The NonProfit Podcast Network

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For more than 100 years, the American Heart Association
has played a defining role in cardiovascular research, public health education, advocacy, and lifesaving care across the country. But many people may not fully realize just how deeply the organization influences the systems, protocols, and community programs that impact millions of lives every year.

In this episode of The NonProfit Podcast Network, I sit down with Suzanne Bartlett, Associate Executive Vice President, to explore the mission and modern evolution of the American Heart Association — from groundbreaking research funding and hospital partnerships to CPR education, youth outreach, advocacy work, and community health initiatives throughout Northern California.

We discuss how the organization collaborates with hospitals, schools, churches, nonprofits, and business leaders to improve long-term health outcomes, while also addressing issues like food insecurity, access to care, women’s heart health, and preventative education.

Suzanne also shares insights into the organization’s fundraising model, the importance of volunteer leadership, and why Sacramento has emerged as one of the nation’s leading markets for community engagement and support of the American Heart Association's Women of Impact.

Whether you know the organization through Go Red for Women, the Heart Walk, CPR training, or simply its global reputation, this conversation offers a compelling behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most impactful nonprofit organizations. 

Short Chapter Overview

00:00 — Introduction to the American Heart Association
 02:10 — Prevention, education, and Life’s Essential 8
 05:00 — Reaching younger generations through schools and youth programs
 07:45 — Research, evolving treatment, and trusted science
 11:30 — Partnerships with hospitals, churches, and community organizations
 15:20 — CPR education and building a “Nation of Lifesavers”
 20:15 — Funding the mission and national impact
 25:00 — Women’s heart health and Go Red for Women
 31:00 — Advocacy, volunteers, and community engagement
 33:20 — Personal stories and the impact of research advances
 38:00 — Beyond the Mission rapid-fire questions
 40:15 — How to support and connect with the American Heart Association

To learn more, visit https://www.heart.org/en/affiliates/california/northern-california

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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Big Day of Giving 2026 is officially in the books—and it was the largest in the event’s history.

In this special recap episode of the Nonprofit NewsPod, I’m joined once again by Kelly Siefkin from the Sacramento Region Community Foundation to reflect on a remarkable day of generosity, community engagement, and philanthropic momentum across the Sacramento region.

The final numbers are staggering:

• $15.4 million raised
• 62,017 donations
• 29,091 donors
• 886 nonprofit organizations supported

Together, our region has now raised more than $132 million since Big Day of Giving began in 2013.

But beyond the record-setting totals, this conversation highlights something even bigger: the power of community participation at every level.

From $10 gifts to major matching campaigns, this year demonstrated that philanthropy is not reserved for a select few—it belongs to everyone.

What We Discuss in This Episode:

•  How the live leaderboard became must-watch viewing throughout the night 
•  The dramatic final push past $15 million 
•  Why smaller nonprofits benefited in powerful ways this year 
•  The growing impact of matching gifts and board participation 
•  New giving trends including donor-advised funds, QCDs, PayPal, and stock donations 
•  The role unrestricted giving plays in nonprofit sustainability 
•  Why Big Day of Giving is not a competition—but a spotlight on generosity 
•  How preparation, mentorship, and training directly impacted nonprofit success 

We also recognize the sponsors, nonprofit leaders, volunteers, board members, and thousands of donors who helped make this year possible.

This episode is more than a recap—it’s a celebration of what happens when an entire region chooses to show up for its nonprofits.

Brief Chapter Overview

1.  Record-Breaking Night Recap 
2.  The Final Push Past $15 Million 
3.  Key Numbers & Participation Stats 
4.  Why Small Nonprofits Won Big 
5.  The Growth of Matching Gifts 
6.  New Giving Trends in 2026 
7.  Why BDOG Is Bigger Than Competition 
8.  Gratitude for Sponsors & Donors 
9.  Looking Ahead to 2027

See it all in every way on the website: https://www.bigdayofgiving.org/

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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In this NonProfit Podcast Network NewsPod, I sit down with Impact100 Greater Sacramento President Sarina Paulson, alongside leaders from U.S. Bank, to unpack one of the most exciting philanthropic stories in our region this year.

What started as a hopeful push toward a $500,000 grant pool didn’t quite get there on reveal night—but this community wasn’t done.

With 413 members rallying together, a powerful Match Me campaign, and last-minute leadership support from corporate partners and individual donors, Impact100 didn’t just get close… they crossed the finish line.

Here’s what that means:

• A $500,000 grant pool to be distributed amongst 5 nonprofit organizations
• That means five $100,000 transformational grants
• Continued momentum for one of the fastest-growing philanthropic movements in Sacramento

We also explore the deeper story behind the dollars—why collective giving works, how relationships drive impact, and why organizations like Impact100 are changing the way communities fund their future.

With nearly $1.5 million invested into local nonprofits in just four years, this milestone is more than a number—it’s proof of what’s possible when people come together with purpose.

🔗 Learn more: Impact100 Greater Sacramento

To learn more about the two organizations that rolled it over the top, you can find them in the links below.

New York Life:  https://www.newyorklife.com/contact-us

US Bank:  https://www.usbank.com/index.html

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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What if the power of a wish didn’t stop at childhood?

In this episode, I sit down with Stephanie Berger, founder of Silver Wishes—an organization built on a simple but powerful idea: seniors deserve the same moments of hope, dignity, and joy that we so often create for children.

But what I found most compelling in this conversation is that these aren’t bucket-list wishes. They’re real, immediate needs—things like fixing a car, restoring air conditioning, or providing mobility support. Small things on the surface… that completely change someone’s ability to live independently and with pride.

Stephanie shares how this idea was born during COVID, inspired by her own family’s experience, and how it’s grown into a movement that’s quietly transforming lives across our community. 

We also talk about what she calls the “dandelion effect”—how one fulfilled wish can ripple outward, inspiring others to step in and create even more impact.

This is a conversation about empathy, about community, and about recognizing a population that too often goes unseen.

To learn more about Silver Wishes you can visit the website https://silverwishes.org/. Or you can call  916-287-7172. 

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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With Big Day of Giving just days away, this final installment of the NewsPod series brings together the most important insights, strategies, and reminders to help donors, businesses, and nonprofits maximize their impact.

I’m joined once again by Kelly Siefkin to wrap up a five-part series leading into one of the most important philanthropic days in our region.

We revisit what’s working, what’s trending, and what still matters most—community participation.

What We Cover:

Business Engagement is Up

•  More companies stepping in with matching gifts and prize incentives
•  Creative engagement through team pages, yard signs, and social sharing
•  Increased visibility translating into stronger community momentum 

More Ways to Give Than Ever

•  Traditional giving meets modern tools: Venmo, Apple Pay, Google Pay
•  Growth in donor-advised funds and IRA-qualified charitable distributions (QCDs)
•  First-time stock donations entering the mix 
•  Quick giving tools like “refill your cart” make participation easier than ever 

Philanthropy for Everyone

•  The $10 minimum makes giving accessible to all 
•  A powerful reminder: collective small gifts drive massive impact
•  A great opportunity to teach the next generation about giving

Trust-Based Philanthropy Matters

•  Emphasis on unrestricted funding gives nonprofits flexibility 
•  Encourages donors to trust organizations to meet their greatest needs
•  Helps shift outdated expectations toward mission-driven impact

Final Call to Action

•  Give to organizations you love—and discover one you don’t yet know 
•  Share on social and amplify the movement 
•  Consider becoming an ambassador to extend your reach 
•  Remember: this day belongs to the community 

With over 900+ nonprofits participating and millions on the line, Big Day of Giving isn’t just about donations—it’s about connection, visibility, and collective impact.

Why It Matters

This episode isn’t just a recap—it’s a rallying cry.

Big Day of Giving works because thousands of people choose to show up. Whether it’s $10 or $10,000, every action contributes to a larger story: a community investing in itself.

And beyond the day itself, the bigger takeaway is this—philanthropy isn’t reserved for a select few. It’s for everyone.

Let's make it the best ever!

Visit https://www.bigdayofgiving.org/

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...

In this episode, I'm speaking with Kara Green, co-founder and executive director of ABLED, alongside Kelsey Emmett, a participant whose journey captures exactly why this work matters.

What began as a deeply personal mission to support Kara’s son Ben—who is on the autism spectrum—has grown into a thriving organization helping transition-age youth and young adults develop the skills needed for meaningful, independent employment.

ABLED fills a critical gap. For individuals who are ready to work but need additional support to build stamina, confidence, and real-world experience, this program provides a structured pathway forward. Through job training, community partnerships, and hands-on opportunities like working at Sutter Health Park, clients gain both technical and emotional skills that prepare them for long-term success.

From serving just five individuals to now supporting more than 50 clients annually, ABLED is proving that when people are given the right environment and support, they don’t just participate—they thrive.

This conversation highlights not only the systems change needed in workforce development for people with disabilities, but also the human side of growth—confidence built, fears overcome, and futures reimagined.

💡 Why It Matters

There’s a staggering reality at the center of this conversation: roughly 80% of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are unemployed or underemployed. 

ABLED is directly addressing that gap—creating a bridge between potential and opportunity.

This episode is a reminder that inclusion isn’t just about access—it’s about preparation, belief, and building systems that actually work for people.

⏱️ Chapter Timestamps (YouTube-Friendly)

00:00 – Welcome + The Origin of ABLED
 02:00 – From 5 Clients to 50+ Served
 04:00 – The Gap Between School and Employment
 06:00 – What “Graduation” Looks Like
 08:00 – Real Work Experience: Sutter Health Park
 10:00 – Community Partnerships + Collaborations
 13:00 – Funding + Grassroots Support
 15:00 – Big Vision: Scaling ABLED Nationwide
 18:00 – Measuring Impact Beyond Data
 21:00 – Confidence, Growth, and Breakthrough Moments
 24:00 – Greatest Needs: Volunteers + Transportation
 27:00 – Success Stories + Real Outcomes
 30:00 – Beyond the Mission (Personal Side of Leadership)
 33:00 – Closing Reflections + Community Impact

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...

In this fourth installment of the Big Day of Giving NewsPod series, once again, I'm speaking with Kelly Siefkin to explore the evolving landscape of philanthropy—and what it means for donors and nonprofits alike. From trust-based giving and donor-advised funds to the rise of non-cash assets and younger donor engagement, we break down the trends shaping how people give today.

We also tackle the real barriers that hold people back—perception, time, money, and complexity—and how Big Day of Giving is designed to remove them. Whether you’re a seasoned donor or just getting started, this conversation offers a clear and encouraging path to participation.

Bottom line: philanthropy isn’t reserved for the few—it’s accessible to everyone, and Big Day of Giving makes it easier than ever to be part of something bigger. 

Big Day of Giving is May 7th. Learn more by visiting the website: https://www.bigdayofgiving.org/https://www.bigdayofgiving.org/

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...

In this episode, I'm talking with Mary Tess Mail, Executive Director of Blue Line Arts, to explore how a small, volunteer-driven art initiative from 1966 has grown into a cornerstone of arts and culture in the Roseville region.

We talk about the organization’s evolution over six decades, its expanding role in public art and education, and how it’s meeting the needs of a rapidly growing community. From gallery exhibitions to murals, student programs to artist residencies, Blue Line Arts is proving that creativity isn’t just something you display—it’s something you build into the fabric of a community.

What stands out most is their commitment to connection: connecting artists with collectors, students with opportunity, and communities with shared experiences through art.

💡 Why It Matters

Arts organizations like Blue Line Arts don’t just showcase creativity—they create access.

In a time when schools are still struggling to fully integrate arts education, and communities are rapidly changing, organizations like this become essential bridges. They introduce students to new possibilities, support local artists in building sustainable careers, and transform public spaces into shared cultural experiences.

This episode highlights how intentional investment in the arts leads to stronger, more connected communities—and why that matters now more than ever.

To learn more about Blue Line Arts, visit: https://www.bluelinearts.org/

⏱️ Chapters

00:00 – Welcome & 60-Year Legacy
 02:30 – From Small Town to Cultural Hub
 06:15 – Growth of Roseville & Demand for Arts
 09:00 – Beyond the Gallery: Programs & Partnerships
 13:20 – Public Art & The Roseville Mural Project
 17:45 – Digital Art & The Next Generation of Creators
 21:30 – The Role of AI in Art Today
 25:10 – Community Collaborations & Regional Impact
 29:40 – Arts Education & Student Transformation
 35:20 – Funding Model & Sustainability
 40:10 – Measuring Impact Beyond Numbers
 45:00 – The “Blank Check” Vision
 49:30 – Beyond the Mission (Rapid Fire)
 52:00 – Building Connection Through Art (Closing Story)

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...

In this third installment of our Big Day of Giving series with the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, I'm talking, once again, with Chief Philanthropy Officer Kelly Siefkin to explore one of the most exciting new opportunities in local giving: the Impact Collaborative.

This episode breaks down how anyone—yes, anyone—can step into philanthropy through a simple, accessible model. For just $300 annually (or $25/month), individuals can join a giving circle that pools resources, builds knowledge, and empowers members to collectively decide where grant dollars go.

We also dig into the broader concept of giving circles—how they work, why they’re growing in popularity, and how you can even start your own with friends, colleagues, or community groups.

As Big Day of Giving approaches, this conversation highlights a powerful truth: philanthropy isn’t reserved for the few—it’s available to all of us.

💡 Why It Matters

This episode reframes philanthropy as something inclusive, social, and learnable—not just transactional.

The Impact Collaborative lowers the barrier to entry while increasing engagement, education, and community connection. It’s not just about giving—it’s about understanding where your dollars go and having a voice in the outcome. 

For many, Big Day of Giving is the first step. The Impact Collaborative is how that step turns into a sustained journey.

For more information, visit https://www.sacregcf.org/

You can also make the call to learn more: 916-921-7723

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...

In this episode, I sit down with Katie Campbell from RedRover to explore a critical but often overlooked reality—people in crisis may delay or avoid seeking safety because they can’t bring their pets with them.

We unpack how RedRover is addressing this gap through emergency veterinary grants, domestic violence safe housing support, disaster response, and youth education programs. From wildfire deployments to quiet, behind-the-scenes grant work, this conversation reveals how compassion for animals directly impacts human safety and decision-making.

What stood out most is this: protecting pets isn’t separate from protecting people—it’s deeply connected. 

💡 Why It Matters

Too often, systems designed to help people in crisis overlook one critical piece—their pets.

When nearly all survivors say their decision to leave is influenced by whether their pet can come with them, this isn’t a niche issue—it’s a major barrier to safety.

Organizations like RedRover aren’t just helping animals. They’re removing barriers, accelerating escape from dangerous situations, and preserving the emotional bonds that help people heal.

This is what real, holistic support looks like.

To learn more about RedRover visit their website: https://redrover.org/

CHAPTERS

00:00 – Introduction to RedRover and the human-animal bond
02:00 – Katie’s story and the “lightbulb moment”
04:30 – What RedRover does: core programs overview
07:30 – Pets and domestic violence: the hidden barrier to leaving
11:00 – Expanding into homelessness and broader crisis support
13:30 – Scaling nationally and building partnerships
17:00 – Funding model and donor-driven sustainability
19:30 – The big vision: working themselves out of a job
23:00 – Training communities and breaking down silos
28:00 – Educating youth and building long-term compassion

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.