Episodit
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Today we're catching up with Russ Cassavah, founder and president of Little Bricks Charity. It's been over a year since we last spoke with Russ, and the changes in his organization are remarkable.
In this episode, Russ shares how Little Bricks Charity has transformed its approach to helping hospitalized children. We'll hear about their innovative livestream building sessions that combine LEGO construction with educational content, including collaborations with local zoos.
A highlight of their new initiatives is the "Happy Puck" - a custom LEGO set designed as both a communication tool for children in hospitals and a creative fundraising opportunity. This hockey puck-themed set allows kids to express their emotions without words and serves as a physical reminder to seek happiness. It's also part of an exciting partnership with the local Norfolk Admirals hockey team and the ECHL.
Russ's journey demonstrates how smaller nonprofits can evolve by embracing feedback, fostering partnerships, and thinking creatively about their mission. Let's dive in to hear how Little Bricks Charity is using LEGO, technology, and innovative ideas to bring more joy and support to kids in hospitals.
Links from this episode:
Little Bricks Charity
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In this episode, Binky Patrol founder Susan Finch delivers a candid and passionate message about the importance of quality in our mission to comfort children through handmade blankets. Susan's 'tough love' approach tackles a growing concern: the influx of hastily-made fleece blankets that don't quite meet the mark.
Get ready for a mix of hands-on tips, heartfelt pleas, and a dash of humor as Susan guides us through the do's and don'ts of creating blankets that truly show care. Whether you're a long-time volunteer, a community service seeker, or just curious about how to make a difference, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
So, grab your scissors, settle in, and let's learn how to put our best stitch forward for the kids who need it most. It's time to tie up some loose ends – literally and figuratively – on 'All-Volunteer, All Heart.'"
Links from this episode:
https://binkypatrol.org/category/patterns/fleece-blanket-patterns/
https://binkypatrol.org
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In this episode, we join Susan Finch as she chats with Kimberly Legg, who runs the Temecula chapter in California. Prepare for a story that's hilarious and inspiring, as Kimberly recounts how she unexpectedly became the recipient of a truly massive fabric donation - we're talking about $30,000 worth of material!
How did this fabric bonanza come about? Well, it all started with a late quilter's playful revenge on her golf-obsessed husband. What follows is a delightful conversation about managing this overwhelming gift, the creative ways Kimberly's chapter is putting it to good use, and how one person's quirky hobby has turned into an incredible legacy of comfort for countless children and families in need.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to be amazed by the power of generosity, community spirit, and a whole lot of Raggedy Ann and Andy fabric!
https://michellesplace.org/
https://wishesanddreamers.org
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#joeythebear #raggedyanne #raggedyandy #binkypatrol #temecula
#temeculavalley #makingadifference #thingstodoinsocal #thingstodointemecula #temeculaca #winchester #Cityoftemecula #Gratitude #volunteerappreciation #temeculavalley #makingadifference #thingstodointemecula #temeculaca #Cityoftemecula #cancercentervolunteer #communitymatters #bettertogether #supportingyourneighbors #cancersupportcommunity #connectedbycommunity #communitycomingtogether #temeculatalk #murrietatalk #fallbrooktalk
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Our topic today is Quilting for Community: From Grief to Nonprofit Success with guest Lizz Leral, Executive Director of Quilting for Community. She shares how personal loss sparked a quilting journey that grew into a thriving nonprofit. You'll hear her story and ideas about:
Transforming personal healing into community serviceBuilding an intergenerational crafting communityCreative fundraising through a fabric thrift storeBalancing volunteer passion with business necessitiesLearn how quilting fosters connections and supports those in need.
Lizz Leral, a Philadelphia transplant, founded Quilting for Community in Los Angeles in 2018 after losing her Dad. Previous to quilting, Lizz was a singer/songwriter and independently released 3 albums under her moniker Lizz Fields. Her professional experiences revolved around performing, teaching, and creating.
Upon discovering quilting to be emotionally & mentally beneficial, Lizz had the vision to create a space for the community to learn quilting, free of charge. “Newbies” learn the basics, then after 3-4 quilts, they guide the next batch of newbies. The classroom quilts are donated to those in hospice, hospitals, and shelters. Since its inception, Quilting for Community has delivered 1,423 quilts and taught 679 students.
Social Mediahttps://www.tiktok.com/quiltingforcommunity https://www.instagram.com/quiltingforcommunity/https://www.facebook.com/quiltingforcommunity
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Susan Finch of Binky Patrol interviews Mara James, founder and CEO of the Extraordinary Lives Foundation (ELF). Listeners will learn about ELF's mission to improve children's mental health and emotional wellness through programs like Piggie Bear and the HUGS School Life Healing Center. Mara shares her personal journey of overcoming mental health challenges and how it inspired her to create tools for children to build emotional awareness and resilience.
The episode highlights the importance of teaching children emotional wellness skills from an early age, reframing mental health challenges in a positive light, and providing holistic healing options. Listeners will discover how Piggie Bear books and plush toys are being used in schools and hospitals to help children cope with difficult emotions. For those working with or caring for children experiencing trauma or emotional challenges, this episode offers valuable insights into innovative, compassionate approaches to supporting young people's mental health and well-being.
Links from this episode:
https://elfempowers.org
https://hugslife.org
https://binkypatrol.org
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There are many ways to list your volunteer opportunities. This short episode goes over some of our favorite volunteer and matching fund portals. They include: volunteermatch.org, benevity.com, and joindeed.org.
Tips include:
Have a checkbox that they agree to have their photos taken and used for your site and social media accountsLink to a form if you are posting this somewhere like NextDoor or Facebook to get their info into your databaseInclude a checkbox for privacy policies and your promises to them.Be detailed and keep the opportunities simple. Create a short video for the opportunity landing pages and specific landing pages on your site encouraging people to volunteer. -
Susan Finch, founder of Binky Patrol, discusses the importance of having a cohesive branding package for nonprofit organizations looking to scale up. She shares insights from her own experience, highlighting the need for consistent messaging, logos, fonts, and phrasing across all chapters and volunteers. Susan also touches on the benefits of streamlining processes, such as providing digital patterns and outsourcing printing, to save time and money. By creating a comprehensive branding guide, nonprofits can ensure that their volunteers have the tools they need to represent the organization effectively and maintain a strong, recognizable brand. Whether you're a small nonprofit just starting out or an established organization looking to grow, this episode offers valuable advice on the power of branding and the steps you can take to create a cohesive brand identity.
Overall takeaways:
A cohesive branding package is essential for nonprofits looking to scale up and maintain a strong, recognizable brand identity.Consistency in messaging, logos, fonts, colors, and phrasing across all chapters and volunteers is key to building a successful brand.Streamlining processes, such as providing digital patterns and outsourcing printing, can save time and money while ensuring brand consistency.Maintaining control over chapter branding and online presence is crucial to protecting the organization's reputation and mission.Creating a comprehensive branding guide empowers volunteers to effectively represent the organization and its values.The Binky Patrol branding guide sample covered in this episode (PDF)
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In the second half of the conversation, Fran Morgan and Donna Robertson from Fabric Cafe share their passion for quilting and discuss the importance of passing down the love for sewing to younger generations. Fran expresses her wish to continue producing excellent books and patterns while expanding their reach to younger quilters, ensuring the craft thrives. The hosts discuss how sewing skipped a generation but is now making a comeback, with people learning through YouTube and other resources. They also touch on the growing trend of repurposing and reusing materials, turning old items into beautiful new creations. Fran and Donna share advice for those who have inherited fabric stashes and those who want to learn to quilt, suggesting they contact local quilt guilds or organizations for guidance and support.
Links from this episode:
Fabric Cafe
3-yard Quilts
Fabric Cafe on YouTube
Fabric Cafe on Instagram
National Bink-A-Thon October 19
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In this heartwarming episode of All Volunteer, All Heart from Binky Patrol, host Susan Finch sits down with the dynamic duo behind Fabric Cafe, Fran Morgan and Donna Robertson. Discover how their passion for quilting led them to leave corporate America and build a thriving business that inspires creativity and joy in the quilting community. Explore the power of quilting to bring people together, create a sense of community, and make a difference in the lives of others. Learn about Fabric Cafe's mission to keep quilting simple, fast, and fun, making it accessible to beginners and experienced quilters alike. Join Susan, Fran, and Donna as they discuss the versatility of quilting, the importance of communication with their audience, and the incredible growth of their YouTube channel since the start of the pandemic. Get ready to be inspired by their infectious enthusiasm and love for the art of quilting.
Links from this episode:
Fabric Cafe
3-yard Quilts
Fabric Cafe on YouTube
Fabric Cafe on Instagram
National Bink-A-Thon October 19
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Jeanne Malgioglio, teacher, Area Coordinator for the Monroe-Trumbull, CT chapter, tells the story of a community grant she received recently. She was a bit intimidated but decided to go for it. This will keep her chapter funded for a very long time and allow her to continue helping other local agencies through the gifts of binkies.
Join us for this short episode to spark ideas, especially for smaller non-profits or chapters of larger ones to secure funding through local community grants.
Visit Jeanne's chapter page here.
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In this episode of All Volunteer All Heart from Binky Patrol, host Susan Finch welcomes Angie Marie, a community leader from Hood River, Oregon. Angie shares her inspiring story of creating Gorge SpeakEasy, a monthly storytelling event that brings together diverse members of the community while supporting local nonprofits. Through volunteer efforts and innovative partnerships with local businesses, Gorge SpeakEasy has become a platform for connection, personal growth, and community impact. Angie and Susan discuss the power of collaboration between organizations and how companies can give back to their communities beyond financial contributions. This episode is a must-listen for businesses seeking creative ways to make a difference in their local areas, emphasizing the exponential impact of cross-organizational cooperation. Join Susan and Angie as they explore the heartwarming potential of storytelling, volunteerism, and community-building.
Gorge Speakeasy on Instagram
Binky Patrol on Instagram
Gorge Speakeasy on Facebook
Binky Patrol on Facebook
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Volunteer time management is often overlooked as a value, as an asset. But it is the most valuable donation your organization receives. The dollars you receive are precious - are they being used most effectively? Tracking the time your staff and volunteers spend will help you see where you are getting the best outcomes and where you may be spinning your wheels. Listen to this short episode for some ideas about time and volunteers.
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Jeanne Malgioglio tells us about her outstanding week at her school. Her students were studying the book, "I Will Always Write Back" by authors Caitlin Alfirenka and Martin Ganda, with Liz Welch. It's a story of friendship, being open to new ideas across the globe and choosing to make things better. Jeanne's students embodied this theme by making over 70 blankets inspired by the story. One of the authors, Caitlin even made an appearance. Susan brought in her own middle school story. Shout out to Walker Jr. High in La Palma. We hope you enjoy this short episode.
Links from this episode:
Jeanne's Binky Patrol chapter page
Walker Jr. High
The book, "I Will Always Write Back."
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Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their attempts to exploit individuals and organizations. As a nonprofit or small business, staying vigilant and protecting yourself from photo copyright infringement scams is crucial. In this informative PSA episode, Susan Finch from All-Volunteer, All Heart from Binky Patrol shares her recent experience with a suspicious email claiming image copyright violations. With the help of an IP attorney friend, Susan dissects the red flags in the email and provides valuable insights on handling such situations. She also offers practical advice on sourcing legitimate images for your website and the importance of having access to legal counsel for your organization. Join us as we explore these critical issues and learn how to safeguard your nonprofit or small business from falling victim to these deceptive schemes. Stay informed, stay protected, and stay focused on making a positive impact in your community.
Key Points:Be cautious when using images on your website, and ensure you have the rights to use them.Consider sourcing images from reputable stock photo websites, hiring a professional photographer, or finding a volunteer.Be wary of suspicious emails claiming copyright infringement, especially those with unprofessional language or sketchy links.Do not click on links in suspicious emails, as they may be attempts to extort money or gain access to sensitive information.Consult with an IP attorney or legal professional if you receive a suspicious email or have concerns about copyright infringement.Consider having a legal consultant on call to review any potential legal issues.Get to know your volunteers and their professional backgrounds, as they may be able to offer valuable expertise to your organization. -
Are you running a small non-profit organization and looking for ways to save money and maximize your resources? In this quick podcast episode, Susan Finch, our founder, shares some valuable tips and resources that can help you streamline your operations and promote your cause more effectively. From free email services to volunteer recruitment platforms, Susan covers a range of tools that can benefit your organization without breaking the bank. Listen in to discover how to take your non-profit to the next level!
Key resources mentioned:Google Workspace: Offers free, unlimited email accounts for non-profits with their domain (e.g., @binkypatrol.org).TechSoup (techsoup.org): Provides discounts on software, equipment, training, and accounting services for 501(c)(3) organizations.Nextdoor: A platform where you can register your non-profit, post events, and engage in conversations with the local community.Local media outlets: Television stations, newspapers, and community broadcasting stations often have opportunities for non-profits to promote events, volunteer opportunities, or share success stories.Local service organizations: Connect with groups like the Scouts, Lions, Elks, and Kiwanis, as they may have resource directories or volunteer opportunities.City resources: Register your 501(c)(3) with your local city to be included in their community resources and post volunteer opportunities.VolunteerMatch (volunteermatch.org): A platform to create and manage volunteer opportunities at a low cost with excellent support and resources for non-profits.Here are some key questions listeners should discuss with their non-profit leadership to identify additional local partners and resources:Have we reached out to local businesses to explore potential partnerships, sponsorships, or in-kind donations?Are there any local community foundations or grant-making organizations that align with our mission and could provide funding opportunities?Have we connected with local schools, universities, or educational institutions to discuss volunteer recruitment, internship programs, or collaborative projects?Are there any local faith-based organizations or religious institutions that share our values and could become partners in our cause?Have we investigated potential partnerships with other local non-profits that have complementary missions or serve similar populations?Are there any local professional associations, trade groups, or industry-specific organizations that could provide resources, expertise, or networking opportunities?Have we explored partnerships with local government agencies, such as social services departments, to identify areas of collaboration or support?Are there any local service clubs, like Rotary or Kiwanis, that we could engage with for volunteer recruitment or community outreach?Have we contacted local media outlets to discuss potential partnerships, such as public service announcements or featured stories?Are there any upcoming local events, festivals, or conferences that we could participate in to raise awareness about our organization and build community connections?By exploring these questions and proactively seeking out local partnerships, non-profit leaders can tap into a wealth of resources and expand their organization's impact within the community.
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Today, we're diving into a topic that's close to our hearts: recognizing and appreciating the incredible volunteers who make our mission possible.
Our volunteers are the lifeblood of our organizations, tirelessly giving their time, energy, and skills to make a difference in the lives of others. They are the unsung heroes who work behind the scenes, often without expecting anything in return. But as nonprofit leaders, it's our job to make sure they feel valued, appreciated, and supported every step of the way.
In this episode, we'll be sharing some creative and affordable ways to show your volunteers just how much they mean to you and your cause. From small tokens of appreciation like pins and stickers to heartfelt gestures like personalized thank-you notes and special events, we'll explore a variety of ideas to help you celebrate your volunteers and keep them motivated and engaged.
So grab a cozy blanket, settle in, and get ready to be inspired by the power of volunteer recognition. Together, we can create a culture of gratitude and support that will help our nonprofits thrive and make an even greater impact in the world.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. We are all in this together, working towards a common goal of making a difference in our communities. So, let's lift each other up, celebrate our successes, and show our volunteers just how much they are appreciated.
Here are some key suggestions for non-profits mentioned in the episode:
Recognize and thank volunteers through small gifts like pins, stickers, or patches. These can be ordered in bulk to last for years and distributed to volunteers at events or through chapters.Apply for grants specifically aimed at volunteer recognition and support to cover the costs of items like pins, stickers, and T-shirts.Partner with organizations like the Girl Scouts or Boy Scouts, who appreciate patches and can help spread awareness about your non-profit.Use services like Vistaprint or lynmar.com to order promotional materials such as brochures, banners, and postcards. Take advantage of coupons and sales to save on costs.Create a store or online platform where chapters can easily order branded items for their volunteers.Organize contests and challenges for chapter leaders and volunteers to engage them and reward participation with small prizes like fabric kits or branded items.Encourage volunteers to wear and use branded items to promote your organization and make it easier for people to learn about your mission and how to get involved.Plan and budget for volunteer recognition initiatives, as they are important for keeping volunteers motivated and committed to your cause long-term.CopyRetry -
Susan Finch is joined by Coleen Gose, a professional speaker and domestic violence survivor, to explore the power of storytelling for nonprofit leaders. Gose's journey from finding her voice to becoming a professional speaker is inspiring and insightful. The episode delves into the importance of nonprofit leaders honing their speaking skills, the value of joining organizations like Toastmasters, and the impact of feedback in improving speaking abilities. Coleen and Susan also discuss the versatility of storytelling across various platforms, such as public speaking, remote presentations, and fundraising.
This episode is packed with valuable advice and encouragement for nonprofit leaders looking to enhance their speaking skills and effectively share their organization's mission and impact. Get ready to be inspired and equipped with practical tips to take the stage with confidence and drive action.
Links from this episode:
Coleen Gose on LinkedIn
Coleen's website
Coleen's book, "A Woman's Journey of a Lifetime: Thriving Through the Transitions of Life."
Find your local Toastmasters Chapter here.
About Coleen Gose:
As a Professional Speaker and Healthy Relationship Coach, Coleen has made it her mission to help corporate professionals build healthy relationships by teaching them transformational skills to build lasting and enriching connections. Coleen believes that we all deserve the room to grow unjudged, take risks, find the best version of ourselves, and still be loved
Coleen earned her BA in Law and Justice from Central Washington University and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. She is a Certified Professional Coach, Certified Trauma Informed Coach and Published Author. She is the founder of Life 2.0 Coaching with Coleen.
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Binky Patrol Director, Terrie Madruga joined Susan to talk about how easy it is to volunteer for Binky Patrol. From sewing on labels to taking phone calls to writing thank you notes. If you want to give us a bit of time, we have ideas to make it easy and fun! Join us for this short episode to support our chapter leaders and spark ideas in your heart.
Learn more ways to help at https://binkypatrol.org/ways-to-help/ . We hope to hear from you soon!
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Looking for ways to build community in your workplace or neighborhood? In this week's fun and uplifting episode, we talk to Rebecca Heinen who used her passion for crocheting to connect with others across 36 states and counting. Rebecca shares how she started "A Stitch in Every State" to donate handmade crochet items to organizations in need and how it accidentally helped her form bonds at her new job. Tune in to hear Rebecca's creative ideas for starting conversations, from math puzzles to crocheted cat toys, as well as where she finds resources to fund her craft. Her story shows that a hobby like crocheting can make a big difference, stitch by stitch. So grab your yarn and join us for an inspiring chat about building community through crafting.
Links from this episode:
OwlBHooked Etsy
“Call the Midwife” Pattern (apparently, she wrote the pattern from the show!)
Chill Pill Pattern (one of Rebecca's go to for gifts/prizes at work)
Rebecca Heinen on LinkedIn
Ear Savers
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Upgrading your nonprofit's online presence can be daunting, especially with limited resources. In this insightful episode, we walk through the initial steps small nonprofits should take when considering revamping their website. Susan shares practical tips on evaluating your current site, defining goals for an upgraded one, estimating costs, and more. Even if a full site overhaul isn't feasible now, Susan offers simple ways to make improvements, like updating content and switching to a more sustainable web host. Tune in to get an introductory game plan for sprucing up your nonprofit's digital face to better serve your community. With Susan's guidance, you'll be well on your way to an achievable website upgrade.
See the new Binky Patrol website here.
Tools mentioned in this episode:
TechSoup
ThemeForest.net
Avada
Rocket.net
Google Analytics
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