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What happens when a historic theater undergoes a dramatic transformation...through a pandemic and over multiple years? Find out as we chat with Sid Garcia-Heberger, Performing Arts Center and Memorial Auditorium Manager, Megan Van Voorhis, Director of the City's Convention and Cultural Services and Allison Yee-Garcia, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications for SAFE Credit Union, as they share the behind-the-scenes journey of revamping the Safe Credit Union Performing Arts Center. Originally the Sacramento Community Center Theater, this iconic venue has been reimagined with cutting-edge upgrades like the Constellation electro-acoustical shell and a modern fly rail system. These enhancements not only elevate the audience and performer experience but also solidify the center's role as a cultural icon in downtown Sacramento.

With a sidelight on the Memorial Auditorium, we reveal the critical backstage operations that keep the arts alive and thriving. From laundry facilities essential for quick costume changes to hosting diverse events from comedy shows to  Broadway plays, the theaters showcase their versatility and commitment to community enrichment. The partnership with SAFE Credit Union is a testament to the community's support and dedication to maintaining a vibrant arts culture in the city.

Looking to the future, we imagine the limitless possibilities for the Performing Arts Center and its surrounding district. From the potential transformation of underutilized spaces to the seamless integration of the Safe Credit Union Convention and Performing Arts District, we explore how strategic collaborations and funding are key to nurturing the next generation of arts professionals. By enhancing community engagement and reflecting the diverse population it serves, this district stands as a dynamic hub for cultural and creative activities, offering something for everyone.

To learn more about the SAFE CU Performing Arts Theater or the Performing Arts District visit the website: www.theSAFEdistrict.com

Chapter Summaries

(00:00) Revitalization of Performing Arts Venue
Revitalization of Safe Credit Union Performing Arts Center with upgrades like Constellation, fly rail system, and expanded truck dock.
(06:01) Memorial Auditorium's Historic Renovation and Usage
Laundry facility's essential role in performing arts center, community support, diverse events, and versatility showcased through partnerships.
(18:25) Community Use and Financial Support
The Performing Arts Center serves as a community hub, hosting diverse events and collaborating with local arts groups through strategic funding and sponsorships.
(28:59) Fostering Community Partnerships for Arts
Transforming spaces, activating the district, developing future professionals, and partnering with Safe Credit Union to enhance public engagement with the arts.
(43:18) District Integration for Arts Events
The Safe Credit Union Convention and Performing Arts District seamlessly integrate

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 if you could follow a serendipitous path leading to your dream job in a completely different state? Join me as I sit down with Jeremy Ganter, Executive Director of the Mondavi Center, who shares his extraordinary journey from upstate New York to becoming a cornerstone of Northern California's vibrant arts scene. With 25 years of deep-rooted experiences at the Mondavi Center, Jeremy shares insights into the center's evolution from a mere vision to an iconic cultural landmark. His story is a testament to the power of passion and dedication in the arts.

The Mondavi Center, nestled within what is now known as the Gateway District of the UC Davis campus, is more than just bricks and mortar; it's a bustling cultural hub. My conversation with Jeremy uncovers how this transformed space draws diverse audiences, reflecting the university's commitment as a Hispanic-serving institution and providing a versatile venue for performances, events, and education. We explore the center's unique features, like Jackson Hall's incredibly technical and professional setup, for both acoustics and visuals, and how these spaces enhance learning and engagement for students and visitors alike.

Despite facing challenges such as changing audience behaviors and scheduling conflicts, the Mondavi Center remains resilient. Jeremy shares the center's innovative programming and aspirations, from dreaming of collaborating with local culinary talents to enhancing visitor experiences with food, wine, and art. As we celebrate 25 years of its impact, this episode paints a vivid picture of the unforgettable legacy and bright future of the Mondavi Center. Now... GO SEE A SHOW!

Learn More:

🎟️ Visit: www.mondaviarts.org
📱 Follow: @mondavicenter

LinkedIN: Mondavi-Center

Article: www.sactownmag.com/qa-jeremyganter-mondavi-executive-director/

Chapter Summaries(00:00) The Mondavi Center's Unique Story
Jeremy Ganter's journey with the Mondavi Center, its architectural and acoustic innovations, and his passion as executive director.
(11:59) Mondavi Center Community Interaction
The Mondavi Center is a vibrant hub in the UC Davis campus, attracting diverse audiences and offering year-round activities and unique learning environments.
(19:08) Funding and Community Engagement at Mondavi
School matinee program, ticket sales, fundraising, university support, student employees, misconceptions, audience purchasing behavior, adapting to changes.
(25:20) Challenges and Dreams for Mondavi Center
Challenges and aspirations in performing arts, limited artist availability, potential for collaboration with local culinary talents, and importance of state-of-the-art facilities.
(35:13) Enhancing the Mondavi Center Experience
Mondavi Center offers diverse, dynamic programming with a focus on live performances and a welcoming, holistic experience for all.
(38:27) Memories of Mondavi Center's Impact
25-year history and iconic architecture of Mondavi Center, its enduring influence and cu

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 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

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.

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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 Supp

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.