#10: EP46: Aaron’s Presents Where Kids Are Changing the World

Today I had the pleasure of speaking with Leah Okimoto, Executive Director of the incredible organization Aaron’s Presents. Through Aaron’s Presents, kids are empowered to make a positive difference in their communities by pursuing service projects of their own design. From providing reflective vests to peers walking home in the dark, to leading cheerleading classes for younger kids, participants experience the joy and fulfillment of helping others

#9: EP2 It is OK to say No to free fabric.

When we start a non-profit, we are usually pretty open to ANY help, any donations. Sometimes the cost of free can be higher than you’d expect. When we started, we were approached by several fabric companies wanting to help. Some were a perfect match, some were overwhelming with their generosity, and some simply put a piece of paper over “Basura” and said, “Binky Patrol” (Basura is trash in Spanish.) In this episode, we talk about the first donations and how they are still dear to us, even though they were challenging at first.

#8: EP50: Volunteering Is As Easy As Writing a Thank You Note

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.

#7: EP48: Upgrading Your Nonprofit Website: An Initial Guide

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.

#6: EP47: Sparking Peace By Reimagining Communication in Education

Host Susan Finch speaks with Lori Peters, executive director of One Spark Academy, about supporting students through a difficult time and empowering them to create meaningful connections. Lori explains how her alternative learning program focuses on “finding that one spark” in each child and nurturing it through small class sizes, engaging electives like gardening and cooking, and daily “circle time” to practice communication skills.

#5: EP49: Building Community Stitch by Loving Stitch

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.

#4: EP22 Create Signage to Direct Them To Your Event

Sometimes non-profits have events at libraries, community centers, schools, and churches. Their campuses can be large and confusing. Having directional signage can help prevent volunteers from being frustrated before they walk in the door. We talk about how teaming up with a signage professional can save you money and add to your event’s success.

#3: EP24 Connecting Like Hearts to Grow Your Organization

Amy Smart is the founder of Diary of a Quilter. Her newsletter is inspiring, her website is filled with resources. Amy now knows about Binky Patrol. Binky Patrol volunteers have all been introduced to Amy Smart and Diary of a Quilter. This is how it works.

#2: EP30 From Bereavement Photography to a Mission of Care

Today we have a special guest, Michelle Cramer, the founder of On Angels’ Wings. Michelle’s story is one of devotion and determination, and her mission is to improve the mental health and well-being of families with medically fragile children. On Angels’ Wings provides free therapeutic photography and grief recovery services to families who need it most.

#1: EP25 Great Holiday Team Event for Remote Teams and Families

Binky Patrol makes blankets and gives them away to children and teens in need of comfort. Those invisible kids who need a reminder that they matter, they are not forgotten, and that someone cares about them. We do this through handmade blankets – they can be sewn, quilted, crocheted, knitted, or tied – just so they come from your heart and are washable, they are perfect. Please listen to this 7-minute episode.