Jeanne Malgioglio, teacher, Area Coordinator for the Monroe-Trumbull, CT chapter, tells the story of a community grant she received recently. She was a bit intimidated but decided to go for it. This will keep her chapter funded for a very long time and allow her to continue helping other local agencies through the gifts of binkies. Join us for this short episode to spark ideas, especially for smaller non-profits or chapters of larger ones to secure funding through local community grants. Visit Jeanne's chapter page here.

In this episode of All Volunteer All Heart from Binky Patrol, host Susan Finch welcomes Angie Marie, a community leader from Hood River, Oregon. Angie shares her inspiring story of creating Gorge SpeakEasy, a monthly storytelling event that brings together diverse members of the community while supporting local nonprofits. Through volunteer efforts and innovative partnerships with local businesses, Gorge SpeakEasy has become a platform for connection, personal growth, and community impact. Angie and Susan discuss the power of collaboration between organizations and how companies can give back to their communities beyond financial contributions. This episode is a must-listen for businesses seeking creative ways to make a difference in their local areas, emphasizing the exponential impact of cross-organizational cooperation. Join Susan and Angie as they explore the heartwarming potential of storytelling, volunteerism, and community-building.   Gorge Speakeasy on Instagram Binky Patrol on Instagram Gorge Speakeasy on Facebook Binky Patrol on Facebook

Volunteer time management is often overlooked as a value, as an asset. But it is the most valuable donation your organization receives. The dollars you receive are precious - are they being used most effectively? Tracking the time your staff and volunteers spend will help you see where you are getting the best outcomes and where you may be spinning your wheels. Listen to this short episode for some ideas about time and volunteers.

Jeanne Malgioglio tells us about her outstanding week at her school. Her students were studying the book, "I Will Always Write Back" by authors Caitlin Alfirenka and Martin Ganda, with Liz Welch. It's a story of friendship, being open to new ideas across the globe and choosing to make things better. Jeanne's students embodied this theme by making over 70 blankets inspired by the story. One of the authors, Caitlin even made an appearance. Susan brought in her own middle school story. Shout out to Walker Jr. High in La Palma. We hope you enjoy this short episode. Links from this episode: Jeanne's Binky Patrol chapter page Walker Jr. High The book, "I Will Always Write Back."

Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their attempts to exploit individuals and organizations. As a nonprofit or small business, staying vigilant and protecting yourself from photo copyright infringement scams is crucial. In this informative PSA episode, Susan Finch from All-Volunteer, All Heart from Binky Patrol shares her recent experience with a suspicious email claiming image copyright violations. With the help of an IP attorney friend, Susan dissects the red flags in the email and provides valuable insights on handling such situations. She also offers practical advice on sourcing legitimate images for your website and the importance of having access to legal counsel for your organization. Join us as we explore these critical issues and learn how to safeguard your nonprofit or small business from falling victim to these deceptive schemes. Stay informed, stay protected, and stay focused on making a positive impact in your community. Key Points: Be cautious when using images on your website, and ensure you have the rights to use them.Consider sourcing images from reputable stock photo websites, hiring a professional photographer, or finding a volunteer.Be wary of suspicious emails claiming copyright infringement, especially those with unprofessional language or sketchy links.Do not click on links in suspicious emails, as they may be attempts to extort money or gain access to sensitive information.Consult with an IP attorney or legal professional if you receive a suspicious email or have concerns about copyright infringement.Consider having a legal consultant on call to review any potential legal issues.Get to know your volunteers and their professional backgrounds, as they may be able to offer valuable expertise to your organization.

Are you running a small non-profit organization and looking for ways to save money and maximize your resources? In this quick podcast episode, Susan Finch, our founder, shares some valuable tips and resources that can help you streamline your operations and promote your cause more effectively. From free email services to volunteer recruitment platforms, Susan covers a range of tools that can benefit your organization without breaking the bank. Listen in to discover how to take your non-profit to the next level! Key resources mentioned: Google Workspace: Offers free, unlimited email accounts for non-profits with their domain (e.g., @binkypatrol.org).TechSoup (techsoup.org): Provides discounts on software, equipment, training, and accounting services for 501(c)(3) organizations.Nextdoor: A platform where you can register your non-profit, post events, and engage in conversations with the local community.Local media outlets: Television stations, newspapers, and community broadcasting stations often have opportunities for non-profits to promote events, volunteer opportunities, or share success stories.Local service organizations: Connect with groups like the Scouts, Lions, Elks, and Kiwanis, as they may have resource directories or volunteer opportunities.City resources: Register your 501(c)(3) with your local city to be included in their community resources and post volunteer opportunities.VolunteerMatch (volunteermatch.org): A platform to create and manage volunteer opportunities at a low cost with excellent support and resources for non-profits. Here are some key questions listeners should discuss with their non-profit leadership to identify additional local partners and resources: Have we reached out to local businesses to explore potential partnerships, sponsorships, or in-kind donations?Are there any local community foundations or grant-making organizations that align with our mission and could provide funding opportunities?Have we connected with local schools, universities, or educational institutions to discuss volunteer recruitment, internship programs, or collaborative projects?Are there any local faith-based organizations or religious institutions that share our values and could become partners in our cause?Have we investigated potential partnerships with other local non-profits that have complementary missions or serve similar populations?Are there any local professional associations, trade groups, or industry-specific organizations that could provide resources, expertise, or networking opportunities?Have we explored partnerships with local government agencies, such as social services departments, to identify areas of collaboration or support?Are there any local service clubs, like Rotary or Kiwanis, that we could engage with for volunteer recruitment or community outreach?Have we contacted local media outlets to discuss potential partnerships, such as public service announcements or featured stories?Are there any upcoming local events, festivals, or conferences that we could participate in to raise awareness about our organization and build community connections?By exploring these questions and proactively seeking out local partnerships, non-profit leaders can tap into a wealth of resources and expand their organization's impact within the community.

Today, we're diving into a topic that's close to our hearts: recognizing and appreciating the incredible volunteers who make our mission possible. Our volunteers are the lifeblood of our organizations, tirelessly giving their time, energy, and skills to make a difference in the lives of others. They are the unsung heroes who work behind the scenes, often without expecting anything in return. But as nonprofit leaders, it's our job to make sure they feel valued, appreciated, and supported every step of the way. In this episode, we'll be sharing some creative and affordable ways to show your volunteers just how much they mean to you and your cause. From small tokens of appreciation like pins and stickers to heartfelt gestures like personalized thank-you notes and special events, we'll explore a variety of ideas to help you celebrate your volunteers and keep them motivated and engaged. So grab a cozy blanket, settle in, and get ready to be inspired by the power of volunteer recognition. Together, we can create a culture of gratitude and support that will help our nonprofits thrive and make an even greater impact in the world. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. We are all in this together, working towards a common goal of making a difference in our communities. So, let's lift each other up, celebrate our successes, and show our volunteers just how much they are appreciated. Here are some key suggestions for non-profits mentioned in the episode: Recognize and thank volunteers through small gifts like pins, stickers, or patches. These can be ordered in bulk to last for years and distributed to volunteers at events or through chapters.Apply for grants specifically aimed at volunteer recognition and support to cover the costs of items like pins, stickers, and T-shirts.Partner with organizations like the Girl Scouts or Boy Scouts, who appreciate patches and can help spread awareness about your non-profit.Use services like Vistaprint  or lynmar.com to order promotional materials such as brochures, banners, and postcards. Take advantage of coupons and sales to save on costs.Create a store or online platform where chapters can easily order branded items for their volunteers.Organize contests and challenges for chapter leaders and volunteers to engage them and reward participation with small prizes like fabric kits or branded items.Encourage volunteers to wear and use branded items to promote your organization and make it easier for people to learn about your mission and how to get involved.Plan and budget for volunteer recognition initiatives, as they are important for keeping volunteers motivated and committed to your cause long-term. CopyRetry

Susan Finch is joined by Coleen Gose, a professional speaker and domestic violence survivor, to explore the power of storytelling for nonprofit leaders. Gose's journey from finding her voice to becoming a professional speaker is inspiring and insightful. The episode delves into the importance of nonprofit leaders honing their speaking skills, the value of joining organizations like Toastmasters, and the impact of feedback in improving speaking abilities. Coleen and Susan also discuss the versatility of storytelling across various platforms, such as public speaking, remote presentations, and fundraising. This episode is packed with valuable advice and encouragement for nonprofit leaders looking to enhance their speaking skills and effectively share their organization's mission and impact. Get ready to be inspired and equipped with practical tips to take the stage with confidence and drive action. Links from this episode: Coleen Gose on LinkedIn Coleen's website Coleen's book, "A Woman's Journey of a Lifetime: Thriving Through the Transitions of Life." Find your local Toastmasters Chapter here. About Coleen Gose: As a Professional Speaker and Healthy Relationship Coach, Coleen has made it her mission to help corporate professionals build healthy relationships by teaching them transformational skills to build lasting and enriching connections. Coleen believes that we all deserve the room to grow unjudged, take risks, find the best version of ourselves, and still be loved Coleen earned her BA in Law and Justice from Central Washington University and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. She is a Certified Professional Coach, Certified Trauma Informed Coach and Published Author. She is the founder of Life 2.0 Coaching with Coleen.

Binky Patrol Director, Terrie Madruga joined Susan to talk about how easy it is to volunteer for Binky Patrol. From sewing on labels to taking phone calls to writing thank you notes. If you want to give us a bit of time, we have ideas to make it easy and fun! Join us for this short episode to support our chapter leaders and spark ideas in your heart. Learn more ways to help at https://binkypatrol.org/ways-to-help/ . We hope to hear from you soon!

Looking for ways to build community in your workplace or neighborhood? In this week's fun and uplifting episode, we talk to Rebecca Heinen who used her passion for crocheting to connect with others across 36 states and counting. Rebecca shares how she started "A Stitch in Every State" to donate handmade crochet items to organizations in need and how it accidentally helped her form bonds at her new job. Tune in to hear Rebecca's creative ideas for starting conversations, from math puzzles to crocheted cat toys, as well as where she finds resources to fund her craft. Her story shows that a hobby like crocheting can make a big difference, stitch by stitch. So grab your yarn and join us for an inspiring chat about building community through crafting. Links from this episode: OwlBHooked Etsy “Call the Midwife” Pattern (apparently, she wrote the pattern from the show!) Chill Pill Pattern (one of Rebecca's go to for gifts/prizes at work)  Rebecca Heinen on LinkedIn Ear Savers

Upgrading your nonprofit's online presence can be daunting, especially with limited resources. In this insightful episode, we walk through the initial steps small nonprofits should take when considering revamping their website. Susan shares practical tips on evaluating your current site, defining goals for an upgraded one, estimating costs, and more. Even if a full site overhaul isn't feasible now, Susan offers simple ways to make improvements, like updating content and switching to a more sustainable web host. Tune in to get an introductory game plan for sprucing up your nonprofit's digital face to better serve your community. With Susan's guidance, you'll be well on your way to an achievable website upgrade. See the new Binky Patrol website here. Tools mentioned in this episode: TechSoup ThemeForest.net Avada Rocket.net Google Analytics

Susan invited Lori on to the show after the recent Bink-A-Thon in Thousand Oaks. Binky Patrol Director, Carolyn Berndt hosted her event at One Spark Academy and knew Lori has the same heart as Binky Patrol. This inspiring conversation delves into making positive change through education and understanding. Host Susan Finch speaks with Lori Peters, executive director of One Spark Academy, about supporting students through a difficult time and empowering them to create meaningful connections. Lori explains how her alternative learning program focuses on "finding that one spark" in each child and nurturing it through small class sizes, engaging electives like gardening and cooking, and daily "circle time" to practice communication skills. She shares the powerful story of two boys resolving a conflict after weeks of learning these techniques. Their journey illustrates how patience, empathy, and an openness to listen can work wonders. As Lori says, "By creating supportive spaces for young people to develop self-awareness and compassion, we plant the seeds for a more peaceful world." About our guest: Lori Peters is the founder of One Spark Academy. She wholeheartedly believes in the principles of teaching the whole child– meeting students’ academic, social, and emotional needs– and inspiring students to be healthy, balanced, and globally aware. In July 2011, after 16 years in public alternative education, Lori put her energy into helping students find their spark and enjoy learning with like-minded peers in a truly unique learning environment. Links from this episode: Binky Patrol One Spark Academy

Today I had the pleasure of speaking with Leah Okimoto, Executive Director of the incredible organization Aaron's Presents. Through Aaron's Presents, kids are empowered to make a positive difference in their communities by pursuing service projects of their own design. From providing reflective vests to peers walking home in the dark, to leading cheerleading classes for younger kids, participants experience the joy and fulfillment of helping others. As we'll hear from Leah, these projects not only spread good in the world, but build confidence, purpose, and compassion within the young people carrying them out. Aaron's Presents demonstrates the boundless potential within all children to be a force for good when given the opportunity. I was so moved learning about the transformative impact of this organization. We hope you are inspired by listening to Leah Okimoto share the heartwarming mission and powerful stories of Aaron's Presents.

Welcome to another episode of Volunteer All Heart from Binky Patrol. I'm your host Susan Finch, and today we have two of our amazing volunteers joining us to share their experiences hosting Bink-A-Thons in their communities. First up is Binky Patrol director, Carolyn Berndt, one of our dedicated volunteers who helped organize a small but mighty Bink-A-Thon with kids from a local charter school. She knows the power of involving youth in service. We'll also hear from Daphne Boyd, a longtime New Jersey Binky Patrol Area Coordinator who partnered with her local library for a Bink-A-Thon. Daphne knows the importance of engaging senior volunteers, using online volunteer platforms, and allowing flexible participation. Both ladies have great tips to share from their events, which the MrBallen Foundation sponsored. They'll inspire you with how our volunteers unite to make blankets and hope for children and families nationwide. Stay tuned! Here are some key tips from this episode and our recent event: Partner with organizations receiving donations to help promote and recruit event volunteers through their newsletters, social media, etc.Involve youth groups like Girl Scouts or school kids to participate in service activities. It teaches them to help others.Engage senior communities in making items, giving them a sense of purpose.Use online volunteer platforms like VolunteerMatch.org to manage and recruit volunteers. Have multiple admins.List your non-profit in volunteer directories like 211 and United Way to increase visibility.Consider hosting events in different seasons to provide more opportunities for involvement.Block enough time for setup, the event itself, and clean-up when planning. Allow some flexibility.Develop partnerships with local schools, companies, stores, etc. to host drives or service days.Provide options for volunteers with limited time, like setup/cleanup help only. Learn more at https://binkypatrol.org

October 28 seven states coordinated a national blanket-making event. They each chose who would receive the blankets they made. They all had one thing in common - the recipients would be children and teens who were victims of or traumatized by violent crimes. Listen to this episode to hear the stories from four states: Virginia, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Oregon. We can help any group coordinate one of these events, even if there isn't a chapter near you. We've done this for remote teams, international teams, churches, quilt groups, service organizations, corporations large and small. If you want to bring the like-hearts near you together, consider a Bink-A-Thon. This national event was sponsored by the MrBallen. Foundation.  Links from this episode: MrBallen.foundation Binky Patrol Comforting Covers TheAngelsInTheOutfield.org Center for Family Justice Massachusetts Society for the Protection of Children Mission of Deeds Cape Cod Children's Center Comfort Cases Second-Story.org Project Horizon Phillips Academy (andover.edu) Holy Trinity Catholic Church Loudon County Public Library Planet Pizza Dutch Bros. Coffee   Other sponsors included Planet Pizza in Connecticut, Dutch Bros. in Beaverton, Hoffman Fabrics, Embassy Suites in Tigard, OR and our host locations. Many hands, as the saying goes.

With fundraising and volunteer engagement always top of mind, nonprofits need to maximize their donor relationships. Susan's penmanship can be challenging to read, even with the most heart-felt card she sends. Simply Noted provides nonprofits an easy way to personalize communication through handwritten notes, helping donors feel appreciated. Their customizable templates, bulk mailing discounts, and automation integrations enable nonprofits to scale personalized donor touches throughout the year. By sending consistent, meaningful communication outside of solicitations, nonprofits can improve donor loyalty and lifetime value. This outline explores how Simply Noted enables nonprofits to show extra appreciation, share updates, and invite supporters in a more genuine, memorable way. Binky Patrol is fortunate to have a sponsor for this account for the year. It's time to get started on the piles of return addresses on blanket boxes and get those thank you's out. We're also going to use it to send our volunteers anniversary cards - we'd be nothing without their hearts and time! About Our Guest: Rick Elmore is founder and CEO of Simply Noted in Tempe, Arizona, a company that utilizes software and robotic technology to create personalized handwritten notes for its 300,000 monthly users. Learn more about Binky Patrol here.

This is not your episode if you want to remain with only one location and not scale your organization. If you want to grow - even slowly, here are some tips to increase the success of that growth and help retain your regional chapter leaders. Here are a few ideas covered in this short episode: How-to videos.How to edit their info on your site - profile.Where are their tools - central location to make it easy for them to create letters, social posts, flyers, and thank you cards with their local info. Lock it down except for those pieces to keep it consistent with your brand.Ask for feedback once a year or more to ensure you still address your audiences with the materials.Who pays for printing? Do they need to submit expenses?Ask them for faqs you can add to the site - and credit them - they will feel supported and heard!Press kit they can easily access to make local grant-writing and sponsorship processes easier.

Shannon Kmetic, founder of Angels in the Outfield, joins Susan Finch to discuss her mission of supporting children impacted by crime and abuse. Kmetic shares how her experience as a prosecutor showed her the need to help children after going through trauma and the justice system. She details the year-round work Angels in the Outfield does to give kids opportunities to pursue their passions, from sports gear to college visits, and provide a sense of normalcy. Kmetic emphasizes the power of helping children heal through positive outlets and relationships. As Susan describes their upcoming collaboration providing blankets to Angels' holiday store, Kmetic thanks participants for giving children warmth, security, and care. Together, they model uplifting partnerships that allow grassroots groups to transform children's lives. Will you join them by volunteering time or donating to organizations like Angels in the Outfield? About Shannon Kmetic Shannon was a Deputy District Attorney for Clackamas County when she founded the Angels in the Outfield in 2009.  She had been a prosecutor since 1996, and her caseload for quite some time had involved domestic violence and child physical and sexual abuse cases.  Shannon had just prosecuted one of the worst sexual abuse in her career, and she realized that more had to be done for this young victim and others like her. She was worried that the "system" was not equipped to deal with long-term issues related to victimization and healing. Shannon was blessed with a wonderful family and supportive parents, but not all children, including vulnerable children who are abused and neglected, get to experience what she did. Shannon's hope was, and is, that the Angels in the Outfield will provide hope to children who fall within our mission. Getting to experience or do things that they may not have otherwise, or participate in an activity or event, or have something that will assist them daily will be the impetus for healing.  Links from this episode: Angels in the Outfield Binky Patrol MrBallen Foundation

Part of our MrBallen series, Sarah Muzquiz from the Ride Foundation joins Susan and shares the touching journey of healing through their programs. Many previously wild horses bond with veterans, inner-city kids, and individuals battling trauma, teaching invaluable lessons on trust and emotional boundaries. With a barn close to the city, the program ensures accessibility for urban kids, fostering a bond beyond mere riding. Several kids have found solace and accomplishment through the course, proving that the healing touch of these animals is universal. Sarah tells the story of a veteran who, having personally benefited from the program, volunteers to assist inner-city children. The Ride Foundation’s unique approach to therapy has rippled through the community, intertwining lives and building lasting relationships. Their message? Healing is a shared journey. Learn more about this moving initiative and discover how to participate in this transformative experience. Links from this episode: The Ride Foundation Binky Patrol MrBallen Foundation

Continuing the MrBallen Foundation Series, join this conversation on a topic close to many hearts - child abuse and the journey toward healing. Dr. Gina Crean from the Nashville Children’s Alliance joins Susan Finch to discuss the challenges faced by children who have undergone traumatic experiences and the support provided by Children's Advocacy Centers (CACs) across the United States. Dr. Crean highlights the importance of minimizing retraumatization by following similar protocols across all CACs while adapting to local needs and resources. They discuss the critical role of supportive adults, community awareness, and how even small contributions, like donating snacks or blankets, can significantly impact. Dr. Crean encourages listeners to reach out for support, whether for themselves or others, and underscores the importance of starting conversations about child abuse to eliminate its stigma. This conversation is not just an eye-opener but also a call to action for everyone to contribute in their own way to support the healing journey of affected children. Join them for this episode: Healing Young Hearts: Supporting Traumatized Children Together. Links from this episode: Binky Patrol MrBallen Foundation Nashville Children's Alliance