In this Nonprofit Spotlight episode, we sit down with Tina Ayala, President and CEO of Chicago Youth Centers (CYC), to explore how a 70 year old organization is still deeply rooted in community while adapting to today’s realities for children, teens, and families across Chicago.
With 21 sites across the south and west sides of the city, CYC provides early learning, out of school time, teen programs, and mentoring that follow young people from 15 months through college and into adulthood. Tina shares her personal 30 year journey at CYC, how the organization has responded to shifting funding landscapes, and why collaboration, mental health, and workforce development are central to their work today.
About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this episode of The Charity Charge Show, host Grayson Harris sits down with Karl Thomsen, Executive Director of Hope Ignites Cincinnati, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through long-term academic and personal support.
Karl shares how Hope Ignite’s innovative approach—one that follows students from fifth grade through college or trade school—is helping young people overcome barriers, combat imposter syndrome, and build lasting confidence in their ability to succeed.
About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
Stephen Center is in its 41st year serving people experiencing homelessness in Omaha with a high-barrier emergency shelter, a residential addiction recovery program, and permanent supportive low-income housing with case management. CEO Chris Knauf explains why “shelter is not a bandage,” unpacks a recently defeated proposal to criminalize encampments, and shares how coordinated street outreach, collaboration with low-barrier partners, and new family shelter capacity are moving more people into stable housing.
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About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, we sit down with Robert Lewis Jr., President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston, to explore how one organization is rethinking youth development across Boston and Chelsea.
Robert shares how the Clubs are serving nearly 40,000 young people and families through nine club locations, centered on three core pillars: academic support, health and wellness, and workforce readiness. He also explains their recent decision to make membership cost free for all youth, why they see young people as Boston’s future talent pipeline, and how bold civic leadership, strong teams, and deep community partnerships are driving real change.
About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this episode of the Charity Charge Show: Nonprofit Spotlight Series, we sit down with Brad McMonigle, CEO of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Cincinnati, to discuss how the organization is meeting rising community needs amidst economic uncertainty, reduced federal assistance, and the ongoing affordable housing crisis.
Brad shares how St. Vincent de Paul is stepping up to provide rent and utility assistance, food and clothing, and free medication for individuals and families on the verge of homelessness. He also dives deep into the importance of collaboration among nonprofits, the challenges of sustaining services with limited resources, and how the Cincinnati community continues to rally together in times of crisis.
About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this Nonprofit Spotlight, we speak with Clete Winkelmann and Sam Guillory from The Baby Fold, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building positive futures for children and families in central Illinois. They discuss the organization's rich history, core values, and the various programs they offer, including education, foster care, and adoption services.
The conversation highlights the importance of effective communication with constituents and donors, strategies for staff retention, community collaboration, and future plans for the organization. The episode emphasizes the need for nonprofits to adapt to community needs and maintain a culture of trust and transparency.
About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this episode of the Charity Charge Show we speak with, David Gaspar, CEO of The Bail Project, on how the organization posts bail at no cost for people who cannot afford it, then supports them with court reminders, transportation, and connections to services. He explains common misunderstandings about pretrial justice, highlights data from recent studies and The Bail Project’s own publications, and reflects on leadership lessons as the organization approaches a milestone of 40,000 clients served.
Episode Highlights
About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this nonprofit spotlight, we sit down with Caroline Whistler, CEO of Third Sector Capital Partners, an organization dedicated to transforming public systems to advance equitable outcomes for all. Caroline shares how her team helps governments use taxpayer dollars more effectively by centering community voices, data-driven outcomes, and collaborative partnerships with nonprofits.
This conversation explores how governments and nonprofits can align around shared goals, co-design better funding models, and foster systems that measurably improve people’s lives.
Key Topics Discussed
About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, we interview Richard Glover, CEO of the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens. They discuss the unique aspects of the zoo, its nonprofit structure, and the challenges and successes of leadership in a nonprofit environment. Richard shares insights on professional development, community engagement through events, and the importance of listening to both employees and the community to foster a welcoming environment. The conversation highlights the zoo's commitment to conservation, education, and creating inclusive experiences for all.
About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this nonprofit spotlight conversation, Jo Ann Simons, CEO of Northeast Arc, discusses the organization's mission to support individuals with disabilities and the challenges faced in the nonprofit sector. She highlights innovative partnerships, such as swim lessons for children with autism, and the opening of a coffee shop to train individuals with disabilities. Joanne also emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the potential of technology to enhance services in the future.
In this nonprofit spotlight, we chat with Jesse Martin, the International Executive Director of Christ's Hope International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving orphaned and vulnerable children across Africa. Jesse discusses the organization's philosophy of holistic care through the SPIRE model, which focuses on the spiritual, physical, intellectual, relational, and emotional aspects of a child's development.
He shares success stories of children who have transformed their lives through the program, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with local NGOs and empowering local change makers. Jesse outlines the future vision of Christ's Hope International, aiming to create sustainable partnerships and a generational impact in the communities they serve.
About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this episode of the Charity Charged Show, we interview Shelli Brunswick, an author and speaker with a diverse background in the military and nonprofit sectors. Shelli shares her journey from the US Air Force to her current role as a motivational speaker and author, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, lifelong learning, and effective communication in the nonprofit space. She discusses strategies for building relationships with donors and the significance of aligning donor values with organizational missions. Shelli also reflects on her transition to writing and speaking, offering insights for aspiring authors and nonprofit leaders.
About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this nonprofit spotlight, we speak with Lori Wilson, the Executive Director of the American Red Cross of the Central California Region - Central Valley Chapter. We discuss the organization's role in disaster preparedness and response, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration and building trust with local partners.
Lori shares her personal journey in the nonprofit sector, highlighting the need for volunteers and the challenges of navigating competition for funding. The conversation concludes with valuable lessons on collaboration and the importance of focusing on the humanitarian mission.
About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In the latest episode of The Charity Charge Show, we speak with Charles Redding, Executive Director of Momentum Wheels for Humanity, an organization dedicated to promoting inclusion and mobility for people with disabilities across the globe. This conversation explores the organization’s mission, strategic pillars, and the leadership principles driving its global impact.
About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this nonprofit spotlight, we speak with Juan Caballero, CEO of Build Change, a global nonprofit dedicated to creating disaster-resilient housing and transforming construction practices in vulnerable communities around the world.
Juan shares insights from his 14-year journey at Build Change, from his early days as a project manager in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake to leading the organization’s next chapter as CEO. He discusses how Build Change empowers local communities to retrofit and rebuild safer homes, why partnerships and flexibility are key to long-term success, and how the organization is expanding its impact into new regions like Africa.
About Charity Charge
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this conversation, we speak with Erinn Rowe, CEO of Harvest Hope Food Bank, the largest food bank in South Carolina. Erin discusses the organization's extensive operations, the challenges faced during her tenure, especially during the pandemic, and the importance of efficiency and collaboration in nonprofit management.
She emphasizes the need for a culture of excellence and the significance of understanding the backend operations to make informed decisions. The conversation concludes with ways for the community to get involved and support the fight against hunger.
Takeaways
About Charity Charge:
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this nonprofit spotlight episode, we interview Scott B. Richards, CEO of St. John's Program for Real Change, which focuses on ending the generational cycle of trauma and homelessness for women and children in Sacramento.
Scott discusses the increasing demand for services, the importance of effective communication and storytelling, and shares success stories of individuals who have transformed their lives through the program.
He also reflects on his transition into leadership and emphasizes the significance of collaboration in the nonprofit sector. The conversation concludes with an invitation to the upcoming 40th anniversary event, Party for Change.
Quick takeaways
About Charity Charge:
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
In this episode of the Nonprofit Spotlight Series, we interview Trina Fullard, the president and CEO of the Charlotte Rescue Mission. We discuss the organization's mission to address homelessness and addiction recovery through their core programs, the structure of their services, the importance of community support and funding, and the transformative outcomes for participants. Trina shares insights on leadership, community engagement, and the organization's Thanksgiving initiatives that aim to provide meals for families in need.
Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
On this episode of the Charity Charge Show, we speak with Brandon Williams, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis. Williams explains how the Club is supporting youth after a tornado, why mental health and education remain core priorities, and how the organization is strengthening career pathways, internships, and sports programs.
He also shares lessons from his first year as CEO, including how to manage a leadership transition at a legacy nonprofit and why running with a business mindset is essential for mission success.
About Brandon
Brandon Williams is the Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis, where he leads a network of programs serving more than 18,000 youth across the region. A former NFL player turned business and community leader, Brandon brings a unique blend of athletic discipline, corporate experience, and leadership coaching to the nonprofit sector.
Before joining the Boys & Girls Clubs, Brandon played in the NFL after graduating from the University of Wisconsin, then spent nearly a decade as a sports broadcaster with Big Ten Network, ESPN, and FOX. His professional journey also includes roles at Anheuser-Busch in innovation marketing and as Vice President of Team Business for the St. Louis Battlehawks. He has also served as a leadership and life coach, helping organizations build culture and accountability through practical team development frameworks.
Since taking on the CEO role, Brandon has focused on expanding the Club’s impact through career readiness, mental health support, and economic mobility initiatives for youth. Under his leadership, the organization has strengthened community partnerships, elevated brand awareness, and invested in modernizing its programs and facilities.
Brandon holds an MBA from Lindenwood University and is passionate about helping young people discover their “it factor” — intelligence, intangibles, and toughness — to achieve success in any path they choose.
In this episode of the Nonprofit Spotlight Series, host Grayson Harris speaks with Beth Hassett, CEO of WEAVE, an organization committed to ending domestic and sexual violence in the Sacramento region. With over 40 years of impact, WEAVE provides critical intervention services, prevention education, and community engagement programs aimed at creating safer, more supportive communities for survivors.
Beth shares how WEAVE’s vision — When Everyone Acts, Violence Ends — calls on individuals and organizations alike to take tangible action, from education to advocacy. She also reflects on her nearly three decades of leadership at WEAVE, the organization’s growth from a $1.8 million to an $11 million nonprofit, and how their values-driven approach sustains both trust and transformation.
Key Topics Covered