Mission Matters

Vicky Joseph is the Founder of Families Helping Families, a nonprofit organization based in Naperville that provides housing and volunteer mentors to homeless families in DuPage County as they work towards self-sufficiency through education. Over the past 30 years, she has grown the organization to support 12 families, showcasing a strong community-driven impact. Vicky's inspiration stems from her family's history, particularly her Holocaust survivor mother, which instilled in her a sense of responsibility to give back. She previously served as a Community Outreach leader at Bridge Communities, a dynamic, grassroots, nonprofit organization committed to transforming the lives of homeless families.

Bringing a newborn home to a warm and loving environment is filled with joy and gratitude. However, there are other people in a situation where there is no home awaiting the child's arrival. How does one find the strength and resources to transition from instability to a future filled with hope?

Vicky Joseph, a passionate leader and organizer in the nonprofit realm, delves into what it takes to turn vulnerability into victory. She shares her journey from a personal epiphany to launching a nonprofit that offers apartments and volunteer mentorship to homeless families. Throughout the discussion, Vicky emphasizes the power of personal connection, financial literacy, and the defining impact of mentor relationships that often extend beyond the program's duration. She also touches on the recent strategic decisions aimed at ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of her organization.

In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Vicky Joseph, Founder of Families Helping Families, about tackling homelessness through community support and mentorship. Vicky shares the origins of her lifelong dedication to social work, the start of Families Helping Families, the services the organization offers, and the program's challenges and successes.

Amy Rasmussen is the Executive Director of Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education (CAPE), a nonprofit arts and education organization dedicated to enhancing student learning through the arts by partnering with over 40 Chicago public schools. Under her leadership, CAPE has made significant strides in arts integration, collaborating with professional teaching artists and educators to create innovative curriculum projects that combine arts with academics, benefiting thousands of students. Amy's passion for arts education stems from her experiences in intensive music programs, which inspired her to advocate for high-quality arts access in schools. She holds a music degree from DePaul University and a graduate degree in arts entertainment and media management from Columbia College.

The arts possess a unique ability to inspire, educate, and foster connections that extend beyond traditional classroom boundaries. Integrating creativity into the structured curriculum can profoundly enhance students' learning experiences, igniting their passion and enthusiasm for knowledge. So, how can we empower students through arts to lead a richer and more holistic educational journey?

Amy Rasmussen, an experienced nonprofit leader, uncovers the remarkable effects of integrating the arts into the academic curriculum. She traces her journey from a musician to a champion of arts education, illustrating how a background in both art and management can equip one to influence positive change in the education system. Amy highlights their unique approach of collaborating with professional artists and teachers to co-create curriculums that harness the arts to spark student engagement and understanding. The challenge, she notes, is prioritizing arts education amidst an environment often dominated by stringent academic frameworks.

In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Amy Rasmussen, Executive Director of Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education (CAPE), about the importance of arts in educational enhancement. Amy shares her musical beginnings and how they fueled her journey in nonprofit management and arts education, CAPE's mission to intertwine the arts with academic goals in the classroom, and the challenges and realities of sustaining arts programs in structured school systems.

Paul Feith is the President of Paul Gregory Media, a mission-based digital marketing agency that offers services such as branding, marketing campaigns, social media management, SEO, advertising, and fundraising. Paul is a self-described computer and technology nerd who started his first entrepreneurial venture as the owner of Compu-Tech, a database programming company. After a long career in corporate America as a new media manager for various dot-com startups, he founded PGM.

Paul uses his passion for volunteering at mission-based organizations by sharing his expertise in technology and marketing at various nonprofit organizations, including serving on the boards for Habitat for Humanity of Illinois, Giving DuPage, The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, and Social Responsibility Chicago. He is also active with The Rotary Club of Naperville.

Nonprofit organizations face numerous challenges, including operational issues, changing compliance, workforce planning, and more. These difficulties make it challenging to navigate the nonprofit sector, often leading to failures for many organizations. What valuable lessons can you learn from leading industry experts to unlock a new era of nonprofit success?

Paul Feith, an online marketing veteran, and other renowned nonprofit leaders explore the interplay between love, leadership, and the mission-driven nature of nonprofit work. Listeners are afforded a unique opportunity to delve into the transformative potential of love-led leadership, innovative nonprofit business models, and the principles of digital sustainability that propel organizational missions forward. They candidly share the challenges they have encountered and the innovative solutions they have devised, highlighting the critical importance of adaptability, philanthropic effectiveness, and the broader impact of digital initiatives within the nonprofit sector.

In this special compilation episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, we revisit some of Paul Feith's most memorable episodes. Featuring Nicki Anderson, Chad Pedigo, Rick Lochner, Dorri McWhorter, and Tim Frick, these experts share operational and leadership tips to thrive as a nonprofit.

Kelly Knox is the Illinois Director of Special Spaces, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating dream bedrooms for children with cancer. With over a decade of leadership at Special Spaces, she has overseen the transformation of over 400 children's rooms, touching the lives of families throughout Illinois. Kelly's journey to finding her true purpose is inspiring and transformative, having initially pursued a career in interior design before discovering her passion for making a difference in the lives of children with cancer through Special Spaces. She inspires others to give back through her creativity and empathy, creating a lasting impact in her community.

For kids facing prolonged confinement due to health challenges, the environment plays a crucial role in shaping their mental well-being. A thoughtfully transformed bedroom can serve as a sanctuary, igniting the spark of childhood joy and transforming dreary days into moments of hope and inspiration. But where can they find the help to transform their bedrooms into a dream bedroom that transcends the physical limitations of a hospital room?

Kelly Knox, an interior designer, opens up about her path from an uncertain career trajectory to finding her true calling with Special Spaces Illinois, which redecorates a child's room and rejuvenates the whole family. Kelly shares heartwarming stories and insights into the logistical symphony behind orchestrating a bedroom transformation in a matter of hours. Illustrating how her mission statement drives every makeover project, she highlights how self-reflection and adaptability can turn unforeseen challenges into valuable experiences that fuel your growth.

In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Kelly Knox, Illinois Director of Special Spaces, about transforming spaces for children with cancer. Kelly discusses what Special Spaces does and its impact on families, the one-day transformation journey of a bedroom makeover, the logistics of coordinating thousands of volunteer hours to execute multiple projects simultaneously, and the cost and the financial backbone behind each makeover.

Taylor Endicott is the Community Program Manager at Giving DuPage, an organization dedicated to promoting volunteerism and connecting volunteers with nonprofit organizations throughout DuPage County. She has government and nonprofit work experience, including her previous role at Make-A-Wish Illinois. Taylor is committed to serving the community and building a solid foundation that creates a space for connecting volunteers with various impactful opportunities. She holds a bachelor's degree in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration from Western Illinois University and an MBA from Indiana Tech.

Have you ever wanted to volunteer but didn't know where to start, or are you a nonprofit looking for committed volunteers? Learn how a platform is transforming the volunteer landscape — from community engagement to supporting local nonprofits' fundraising.

Taylor Endicott, an experienced professional in the nonprofit space, shares her enlightening career path, leading her back home to DuPage County, where she now fosters volunteering and nonprofit collaboration. Her unique path illustrates a deep-rooted passion for community service, propelled by her early experiences in nonprofit work and an academic background in parks, tourism, and business administration. She discusses the challenges and priorities of increasing awareness for Giving DuPage and enhancing the volunteer portal experience. Taylor underscores the organization's integral role in community-building through planned philanthropy, demonstrating how a focused mission can lead to widespread communal support.

In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Taylor Endicott, Community Program Manager at Giving DuPage, about connecting volunteers with meaningful opportunities and supporting nonprofits. Taylor shares her inspiring journey into nonprofit leadership, the biggest challenges facing Giving DuPage today, how it connects volunteers with nonprofits, and how Giving DuPage Days supports local nonprofits' fundraising.

Chad Pedigo is the Vice President of Development at DuPage Pads, a nonprofit organization focused on ending homelessness in DuPage County by offering comprehensive services, including health resources, education, and food assistance. With over a decade of experience in nonprofit management and community leadership, he has been integral in transforming the organization's shelter model and expanding its support services. Chad has held leadership roles in various organizations, including North Central College, Naperville Jaycees, Bridge Communities, and many more, focusing on growth, innovation, and donor stewardship practices. He is a former singer and dancer who advocates for humanizing the experience of those facing homelessness.

In a community often seen as affluent, could there be a pressing homelessness issue lurking beneath the surface? What innovative solutions can truly make a difference in ending this cycle of homelessness?

Chad Pedigo, a community leader in the nonprofit sector, explores a revolutionary approach to helping individuals and families find stability. He outlines the transformation from temporary shelters to offering dignity and permanency through their Interim Housing Center model that repurposes hotels. Chad delves into the strategic funding and partnerships vital to their mission and the importance of seeing people, not labels, when assisting. With heartfelt stories and insightful strategies, he paints a compelling picture of proactive community support.

In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Chad Pedigo, Vice President of Development at DuPage Pads, about innovative homelessness solutions. Chad introduces DuPage Pads' mission and innovative approach to tackling homelessness, the transformation from temporary shelters to permanency, DuPage Pads' funding sources and their strategic allocation, and the partnerships it fosters to address complex issues associated with homelessness.

Mary Kerbs is the Executive Director at Naperville Elderly Homes and the nonprofit Owner of Martin Avenue Apartments in Naperville. Martin Avenue is a unique, affordable community of nearly 200 lower-income seniors who value independence. With over 25 years of corporate experience at Amoco Corporation and BP America, Mary brought her finance and real estate expertise to the nonprofit realm to make a significant community impact. Her focus includes not-for-profit management, business development, and strategic planning, and she has played a pivotal role in the recent expansion and renovation of Martin Avenue. She is also an entertainer, crafting music shows with themes that resonate with the senior population.

What if there was a community where seniors not only find a place to live but also experience a profound sense of belonging and empowerment? This vision transcends the basics of affordable housing, focusing instead on enriching the lives of residents through thoughtfully designed amenities such as fitness centers, movie theaters, and serene courtyards. By fostering an environment that prioritizes quality of life, organizations can transform the narratives of countless seniors, creating vibrant, supportive spaces that cater to their needs. But how can we convert this inspiring vision into a concrete reality for our aging population?

Mary Kerbs, an experienced professional in the not-for-profit and corporate business sectors, delves deep into senior independent living. She shares her remarkable transition from a corporate career to leading a mission-focused nonprofit, bringing to life the Martin Avenue Apartments, where seniors can lead fulfilling lives. Through a significant renovation project and community partnerships, Mary and her team have developed an environment that offers beautiful living spaces, safety, and rich social connections while maintaining affordability. From volunteer service to sharing her musical talents, she demonstrates her dedication to making the senior community feel like an extended family for its residents.

In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Mary Kerbs, Executive Director at Naperville Elderly Homes, about creating purposeful and affordable senior living communities. Mary discusses Naperville Elderly Homes' history and its relation to Martin Avenue Apartments, the vital importance of affordable senior living in Naperville, how Martin Avenue goes beyond housing to offer dignity and a sense of home for the seniors, and the challenges of maintaining a thriving senior community.

Jenifer Fabian is the CEO of People's Resource Center, a nonprofit organization based in Chicago, IL, that provides essential services for low-income and disadvantaged communities in DuPage County. Under her leadership, PRC has grown to engage over 2,300 staff and volunteers, serving 25,000 to 30,000 residents annually. With a microbiology and public health background, Jenifer has dedicated over 20 years to nonprofit leadership, driven by her passion for helping others and improving community systems. Her work at PRC reflects her commitment to neighbor-to-neighbor support, with innovative partnerships and programs designed to meet both immediate needs and long-term goals for community members.

What qualities define an organization's impact on its community? Is it the number of people served, the range of services provided, or the dedication of its leaders to their mission? These thought-provoking questions prompt us to examine an organization's evolution into a vital source of support for thousands of residents as they navigate life's challenges.

Jenifer Fabian, an experienced mission-oriented nonprofit executive, shares how this remarkable organization addresses community challenges. She reveals how PRC has grown from distributing groceries through a basement window to serving almost 30,000 residents annually. The nonprofit now offers diverse programs, from emergency aid such as food and clothing to career-building resources like job coaching and literacy programs. Jenifer emphasizes the importance of partnerships, agility in responding to crises, and the pivotal role of volunteers in expanding PRC's mission across DuPage County.

In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Jenifer Fabian, CEO of People's Resource Center, about community impact and evolution. Jenifer discusses PRC's origin story and its powerful mission, the nonprofit's transition from challenge to agility during the pandemic, its expansion plans, and the importance of community partnerships to its service delivery.

Molly Beck Dean is the Director of WeGo Together for Kids, a nonprofit organization collaborating with over 60 community partners to support West Chicago families and their children from birth to 12th grade. With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, she has excelled in program development, networking, and event planning, contributing significantly to the organization's efforts to address issues like housing, food insecurity, and literacy in the community. Molly's dedication to working with young people is evident in her faith-based work, where she has served as a speaker, teacher, and preacher.

A united community where diverse services and resources converge can create a transformative impact. Picture a central hub, a nexus of collaboration, enhancing the lives of children from infancy to high school graduation. How can such an approach change the lives of children, from birth to high school seniors?

Molly Beck Dean, a nonprofit director with a heart for justice, discusses how WeGo Together for Kids has grown over 20 years to become a collaborative force in the West Chicago region. With over 60 community partners, she highlights how the organization acts as a central point to maximize resources and impact for children facing economic need, food insecurity, literacy challenges, and the effects of trauma. Molly shares the story of the organization's origins, its mission to work with youth, and the constant evolution of its services to meet changing community needs, exemplified by the recent initiative of increasing physical health opportunities for children.

In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Molly Beck Dean, Director of WeGo Together for Kids, about building collaborative networks for community impact. Molly talks about WeGo Together for Kids and its 20-year impact, the challenges of sustaining a nonprofit organization, WeGo Together for Kids' engagement and outreach strategies, and advice for other nonprofit directors.

Kendra Connor is the Executive Director of the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides toys and gifts to children and teens undergoing cancer treatment. Since joining in July 2023, she has leveraged her extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, having previously worked at CASA of River Valley and DuPage County Area Project and obtained her master's degree in Nonprofit Management from Grace College. Kendra is an innovative leader who strives to preserve the core of the Treasure Chest Foundation while stimulating progress for the next generation of donors and supporters. In her free time, she enjoys being the Lead Instructor at the nonprofit martial arts school, C3 Martial Arts, leveraging her 2nd-degree black belt in Combat Hapkido and a 1st-degree in TaeKwonDo.

Imagine a world where every painful procedure for a child with cancer comes with a silver lining — a treasure chest full of toys to bring a little joy. But can this heartfelt initiative sustain growth and reach even more children? And how does one lead an organization through such an ambitious expansion?

Nonprofit management expert Kendra Connor exemplifies leadership that combines innovation with empathy. Upon stepping into her role, she shares how she has expanded the Treasure Chest Foundation's reach, building on the solid groundwork laid over the past 27 years by its founder. Her approach to addressing the challenges includes leveraging her extensive background in the nonprofit sector and formal education in nonprofit management. Kendra discusses her leadership style, focusing on deepening one-on-one relationships with her team and ensuring that each member aligns with the organization's heartfelt mission of providing joy and distraction to children undergoing cancer treatment.

In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Kendra Connor, Executive Director of the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation, about leading a nonprofit with passion and purpose. Kendra discusses how the Treasure Chest Foundation helps children undergoing cancer treatment, its funding model, tips on leadership and nurturing a team with a mission-focused mindset, and her vision for expanding the foundation sustainably.