Visual Eyes - Community & Collaboration Podcast

The arts have the power to transform communities, foster creativity, and bring people together. But what happens when funding for the arts is scarce? In this episode of Visual Eyes Podcast, host Chris Baker sits down with Kat Sierra, Director of Operations at Funding Arts Broward (FAB), to discuss how her organization is ensuring that artists and cultural institutions receive the support they need to thrive.

💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:
✔️ How FAB provides grants to local artists and organizations
✔️ The importance of arts education in underserved communities
✔️ How collaborations like FAB x Mad Arts are creating new opportunities
✔️ Why arts advocacy and philanthropy are key to sustaining a creative ecosystem

Kat shares inspiring insights on why arts funding matters, how collaboration fuels innovation, and why every community needs to invest in the arts. Whether you're an artist, nonprofit leader, philanthropist, or arts advocate, this conversation will inspire you to support and sustain the arts for future generations.

📌 Mentioned Organization:
🔗 Funding Arts Broward (FAB) – https://fundingartsbroward.org

🎧 Listen & Subscribe for More Inspiring Conversations:
🌍 Website: https://www.VisualEyesPodcast.com
📷 Instagram: @VisualEyesPod
📘 LinkedIn: Visual Eyes Podcast
🎥 YouTube: Visual Eyes Podcast Channel @VisualEyesPodcast

🎭 Support the Arts. Advocate for Change. Inspire Creativity.

#Nonprofit #ArtsFunding #Philanthropy #ArtsEducation #CreativeCommunity #VisualEyesPodcast #SupportTheArts #PublicArt

Would you like some help creating the perfect narrative for your organization?
Book your Strategy Call


VISUALS BY MOMO:
Phone: (954) 745-7922
Website: https://www.visualsbymomo.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualsbymomo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visualsbymomo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visualsbymomo/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@visualsbymomo
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/visualsbymomo
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@visualsbymomo


Special Thanks to Stacy Daugherty for the beautiful wall artwork in the background. Socials: @artographybystacy

In this powerful episode of the Visual Eyes Podcast, host Chris Baker sits down with Tanya Barett, Executive Director of McDavid Group Charities, to discuss how this nonprofit is making a life-changing impact for the families of fallen law enforcement officers.

About Tanya Barett

Tanya Barrett is an accomplished Executive Director and entrepreneurial leader based in Jupiter, Florida, with over 25 years of professional experience. As the current Executive Director of McDavid Group Charities, she has tripled annual fundraising revenue from $400,000 to $1.6 million in just five years.

Under her leadership, McDavid Group Charities fulfills its vital mission of supporting the educational goals of children and spouses of fallen law enforcement officers. The organization provides crucial financial support and counseling services to help these families survive and thrive, while also raising awareness about the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

This mission holds deep personal significance for Tanya, as she is the surviving spouse of Virginia State Trooper Mark D. Barrett, who had his End of Watch on September 14, 2010. She works tirelessly to create a world where financial barriers to higher education no longer burden these families, offering hands-on support, counseling, and scholarships to help them rebuild their futures.

Episode Highlights

🔹 How a single golf tournament turned into a $1.5 million nonprofit
🔹 The $40,000 scholarships helping families of fallen officers afford education
🔹 The importance of networking and community support in nonprofit success
🔹 How government policies affect benefits for law enforcement families
🔹 The challenges and opportunities in sustaining nonprofit growth

🚀 Learn how YOU can support this mission!

🔗 Visit McDavid Group Charities: https://www.McDavidGroupCharities.org
📧 Contact Tanya Barett: [email protected]

🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
🌍 Website: https://www.VisualEyesPodcast.com
📷 Instagram: @VisualEyesPod
📘 LinkedIn: Visual Eyes Podcast
🎥 YouTube: @VisualEyesPodcast

🔎 Hashtags for Discoverability:
#Nonprofit #Philanthropy #Leadership #LawEnforcement #Scholarships #FallenHeroes #CommunitySupport #GivingBack #SocialImpact #Podcast

Would you like some help creating the perfect narrative for your organization?
Book your Strategy Call


VISUALS BY MOMO:
Phone: (954) 745-7922
Website: https://www.visualsbymomo.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualsbymomo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visualsbymomo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visualsbymomo/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@visualsbymomo
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/visualsbymomo
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@visualsbymomo


Special Thanks to Stacy Daugherty for the beautiful wall artwork in the background. Socials: @artographybystacy

In this episode of the Visual Eyes Podcast, we sit down with Cathy Brown, Director of the Broward Center for Nonprofit Excellence at the Community Foundation of Broward. Cathy shares expert insights on nonprofit success, funding strategies, and the importance of collaboration in the sector.

About Cathy Brown:
Cathy serves as Director of the Broward Center for Nonprofit Excellence at the Community Foundation of Broward, a new program helping community nonprofits, particularly small, grassroots, BIPOC-led or -serving organizations, build capacity and strengthen their core mission work. Prior to joining the Foundation, Cathy spent nearly a decade with The Fund Raising School at Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, serving as lead faculty for many of the face-to-face courses as well as the online courses, and working in curriculum design and faculty management. She co-authored a chapter in Achieving Excellence in Fundraising (5th edition). Cathy also has career experience in nonprofit management, leadership, fundraising, grant proposal writing and grant management, classroom instruction ranging from elementary school through college.

Cathy earned an MS in Education from Indiana University and a BA in Elementary Education from Hanover College. She also completed the Graduate Certificate in Philanthropic Studies from Indiana University and is certified as Associate Professional in Talent Development. She has served on several boards at the local and state levels, including a current role on the executive board of Gilda’s Club of South Florida, and chapter work with the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Grant Professionals Association, Impact 100 Pensacola, and several other state, university, and local groups and organizations.

Key Takeaways: ✔ Why collaboration is essential for nonprofit growth ✔ How nonprofits can secure sustainable funding ✔ The importance of storytelling in donor engagement ✔ Strategies for building strong nonprofit-business partnerships ✔ How organizations can leverage community resources for greater impact

Nonprofit leaders, community advocates, and philanthropic professionals won’t want to miss this powerful discussion on strengthening nonprofit sustainability.

🎧 Listen now and discover actionable strategies to grow your nonprofit!

🔗 Learn more about the Community Foundation of Broward: https://cfbroward.org

💡 Follow Visual Eyes Podcast: 🌍 Website: https://www.VisualEyesPodcast.com 📷 Instagram: @VisualEyesPod 📘 LinkedIn: Visual Eyes Podcast 🎥 YouTube: Visual Eyes Podcast Channel @VisualEyesPodcast

Would you like some help creating the perfect narrative for your organization?
Book your Strategy Call


VISUALS BY MOMO:
Phone: (954) 745-7922
Website: https://www.visualsbymomo.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualsbymomo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visualsbymomo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visualsbymomo/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@visualsbymomo
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/visualsbymomo
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@visualsbymomo


Special Thanks to Stacy Daugherty for the beautiful wall artwork in the background. Socials: @artographybystacy

In this episode of Visual Eyes Podcast, host Chris Baker sits down with Morgan Weinblatt, Director of Development at Goodman Jewish Family Services (Goodman JFS), to discuss the power of philanthropy, collaboration, and nonprofit impact in Broward County.

Morgan shares her journey into fundraising and nonprofit leadership, detailing how Goodman JFS supports diverse communities through programs such as:
✔ Holocaust Survivor Assistance – Serving over 800 survivors annually with financial aid, home care, and emotional support.
✔ Joshua’s Path Disability Services – Empowering neurodivergent adults with essential life skills and community integration.
✔ The Cupboard & Rack Pack – Providing food security and clothing assistance to those in need.

💡 Learn how nonprofits and businesses can collaborate to maximize social impact, and why volunteers and donors play a critical role in sustaining these services. Plus, hear the incredible story of a former client who became a donor, proving that philanthropy creates lasting change!

📌 Learn More & Get Involved:
🌍 Goodman JFS: https://www.jfsbroward.org
📷 Instagram: @JFSofBroward
📘 LinkedIn: Goodman JFS of Broward
🎥 YouTube: Goodman JFS YouTube

🔔 Subscribe to Visual Eyes Podcast for More Nonprofit & Leadership Insights!

Would you like some help creating the perfect narrative for your organization?
Book your Strategy Call


VISUALS BY MOMO:
Phone: (954) 745-7922
Website: https://www.visualsbymomo.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualsbymomo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visualsbymomo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visualsbymomo/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@visualsbymomo
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/visualsbymomo
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@visualsbymomo


Special Thanks to Stacy Daugherty for the beautiful wall artwork in the background. Socials: @artographybystacy

In this powerful episode of the Visual Eyes Podcast, we sit down with Justin Nepola, an influential nonprofit leader, philanthropist, and community advocate. From a simple New Year’s resolution to becoming Board Chair of HandsOn South Florida, Justin shares how volunteering changed his life and the impact he’s had on organizations like Military Recreational Divers (MRD) and No More Tears.

🔹 How volunteering led Justin to nonprofit leadership
🔹 The hidden challenges nonprofits face (and how to overcome them)
🔹 Why collaboration is key in the nonprofit sector
🔹 How ocean therapy is saving veterans with PTSD
🔹 A powerful story of helping a domestic violence survivor rebuild her life
🔹 Lessons from the pandemic: Why human connection matters more than ever

This episode is packed with inspiration, nonprofit insights, and leadership lessons that anyone passionate about social impact needs to hear.

📌 Learn More & Get Involved:
🌍 HandsOn South Florida: https://www.handsonsouthflorida.org
🌊 Military Recreational Divers: https://www.militarydivers.org
🛡️ No More Tears: https://www.nomoretearsusa.org

📢 Subscribe & Follow Visual Eyes Podcast for More Stories of Impact:
🌍 Website: https://www.VisualEyesPodcast.com
📷 Instagram: @VisualEyesPod
📘 LinkedIn: Visual Eyes Podcast
🎥 YouTube: Visual Eyes Podcast Channel @VisualEyesPodcast

#NonprofitLeadership #GivingBack #Philanthropy #CommunityImpact #SocialGood

Would you like some help creating the perfect narrative for your organization?
Book your Strategy Call


VISUALS BY MOMO:
Phone: (954) 745-7922
Website: https://www.visualsbymomo.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualsbymomo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visualsbymomo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visualsbymomo/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@visualsbymomo
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/visualsbymomo
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@visualsbymomo


Special Thanks to Stacy Daugherty for the beautiful wall artwork in the background. Socials: @artographybystacy

Cresha, the visionary CEO of the South Florida Institute on Aging (SOFIA), joins us to share her remarkable journey and insights into enhancing the lives of marginalized communities. From her roots in Miami to leading impactful initiatives, Cresha's story is one of passion and dedication. We learn about the evolution of the Foster Grandparent Program, originally a collaboration with the Broward County School Board, and explore the transformative work of the AmeriCorps Senior Programs, which provide mentorship, companionship, and essential technology training to older adults. Discover how Cresha's innovative strategies and commitment to service have driven positive change and effectiveness within the nonprofit sector.

Listen as we explore the power of collaboration in reducing community isolation, with a focus on strategic partnerships and volunteer engagement. We discuss the challenges of providing technology education, the role of organizations like Wisdom Care and Heart2Heart, and the inspiring work of volunteers like Olga Benjamin, who fosters community connections and cultural exchanges. Highlighting the importance of overcoming post-pandemic isolation, we celebrate initiatives that enhance well-being through face-to-face interactions. Future goals include expanding partnerships with institutions like Holy Cross Hospital to further support aging communities, underscoring the critical role of connection and health education for older adults.

Would you like some help creating the perfect narrative for your organization?
Book your Strategy Call


VISUALS BY MOMO:
Phone: (954) 745-7922
Website: https://www.visualsbymomo.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualsbymomo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visualsbymomo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visualsbymomo/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@visualsbymomo
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/visualsbymomo
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@visualsbymomo


Special Thanks to Stacy Daugherty for the beautiful wall artwork in the background. Socials: @artographybystacy

Councilmember Ray Martin, a retired 22-year military veteran turned Vice Mayor of Lauderhill, joins us to unpack the incredible impact of nonprofit collaboration on community welfare. Discover how Ray's military background has shaped his insights into the crucial role nonprofits play in addressing the gaps that government support often leaves. He opens up about his memorable collaborations with organizations like ICNA Relief, which provide essential support during natural disasters, and underscores how nonprofits are vital assets in enhancing community resilience.

Explore the transformative power of partnerships and the immense potential for greater impact when public officials and nonprofits join forces. We spotlight initiatives from Women in Distress, Warm Hearts Foundation, and Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies, exploring how they are making a difference by supporting families, mentoring youth, and offering essential parental services. Ray delves into his vision of creating a network akin to a BNI group, where nonprofits can come together to optimize resources and avoid duplicating efforts, ultimately strengthening their service delivery and fundraising capabilities.

In our conversation, Ray offers invaluable advice for nonprofits seeking funding, emphasizing the importance of connecting early with city officials and presenting compelling stories that illustrate their impact. Learn from the successful collaboration between Joy's Roti and Farmshare, a testament to the power of coordinated resources in feeding those in need. As Ray shares his aspirations for Lauderhill, he passionately advocates for policy changes to support struggling families and seniors and build a legacy of increased homeownership and improved life quality for all residents. Join us as we explore how nonprofit collaboration can build stronger, more vibrant communities.

Would you like some help creating the perfect narrative for your organization?
Book your Strategy Call


VISUALS BY MOMO:
Phone: (954) 745-7922
Website: https://www.visualsbymomo.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualsbymomo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visualsbymomo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visualsbymomo/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@visualsbymomo
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/visualsbymomo
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@visualsbymomo


Special Thanks to Stacy Daugherty for the beautiful wall artwork in the background. Socials: @artographybystacy

Discover how TSS Photography is revolutionizing the way nonprofits in South Florida tell their stories through the lens of a camera. In our latest episode of Visualize, we're joined by Rachel Sherman, who shares the dynamic strategies her franchise employs to amplify nonprofit causes. From the magic of capturing priceless event moments with facial recognition technology to the clever use of branded photos for social media engagement, Rachel reveals how photography can serve as a powerful marketing ally. Find out how these collaborations not only save on costs for nonprofits but also boost their visibility and impact in the community.

As we journey through the importance of supporting local nonprofits, including the likes of Children's Harbor and Ark Broward, Rachel and I discuss how contributions beyond money—such as time and professional expertise—can fuel positive change. Uncover the vital role smaller, grassroots organizations play and the unique challenges they face in gaining recognition. We'll also delve into the art of being present, allowing memories to be preserved by professionals, freeing attendees to fully engage with meaningful events. Join us for an insightful conversation on the transformative power of collaboration in community support, and learn how you too can make a difference.

 🌐 TSS Photography South Florida – Visit Website
📧 Contact Rachel Sherman – [email protected]
📞 Phone:  (954) 649-3032
🔎 Google "Youth Sports or Event Photography South Florida" to find them!

Would you like some help creating the perfect narrative for your organization?
Book your Strategy Call


VISUALS BY MOMO:
Phone: (954) 745-7922
Website: https://www.visualsbymomo.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualsbymomo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visualsbymomo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visualsbymomo/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@visualsbymomo
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/visualsbymomo
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@visualsbymomo


Special Thanks to Stacy Daugherty for the beautiful wall artwork in the background. Socials: @artographybystacy

In this episode of Visual Eyes, host Chris Baker sits down with the inspiring Lali Safavi, a dedicated advocate for women-owned businesses and a leader in nonprofit collaboration. Lali shares her journey from the corporate world to nonprofit advocacy, highlighting the impact of women-led initiatives, mentorship programs, and community-driven solutions.

Women-owned businesses play a crucial role in shaping the economy, fostering innovation, and driving social change. Lali discusses the challenges women entrepreneurs face, from funding gaps to societal barriers, and offers actionable strategies to support their success. She also explores the importance of collaboration between businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders, showcasing how these partnerships create long-term, sustainable impact.

Throughout this episode, you’ll learn about successful nonprofit and business collaborations, how to effectively use storytelling for fundraising, and why investing in women’s empowerment programs leads to stronger, more resilient communities. Lali’s insights offer a fresh perspective on how both individuals and organizations can step up to create real, lasting change.

If you’re passionate about women’s leadership, nonprofit growth, and the power of collaboration, this episode is for you! Tune in to hear inspiring stories, expert insights, and strategies that can help you contribute to positive social impact.

🎙 Subscribe & Stay Connected!
Join us on the Visual Eyes Podcast as we explore the power of storytelling, nonprofit impact, and community-driven change. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review—your support helps amplify these important conversations.

Would you like some help creating the perfect narrative for your organization?
Book your Strategy Call


VISUALS BY MOMO:
Phone: (954) 745-7922
Website: https://www.visualsbymomo.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualsbymomo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visualsbymomo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visualsbymomo/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@visualsbymomo
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/visualsbymomo
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@visualsbymomo


Special Thanks to Stacy Daugherty for the beautiful wall artwork in the background. Socials: @artographybystacy

Imagine living with a condition that has been shrouded in stigma for decades. In this episode, Chris Baker sits down with Natalie Tyler from the World AIDS Museum to break down barriers and share her journey in the nonprofit world, focusing on her role in dismantling the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS. Natalie shares her invaluable insights into how the understanding of HIV has evolved and emphasizes the critical importance of knowing one's status. We discuss the upcoming Florida AIDS Walk on March 15, 2025, a significant event aimed at amplifying education and cultural programs through essential funding.

The power of collaboration stands front and center as we explore "Headshots 4 a Cause," a project designed to support nonprofits through the art of photography. By channeling proceeds toward organizations like the World AIDS Museum, this initiative shows how creative efforts can lead to meaningful change. Natalie and Chris highlight the "Colors of HIV" exhibit, which showcases the epidemic's diverse impact. Personal stories, including Chris's sister’s inspiring journey of living with HIV for 35 years, underscore resilience and the transformative power of education and awareness.

Natalie passionately calls for action, encouraging listeners to contribute to the cause through donations or participation in events like the Florida AIDS Walk. Her vision is one of continuous advocacy and leaving a legacy that inspires future generations. Located at ArtServe, the museum offers a rich tapestry of exhibits detailing the history and impact of HIV/AIDS, inviting visitors to engage and learn. Together, through storytelling and collaboration, we can foster a more informed and compassionate world. Join us and be part of this transformative journey.

Natalie Tyler
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-tyler-mpa-143985b1/
World AIDS Museum
https://worldaidsmuseum.org/

Would you like some help creating the perfect narrative for your organization?
Book your Strategy Call


VISUALS BY MOMO:
Phone: (954) 745-7922
Website: https://www.visualsbymomo.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visualsbymomo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visualsbymomo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visualsbymomo/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@visualsbymomo
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/visualsbymomo
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@visualsbymomo


Special Thanks to Stacy Daugherty for the beautiful wall artwork in the background. Socials: @artographybystacy