Episodes
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In this segment from a recent Binky Patrol meeting, Area Coordinators who participated in the MrBallen Bink-a-Thon event share strategies for volunteer recruitment. Caitlin Peterson-Woolard discusses challenges with community outreach, while experienced coordinators Susan Finch, Terrie Madruga, Kathy Taylor, and Jeanne Malgioglio offer proven solutions including:
Leveraging church bulletins and service organizationsEngaging high school sports teams and clubsUtilizing corporate volunteer programsMaintaining relationships with past volunteersStrategic use of social media and local publicationsThe discussion highlights immediate tactics and long-term relationship-building for expanding their volunteer base. We hope you find it helpful! So many ideas that only take a bit of time and digging for the best contacts.
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In this first episode of our special two-part series, we're taking you inside our nationwide Bink-A-Thon debrief meeting, where chapter coordinators share their heartwarming stories from this year's MrBallen Foundation event. From Meridian, Idaho to Connecticut, from Southern California to Virginia, our volunteers united in their mission to create comfort one blanket at a time.
Join Susan Finch and chapter leaders, including Kathy Taylor from Irvine/Orange County, whose partnership with Girl Scouts doubled their volunteer turnout; Jeanne Malgioglio from Connecticut, whose team completed 145 blankets for Al's Angels and the Center for Family Justice; Director Terrie Madruga, who launched a new chapter in Meridian, ID with patriotic scarves for veterans; and Caitlin Peterson-Woolard from Woodbridge/Lexington, whose Girl Scout volunteers showed incredible enthusiasm, completing 15 blankets in just 30 minutes plus the 150 made the by the rest of the group. These stories showcase the power of community service and the impact of dedicated volunteers nationwide.
Learn more about Bink-A-Thons here.
Connect with the chapters featured in this episode here:
Jeanne Malgioglio - Monroe/Trumbull, CT
Caitlin Peterson - Lexington, VA
Terrie Madruga - Meridian, ID
Kathy Taylor - Irvine, CA
Susan Finch - Beaverton, OR
Thank you to the MrBallen Foundation for sponsoring this event!
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In this episode, we're joined by Keri Banghart from Microsoft's Corporate, External and Legal Affairs team in Seattle. Keri recently organized a blanket-making event for her team as part of Microsoft's annual giving campaign. We'll discuss how they set up the event, its impact on local and remote team members, and the creative ways they're supporting their community. Keri shares insights on coordinating volunteer efforts in a large corporation and how these initiatives foster team bonding while making a difference. We'll also explore the power of hands-on volunteering and its ripple effect in raising awareness for local needs. Join us for an inspiring conversation about corporate giving, community impact, and the joy of creating comfort for those in need.
Action Item List: Lot of ideas here - https://binkypatrol.org/ways-to-help/
Organize a blanket-making event for your team or companyResearch local shelters or organizations in need of blanket donationsSet up remote participation options for team members who can't attend in personPrepare materials in advance (e.g., pre-cut fabric) to streamline the eventTrack volunteer hours and utilize company matching programs for donationsTake photos of the event and completed blankets for sharing and promotionConsider partnering with other organizations or nonprofits for larger eventsExplore options for regular or annual volunteering eventsInvolve family members and friends in blanket-making activitiesShare your experience with other departments or companies to inspire similar initiatives#MicrosoftGives#MicrosoftVolunteers#MicrosoftCommunity#TechForGood#MicrosoftCSR#CorporateGiving#VolunteerEngagement#RemoteVolunteering#CommunityImpact#TeamBuildingForGood
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We had talked about the man who lost his wife in the Temecula area. It was a funny tale about golfing, hobbies, and fabric. But it has turned into a beautiful relationship and legacy. Temecula Area Coordinator, Kimberly Legg joins Susan to give an update about their chapter's newest volunteer and patron, Mr. Karl. Let's just say the Temecula chapter is SET for their Bink-A-Thon October 19. Mr. Ballen Foundation has sponsored each chapter's events, but there's a new donor in town - Mr. Karl fills Kim's livingroom - again - with enough fleece for hundreds of binkies!
We are sad for Mr. Karl's loss of his wife of so many years. Sometimes we can look at these losses and see some sunlight. Listen to the quick update.
Here's the original story.
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Today is a short episode requesting you consider these requests:
Consider starting a local chapter - 2 - 100 people! Great way to build community and make friends. (info here)
Make binkies, aka blankets. We can send you the labels. (info here)
Host a Bink-A-Thon at your company or in your community - we'll give you all the stuff you need. (what's a bink-a-thon?)
Sponsor Binky Patrol - podcast, website, events - request a sponsor package. (info here) (request a package)
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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
#volunteersmakeadifference #donationsmakeadifference #Childrenshospitals #volunteers #wishersanddreamershospitalgowns #wishersanddreamersdollgowns #childrenshospital #
#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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