Episoder
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Before I share this weekās gift and donation I have an update about a donation I made a few weeks ago to the Trilogy Maui Fire fund. You can listen to the entire message but Iāll share this part here.
āAt this time, a confirmed 32 members of our Trilogy crew and staff, nearly a third of our workforce, have lost their homes. As we continue our fundraising efforts, we remind you that each contribution will go directly to our staff who have been directly impacted.ā
This is a reminder to us all that the people of Maui still need our help.
Gift of the Week
When you find something unique itās got to be shared! This week itās a great childrenās book. Though itās for young kids, I enjoyed it too. The title: This is How We Do It, One Day in the Lives of Seven Kids from Around the World by Matt Lamothe.
This is how we do it . . . Do you remember that song? Now you wonāt be able to get it out of your head.
This book was perfect for my friendās son who just turned 2. The author is also an illustrator and animator and itās lovely. Itās a great book for parents to read to children. Itās also a great way for kids to learn that there are kids like them all over the world.
Donation of the Week
Give Directly was this weekās recipient. It was a campaign that was mentioned on the Jordan Harbinger show.
Jordan and his company put up a match challenge to raise funds called āLift 2 Villagesā. The funds will be transferred directly to families with substantial needs. The families typically live on $2 a day and itās expected that the funds will go towards basic needs, access to water, and resources to help them take care of their families.
I love how they explain the concept of donating cash directly to people who need it. From the website: Despite the stereotypes, recipients of cash do not systematically waste or misuse it. We believe people living in poverty deserve the dignity to choose for themselves how best to improve their lives ā cash enables that choice.
I hope youāll check out the campaign and donate if youāre able.
Links
Trilogy Maui Fire Fund
KÄkoŹ»o Maui Match Donation Fund, a campaign by the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement
āÄina Momona Emergency Fundraiser for Maui Fires
This week's gifts:
This is How We Do It by Matt Lamothe
Lift 2 Villages campaign through Give Directly
Title Note: Lyrics from Montell Jordan's 1995 hit song "This Is How We Do It." Also, you might enjoy this bit of internet genius: This is Howie Dewitt
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
If youād like to support the show, you can send me your gift ideas or suggestions for nonprofit organizations that are doing great work where you are at [email protected] . You can also become an annual supporter or a nonprofit supporter by visiting my podcast page.
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Mangler du episoder?
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If I were to change the tagline on this podcast from āthe podcast that keeps on giving,ā it would be āitās NOT the thought that counts.ā Let me explain. I was one of those people who always had good intentions but didnāt follow through. Iād see the perfect gift for someone but didnāt share it, so the thought ended up not really "counting" at all. Now that I am giving people the fun or unique gift thatās just right for them, both the recipient and I are benefitting from going beyond thinking about someone to taking action on it.
Gift of the Week
I sent a surprise gift to my cousin Danielle. She lives in New York, and we donāt get to each other very often. As usual, thereās a story behind this gift.
Back in the day, our family camped together in Allegany State Park. It started with tents, then became cabins, and now my family regularly reserves a large group camp with a main building and a bunch of cabins for everyone who wants to go. Thereās also a tradition called āchicken nightā where everyone shows up, even those who donāt camp. I recall games and skits and songs and loads of fun.
This year (as I was told) there were prize baskets at camp and my son (who was at the family camp for the first time) took all his tickets and entered them for the Buffalo Bills basket. It wasnāt meant to be. He didnāt win, but my cousin Danielle did. She claimed her basket and, on the way back to her seat, she turned and gave it to my son.
Thatās how I came to give her a Buffalo Bills branded toiletry bag from Vera Bradley. Surprise and thank you Dani for being so kind and generous and Go Bills!
Donation of the Week
This weekās donation went to Caring for Friends, a Philadelphia-based organization that shares food and friendship with homebound, homeless & hungry people in greater Philadelphia.
I chose this organization because they are on my Bmail list (the one for my business supporting non-profits) and they are regular readers. I like to learn about my audience, so I pay attention to who is opening and reading my weekly messages.
I like that, on their donation page, Caring for Friends tells me what my money can do. Translating dollars into impact makes a big difference. They also do some creative things like sharing grocery lists and freezer locations in case people want to share home cooked meals.
The history of the organization is also impressive. One woman saw a need in her neighborhood and started Caring for Friends out of her home in 1974. Fifty years later, it has expanded to a network of 10,000 volunteers & 200 food pantries providing food and friendship in 5 counties.
As the founder says, āno one should be hungry or alone in a world of caring people.ā
Links
Vera Bradley NFL Collection
Caring For Friends
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
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Making an impact is important. I work with non-profit organizations, and they are all about impact. Giving gifts and making donations is just one way to show appreciation and support the work that others are doing. I hope you can share a gift with someone in your life and donate to a cause that inspires you.
Gift of the Week
One of my non-profit clients, Rocktown History from episode 4, decided to bring awareness to planned giving. They realized this was an opportunity and set about establishing a program. Iām happy to share how we did this, and the steps involved - . please contact me if this is something youād like to hear more about.
This weekās gift went to Les, an expert on planned giving, who visited Rocktown History and shared, with the trustees, a lot of helpful insights and tips for a successful planned giving program. I found out that he had just retired, and he and his wife were getting ready to embark on a big trip to several National parks.
As a thank you, I got Les a personalized National Parks scratch off poster from Uncommon Goods. I think it was the perfect way to thank him for his help and a great way for he and his wife to commemorate the stops on their trip.
Itās so fun to pick up a little tidbit about a person, a small detail, and find a great gift that lets them know you paid attention to who they are and what they care about.
Donation of the Week
The relief efforts on Maui, Hawaii are what I donated to this week. Many people have lost everything they own, something I donāt think most of us can comprehend. Maui is also a special place for my husband and I and our family.
Years ago, we visited with my in-laws when our son was a year old. When we arrived, the road to our hotel was closed due to a wildfire. This was 2006. My husbandās co-worker had recently moved to NY from Hawaii and had given him the name and address of a friend and suggested he look him up when we were there. With no other option, that evening we navigated our way and found ourselves on the doorstep of a stranger hoping he could help us.
Fortunately for us, he was a thoughtful and kind person who welcomed us into his home for the night. The next morning, we woke up to find he lived at the top of a mountain with the most amazing views. Thatās Maui for you. The people there really do embrace the ohana spirit.
I donated to three organizations. The Trilogy fund was a no-brainer since weād booked excursions with them and wanted to help them support their employees and others.
A marketer I follow, Tarzan Kay, shared 2 other funds that her family member, who lives on Maui, recommended. I trust Tarzan and I knew that if she was asking on their behalf, I could be confident that my donation would go to the people who needed support.
Reminder: small gifts do make a difference. You donāt have to write a big check. Donations of all sizes help.
Links:
Personalized National Parks Scratch Off Posterg
Trilogy Maui Fire Fund
KÄkoŹ»o Maui Match Donation Fund, a campaign by the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement
āÄina Momona Emergency Fundraiser for Maui Fires
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
Title note: There are 63 national parks and Hawaii is the 50th state.
If youād like to support the show, you can send me your gift ideas or suggestions for nonprofit organizations that are doing great work where you are at [email protected] . You can also become an annual supporter or a nonprofit supporter by visiting my podcast page.
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Iām glad you are tuning in for this weekās gift and nonprofit donation. This is a do-over episode. I recorded it once and just didnāt like it so Iām taking another stab at it.
I am focused on making this easy, but I also want the stories to be interesting for you the listener. Going for the happy medium between ease and good storytelling.
Gift of the Week
This weekās gift is related to a recent trip. I met up with my besties (we sometimes call ourselves the ācore fourā) and weāve been intentional about staying in touch. We used to be in the same area, but now that Iām not in the NYC/CT area we canāt just grab dinner so Iām glad we had our 42 hours of fun in Harrisburg, PA.
These are the people whoād be there for me anytime. I trust them implicitly and they know the real me and have grace for me when Iām not at my best. I hope you have people like this in your life.
One of our four, Filomena Finelli, had a birthday, so I brought her a small gift. You may remember her from my only interview episode. The gift was a dish towel from BlueQ that says, āSometimes Blessings Look a Lot Like Bullshitā. Perfect for Filomena. Sheās a down to earth person who can stay positive in the face of challenges and also admit that life isnāt fair.
BlueQ is an amazing place to get gifts for adults. They are fun, funny, and guaranteed to make the recipient laugh.
Donation of the Week
I decided to donate to an organization in Harrisburg thatās supporting local citizens. Itās a small city, and the capital of Pennsylvania. Like many cities they are dealing with homelessness so I donated to the Capital Area Coalition on Homelessness.
The organization consists of over 70 organizations, agencies, churches and other nonprofits, that mobilize resources to help the regionās families and friends who are homeless, or are dangerously close to becoming homeless.
Their website shares that they have a proven track record of helping people get back on their feet. Homelessness is a complicated problem and solutions are varied and they recognized that it would take a community effort to solve the crisis.
I love that they say they want homelessness to be rare, brief, and non-recurring. Thatās a mission I can support.
Finally, I share an insight about nonprofit websites. If your cause is important, then it demands good marketing so that you can communicate the mission and its impact. People need to know about who you are and what you do.
Links:
The fabulous BlueQ company.
Home 231
Harrisburg Beach Club
Sawyers
Capital Area Coalition on Homelessness
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
If youād like to support the show, you can send me your gift ideas or suggestions for nonprofit organizations that are doing great work where you are at [email protected] . You can also become an annual supporter or a nonprofit supporter by visiting my podcast page.
Title Note: The core 4 had an adventure in Pennsylvania's capital city.
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If youāve been following along, then you know we have covered all sorts of gifts. Some were expensive, some were nearly free, many were food-related, and a few others were personalized.
Donations have been just as varied and many of the organizations were new to me. I didnāt know about them and learning about the work they do, and the people they help has become one of the highlights of my week.
If youād like to support me, you can send me your gift ideas or suggestions for nonprofit organizations that are doing great work where you are. You can also become an annual supporter or a nonprofit supporter by visiting my podcast page.
DM me on Instagram or you can email me: [email protected]
You can also share the show with someone you know. I try to keep it positive and share a bit of the good work going on in the world. Who couldnāt use more of that?
Gift of the Week:
This weekās gift is business-related. Itās a thank you gift for a job well done.
Being a consultant means I get to work with people I know and like and enjoy working with. One of my clients, V.I.P. Tours of New York has been updating their messaging and it was time to decide if they wanted to update or re-create their website. The only person for the job was Jenny Belanger of Jenny B Designs.
It went off without a hitch! The new site is fabulous, and it was done on schedule and with such ease for everyone involved.
As a thank you I gave Jenny a gift card to a local bookstore near where she lives. I love supporting local bookstores. I purchased a card from bookshop.org so the local store will receive credit when Jenny makes her purchase.
This is a great alternative that I didnāt know existed. Itās a perfect way to support locally owned stores.
Donation of the Week:
This weekās donations went to the Friends of the Waynesboro Library and the Friends of the Augusta County Library. In my area there are many libraries, so I donated to the two that Iāve used most.
Iām glad to support both groups, but it took much too long to figure out how to make a donation. I am motivated and will look until I figure it out, but others may not. People visit the site for other reasons and may not even know they can donate. Nonprofits: Please make it easier for people to support you.
Libraries do so much more for a community than just loan books. I hope that wherever you live, you have access to a great library and if you can, consider contributing.
Be sure to listen for the update to the week 11 episode. Thanks to Malās Palz for the t-shirt they sent.
Bookshop.org
Jenny B Designs
V.I.P. Tours of New York
Friends of the Waynesboro Library
Friends of the Augusta County Library
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
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Hey, hi and hello. Happy you are here!
If youād like to support the show, you can send me your gift ideas or suggestions for nonprofit organizations that are doing great work where you are. You can also become an annual supporter or a nonprofit supporter by visiting my podcast page.
This week, we got to celebrate my brother-in-lawās birthday. We had already planned to visit and go tubing so I got busy shopping for his gift.
What you need to know about Todd; heās the guy who always has us laughing. If you are crying at Christmas, itās probably because Todd has been on a roll and has you laughing so hard youāre in tears.
Title Note: A quote from Fletch (1985) which is a big Todd thing. I think he can quote the entire movie!
Heās got a great sense of humor and heās not afraid to go there. Heās a much-needed source of comic relief. His humor comes from his big heart and a good place. Another reason heās so fun to be around.
Gift of the Week:
I wish I could have found a funny gift for him, but you just canāt force that kind of thing.
For the perfect gift I went to CFO Trading Company which has a great selection of gifts that men seem to like.
My daughter and I picked out a Howler Bros. hat for him. But, I never like to give just one gift ā it needs accompaniment. Something to add a little flair or round out the gift. Plus, if the main gift doesnāt hit the mark, at least thereās something to make it less of a flop.
So we picked out a fancy bar of soap made by Caswell-Massey. I know that may seem weird, but it smells amazing, and we decided it was the perfect add-on.
Donation of the Week:
On our way out of town for our tubing weekend, we passed a truck for the Blue Ridge Area Foodbank. It had a tagline that really grabbed me. Because everyone should have enough to eat.
Yes! Thatās a perfect tag line. In one sentence they sum up the reason for their mission and the big vision for the work they do. This is something that everyone can get behind. On their site, they explain that food insecurity affects 1 out of 12 people including 1 in 12 children. They are doing incredible work helping to feed over 109,000 people every month.
I am glad I was able to donate and I agree with their mission. No one should be hungry.
CFO Trading Company
Howler Bros.
Caswell-Massey
The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
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Howdy!
I hope you are getting some great gift ideas. Maybe youāre also thinking about how you can donate to an organization thatās doing good work. Giving to either is bound to make someoneās day better, including yours.
If youād like to support the show, you can send me your gift ideas or suggestions for nonprofit organizations that are doing great work where you are at [email protected] . You can also become an annual supporter or a nonprofit supporter by visiting my podcast page.
Letās set the scene for this weekās episode:
Itās July 1 and itās my birthday. Itās summer and fun and there are parades and fireworks. Itās such a good time of the year and I love all the hoopla. Yes, I know the parades and fireworks arenāt for my birthday, but ever since I was a kid the two have been linked in my mind. Lots of festive fun.
When Iām researching and buying gifts for others, I canāt help but see things Iād like to buy for myself ā so I took advantage of the fact that itās my birthday and did just that.
Gift of the Week:
2 Books! These are little hardcover treats for myself.
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
Zero Days by Ruth Ware
I also gave myself some time alone. For someone who doesnāt like to ask for time for myself this was a nice treat. I went kayaking. By myself. It was lovely.
This reminded me that my word for 2023 is occupy. As in: take up space, be present where I am. Doing things alone and for me is a step in the right direction.
A spa day was also on the agenda. I enjoy this, but seldom schedule and plan this for myself. I loved it and I think I should do it more often. Before my time at the spa my family went with me for breakfast at a waffle shop which was perfect. Family time, then me time.
Donation of the Week:
This weekās donation went to the Maine Cancer Foundation in honor of my friend Christine Huber. Sheās running in the Tri for a Cure, and I wanted to support her.
This is a women-only triathlon and itās the biggest fundraising event for the cancer foundation in Maine. Another great benefit is that all the funds raised stay in the state of Maine which has a higher rate of cancer than the national average. I really wanted to support Christine (who is also one of my favorite jewelry designers) and Iām glad that they are doing such good work helping cancer patients in Maine.
Title Notes: ME is the abbreviation for the state of Maine and the episode is about gifts for myself and a donation to a Maine-based nonprofit.
Demon Copperhead by Kingsolver
Zero Days by Ware
Waffle Spot
Christine Huber Design on Instagram
Maine Cancer Foundation
Tri for a Cure
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
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Do you love the Hallmark store as much as I do? I was delighted to find that one opened near my home. Gifts AND greeting cards. Whatās better than that?
I picked up this weekās gift there, 7 magnets from the Quotable Magnets shop. I saw several things on their website that would be just perfect for a certain someone. Uplifting quotes and so much more.
Gift of the Week:
The magnets I purchased said āYou Rockā.
I recently became a fitness instructor so I could teach my favorite class, BODYPUMP, and it ended up being a bit more challenging than I thought it would be. Iād been doing this workout for years so Iāve been surprised by what it actually takes to get certified.
To complete my certification, I had to teach and record a video of the class. 10 tracks choreographed to music. It was intense! 7 other instructors were the participants. They did so much to help me, so I wanted to give them something as a thank you for all the support.
The magnets were perfect because these women do completely rock! The magnets are a perfect small gift idea. Nice, meaningful, and adds a personal touch.
Oh, and I passed! I am now a certified Les Mills BODYPUMP instructor.
Donation of the Week:
This week is a duplicate. I received some correspondence from Direct Relief (episode 7) so I couldnāt resist donating to them again.
I heard from the director of partnerships and philanthropy, and he told me they liked the podcast and wanted to share it internally and encouraged me to tag them on social media. Getting the feedback and personal correspondence was great.
Itās important to highlight their work again because Direct Relief supports victims of natural disasters and while the news of earthquakes and hurricanes disappear from the headlines, the work goes on, so I know my donation is a small way of helping them continue to provide critical humanitarian aid.
Be sure to listen to the updates from previous gifts.
I heard from two organizations, one of which was a hand-written note which was especially nice.
If youād like to support the show, you can send me your gift ideas or suggestions for nonprofit organizations that are doing great work where you are at [email protected] . You can also become an annual supporter or a nonprofit supporter by visiting my podcast page.
Quotable Magnets
Direct Relief
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
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The Special HALFWAY Episode with Filomena Fanelli!
If youād like to support the show, you can send me your gift ideas or suggestions for nonprofit organizations that are doing great work where you are at [email protected] . You can also become an annual supporter or a nonprofit supporter by visiting my podcast page.
Itās week 26! The halfway point of the year. For this week, Iāve been working on something special to mix things up while I celebrate the 26 weeks and gifts weāve done so far.
This weekās recipient is joining me on the podcast! My guest, Filomena Finelli, the CEO and founder of Impact PR and Communications located in Hudson Valley is here! Their clients include consumer brands, banking, construction as well as mission-based nonprofit organizations.
She has a compelling story that I think everyone could benefit from hearing. Sheās an incredibly accomplished businesswoman and one of my dearest friends.
Gift of the Week
This weekās gift came from the Foundry in Staunton, VA. Thatās where I saw a painting with a quote from Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill, āWiggle your big toe.ā
Filomena shares that the message is something she can look at any time she feels trapped or out of sorts. She shares that sheās recently been through a challenging time that started with some odd physical issues. She kept chalking up the warnings to being busy, being tired, and growing older.
It was confusing and very humbling. She checked with her mom who encouraged her to go to a doctor and get checked out. Initial tests were not conclusive, and her doctor suggested she talk to a rheumatologist.
A diagnosis followed after more blood work. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder and Filomenaās doctor shared that she may have likely had this predisposition and it showed up when other factors came into play.
Suggestions when you arenāt sure what to do.
Filomena shares that her own version of research and googling ended up scaring her which wasnāt helpful.
Instead, she suggests getting information thatās appropriate for you specifically from your doctor and other reliable resources. She also shared that she made changes that werenāt easy. Youāll relate when she shares how she had to give away some of her favorite high heels. In true survivor mode, Filomena took her power back by giving away her shoes to friends and told them what they didnāt want, they should give away or donate.
Hear how and why she decided to be open about her diagnosis. Itās inspiring to hear how she wants to create the space for others - especially her work team - to be okay with anything they may be handling in their own lives.
Donation of the Week
Of course, this weekās donation went to the Arthritis Foundation. It meant a lot to me to be able to make that donation in honor of my friend Filomena. The organization sent a letter to let Filomena know and she (at the time) was unaware and was touched.
Hear how small donations really matter and why itās more important than you know.
More about Filomena:
For nearly 25 years, Filomena Fanelli has enjoyed telling clientsā stories through public relations and continues to apply that enthusiasm in her role as the CEO and founder of Impact PR & Communications, Ltd., an award-winning public relations firm. Based in the Hudson Valley, the nine-year-old agency has a three-state footprint and clients that include top-selling consumer brands, key cultural destinations, prominent banking, construction and real estate development companies, mission-based nonprofits and more.
Filomena got her start in the PR business at Rubenstein Associates, where she quickly rose through the ranks to become a vice president. Recognized as a top publicist, she worked on some of the firmās major real estate and financial accounts, many of them household names. Today, she channels that energy to lead her own agency and help a diverse array of clients plot memorable events, secure speaking engagements, land leadership articles, craft sharp website content, engage in meaningful ways on social media and, of course, get their names in the news.
Filomena has been lauded for her professional achievements and community involvement alike. A handful of her accolades include: being named an ATHENA Leadership Awards honoree, as well as one of the āForty Under 40ā by the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce; gracing the cover of Hudson Valley Magazine as one of its celebrated women in business; being recognized with a National Philanthropy Day Award by the Association of Fundraising Professionals ā Mid-Hudson Valley; and having her firm named a āTop Women-Run Workplace of the Yearā by the StevieĀ® Awards, an international recognition.
An involved community member, Filomena enjoys volunteering with various nonprofit organizations. She serves on the boards of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce and Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation. She was on the executive leadership team for American Heart Associationās Go Red for Women campaign locally, and was also the Center for Prevention of Child Abuseās One Too Many 5k chair and, subsequently, co-chair. Filomena spent many years on the executive committee of the Public Relations Society of Americaās Counselors Academy and is past conference chair, conference co-chair and membership chair of that industry group. Previously, she sat on the board of the Womenās Leadership Alliance and Hudson River Housing, and has served on committees for The Arc of Dutchess, Family Services, the Mid-Hudson Childrenās Museum and Special Olympics New York. Filomena was also a founding committee member of HDSA Team Hope Walk ā Hudson Valley, a community advisor for The Daily Voice and hosted HVNN.comās video news show, āBusiness Newsmakers.ā
Filomena is the professional advisor for Marist Collegeās Public Relations Student Society of America, and a former adjunct professor and regular guest lecturer at the college. A frequent speaker, she has given talks for Senator Sue Serinoās Womenās Forum and presented at the prestigious 92nd Street Y in New York City, among other venues.
Recently, Filomena has added another important descriptor to her resume, behind mom, wife, PR agency CEO, leader and volunteer: rheumatoid arthritis warrior. Diagnosed with the autoimmune disorder in Spring 2023, Filomena, with the support of her friends at the Arthritis Foundation New York, has made it her mission to keep moving, one step at a time, and to openly share her story of living positively with arthritis with her friends, family, colleagues and community to help raise much-needed awareness and funds to further scientific advances and treatment options.
The Foundry Pop Up https://thefoundrypopups.com/
The Arthritis Foundation https://www.arthritis.org/
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
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Why 52 Gifts? I had an idea about this that was related to my consulting business. I work with non-profit organizations and hoped to do something that was helpful for them. Initially I thought Iād read fundraising letters and make suggestions to improve them. But I knew that wasnāt going to be very interesting to most people, so I went back to the drawing board. Last fall, I received some great gifts for different reasons, and many were unexpected and they inspired me. They made me want to give more gifts!
When I see cool things, I immediately know who will truly love it. I realized I think about this a lot, but seldom follow through. That was the spark for this podcast. I love the idea of a challenge each week, so the 52 Gifts podcast moved from and idea to a real thing that Iām doing!
If youād like to support the show, you can send me your gift ideas or suggestions for nonprofit organizations that are doing great work where you are at [email protected] . You can also become an annual supporter or a nonprofit supporter by visiting my podcast page.
Gift of the Week
This weekās gift was for my husband. He was celebrating Fatherās Day and his birthday, and I saw something I knew would be perfect - a Shibumi Shade. Itās a beach shade that works with the wind and itās perfect for my shade-loving husband.
I also gave him a portable rocker chair with a canopy. So perfect for him. Itās the GCI Outdoor Sunshade Rocker and he loves it. Heās not the easiest person to buy for, so with these two gifts I think I really excelled.
Donation of the Week
This week I donated to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Did you know that 2 people die from skin cancer every hour? I couldn't believe it. Their website was great, and I received an automated receipt right away.
I love being in the sun, so I appreciated the facts on the site that explain the science and data behind skin cancer connected to tanning and sun exposure overall.
Shibumi Shade - https://shibumishade.com/
GCI Outdoor Sunshade Rocker - https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/gci-outdoor-sunshade-rocker-camp-chair
Skin Cancer Foundation - https://www.skincancer.org/about-us/what-we-do/
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
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Aloha! Thatās what was on tap for this week since I expected to be in Hawaii on a long-planned vacation. A medical emergency changed everything at the last minute. Our whole family was disappointed. Fortunately, we are all okay.
How to cope? I donāt like feeling disappointed (who does?) but it happens. I often find myself trying to find the silver lining, so I can move past being sad. Thatās when the āeverything happens for a reasonā thoughts show up. Is that actually true?
Maybe everything isnāt meant to make sense. One thing thatās helped is looking for, and staying focused on, things in life that I can truly be thankful for. Gratitude helps.
If youād like to support the show, you can send me your gift ideas or suggestions for nonprofit organizations that are doing great work where you are at [email protected] . You can also become an annual supporter or a nonprofit supporter by visiting my podcast page.
Gift of the Week
We were able to get to a beach even though it wasnāt Hawaii. Friends let us use their home in South Carolina which was so kind and generous, and we were truly thankful and wanted to express that with a gift.
We left them an olive oil and vinegar set from the Staunton Olive Oil company based in Virginia. We also selected a cutting board made from reclaimed wood. Itās small and beautiful and looks lovely with the set.
Because they werenāt going to be back to their home for a few weeks, it was important to select something that would last until they could use them.
Iām grateful for the vacation and the hospitable friends who helped us salvage the week. I hope to continue to look for the good.
Donation of the Week
This week we donated to the Lowcountry Gullah Foundation. Itās located on Hilton Head Island, SC (where we vacationed this week and many times before) and though I was slightly familiar with the Gullah, I really learned a lot more about the culture and history.
Mission: Lowcountry Gullah was developed to promote and more importantly document the richly significant Gullah culture and its contributions to the United States. As a historical resource and cultural tourism influencer, Lowcountry Gullah provides a necessary and central link to the cultural elements that have been woven into the fabric of our society.
https://stauntonoliveoilcompany.com/
https://lowcountrygullah.com/
Title Note: Mahalo means "thank you" in Hawaiian.
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
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Are you a podcast junkie like me? I find myself checking out shows when Iām doing things around the house, in the car, on a walk. Sometimes I think Iām consuming more than creating, but like all things thereās a balance.
I must admit that Iām kind of freaking out about how fast 2023 is zooming by. I sometimes feel like I need to slow down and savor the moment and time will slow as well.
If youād like to support the show, you can send me your gift ideas or suggestions for nonprofit organizations that are doing great work where you are at [email protected] . You can also become an annual supporter or a nonprofit supporter by visiting my podcast page.
Gift of the Week
Todayās gift is a pair of earrings for my sister-in-law for her birthday. Erin is one of those people who is really fun to shop for.
When I need someone to talk to, Erin is one of my go-to people. Sheās a great listener who is kind and down to earth. Iāve always admired her and how accepting and understanding she is of others. It makes me want to be more like her.
I sent her a pair of acrylic arch earrings. They were from sleepymountain.com. More on Sleepy Mountain another time because they have too much cool stuff to mention.
I purchased the gift from Made, By the People, For the People. This is such an amazing store. Iāve always dreamed of having my own shop and Made has lots of the kinds of things I imagine Iād stock.
Donation of the Week
This weekās donation went to The Anderson Center for Autism in Staatsburg NY. I donated to this organization because itās where Erin works.
Their mission: Anderson Center for Autism's core philosophy is that all people deserve to live a life of quality. Anderson has the expertise, resources, and technology to enable the agency to optimize the quality of life for all people with autism, around the world.
They have a great description on their history page. I wish it was more prominent because itās compelling.
A cool thing happened! Right after I donated an email came through asking if my donation was in honor of anyone. Thereās something comforting about knowing that a human actually noticed your donation on the other end and that it went though.
Automation is great but real communication canāt be beat!
MADE; for the people, by the people.
Sleepy Mountain
The Anderson Center for Autism
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
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Itās graduation time!
Did you know that the US is one of the only places where checks are still used? I learned that working with a nonprofit whose major donors werenāt US based. Do you still write checks? What do you use instead?
This Weekās Gift
This weekās gift went to my nephew Aidan who graduated from high school. My son graduated on the same day, so we couldnāt be there in person. The gift was cash, which I know he will appreciate, and sent in the mail. Itās not the most exciting gift so I decided to get creative.
After purchasing some helium balloons, I put the money in a card and boxed them up and sent them via UPS. The idea was that heād open this box and balloons would pop out. We were going for festive! Have you sent balloons in a box? Iād love to know ā send me an email to: [email protected]
Whatās your take on giving money? What about gift cards?
Donation of the Week
This week I donated to Aidanās high school. Itās a charter school, and I was able to donate right on the website. I wasnāt sure if charter schools were nonprofit (501 (c) 3) and it turned out that this school is.
I had to go searching for that so it would have been helpful to easily see that information. The donation page was basic and easy to use but it didnāt look as secure as it could. Trust when donating is important, and some people will not follow thorough if they arenāt confident about the overall security when they enter their donation info.
Check out my update from the donation on episode 2 for The Jaques Pepin Foundation. They not only replied but followed my 52 gifts Instagram. Shout out to their team and thank you!
Email me: [email protected]
Nextafter.com
Connect on Instagram
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
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THIS IS A REPOST OF THE MAY 24th EPISODE - WHICH MAY HAVE HAD TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES AND PRODUCTION ERRORS. APOLOGIES IF YOU LISTENED AND WERE AGGRAVATED! :-)
In last weekās show I almost forgot about the donation to Therapeutic Adventures because I made it through a race sign-up form. I received a receipt from the race organizers but have never received any communication from Therapeutic Adventures themselves.
This is a missed opportunity on the part of nonprofits. I like that it was easy and convenient for me to donate as part of the race, AND it would be even better if the recipient reached out to acknowledge the donation and provided options for me to continue supporting them.
If you work with or for a nonprofit, I explain 3 easy ways to make the most of these types of opportunities.
This Weekās Gift
My aunt Becky was a recipient of this weekās gift. I talked about her in episode 16. She is the one who makes heirloom blankets for our family and friends. Sheās also one of the most thoughtful people who is always helping others pitching in when sheās not working on one of her amazing blankets.
It was her birthday, and I gave her a personalized candle. I donāt always send her a gift, so hopefully this was a nice surprise for her. I selected a candle with the flower of her birthday month with a special message.
Candles are an easy gift but can be tricky because not everyone likes all scents. What do you like? Are there any that you donāt like? Aunt Becky said she liked hers and even sent a hand-written thank you note.
Are you a note person? I shared my personal take on this, and Iād love to know what you think.
Donation of the Week
This week I donated to the Community Foundations of the Blue Ridge in honor of the Youth Philanthropy Council. Hereā their mission: to provide opportunities for local youth to practice philanthropic leadership skills by forming a grant making body. We believe that by including the voices and opinions of local youth in our community conversations, we can better understand our community while fostering in our future leaders a sense of local stewardship.
I love this! These days, it seems like kids know more about whatās going on around the world than in their own community. Learning about resources close to home and how they impact people right here is a good way to learn about how individuals and organizations can make a real impact.
Getting teens involved is such a good way to help them understand philanthropy, and gives them first-hand experience learning how this works in their local community.
Personalization Mall
Youth Philanthropy Council
Connect on Instagram
Title Note: scented candles + teens doing good = Nirvana.
Show Notes provided by Sound Advice Strategies
If youād like to support the show, you can send me your gift ideas or suggestions for nonprofit organizations that are doing great work where you are at [email protected] . You can also become an annual supporter or a nonprofit supporter by visiting my podcast page.
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This podcast is about finding great gifts, maybe the perfect gift, but itās not about gift-giving rules. Itās about taking action when you see something that you know someone would enjoy.
Itās also about digging a bit deeper now and then. What would your best friend really treasure? How can you surprise someone with your thoughtfulness? Be the person who does nice things just because. Weāve never needed that more than now.
This Weekās Gift
Today Iām sharing my Motherās Day gift. I do my best to avoid duplication here on the podcast, but today thereās a little of that. I am giving a second gift to my mom (she was also the recipient in episode 7) and Iām referencing 10,000 Villages again (which showed up in episode 9) so I hope youāll hear me out on how and why this happened.
My mom collects elephants. When I saw a carved stone figurine mother elephant with a baby elephant inside, I knew it was perfect for her. Itās hand-carved out of gorara stone.
It was from Serrv, a fair-trade organization whose mission is in part: fighting global poverty through fair and ethical trade.
I also gave her a bracelet that spells out ālove you momā in morse code! Original and fun. It was made by a company called Dot and Dash and they have a really great story. Hear how this cool business got started and how they connect with non-profits as well
Itās a good reminder to share your story on your about page. Iām not the only one who checks them out and everyone loves knowing the behind-the-scenes story.
Donation of the Week
This weekās donation went to Therapeutic Adventures. It was the charity that was supported in the 5K that I ran a few weeks ago.
Iām a fan of outdoor activities and supporting this organization and mission felt truly aligned. Part of their mission: strives to make a positive and lasting impact on the people we serve and the environments where our adaptive program services are offered.
Serrv
Dot and Dash
Therapeutic Adventures
Connect on Instagram
Title Notes:
"What hath God wrought", the official first Morse code message transmitted in the US on May 24, 1844, to officially open the BaltimoreāWashington telegraph line.
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The Inspiration Co.
Stephen Smith Independent Investigation Fund
Title Notes:
It's about grandparents and love. Get it?
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As intriguing as true crime is to listen to, I hope youāll find this show a little palate cleanser of goodness.
This project has been really fun so far and Iām now realizing that Iām going to need to actually search for things to give away. Fun problem, I know, but up until now the ideas were coming to me easily.
Finding a great gift is part of the fun, but Iām starting to feel a tiny bit of pressure to source new gifts.
Have suggestions? Share them with me at 52 Gifts pod on Instagram or email me at [email protected]
Letās jump into this weekās gift.
This was a fun one. Itās for my cousin Joelle and her fiancĆ© Bobby.
The Uncommon Goods catalog strikes again! As soon as I saw this, I thought of Joelle and Bobby and when I received the save the date card for their upcoming wedding, I had the perfect opportunity to send it.
Picture this: An outlet cover with one name under the top outlet, the other at the bottom. At the top it says āJust a Power Coupleā finished off with a cute pink heart. I sent them the unframed version on the (tiny) chance that they donāt love it as much as I do.
Speaking of weddings, doesnāt it feel good to have events like this to attend? I find myself looking forward to it more than ever.
Donation when gift-giving, a nice bonus!
Uncommon Goods has a donation program called Better to Give. When you buy from them you get a choice of where they will donate.
I had 3 choices:
Nestmakers United ā an inclusive makers movement. International Rescue Committee ā helping people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster. American Forests ā inspires and advances the conservation of forests.I chose the nature option this time.
Donation of the Week
This weekās donation went to Amazement Square. This is a hands-on childrenās museum in Lynchburg, Virginia. I went to the museum with my sonās 5th grade class, and I had pretty fair expectations for the trip.
But,wow. I was blown away. There were hands-on exhibits and activities that were truly engaging. There were too many to list them all but you can hear about my favorites, and I hope you do, because they were creative and fun. I even wanted to join the kids in the room where you could paint on the walls.
I was also drawn to the bee exhibits since raising bees is on my bucket list. They had active hives in a couple places in the museum so we could observe the inner workings - cool!
You also need to hear about the planetarium. It was inflatable! Youāll want to see it for yourself if you can - just fabulous.
The trip was a big success and I was so impressed with the museum, I made a donation the same day.
Note to non-profits.
Make it easy to take my money!
I made the donation to Amazement Square online - but I had to click through 4 pages to finally put my details in and complete the transaction. Not ideal.
I have no doubt that the museum has a talented development team. There was evidence of that throughout the museum. But the online donor experience could use a little tweaking. I was determined to give, so I kept clicking around to find the right page but I suspect that others may give up and move on - leading to missed opportunities.
I share my recommendations because I care so much about the missions of the nonprofits I support and I want it to be easy for others to support them.
If you are a non-profit and want help with this process, please reach out. Thatās what I do!
Resources:
Power Couple Art
Amazement Square
Value proposition references and other digital fundraising information by NextAfter
Title Notes:
The gift features a power outlet and the donation was the result of a field trip. See what I did there?
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Group meal delivery plus The Junior League of Poughkeepsie and Sparrows Nest of the Hudson Valley.
https://takethemameal.com/
https://jlpoughkeepsie.org/support-us/
https://sparrowsnestcharity.org/
Title Notes:
The idiom, "man cannot live by bread alone," means that people need not just food, but also poetry, art, music, and in this, case community and connection, to live happily.
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Knitted squares for an heirloom wedding blanket and a gift to Sweet Adelines International https://sweetadelines.com/
Title Notes:
It's about knitting and a chorus group. Ditty is another word for a song.
- Se mer
