our website is elevatelifect.com, elevatelifect.com, and that would be the same for our Instagram. And so thank you so much for having me. ‘m very grateful, and thank you for your time.Rich Birch — Thanks so much. Take care.

USA Today Senior National CFB columnist Blake Toppmeyer sizes up the multiple ongoing eligibility sagas in CFB. Chuck and Heath discuss Texas Tech's defensive staff losing multiple coaches to other gigs. David Cloninger of the Charleston Post and Courier looks at South Carolina.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 200th episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast marks a major milestone. After four years, hundreds of conversations, and insights from volunteer leaders around the world, Tobi Johnson takes a step back to reflect on what has changed in volunteer engagement and what today's organizations must do differently to build stronger, more sustainable volunteer programs. From strategy and systems to recruitment, retention, and leadership influence, this episode distills the most important lessons learned across 200 episodes into ten clear, actionable takeaways. Whether you're a seasoned leader of volunteers or building a program from the ground up, this conversation offers both perspective and practical guidance for the future of the field. Full show notes: 200. 10 Lessons from 200 Episodes - The Volunteer Nation Through the Years Volunteer Nation - Episode Highlights [01:51] - Reflecting on 200 Episodes [04:19] - The Evolution of Volunteer Engagement [06:16] - Key Lessons from 200 Episodes [11:01] - Volunteer Engagement as Strategy [14:15] - Addressing Capacity Problems [21:46] - The Importance of Meaning in Recruitment [26:45] - Retention Starts Early [30:02] - Empowering Volunteer Managers [30:29] - Building Influence as a Volunteer Manager [32:00] - Supporting Volunteer Leaders in Nonprofits [33:56] - The Evolution of Volunteer Roles [34:30] - Flexible and Team-Based Volunteering [40:29] - Community as a Retention Strategy [44:23] - The Importance of Data in Volunteer Management [50:13] - Challenges and Resilience of Volunteer Leaders [53:49] - The Brave Future of Volunteerism  Helpful Links Volunteer Management Progress Report  VolunteerPro Impact Lab  Volunteer Nation Episode #198 - The Future of Volunteerism - Trends & Predictions Part 1 Volunteer Nation Episode #199 - The Future of Volunteerism - Trends & Predictions Part 2  Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause. For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at WeCare@VolPro.net.

Ryan Callahan of Go Vols 247 assesses the latest info on Joey Aguilar trying to stay an extra season at Tennessee's QB. Chuck and Heath discuss Curt Cignetti's ability to maintain staff continuity after the program's success. Jesse Simonton of the Surrender Cobra Substack looks at the top contenders to be preseason number one. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joey Aguilar sued the NCAA to play for Tennessee in 2026. Some fans are celebrating, but others want to move on. Adam Sparks and John Adams discuss the impact of Aguilar potentially returning, including the future of George MacIntyre and Faizon Brandon.

In this episode of the Kansas Canopy Podcast, Volunteer and Partnership Liaison Brady Wolken takes us behind the scenes of the Kansas Champion Tree Program and its dedicated volunteers. From measuring some of the largest trees in the state to learning how to identify species and document their stories, these citizen scientists help preserve Kansas's living landmarks. We explore why champion trees matter, how they connect us to the history of our state, and how spending time with these giants fosters a deeper respect for nature, and a sense of pride in caring for it.5th Grade Arbor Day Poster Contest: https://www.kansasforests.org/programs/postercontest.html200-year-old Kansas Champion Pecan: https://www.kansasforests.org/events/calendars_and_articles/statechampionpecan.htmlWhat Tree is This Guide: https://www.arborday.org/tree-identification

Discover the fascinating world of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) and what it takes to keep historic aircraft like FIFI flying. In this episode, Randall Haskin shares insights into the organization's origins, the challenges of maintaining vintage planes, and how volunteers of all skill levels can get involved. The origin and mission of the CAF, with a focus on FIFI, the iconic B-29 SuperfortressHow the CAF acquires, restores, and maintains World War II aircraftThe importance of volunteer support, including maintenance, flying, and outreach effortsThe financial realities of keeping historic aircraft operational—costs, insurance, and parts sourcingPilot and crew training pathways for vintage aircraft, including skills like tailwheel experienceThe operational structure of CAF's touring programs and base locationsThe future outlook for flyable warbirds amidst regulatory and insurance challengesPersonal stories from flight experiences and the significance of sharing history through flight00:00 - Introduction and episode overview01:09 - Randall Haskin's background and connection to FIFI04:40 - History and mission of the CAF07:59 - The significance of FIFI in aviation history11:57 - The story of how FIFI was acquired and her journey to flying status14:05 - The costs of maintaining FIFI and other vintage aircraft15:32 - Operating ride programs and funding efforts17:29 - Recruitment of new volunteers and the importance of training20:02 - Parts sourcing and restoration techniques23:47 - Developing future pilots and mechanics34:22 - Tour schedules and deployment locations36:56 - Volunteer maintenance and crew rotations39:18 - The challenges and opportunities facing warbird preservation41:53 - The importance of professional standards and safety44:30 - Flying FIFI: cockpit experience and flight dynamics54:42 - The personal and emotional significance of sharing aviation history61:19 - Randall's call sign and closing thoughts ⁠Air Power Tour⁠⁠Air Power Squadron⁠⁠Commemorative Air Force⁠⁠FIFI The B-29 Superfortress - Official CAF Info⁠⁠Volunteer Opportunities with CAF⁠⁠Kermit Weeks' Collection of Warbirds⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠CAF Membership & Volunteer Info⁠Thank you for listening and exploring the dedicated efforts to keep aviation history alive through active restoration, education, and volunteer work!Preserving Living History: Inside the CAF and the Flight of FIFIKey Topics:Timestamps:Resources & Links:Connect with Randall Haskin: Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WE HIGHLIGHT NEW ORGANIZATIONS EVERY MONTH ON THE FIRST AND THIRD MONDAYSSupport Doing Good: ⁠⁠⁠Donate Here⁠⁠⁠For anyone wondering how volunteer work can reconnect you to your purpose while transforming students' lives, Laurie Brown, CEO of Intrepid College Prep and Board Chair of Persist Nashville, shares why first-generation college students need more than just admission letters to succeed. We explore the critical gap between college access and college completion, discover how professional coaching changes outcomes for MNPS graduates, and learn practical ways busy professionals can find volunteer opportunities that fill their cup.Featured Guest: Laurie Brown — CEO of Intrepid College Prep & Board Chair of Persist NashvilleWhat You'll Learn:✅ Why the first two years of college are make-or-break for first-generation students and how coaching helps them persist✅ How Persist Nashville's data-driven approach partners with MNPS schools to track student outcomes from senior year through college✅ How to reframe volunteerism as a two-way investment that fills your cup while serving your communityChapters00:00 Introduction to Lori Brown and Her Journey03:14 The Importance of Advocacy in Education06:06 Persist Nashville: Supporting College Access and Persistence09:00 The Role of a Board Chair in Nonprofit Organizations12:00 Success Stories and Impact of Volunteerism14:34 The Value of Micro Moments in Volunteer Work17:21 Future Aspirations in Volunteerism and Advocacy30:29 Introduction to Heart Work and Community Impact30:56 Doing Good Outro 26-Video-Only-V3.mp4Resources & Mentions: ⁠Persist Nashville⁠ ⁠Intrepid College Prep⁠ ⁠Teach for America Nashville⁠Connect with Us:Website: ⁠Doing Good⁠ Social Media: ⁠All Links⁠ Blog: ⁠Featured Volunteers⁠ Support the show: ⁠Donate Here⁠Credits:Produced by Azilee Maetke Music by Hartzmann Edited by Jordan RilleraAdditional Editing by Jay Wilson

Brandon Butler and Nathan "Shags" McLeod sit down with Curt Morgret and Doug Grove from Mid-Missouri Trout Unlimited to talk cold-water conservation, share fly fishing stories, and how Mid-Missouri Trout Unlimited is protecting Missouri's trout waters.Plus details on their 2026 fundraising banquet and the always unpredictable Mystery Bait Bucket question.For more info:Mid-MoTrout Unlimited WebsiteMid-Mo Trout Unlimited BanquetMid-Mo Trout Unlimited FB pageSpecial thanks to:Living The Dream Outdoor PropertiesSuperior Foam Insulation LLCDoolittle TrailersScenic Rivers TaxidermyConnect with Driftwood Outdoors:FacebookInstagramYouTubeEmail:info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Chuck's surprised some veteran QBs aren't maximizing their financial opportunities in college. Chuck and Heath discuss Joey Aguilar's lawsuit to try and get another year to play for Tennessee. Dave Bartoo of CFB Matrix joins for his weekly visit. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - With backpacks, clipboards, and compassion, Wenatchee volunteers hit the streets to count — and connect with — their homeless neighbors.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony Basilio talks the Volunteers' Joey Aguilar case and the guys preview Super Bowl LX's biggest storylines

This episode of Stories of Hope offers a heartfelt glimpse into a love story that began in Mexico through shared mission work. Boone and Anna reflect on the past year of their lives—one marked by service, growth, and a deepening commitment to one another. Brought together while building homes and serving alongside Project Mexico, their relationship was shaped and strengthened through daily life on mission. As they prepare to step into their next chapter, Boone and Anna share how faith, service, and community laid the foundation for both their work and their life together. This episode is a celebration of vocation, love, and the unexpected ways mission work can transform lives.

In 2007, four British servicemen perched on the wings of an Apache helicopter in Afghanistan, in an audacious mission to rescue a fallen comrade. Lance Corporal Mathew Ford was part of a unit which had attacked Jugroom Fort - a major Taliban command and control centre in Helmand Province, but he was left behind after a frantic withdrawal.Volunteers put themselves forward for a risky rescue attempt, which would become legendary in military circles. Captain Chris Fraser-Perry was a 19-year-old British Royal Marine who took part in the mission. He speaks to Kevin Core. Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more. Recent episodes explore everything from the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina's Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall' speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler's List; and Jacques Derrida, France's ‘rock star' philosopher. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world's oldest languages.(Photo: Captain Dave Rigg (l) and Captain Chris Fraser-Perry strapped to an Apache helicopter, Afghanistan 2007. Credit: Sgt Gary Stanton)

Bad attitudes on worship teams aren't a personality problem — they're a leadership and systems problem.In this episode, we explore why worship teams become frustrated or disengaged, what's actually causing it beneath the surface, and how leaders can create a healthier culture without pushing people harder.If your team's attitude feels off, this episode will help you diagnose why.Check out our FREE Team Night Guide: https://getmxu.com/resources/team-night-guide/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=attitudeFREE RESOURCES

The 8am hour of Monday's Mac & Cube started off with Ralph Russo, from The Athletic, tells us what the CSC actually means in the College Football world, and if self-governance would make a better product for CFB; then, the guys look at the Portal haul of Tennessee; and later, sticking with Tennessee, Cole & Greg get into the schedule the Volunteers will face in 2026. "McElroy & Cubelic In The Morning" airs 7am-10am weekdays on WJOX-94.5!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Special Guest: Scott Jennie | Firefighter Cancer Support NetworkIn this powerful and timely episode, the crew sits down with retired Captain Scott Jennie, National Training Program Manager and California State Director for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN). This conversation dives deep into the realities of occupational cancer in the fire service, the cultural shifts needed to protect firefighters, and the life-saving resources available when the unthinkable happens.

A Race Against the Cold When temperatures plummet below freezing in Winchester, Virginia, Robyn Miller's phone doesn't stop ringing. As Executive Director of WATTS (Winchester Area Temporary Transitional Shelter), she oversees a lifesaving operation that runs 24 hours a day during the coldest months of the year.  In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael talks with Robyn about how this winter has tested her team like never before, with sustained sub-zero temperatures creating dangerous conditions for the area's homeless population. The organization's founding story serves as a stark reminder of what's at stake. Years ago, someone froze to death on Winchester's streets because they had nowhere to go. That tragedy sparked the creation of WATTS, and today, Robyn remains laser-focused on ensuring it never happens again. Two Shelters, One Mission WATTS operates through a dual-facility model designed to meet different needs throughout the day. First, the warming center at Montague Avenue United Methodist Church opens its doors from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM providing a safe haven during daylight hours. During this brutal cold snap, staff have extended hours beyond their typical 1:00 PM closing time, recognizing that many people won't seek overnight shelter for various personal reasons. Meanwhile, the overnight shelter rotates through 21 host churches across the community, currently welcoming up to 45 guests each night from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM. This week, Christ Episcopal Church downtown serves as the temporary home, conveniently located where guests can walk directly to the entrance without needing bus transportation. Breaking Down Barriers to Safety Getting people through the door requires more than just opening it. Robyn explains that safety concerns keep many homeless individuals from seeking shelter, so WATTS has implemented strict protocols to address these fears. Staff conduct light searches to ensure no drugs, alcohol, or weapons enter the facility, creating an environment where everyone can rest without worry. Furthermore, the shelter maintains two staff members on duty throughout the night, checking on guests regularly. This vigilance proves especially critical given that many residents struggle with serious health issues, including seizures. The staff doesn't just monitor—they actively care, ensuring each person breathes safely through the night. The entry requirements remain intentionally minimal. Anyone over 18 can walk in and give a name—it doesn't even have to be their real one. Guests need only bring a light bag of necessities, a policy designed to prevent bedbug infestations while still accommodating essential belongings. Beyond a Warm Bed While immediate shelter saves lives, WATTS aims higher. The organization employs dedicated case managers who work with guests willing to take the next steps toward stability. Already in January alone, the team has housed five people and helped three others enter rehabilitation programs. Additionally, they've assisted two individuals in returning to their home communities outside the area. This comprehensive approach extends to WATTS' partnership with the Winchester Police Department's Addiction Recovery Program and their ownership of two transitional homes through a collaboration with 143 Transformations. Robyn emphasizes a crucial point: you can't simply hand someone who's been chronically homeless for 13 years the keys to an apartment and expect success. Instead, staff work daily with residents, helping them relearn or update skills for navigating systems that provide food, transportation, and other essential services. The Community Responds The warming center's current needs reflect the intensity of this winter's demands. Coffee flies off the shelves—Robyn reports they're down to their last five pounds of sugar. Guests particularly appreciate flavored creamers, a small luxury that brings comfort during difficult times. Beyond beverages, the center welcomes snacks, baked goods, and even gallons of milk. Moreover, WinReady bus cards have become invaluable. Many WATTS guests maintain employment and need reliable transportation to work, while others require rides to medical appointments. With sidewalks transformed into what local news dubbed "snowcrete" - concrete- hard ice impossible to remove - safe transportation has become even more critical. Counting the Invisible This week marks the annual Point in Time Count, a nationwide effort to quantify homelessness. Volunteers fan out across the region from Harrisonburg to Winchester, visiting encampments, shelters, and motels to ask a simple question: are you homeless? The count typically reveals around 400 people in the region, but Robyn knows the real number tells a different story. Using the McKinney-Vento Rule, advocates multiply the official count by ten, estimating approximately 4,000 people experience homelessness across the area. This discrepancy exists for several reasons: some individuals hide in locations volunteers never find, others refuse to be counted for privacy reasons, and families with children fall under a completely different counting system managed by the State Department of Education. These numbers matter beyond statistics. Federal funding for low-income housing depends directly on these counts, making accurate data essential for addressing the crisis long-term. The Coldest Night of the Year On February 28th, WATTS will host its largest fundraiser, responsible for a quarter of the organization's operational budget. The Coldest Night of the Year walk brings together hundreds of community members for a simple 2K stroll through downtown Winchester, with a more challenging 5K option winding through the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley. Last year, 800 participants braved the elements. This year, Robyn hopes for even more, especially since the event will feature guest speaker Lauryn Ricketts alongside a former WATTS guest who now works for the organization. This employee will share her firsthand experience of falling into homelessness and the tremendous effort required to escape it. The walk serves multiple purposes beyond fundraising. Guests currently experiencing homelessness watch participants pass by, seeing tangible proof that their community hasn't forgotten them. Many of these individuals grew up in Winchester—this is their home—and they often express feeling left behind as the area's costs skyrocket faster than their fixed incomes can match. A Purely Private Mission Unlike many social service organizations, WATTS receives zero state, federal, or local government funding. Every dollar comes from individual donors, fundraising events, and participating churches. This complete reliance on private support makes community engagement not just helpful but absolutely essential. Robyn runs WATTS as a business because it must be one—with insurance, electrical bills, a bus to maintain, trained staff to employ, and operational expenses that don't pause for winter storms. The recent snow has driven costs even higher, yet turning people away simply isn't an option when lives hang in the balance. Looking Ahead As this brutal winter continues, Robyn remains focused on her primary goal: ensuring no one freezes to death on Winchester's streets. The warming center stays open, the overnight shelter rotates through its church partners, and case managers continue working to transition people from temporary shelter to permanent housing. For those wanting to help, the path forward is clear. Donate supplies to the warming center at 102 Montague Avenue between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Sign up for the Coldest Night of the Year walk at https://cnoy.com/location/winchester or through the WATTS website. Write a check. Share social media posts. Every action counts. Because ultimately, WATTS operates on a simple but powerful principle: everyone deserves a home and a door they can close to be safe. Until that becomes reality for every person in the Winchester area, Robyn and her team will keep fighting the freeze, one guest at a time.

Discover the spiritual pathway following a commitment to Jesus Christ. Pastor Phil Elmore shares insights at Christian Life Center in Dayton Ohio regarding engagement through faith. The 90% rule emphasizes the impact of daily Bible reading, joining a small group, and serving others. Heart transformation leads to a life of purpose and good works. Explore next steps such as baptism or Growth Track to find a place of connection and service. Engagement brings growth and deeper understanding of the living Word. Every step matters in the journey of faith. Pastor: Phil Elmore Series: Now What? Title: Discovering your Spiritual Pathway Date: 2026.01.31+02.01   LINKS:

Guest: Danielle Clode. The conversation explores eucalyptus regeneration, the complexity of arson, specific vegetation flammability, and the origins of Australia's volunteer fire brigades in insurance companies.1930 AUSTRALIA

Sean Lewis talks about his early caving in Indiana, including drawing up what's become Matt's favorite cave map. He also shares about the ongoing Fisher Ridge project with which he's been involved for years, as well as expedition trips in Mexico in this first of a two-part interview that scratches the surface of his prolific caving life.Order a custom cave suit from our sponsor, Sophireaptress!https://www.sophireaptress.com/Order custom cave survey notes from Custom Cave Pages:https://www.customcavepages.com/REGISTER for the 2026 NSS Conventionhttps://caves.org/convention/2026-nss-convention/Volunteer coordinator for ConventionEmail 2026Convention@caves.orgNSS Calendar of Eventshttps://caves.org/calendar/Find your local grotto!https://caves.org/committee/i-o/grottos/new_grotto_page-v2.shtml

Keywordstree planting, community engagement, climate action, Avon Needs Trees, sustainable practices, tree care, volunteerism, Echo Wood, environmental awareness, biodiversitySummaryIn this engaging conversation, Wem speaks with Susan Barker from Avon Needs Trees about the importance of community tree planting and care. Susan shares her journey from academia to horticulture, highlighting the mission of Avon Needs Trees in combating climate change through woodland creation. They discuss the significance of community involvement, sustainable practices in tree care, and the emotional aspects of confronting climate change. The conversation also touches on the innovative Echo Wood project, which aims to create a living artwork through tree planting, and the importance of fostering connections with nature.TakeawaysSusan Barker transitioned from academia to horticulture due to stress and a desire to work with nature.Avon Needs Trees focuses on creating permanent woodlands to combat climate change and biodiversity loss.Community engagement is crucial for the success of tree planting initiatives.Sustainable tree care practices are essential for the long-term health of planted trees.Volunteers play a significant role in tree planting and care, fostering a sense of ownership.Echo Wood is a living artwork project that involves planting 365 trees in a circular design.Emotional well-being is supported through active participation in environmental initiatives.The organization emphasizes the importance of local actions in response to global climate issues.Conversations about climate change should balance despair with hope and actionable steps.The survival rate of trees planted by Avon Needs Trees is impressively high, averaging around 93%.Sound bites"The tree care is so meditative.""We want to have those conversations.""It's the little things that citizens do that matter."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Avon Needs Trees and Susan Barker07:39 Susan's Journey from Academia to Horticulture12:46 The Birth of Avon Needs Trees18:49 Land Acquisition and Community Engagement25:09 Tree Planting and Care Practices29:43 The Challenges of Tree Planting30:50 Creating a Community Woodland32:27 Survival Rates and Long-Term Care34:50 Engaging the Community41:44 Introducing Echo Wood49:22 Confronting Climate Change Emotionally01:00:21 Pod Cat.mp4

Dozens of volunteers from the group known as COPE hand out food, clothing and other supplies. People who are unhoused, many of them sleeping out in the cold, have come to rely on the weekly outreach effort.

Did you know that The United Nations has designated 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY 2026), the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, and the International Year of the Woman Farmer? Join Food Sleuth Radio host and Registered Dietitian, Melinda Hemmelgarn for her conversation with Seth Itzkan, environmental futurist and cofounder of Soil4Climate, an international nongovernmental organization advancing the science, policy and practice of soil restoration through regenerative grazing and agroforestry practices as a climate solution. Itzkan discusses the role ruminants play in agriculture, soil restoration and sustainability. For state policies on soil health, see: https://nerdsforearth.com/state-healthy-soils-policy/ ; and for the  Friends of the Earth report on the misconceptions on  No-Till Farming, see: https://foe.org/resources/rethinking-no-till/Related Websites: www.soil4climate.org

Welcome to Episode 206 of Inside The Line: The Catskill Mountains Podcast! This week, Tad and I chat with Kaitlyn Supa, who lost her cat Walter, for 29 days after camping in the Catskills. Kaitlyn shares how Walter escaped, what it took from her and the community and what it was like when the day he was rescued. We also chat about the recent snowstorm and a rescue on the Fisherman's path. Make sure to subscribe on your favorite platform, share the show, donate if you feel like it… or just keep tuning in. I'm just grateful you're here. And as always... VOLUNTEER!!!!Links for the Podcast: https://linktr.ee/ISLCatskillsPodcast, Donate a coffee to support the show! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ITLCatskills, Like to be a sponsor or monthly supporter of the show? Go here! - https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ITLCatskills/membershipThanks to the sponsors of the show: Outdoor chronicles photography - https://www.outdoorchroniclesphotography.com/, Trailbound Project - https://www.trailboundproject.com/, Camp Catskill - https://campcatskill.co/, Another Summit - https://www.guardianrevival.org/programs/another-summitLinks: Times Union Article, Nexguard, Tracktive TrackerVolunteer Opportunities: Trailhead stewards for 3500 Club -https://www.catskill3500club.org/trailhead-stewardship, Catskills Trail Crew - https://www.nynjtc.org/trailcrew/catskills-trail-crew, NYNJTC Volunteering - https://www.nynjtc.org/catskills, Catskill Center - https://catskillcenter.org/, Catskill Mountain Club - https://catskillmountainclub.org/about-us/, Catskill Mountainkeeper - https://www.catskillmountainkeeper.org/ Post Hike Brews and Bites - Hudson North #rescue #catrescue #hikethehudson #hudsonvalleyhiking #NYC #history #husdonvalley #hikingNY #kaaterskill #bluehole #catskillhiking #visitcatskills #catskillstrails #catskillmountains #3500 #catskills #catskillpark #catskillshiker #catskillmountainsnewyork #hiking #catskill3500club #catskill3500 #hikethecatskills #hikehudson

San Francisco Giants manager Tony Vitello joins the show for a fun, wide-ranging “get to know you” conversation!Vitello talks about the players he grew up watching, his hometown roots, first concerts and music taste, and the excitement of stepping into his first season managing in the big leagues with the Giants.From clubhouse culture to his favorite ballpark food, this episode offers a personal look at the new skipper beyond the dugout!Subscribe & stay connected: 

Learn more about Wheels for the World here! --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Woof what a WEEK (spoken for the past 63 weeks in a row).But luckily your angels over at Text Me Back Podcast are here to break it up for you. No AI slop here–just hot juicy human junkyard waste ruminating at room temp for about six days. BUT FIRST: Are you seeing insane or unhinged things in the world, politically speaking? Do you have questions? Are you wondering if the things you're seeing are AI deepfakes or the actual horrors of modern life? Write in to Swamp Person! Email us at deartextmeback@gmail.com with SWAMP PERSON in the subject line, or slide into MHM's DMs instagram.com/importantmeagan. And don't forget to subscribe to Swamp Person here.And fyi, we chat about it briefly in this episode but DON'T TALK TO COPS. Stand with Minnesotans and for your own communities. There are a ton of good options on this list put together by Minnesotans for how you can help the people of Minneapolis and the Twin Cities, including: Donate money. Donate food, diapers, and other necessities. Donate blood. Volunteer. Contact your own reps. Boycott businesses and corporations supportive of ICE. Swampy enough for ya? GOOD.Because we HAVE to talk about AI doing something funny and frog related. We have to chat about Long Lost Family UK. We need to get to the REAL headline news of how bald men are treating each other on Reddit. And we really must remind you about the Antiques Roadshow. Please pipe up in the comments about: Should we let frogs be cops?Do you stan a bald man?What wholesome pro-grum is on your telly?Plus a mini-PSA: For all you anxious kittens out there–the BFF Party Phone (703) 829-0003 runs no risk of actual interpersonal interactions fyi! We welcome your voicemails to tell us anything you like! Tell us a ghost story, give us a mystery, tell us (in the words of Meagan Hatcher-Mays) whater yourzzzz?Last but not least, we finally talk about Heated Rivalry (but ONLY a little!). And do you have thoughts on Bugonia? This is what the discord is for over at patreon.com/textmebackpodNEVER LISTENED TO THE POD BEFORE? HERE IS YOUR STARTER KIT TO BEING BFFS WITH US!Meet Kevin in: Lindy and Meagan Need to Talk About KevinLearn why they keep saying BBW in Lindy and Meagan Are Officially BBWsDiscover the Kayak Dad Lore in: It's Our First Episode!WE NEED OUR ACCOLADES! It helps people find the show.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 stars only please) on Spotify⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 stars only please) on Apple PodcastsGive us Rave Reviews and Accolades on Apple Podcasts! REAL LIFE EXAMPLE:I hate my job, I hate it more than anyone who has ever hated a job. It's truly, unbelievably, meaningless and if it disappeared tomorrow not a soul would know about it. I have been looking for another, don't you worry. These ladies get me through my work day in a way no one else can. Just when I think I cannot sit one more minute at my desk they say something so silly that I LAUGH and can persevere toward the end of my day. I love these angels and demon Kevin, too.AP14683 BABES IT WOULD BE A LIE IF WE SAID WE DIDN'T KNOW THAT FEELING! THE MOMENT YOU QUIT THAT JOB WILL FEEL SO GOOD!!!! YOU GOT THIS AND WE GOT U!!!!!!STUFF TO CHECK OUT:Bald RedditFrog princess police reportPre-Order Lindy's book!!!! Adult BracesNEWSLETTER ME BACK (A FREE WAY TO SUPPORT THE SHOW!)Check out SWAMP PERSON Subscribe to Lindy's newsletter butt news!Check out our MERCH so we can make MORE merch!! (Patrons get a discount, so check us out at patreon.com/textmebackpod)Listen Ad-Free by joining our $12 Patreon tier Freakaconda!Subscribe to Lindy's newsletter butt news!Join our Discord! We're obsessed with these people.⋆｡°✩⋆｡°✩⋆｡°✩⋆｡°If you like this episode and want us to keep making the show forever, please subscribe to our Patreon. This podcast will always be free, but we need your help to produce it -- and if you support our Patreon, you'll get all kinds of goodies in addition to the show itself! Learn more about the different tiers and rewards here: https://www.patreon.com/TextMeBackPodAlso! Please keep in touch with us! You can text OR CALL us at the Best Friend Party Phone: (703) 829-0003.We're on Instagram at @textmebackpod!You can email us at deartextmeback@gmail.com!WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU SO BAD!⋆｡°✩⋆｡°✩⋆｡°✩⋆｡°TEXT ME BACK is a production of Lindy West and Meagan Hatcher-Mays, proud members of the BFF Network. Our senior producer is Meagan Hatcher-Mays. Our other senior producer is Lindy West. Our show is produced by Alli Slice.Our music is by Chief Ahamefule J. Oluo. Diana Bowen is our video and creative advisor. Our digital strategist is Chance Nichols.You can also follow the podcast on Instagram and TikTok @textmebackpod. 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ALL YOU NEED IS KILL MOVIE REVIEW In the year 20XX, a massive and mysterious flower known as Darol suddenly appears in Japan. Volunteers are sent in to help with cleanup and rebuilding, including Rita, a resourceful but isolated young woman who has never quite fit in. When Darol emits a deafening signal, its fruit […]

The Baltimore Rock Opera Society creates original productions powered by DIY spectacle and a love of the unconventional.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In Russia, Brett Forrest investigates Billy's path, visiting a Rostov-on-Don volunteer camp and seeking associates like Mikhail Polynov. He analyzes Billy's strange travel photos and highlights the suspicious timing of FBI handler Tim Reintjes' visit to the Riley family immediately following Billy's disappearance.1917 ROSTOV ON DON