In this interview, Andrew Felder from Aid in Milan breaks down how the organization operates, the growing demand for services, and the importance of community-based support systems in an era of economic instability. From food distribution to emergency assistance, Andrew explains how mutual aid fills critical gaps left by traditional institutions and why their work is more essential now than ever.

Aid in Milan - Andrew Felder Interview

Peter is of Greek descent and shows resilience and strength in facing the challenges of living with Beta Thalassaemia.  Peter is passionate about supporting and advocating for others who share his condition.

As an Early Childhood teacher, Peter uses his knowledge and personal experiences to assist families navigating the complexities of the health system and accessing vital services.  He is a dedicated advocate for patients and the community, providing guidance and support to those in need.

Peter enjoys participating in awareness days to educate the community around what it’s like living with thalassaemia and to increase awareness of genetic blood conditions.

Peter serves as a consumer advisor for the Monash Health Blood Committee, helping to shape policies and initiatives that benefit individuals with blood conditions.

Despite some health challenges he faces just like many others living with the condition, Peter remains positive and dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those around him.

Sally is an enthusiastic Health Promotions Officer at Thalassaemia and Sickle Cell Australia. 
She takes great pride in her work as she educates the community about genetic blood 
conditions, carrier testing and blood donations. She also loves connecting with people, 
supporting those affected by these conditions. Sally is dedicated to creating a positive 
impact in the lives of people across Australia.

When she's not working, Sally enjoys camping, hiking and being surrounded by nature. She 
also loves time with family and reading a good book at home

Peter Verveniotis, who has been living with thalassemia major for nearly 50 years, and Sally Barton, a health promotions officer at Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Australia. The discussion covers various aspects of thalassemia, including diagnosis, treatment, community attitudes, and future perspectives.

Key points include:

Peter's experience with regular blood transfusions and the physiological challenges of thalassemia major

The impact of diagnosis on family dynamics and community stigma

Sally's role in educating high school and university students about thalassemia

Advancements in treatment options, including chelation therapy and potential gene therapy

The importance of coordinated, multidisciplinary care for thalassemia patients

The role of community support in helping patients feel less isolated

Proposals for future initiatives, including an international conference and journal editorials

The episode provides valuable insights into living with thalassemia and the ongoing efforts to improve care and awareness for this rare genetic condition.



Peter Verveniotis and Sally Barton, Thalassaemia and Sickle Cell Australia ( TASCA)

MERCHANDISE SHOP: voices-for-voices.org/3QnokLU
SUPPORT VOICES FOR VOICES®:
https://www.voicesforvoices.org/shop/p/supporter

The Summit County Citizen Circle stands as a beacon of hope for justice-impacted individuals seeking to rebuild their lives after incarceration. In this powerful conversation with co-leaders Lisa Dolan and Shawn Bonner, we explore how this innovative program has become a model for reentry support across Ohio and beyond.

Every second Thursday, this remarkable collaboration brings together over 50 different service providers who set aside competitive interests to focus solely on helping participants overcome barriers to successful reintegration. "We all play nice on the playground," Lisa explains, capturing the spirit that has made Summit County's approach so effective that justice-impacted individuals from other counties are actually relocating to access these resources.

The impact is evident in the program's 2024 statistics: 80 justice-impacted participants served, hundreds of bus passes distributed, thousands of dollars in clothing and hygiene assistance provided, and countless moments of profound human connection. "Grown men in tears," Shawn describes, "because they did not know that they're feeling the love." Rather than prescribing rigid paths forward, Citizen Circle empowers participants to create their own "redirection plans" based on individual needs and goals.

What truly sets this program apart is its commitment to meeting people where they are without judgment. "In the land of second chances, leave pride outside the door," Shawn advises participants. This philosophy acknowledges that recovery isn't linear – setbacks happen, but the support remains consistent. As Lisa affirms, "If you relapse whether it's due to addiction or just life happens, it's okay. Come back to us when you're ready."

Want to get involved or need support? Contact Lisa Dolan at 330-208-3829 to learn more about participating, volunteering, or attending their biannual resource and job fairs featuring second-chance employers. Don't miss their next event on May 15th at the Chapel in Akron!

• Citizen Circle meets the second Thursday of each month (February-December) and serves 8-10 individuals in approximately four hours
• Transportation was the top need in 2024, with over 321 day bus passes and 23 monthly passes distributed
• Employment support and housing with rental assistance ranked as the second and third most needed resources
• The program provided $3,900 in clothing assistance and $850 in hygiene products in 2024
• Summit County's robust reentry resources have attracted justice-impacted individuals to relocate from other counties
• Unlike many social service environments, providers work collaboratively rather than competitively
• Participants create "redirection plans" rather than "reentry plans," emphasizing choice and empowerment
• The program combines tangible resources with emotional support in a judgment-free environment

"Don't let your past define what your future looks like. Don't give up on you."

#socialimpact #citizencircle #crimereduction #prisonreform #communityengagement #recidivismreduction #secondchances #socialenterprise #nonprofitorganization #reentryprogram #communityoutreach #socialchange #justiceequity #crimeprevention #socialinnovation

How This Program Is Rebuilding Lives After Prison | Ep 220

Brandi Iberia talks with Melanie Roach about Revitalize Milwaukee’s mission to transform communities by providing free, critical home repairs and comprehensive services to low-income veterans, seniors, and people living with disabilities.  www.revitalizemilwaukee.org


Brandi Iberia talks with Melanie Roach about Revitalize Milwaukee!

"It’s never too late. Whatever time you have left, it’s worth it to have moments of peace, happiness, and I dare say joy." – Judy Austin

In this heartfelt and insightful episode of Comfort Conversations, host Erin Youngblood sits down with Judy Austin, Director of the Grief Center of Southwest Colorado, to explore the unique challenges of grief in the aging population. From cumulative losses to stigmatized grief, this discussion offers wisdom, compassion, and resources for older adults and their families.

Judy shares stories from her 16 years of leading grief services in rural communities — where support isn't just for the grieving, but also for caregivers, children, and those facing anticipatory or ambiguous loss. The conversation also highlights the hidden signs of grief that are often misdiagnosed as aging, and emphasizes the importance of giving older adults space to grieve in their own way.

This episode reminds us that healing is possible at any age. With the support of organizations like the Grief Center and Comfort Keepers, aging with dignity, peace, and connection is within reach. Whether you're facing loss or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers both tools and hope.


Episode 14: Grief, Aging and Compassion Support

What can a retired police officer teach us about healing a city, and ourselves through compassion? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Leatrice Woody on her work and new book Not Without Love: 7 Tasks To Check Off. 

Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate! 

Leatrice Woody is a retired Chicago police officer with over 21 years of service, now devoted to bridging the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve. A lifelong Chicagoan and entrepreneur since age nine, she has launched multiple ventures—including three salons, real estate projects, and the patented Buff & Go portable nail salon, now sold globally. With a bachelor’s in business and communication, she is a certified life and business coach with Blue Heart Coaching, empowering others to succeed personally and professionally. Her four-time bestselling book, Not Without Love: 7 Tasks to Check-Off, offers practical tools for personal growth and trust-building in law enforcement, informed by her own experiences with trauma, healing, and community transformation. https://www.nwlfoundation.org/ 

For more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

Not Without Love with Leatrice Woody

Read the transcript, https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2025-06/Finding%20Purpose%20and%20Not%20Giving%20Up%20After%20Brain%20Injury%20with%20Craig%20J.%20Phillips-TRANSCRIPT.pdf

2025 Winter BrainStorm: This presentation is sponsored by the Northern New Jersey Traumatic Brain Injury System and Kessler Foundation.

"Second Chance to Live" is the inspiring story and mission of Craig J. Phillips, a rehabilitation counselor who turned his own traumatic brain injury into a source of hope for others. After surviving a severe accident at 10 years old, Craig faced years of struggles, including being told he was unemployable. Undeterred, he founded SecondChancetoLive.org, a website offering a holistic approach to brain injury recovery that addresses mind, body, spirit, soul, and emotions.

For over 18 years, Craig has created thousands of articles, videos, eBooks, and keynote presentations to empower those living with brain injuries. He’s spoken across the U.S. 143 times and works to inspire both individuals and medical professionals. His message: You are not defined by your injury; recovery is possible.

Contact Craig J. Phillips at secondchancetolive1@yahoo.com
Second Chance to Live website - https://secondchancetolive.org

Missed our past events? View them at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL21CEB6CAC402EA50

Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? go to
https://KesslerFoundation.org/join

This is a recording of the virtual event which was on February 27, 2025

Finding Purpose and Not Giving Up After Brain Injury with Craig J. Phillips

Looking for work is never easy but if you work in IT, Project Management or Agile and you're looking for a gig this may totally feel like the darkest timeline.

In this conversation, Ed Stockwell joins drunkenpm to discuss the current challenges in the job market, particularly for those in project management and Agile roles. Ed and Dave explore the importance of networking, volunteering, and maintaining mental health during the job search process. Ed shares his experiences and strategies for navigating the job landscape, including leveraging AI tools, the significance of community support, and the necessity of clarity in job seeking. They also touch on the importance of personal routines and the role of physical activity in maintaining a positive mindset. Throughout the discussion, Ed emphasizes the value of being of service to others and the power of relationships in finding new opportunities.

To Contact Ed:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edstockwell/
Web: https://www.edstockwell.com

Chapters
03:08 Navigating the Job Market Landscape
05:38 The Importance of Networking and Volunteering
08:30 Balancing Traditional and Agile Project Management
11:35 The Role of Physical and Mental Well-being
14:28 Finding Value in Volunteering
17:37 Building Relationships and Offering Value
20:35 Coping with Job Search Challenges
31:18 The Power of Clarity in Communication
31:45 Crafting Your Personal Narrative
33:30 Leveraging AI for Personal Growth
34:38 AI's Impact on Work Efficiency
37:18 Daily Routines and Personal Management
39:02 Using Kanban for Relationship Management
43:05 Self-Reflection and Personal Growth
44:29 Job Search Strategies and Networking
49:08 Navigating Emotional Challenges
50:53 Advice for the Recently Laid Off

Dave's Upcoming Classes: https://tinyurl.com/53bpy3my
Sign up for updates on Dave's new book: https://www.stuartyoung.uk/copy-of-human-skills-1

Navigating Your Job Search in the Age of AI with Ed Stockwell

What happens when you combine the power of storytelling with a platform that funds change?  Crowdfunder CEO Dawn Bebe joins us to discuss how bold ideas are becoming real-world solutions, and how the future of funding is being reimagined through access, equity, and innovation. Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Dawn Bébe on Crowdfunder. 
 
Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate!  https://www.kmet1490am.com

As a director of Crowdfunder, Dawn Bébe has been part of the senior team driving it towards becoming the #1 UK crowdfunding platform, raising > $500 million for projects across the UK, and has helped it win global awards for the delivery of its mission to tackle society’s challenges by making grass roots ideas happen. https://www.crowdfunder.com 

For more show information visit: https://www.mariannepestana.com

Crowdfunder with Dawn Bebe

In this episode, we explore how Chloe Doust is making a real difference for individuals and communities alike. Through her work as a compassionate and skilled attorney, Chloe provides guidance, support, and practical solutions that help people overcome challenges and thrive. Her dedication goes beyond the courtroom, creating positive impact and stronger connections within the communities she serves.

Chloe Doust’s Efforts to Support Individuals and Communities

Chloe Doust and she dedicated to helping clients in the Personal Injury and Debt relief fields. She serves North Carolina, Alabama, and Minnesota. Her law firm handles various claims, including automobile, truck, and motorcycle accidents, property law claims such as unlawful eviction, drafting lease agreements, and consumer rights matters. When she not practicing law, she helps her small business to thrive in South Carolina.

💜We advocate for recovery.
501c3; EIN: 87-0932840💜

A podcast about Agile and Project Management

Kessler Foundation - Changing the lives of people with disabilities through research in stroke, brain injury, multiple sclerosis,  spinal cord injury and by funding innovative programs that promote employment for people with disabilities. Podcasts are from various consumer and professional lectures   presented by our researchers and guest lecturers.

In a single moment your life can change!  “Moments with Marianne” is a transformative hour that covers an endless array of topics with the ‘best of the best.’ Her guest are leaders in their fields, ranging from inspirational authors, top industry leaders, business and spiritual entrepreneurs.  Each guest is gifted, and a true visionary!  A recognized leader in her own work, and while teaching others to develop, refocus, and grow; Marianne will bring the best guest, and sometimes a special surprise.  Don’t miss this – you never know just which ‘moment’ will change your life forever.

The Health Design Podcast brought to you by the Journal of Health Design(www.journalofhealthdesign.com). Features interviews with the world's leading health design experts including clinicians, designers, patients, authors and researchers. Better health by design.

New tracks tagged #Community Support