The NonProfit Podcast Network

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The world of design is more than just art on a page, it's a vibrant tapestry woven into every facet of our daily lives. Hear Amanda Sanchez, co-director of Capitol Creative Alliance, share how a merger of four local creative agencies has redefined collaboration and creativity in the Sacramento region. Capitol Creative Alliance, born from the unification of Design Sacramento, Creativity Plus Sacramento, Roseville UX, and SAC Desco, present Design Week Sacramento. Amanda takes us on a guided tour of Design Week Sacramento, an eclectic celebration that goes beyond the realm of graphic design to embrace all forms of creative expression. From the innovative furniture designs at the Sandpaper Factory to the interactive maker spaces at the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity, the event offers something for everyone who appreciates the art of design. The week culminates in a two-day professional development conference and features exciting events like Adobe's Create Now at The Sofia and a spirited trivia night at Bike Dog Brewing. This event is your gateway to discovering the creative forces shaping Sacramento and beyond. For complete details, visit 

Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/ And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing.

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...

I sit down with Michael Stevenson, Artistic Director, to explore how Capital Stage delivers bold, conversation-starting theater in one of Sacramento’s most intimate professional venues—just 127 seats, no microphones, and acting so close you can feel the breath. We talk origin stories (from a 99-seat space on the Delta King to today’s J Street home), the company’s appetite for risk, why emotionally engaging audiences lowers “intellectual guards,” and the post-pandemic realities of keeping cutting-edge theater sustainable.

Why Listen

• Hear how intimacy (four rows from the stage) changes performance, voice, and audience impact.
• Learn how Capital Stage curates “conversation starters” that linger for months—sometimes years.
• Get a candid look at funding, staffing, housing actors, and rebuilding audiences in 2025.
• Partnerships, rolling world premieres, community outreach, and academy training.

Key Topics

• The Capital Stage Difference: 127 seats, un-mic’d performances, “tiny, detailed” acting that hits emotionally first.
• Programming Philosophy: Contemporary satire + award-winning dramas (e.g., English, The Nether, Pass Over, Lehman Trilogy, Vietgone, Heroes of the Fourth Turning, King James).
• Community & Inclusion: Ambassadorship to underrepresented communities; shows that invite new audiences into the room.
• Funding Reality: Earned vs. contributed revenue, AB-5 impacts, material/labor costs, and audience recovery plateaus.
• Education & Pipeline: Cap Stage Academy, apprenticeships, and rehearsal/office hub at CLARA.
• Partnerships: From local cultural orgs and associations to health and education partners tied to specific productions.
• What’s Next: Flex tickets, dynamic pricing exploration, deeper community collaborations, and rebuilding subscriptions.

Memorable Moments

• “Engage people emotionally and their intellectual guards go down.”
• Audience members still talking about shows a year later.
• A Vietnamese elder’s thanks after Vietgone: “Thank you for telling this story.”

Quick Stats & Operations

• House size: 127 seats
• Season: 7 productions/year (~29 performances each; ~200+ performances annually)
• Subscribers: Peaked ~2,283 pre-COVID; ~1,800 today and rebuilding
• Model: ~60–65% earned / ~35–40% contributed (individual donors are critical)

How to Support / Get Involved

• See a show, bring a friend, and talk about it after—be part of the “cap chat.”
• Subscribe or pick up flex tickets for maximum convenience.
• Sponsor a production or become an annual donor.
• Offer actor housing or in-kind services.
• Learn more: capstage.org (tickets, calendar, classes, donations).

Chapter Guide (approx.)

• 00:00 Welcome & series context
• 02:00 Why intimacy changes everything (no mics, four rows to the stage)
• 07:30 Programming that sparks conversation (English, Lehman Trilogy, King James, Vietgone)
• 18:30 Community partnerships & inclusion strategies
• 24:00 Education, apprenticeships, and CLARA
• 28:00 Funding realities, audience recovery, and new models (flex, dynamic pricing)
• 36:00 Wishlist & “blank check” vision
• 40:00 Calls to action & where to learn more

CTA: If this episode resonated, please follow the show, leave a quick rating, and share it with someone who loves live theater. Your word of mouth helps keep the arts alive.

Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...

The Hispanic Economic Report:
Cathy Rodriguez Aguirre, President and CEO of the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, joins me to talk about the Hispanic Economic Report. This report, first produced in 2021, provides essential data on the growth, contributions, and economic impact of Hispanic-owned businesses in the Sacramento region. Cathy discusses the importance of localized data, the progress observed since the first report, and the value of this information for business owners and policymakers. Key findings include an increase in Hispanic homeownership, shrinking digital divide, and growing entrepreneurship. Cathy also highlights the collaborative efforts and partnerships that made the report possible and how stakeholders can access and benefit from it. Students at CSUS Sacramento played a role in the collaborative effort with the design of a mapping product as well. 

You can learn more about the report and download it by visiting the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:43 The State of Hispanic Business Report: Origins and Purpose
02:25 Impact and Insights from the Report
06:43 Challenges and Areas for Improvement
08:33 Collaborations and Contributions
12:24 Accessing the Report and Final Thoughts

Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...

Join me as I speak with Amber Shaver, Center Manager of the Harris Center for the Performing Arts at Folsom Lake College. We take listeners behind the scenes of one of the Sacramento region’s most dynamic performing arts venues — home to three unique stages, hundreds of annual events, and a mission that blends education, entertainment, and community.

Amber shares the story of the Harris Center’s founding and vision, honoring Dr. Brice Harris’ legacy and the Center’s evolution as both an academic and cultural hub. We explore how the venue manages a full calendar of local, national, and student performances; collaborates with the college and the greater Folsom community; and sustains operations through memberships, sponsorships, and volunteerism.

From Broadway tours to symphonies, children’s theater to local arts programs, the Harris Center is helping to make live performance accessible and affordable while fostering creativity and connection. You'll hear how the Harris Center continues to inspire, educate and entertain - keeping the arts thriving in Folsom and the greater Sacramento region.

To learn more about Harris Center for the Performing Arts as well as show schedules, visit the website HERE

Chapter Summaries 

(00:00) Harris Center
The Harris Center is a cultural and educational hub in Folsom, hosting 400 events annually and serving as a resource for Folsom Lake College.

(11:29) Harris Center Community Support and Recovery
Community organizations can benefit from Harris Center collaborations, including sponsorship opportunities, membership support, and affordable ticket prices.

(20:29) Managing the Harris Center Operations
The Harris Center's reopening journey includes challenges, financial sustainability, and balancing work and family life.

(26:11) Harris Center Community Engagement
The Harris Center offers intimate performances, transforming the community with diverse artistic experiences and promoting support for the arts.

Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...

Curious about how a regional theater can thrive in a mid-sized city? Join me for a conversation with Executive Artistic Director and CEO, Lyndsay Burch from B Street Theatre as we explore the remarkable journey of this Sacramento staple. From its origins as Fantasy Theater for Children to its status today as a beloved cultural institution, Lyndsay shares insights on how nurturing young audiences and expanding theater capacities have been integral to their growth. You'll learn about the impressive transition to the Sofia, a vibrant hub that not only hosts a diverse range of performances but also fosters deep community connections through collaborations with local artists and organizations.

Discover the Sofia's role as a cultural cornerstone in Sacramento, providing an intimate setting for audiences and hosting philanthropic and networking events. We discuss exciting partnerships highlighting the theater's dedication to supporting emerging talent. Beyond performances, Lyndsay emphasizes the importance of community involvement and the Sofia's commitment to being a welcoming space for all, reinforcing its status as an essential part of the city's cultural landscape.

Lyndsay also dives into the financial realities of running a regional theater, especially in the post-pandemic era. She shares strategic plans for transitioning to a balanced income model and the challenges of maintaining accessibility while meeting budget goals. We explore the theater’s vision for the future, including touring family series productions and potential collaborations with local institutions. With a focus on financial sustainability and community engagement, this episode provides an inspiring look at how B Street Theatre continues to enrich Sacramento’s performing arts scene.

To learn more about B Street Theatre or The Sofia, visit the website, HERE.

Chapter Summaries

00:00 Introduction to Intimate Live Entertainment

00:40 Welcome to the Nonprofit Podcast Network

02:06 Spotlight on B Street Theatre

02:57 The Journey of B Street Theatre

04:10 The Sofia: A Hub for Creativity and Community

05:16 History and Evolution of B Street Theatre

08:26 Expanding the Vision: The Sofia's Impact

16:34 Community Engagement and Partnerships

21:59 Funding and Financial Sustainability

26:49 Shifting Revenue Goals and Strategic Planning

28:29 Balancing Contributed and Earned Revenue

30:14 Employment and Payroll Dynamics

33:40 Dreaming Big: The Blank Check Scenario

40:13 Operational Needs and Financial Challenges

42:32 Engaging the Community and Future Plans

46:10 Conclusion and Call to Action

Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...

How do organizations like the American Cancer Society (ACS) orchestrate a national fight against cancer while making a difference on a local level? Join me as I unravel this complex puzzle with Alexis Padilla, Executive Director of the ACS Sacramento region, who sheds light on ACS's strategic framework rooted in research, patient support, and policy advocacy. Discover how the ACS has supported over 50 Nobel Prize winners, addressing critical barriers like transportation and lodging through programs such as the Road to Recovery, and the transformative role volunteers play in communities like Elk Grove. We'll also explore how the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network is pioneering policy reforms to ensure everyone has access to cancer detection, treatment, and prevention.

Our conversation takes you into the heart of Sacramento’s vibrant community, where the ACS leverages its national resources to forge impactful local collaborations. With innovative partnerships, especially with entities like UC Davis, ACS is integrating into existing networks across 23 counties to enhance care and research. We also highlight the significance of major Sacramento events that engage over 20,000 participants and the pressing need for food pantries in cancer centers, where food insecurity affects nearly 30% of patients. You'll learn about initiatives like "Cultivate," which merges Sacramento’s farm-to-fork culture with cancer awareness, creating a community experience that is both educational and engaging.

In a world of evolving healthcare needs, how does ACS ensure its leadership and strategic alliances remain robust and forward-thinking? This episode uncovers the innovative approaches to board recruitment and community engagement that are infusing fresh ideas into the organization. Learn how strategic partnerships can transform traditional roles into statewide initiatives that address social determinants of health and promote equity. By spotlighting groundbreaking campaigns like "I Love You, Get Screened," we emphasize the critical importance of early detection and tailored interventions, reminding us that our collective efforts can create sustainable change in the fight against cancer.

You can learn more at the American Cancer Society website HERE

Or call the number Alexis gave in the episode: 1-800-227-2345

To reach Alexis Padilla directly, you can email her at [email protected]

00:00 Introduction to Cancer Statistics and Food Insecurity
00:39 Welcome to the Nonprofit Podcast Network
02:19 Introducing Alexis Padilla and the American Cancer Society
04:28 Understanding the Pillars of the American Cancer Society
06:55 Patient Support and Volunteerism
13:30 Local Impact and Collaborations
22:11 Funding and Fundraising Efforts
30:20 Supporting Cancer Patients and Caretakers
30:49 Addressing Food Insecurity in Cancer Care
31:57 Introducing the Cultivate Campaign
32:09 The Role of Nutrition in Cancer Prevention and Survivorship
33:46 Building Community Support Through Cultivate
36:52 Collaborations and Partnerships for Better Cancer Care
41:53 Innovative Approaches to Cancer Support
46:36 Success Stories and Future Goals
56:00 Conclusion and Contact Information

Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...

Join the celebration of 40 years of service in the community and a legacy of hope at the "Party for Change" event. Set against the backdrop of Modern Aviation on October 11, 2025, this gathering promises more than just engaging conversations and delicious food; it's a testament to four decades of life-changing work. Learn how alumni, current clients, community supporters, and donors come together to honor the accomplishments of an organization dedicated to tackling housing and homelessness for women and children. You're invited to be part of this ongoing journey—whether through volunteering, donations, or attending the event—and continue supporting St. John's mission for real change. Special thanks to Five Star Bank for their support as "Presenting" sponsor.

To learn more or for ticket information, visit the website HERE.

Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/ And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing.

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...

What happens when three visionary grad students decide to tackle food instability in under-resourced communities? Join us as we ask Sam Greenlee, CEO and Shannin Stein, Director of Advancement from Alchemist CDC about their transformative work in community development through food access. They share how their organization is redefining the local food system with innovative programs like farmers' markets, community gardens, and the Alchemist Kitchen's economic development initiatives. These efforts not only address food deserts but also empower individuals and foster vibrant neighborhoods, making a significant impact in the Sacramento region.

Curious about how farmers' markets can be more than just a place to buy groceries? We explore the bustling scene at Alchemist CDC's markets, where EBT redemption is at an all-time high, and budding food entrepreneurs are finding their footing through initiatives like the Alchemist Microenterprise Academy. Sam and Shannin highlight how these programs offer essential education, resources, and mentorship, thanks in part to the invaluable contributions of volunteer experts. It's a collaborative effort that underscores the importance of community partnerships and sustainable, non-grant reliant models to nurture economic growth.

Funding is often the biggest hurdle for nonprofits, and Alchemist CDC is no exception. Yet, they're approaching this challenge with creativity and determination, shifting to a centralized funding approach with exciting prospects like the Alchemist Public Market on the horizon. Join us as we discuss the successes of their CalFresh at Farmers Markets program, alongside the importance of engaging individual donors and municipal support. By the end of this episode, you'll understand how these initiatives are not just about food—they're about community empowerment and innovation in the food access landscape.

You can learn more about the organization by visiting the website, HERE.

- Instagram: @alchemistcdc

- Bluesky: @alchemistcdc.org

- Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/AlchemistCDC/

- LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/9746579/

- Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/AlchemistCDC/ 

CHAPTER SUMMARIES: 

(00:00) Community Development Through Food Access
(09:57) Food Access and Economic Development
(24:02) Creating Sustainable Funding for Nonprofits
(39:34) Empowerment Through Workforce and Economic Development
(47:43) Sustainable Funding for Community Food Programs
(53:51) Community Impact Through Food Innovation

Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...

I went into this thinking I knew the American Red Cross—fires and floods, they're there. Disasters? Yep. All over it. What I didn't know is what you're going to hear in this episode and that is what happens the rest of the time. This legacy organization has its mark on our communities in ways I never thought. Jacquelyn Clites, who leads the 26-county Gold Country region, opened my eyes to how local and round-the-clock their work is: most days it’s not headline disasters, it’s home fires—meeting immediate needs with shelter, food, medicines, and even disaster mental-health and spiritual care. Beyond that, they supply a huge share of the nation’s blood and train our neighbors in CPR and lifeguarding, while quietly supporting military families through emergency communications and reuniting loved ones separated by crisis.

Here at home, a small team and a lot of volunteers power it all—often alongside partners like Sac Metro Fire and SMUD. The simplest way to help: give blood, volunteer your time, or donate funds. You can learn more from their website HERE.

For more information:

www.facebook.com/ARCGoldCountry 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/arcgoldcountry 

Phone: 916-993-7070_

CHAPTER SUMMARIES

(00:00) The Red Cross
The American Red Cross provides global disaster relief, including mental health and spiritual support, with a focus on the California Gold Country region.

(13:31) Community Collaboration and Partnerships
Community partnerships, media collaborations, and innovative programs enhance resilience and safety in disaster preparedness.

(19:07) Funding and Budgeting for Disaster Relief
Our humanitarian efforts are supported by donors, not government funding. Monetary donations are preferred over material goods. Our team and volunteers are crucial, as well as partnerships with other organizations.

(30:06) Community Engagement for Disaster Relief
Community involvement, volunteering, financial contributions, and strong leadership inspire meaningful contributions to the Red Cross mission.

(36:17) Humanity, Harmony, and Hope
The Red Cross empowers local communities with 90% volunteers and 90 cents per dollar towards mission, while emphasizing self-care and personal dedication.

(44:06) American Red Cross Impact
American Red Cross's critical role in responding to emergencies, collaboration with organizations, and impact on community resilience.

Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please send me a text...

Growing up in a single-parent household, Michael Lynch found his way to higher education through football. A tragic loss to gun violence transformed his perspective, driving him to uplift his community. Set against the backdrop of financial struggles, Alejandro Galicia Cervantes' journey from street vending to academic passion began with an encounter with Michael and the IYT program, sparking a love for education. Their stories remind us of the power of mentorship and opportunity in shaping lives. Together, they illustrate how adversity can be a powerful catalyst for change.

Education is more than just a path to personal success; it's a vital tool for uplifting entire communities. By fostering a college-to-community pipeline, "Improve Your Tomorrow" is reshaping futures for young men of color. With powerful stories like Moses' dream of becoming an Army officer and Rogel's mentorship journey, we showcase how support systems can break generational cycles and open doors to new possibilities. This episode underlines the importance of parental involvement and community engagement in educational success, highlighting initiatives that create culturally affirming environments for families.

Despite funding challenges, organizations like IYT remain steadfast in their mission to support young men of color. With impressive graduation rates and college attendance figures, they continue to harness the power of education, mentorship, and internships to drive change. Alejandro's personal journey from high school struggles to graduating from UC Davis epitomizes the influence of a supportive community.  "Improve Your Tomorrow" celebrates the relentless dedication of those working to break barriers and build brighter futures for the next generation.

To learn more about the organization visit the website HERE.

Chapter Timestamps

(00:00) Overcoming Adversity Through Education and Mentorship
(07:47) Building a College and Community Pipeline
(13:21) Guiding Youth Towards Success Through Mentorship
(20:41) Enhancing Parental Engagement in Education
(29:11) Empowering Youth Through Education and Opportunity
(35:48) Empowering Young People Through Mentorship
(44:59) Balancing Work, Family, and Leisure
(49:40) Supporting Improve Your Tomorrow Through Engagement

Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story!  We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/  And if you like, leave me a voicemail to comment on the program, leave a question for us to ask in the future or a message for me, Jeff Holden. I may even use your voice mail message in a future episode of one of our incredible local nonprofit organizations. https://www.nonprofpod.com/voicemail. Thanks again for your support in listening, commenting and sharing the great work our local nonprofits are accomplishing.