In this episode of the SCI Podcast, David Crowley speaks with longtime supporter and volunteer Beth Llewellyn-Lavoie about why supporting Social Capital Inc. is so important.

Beth shares how her involvement with SCI began during the COVID-19 pandemic through a local food drive — an experience that addressed food insecurity while also strengthening connections among neighbors. She also reflects on her role as a judge for SCI's Youth Grant Pitch Contest, and the confidence, leadership, and real-world skills young people develop as they pitch solutions to community challenges.

The episode closes with a reflection on charitable giving and community investment. Beth shares why she has consistently prioritized supporting SCI over the past several years, and why organizations like SCI that strengthen one's home community can have lasting impact — not just for today, but for the next generation.

How can something as simple as sharing a glass of wine help strengthen our sense of community? In this episode, SCI President David Crowley talks with Stephen Nasiatka, Founder & Chief Wine Officer of Stephen Uncorked, about the power of food and wine to bring people together and spark meaningful conversations.

Stephen shares how he designs wine experiences that do more than delight the palate — they help people connect, build trust, and create lasting memories. Together, David and Stephen discuss their collaboration on the upcoming Social Capital Inc. wine and food fundraiser at Gustazo in Waltham on October 14, 2025, which blends great wine, Cuban cuisine, and community connection in support of SCI's mission to strengthen social ties across differences.

Topics include:

• How wine serves as a "social connector" across cultures and communities

• Creating events that encourage genuine conversation and shared experiences

• The inspiration behind the SCI Wine & Food Fundraiser at Gustazo Waltham

• Tips for making gatherings more inclusive and relationship-focused

• How proceeds from the event will support SCI's work cultivating connection and belonging

Join us for this conversation that pairs perfectly with SCI's mission — showing how intentional social experiences can help bridge divides and build stronger, more connected communities.

🔗 Learn more or get tickets for the event: socialcapitalinc.org/network

Turahn Dorsey joins the Cultivating Connections podcast to discuss his extensive work in the nonprofit, public, and private sectors to promote economic mobility and equity. He outlines the Eastern Bank Foundation's mission to bridge gaps in prosperity by investing in small business ecosystems, early childhood development, affordable housing, and workforce development. Rahn notes their long term investments in areas where sustained commitment is necessary to address deep-rooted inequities. Rahn also discusses Eastern Bank's ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) despite the changing climate.

The conversation also touches on Rahn's previous roles, including his time as Boston's education chief under Mayor Marty Walsh, where he helped launch the Boston pre-K initiative. He reflects on the importance of collaboration and strong relationships in achieving lasting policy change. Additionally, Rahn shares insights from his research at ABT Associates on social capital, recounting a project in rural South Dakota where community bonds and local agency led to innovative economic development. He connects these lessons to his current work in Boston's Nubian Square, underscoring the power of community-driven efforts and the importance of investing in places such as Roxbury with deep cultural and historical significance.

Rahn will be recognized on May 7th as one of the 2025 SCI Idealist Award recipients. Join SCI on May 7th to celebrate Rahn!