In this episode, we dive into a conversation with Rosie Drumgoole, CEO of Chicago Cares, an organization dedicated to mobilizing volunteers to build stronger and more unified communities in the windy city. Rosie discusses the organization's mission to act in solidarity with community leaders and the importance of leveraging relationships and resources to support local needs. The dialogue explores the evolution of community engagement, especially under the pressures of current social and economic challenges, and how volunteerism can be a powerful tool for connection and resilience. Rosie shares insights from a recent panel on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), discusses the impact of ongoing ICE raids in Chicago on community work, and emphasizes the importance of joy and hope in her organization's operations. The episode also touches on the critical role of transparent communication and adapting volunteer strategies to foster a sense of community in trying times. Finally, the discussion highlights the importance of nonprofit leaders taking care of themselves amidst the demanding nature of their work. Tune in to be inspired by stories of community solidarity and the impactful work being done to maintain and grow human connections in times of adversity.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:21 Overview of Chicago Cares
01:38 Navigating DEI Challenges
02:59 Community Impact and Corporate Partnerships
06:13 Current Social Climate in Chicago
13:43 Maintaining Joy and Purpose in Nonprofit Work
21:27 The Importance of Physical Community
26:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Science of Good is an interview series aimed at helping cause leaders from nonprofits, government agencies, and foundations. We talk with those who disrupt the status quo and achieve measurable change against our toughest societal problems. Sometimes it's a swap meet for comms strategies and behavioral change principles. Other times, staying inspired is all that matters. And, every once in a while, a venting session breaks out among those who can truly understand. Regardless, building community and learning from one another is always the goal.

In this episode, Dr. Lila Anna Sauls, CEO of 'Homeless No More,' shares her insights on leading a nonprofit organization through challenging times marked by unprecedented federal budget cuts. With over 30 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, Lila Anna discusses the strategies her team employs to stay on mission, the importance of strategic planning, and the need for advocacy and systemic change. She also highlights the innovative approaches they take to providing emergency shelters, transitional support, and affordable housing development. The conversation covers the delicate balance of sustaining the organization, communicating transparently with donors and families, and maintaining hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Lila Anna Sauls and Homeless No More
00:29 Welcome to the Science of Good Podcast
01:06 Mission and Work of Homeless No More
01:50 Advocacy and Systemic Changes
02:31 Impact of Federal Budget Cuts
03:27 Communication Strategies with Donors and Families
06:50 Strategic Planning and Organizational Resilience
10:01 Board and Team Dynamics
14:28 Affordable Housing Challenges and Solutions
18:32 Stories of Impact and Hope
20:10 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode, Mark Horvath, founder of Invisible People, shares how a successful television career, then eight years of homelessness, led him to become one of the most impactful content creators in the nonprofit space. As we discuss the importance of authenticity in social-cause storytelling, the conversation delves into the nuances of content creation for nonprofits, corporate partnerships, and the challenges and opportunities in driving change through new media.

00:00 Introduction to Mark Horvath and Invisible People
00:53 Mark's Personal Journey to Founding Invisible People
02:21 The Evolution and Impact of Invisible People
03:10 Documenting Homelessness: Strategies and Stories
05:53 Challenges and Solutions in Addressing Homelessness
09:17 The Role of Community and Systemic Solutions
14:37 Leveraging Media and Corporate Partnerships
24:36 Mark's Personal Reflections and Future Goals
26:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with Mark Horvath.

Who is Kevin Smith:

Kevin is the firm’s leading expert in harnessing behavioral science for social impact. He has directed research-driven communications programs that benefit the public good for hundreds of nonprofits, foundations, and government agencies throughout an agency career that included stops on Madison Avenue. Today, Kevin helps clients apply behavioral economics as a strategic clarifier in developing communications that help people adopt life-changing behaviors. To that end, he has recently directed the largest statewide contraceptive access initiative in the US, resulting in a 58% reduction in the number of unwanted pregnancies.

Follow Kevin.

Check out Kevin’s Insights.

Who Is Roshanda E. Pratt: Roshanda specializes in unearthing the factors behind human behaviors and articulating stories that move people to action. It’s expertise borne of her background as a journalist and researcher and honed through many years as a communications and public relations specialist. An established online influencer and accomplished instructor in building brand visibility, Roshanda works with other specialists in the firm to develop and implement consumer awareness and education content across all platforms, from video production and social media to traditional earned media and community relations.

Follow Roshanda.

The Science of Good is an interview series aimed at helping cause leaders from non-profits, government agencies, and foundations. We talk with those who disrupt the status quo and achieve measurable change against our toughest societal problems. Sometimes it's a swap meet for comms strategies and behavioral change principles. Other times, staying inspired is all that matters. And, every once in a while, a venting session breaks out among those who can truly understand. Regardless, building community and learning from one another is always the goal.