The Claw (Non-Profit)

Reverend Steven Marcus Shearod is the Senior Pastor of the Cathedral International Church, in Kennesaw Georgia. Pastor Shearod is a first generational spiritual son of Bishop Donald Hilliard, Jr., the presiding Prelate of the Covenant Ecumenical Fellowship & Cathedral Assemblies. Over the past 25 years Bishop Hilliard, mentored, baptized, married, licensed, ordained, and apostolically installed Pastor Shearod. Rev, Shearod holds a BA in history from Rutgers University in New Brunswick NJ. 

Pastor Shearod has worked in the financial Services industry for close to 30 years. He currently serves as a financial sales consultant for Allstate insurance company. His sales and management accomplishments are numerous and he holds several national and statewide professional licenses, designations and certifications. Pastor Shearod serves and leads several community based board of directors, coaches a variety of grade school, high school and community youth sports, and is a member of the Cobb County Police department’s Chaplain’s ministry. 

Pastor Shearod is a retired and heavily decorated US Army officer, with close to 20 years service to our country. He and his wife Velicia, (a proverbs 31 woman) live in Kennesaw, Georgia. They have 3 daughters (Tiffany, Nasia, Nia) and several grandchildren. Pastor Shearod loves God, loves HIS Word and loves HIS people. Many know him by this salutation..."I love you and you can't do nothing about it." 

www.thecathedralonline.org 
http://www.campgideon.com/

Direct download: 5-5-2014_Community_of_Giving_Steven_Shearod-MP3_File.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Jerod Frazier is a native of Charleston, South Carolina. In 2000 he graduated Clemson University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and minor in Speech Communications and returned to Charleston with his wife, Jamilah. Since then he has been active consistently in his church and community.

He is the Minister of Social Justice at Charity Baptist Church; he serves on the Crime and Violence committee of the Charleston Area Justice Ministry, and is a member of the North Charleston NAACP.

His desire to serve the community lead him to go to law school and recently received his Juris Doctor from Charleston School of Law. Currently he interns at Uricchio, Howe, and Krell and lives in North Charleston with his wife and three children.

Direct download: 4-14-2014_Community_of_Giving_Jerod_Frazier-MP3_File.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Venus R. Lockett is an Asset Building Coach “Ms. ABC” and the Founder of Urban Asset Builders, Inc., a for profit social enterprise with a nonprofit heart. Ms. Lockett is a passionate advocate for urban entrepreneurship and economic empowerment, and her personal mission begins with a focus on instilling a mindset that “credit” and “savings” are assets. She seeks to help improve the financial health of low-to-moderate income individuals and aspiring entrepreneurs, and empower them to build economic stability for themselves and their families; so they may contribute to the economic stability of our communities.

Ms. Lockett began her professional career 15 years ago as a Corporate Account Manager in the voice communications industry where she managed several high volume international VoIP accounts. She made her career change to the asset building arena 3 years ago and has volunteered as an educational facilitator and financial coach with organizations such as United Way of Greater Atlanta, The Center for Working Families, Inc. and Rainbow Village.

She is a trailblazer in the Greater Atlanta area where she has introduced collaborative asset building initiatives such as Prize Linked Savings and Metro Atlanta Saves. Currently, Ms. Lockett is the chairperson for Money Smart Week® Greater Atlanta, a campaign she initiated in partnership with the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago with the support of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. Money Smart Week® is a national one-week public awareness campaign designed to help consumers better manage their personal finances. Ms. Lockett is also launching her “Money Smart Clubs” program which seeks to financially educate and empower the family as a whole. Relating to asset building education and resources, Ms. Lockett brings a wealth of knowledge to her audience. She resides in the Greater Atlanta area.

www.UrbanAssetBuilders.com
www.GetMoneySmartAtlanta.com

Direct download: 4-7-2014_Community_of_Giving_Venus_Lockett_pt__2_Podcast-MP3_File.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Reverend Miller B. Murphy is the Director of Communications at Connie Maxwell Children's Home.

Children have a safe, secure, loving environment at Connie Maxwell.  It is a home for some children who have been abandoned, abused, or neglected and some who have been placed by loving caregivers going through difficult situations. In addition to the main campus in Greenwood, Connie Maxwell Children's Home provides residential care and family support through satellite locations in Chesterfield, Mauldin, Orangeburg and Florence.

Each year more than 200 children of diverse needs and backgrounds call Connie Maxwell home. Some children stay as little as a few months, others for many years. Some arrive alone, others with siblings. Most are between the ages of six and eighteen. Children who remain through high school graduation receive financial support for college. The Connie Maxwell Children's Home Family Care Program exists to restore families with hope, comfort. and shelter while they locate the resources they need to move toward successful independent living.

Relief and assistance are provided to single-parents from all walks of life so each family can focus on resolving their individual crisis and temporary instability. While the parent works toward setting goals with the guidance of dedicated and supportive staff; she lives in a comfortable residential setting with her children.

Direct download: 3-17-2014_Footprints_of_Giving_Rev__Miller_Murphy-MP3_File.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

A Business Strategist and a domain expert in Corporate Business Development, Sales, Marketing, Small Business Formation and Entrepreneurship. With a record of achievement and demonstrated sustainable success of growing companies which generate multi-million-dollar revenues.

Mel has over 20 years of tactical experience in both revenue acceleration and corporate development of early stage and emerging growth companies. Executing business expertise to drive sales, increase profit margins, and deliver operational effectiveness through strategic planning.

Currently, Mel is the Regional Director of the SC State Region Small Business Development Centers. He is responsible for all business consulting activities in a seven county region dedicated to improve the economic conditions of small business enterprises by empowering them in accessing resources to enhance their market penetration opportunities as well as sources of capital for their operations and growth.

Previously, Mel was a Senior Advisor for AMPIRIX a “Go to Market” consultancy for the architectural, engineering and construction industry. He was also the Director of Business Development for Satellier, a multinational solution provider of building project documentation and digital design support services provided to the AEC industry.

In 2009, Mel founded Visually Intelligent Solutions, Inc., a technology start-up offering consulting, training and design support service for the AEC community. The company offered engineering software, facility management solutions, 3D design visualization services, computer-aided design, process workflow analysis and implementation.

Prior to this, Mel was the Director of Business Development for RAND IMAGINIT, the world’s largest integrator of engineering software, where he planned, directed and coordinated sales activities of 50 + offices located throughout North America, Asia and Australia.

Direct download: 2-17-2014_The_Footprints_of_Giving_Melvin_Wallace_podcast-MP3_File.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Sajan George founded and leads Matchbook Learning, a unique national non-profit blended school turnaround management organization, the first of its kind that targets turning around our nation’s worst (bottom 5%) public schools with a model that blends the best of online and face-to-face instruction.

Matchbook Learning has launched three successful school turnarounds in Detroit, MI and has plans to expand nationally.

Prior to founding Matchbook Learning, CEO Sajan George was a Managing Director with Alvarez & Marsal (“A&M”) where he led the Firm’s Education Practice. In that role, he led a diverse group of talented turnaround professionals across the U.S. in running entire K-12 public school districts.

Direct download: 2-10-2014_The_Footprints_of_Giving_Sajan_George_podcast-MP3_File.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Terence Lester is a native of Atlanta, GA. He has a strong passion for family, God, and seeing the change through tangible acts of kindness. Lester is happily married to his friend, Cecilia Lester, and they enjoy parenting their two wonderful children, Zion Joy Lester, and Terence II. One of Terence’s greatest passions involves connecting creativity to the mission of God, and moving people to love people where they are.

Additionally, Terence holds four degrees, has spoken locally & nationally, and has written several books.

Instagram: @terencelester
Facebook: terence.lester.9
Twitter: imTerenceLester

 

Direct download: 2-3-2014_The_Footprints_of_Giving_Terence_Lester_-MP3_File.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Monica L. Ponder, MS, MSPH is a health and scientific communications professional residing in Atlanta, Georgia.

Monica has worked in health communications for nearly 10 years and also leads several community initiatives under the arm of her consulting company, MLP Communications. MLP Communications is an emerging leader of health communications in metro-Atlanta, with an impressive portfolio of events, successful partnerships and campaigns. Monica Ponder is a healthcare researcher and thought leader in reaching vulnerable and high-risk populations. As a health scientist, she designs and implements health initiatives that predictably translates into business success. Trained professionally as a chemist and epidemiologist, Monica specializes in translating scientific information into various communications products.   Monica has worked as a health communicator with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and, prior to joining CDC, she worked as a Public Health Liaison/Epidemiologist with the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness and lead clinician engagement for the health department. Trained in radio/television production, Monica also spent time developing health stories for WAGA/FOX-5, an Atlanta television news station. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Communication at Georgia State University. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, blogging, and hanging with her daughter, Lindsey.

Direct download: 1-6-2014_The_Better_You_Project_Monica_Ponder.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

After a number of years as a practicing clinician, in 1987 Kathy Colbenson became the CEO of CHRIS Kids and found her calling.

CHRIS Kids offers a values-driven Family of Services that provides trauma-informed, strength-based services through a counseling center, a training institute, eight group homes, a supportive housing apartment complex for single and parenting youth of ages 17 - 24, adoption services, and a host of in-home services designed to help children, youth, adults and families unlock their potential for self-sufficiency and good citizenship.

You can learn more by visiting our website at www.chriskids.org

Like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and join us on LinkedIn

Direct download: 12-2-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Kathy_Colbenson_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Lisa Wise is a social worker and nonprofit administrator with more than 30 years of experience in the fields of human services and community development.

Lisa currently serves as Executive Director of Initiative for Affordable Housing, Inc. in Decatur, Georgia.  The agency provides housing and social services for homeless families, affordable housing for low-income individuals and families, and employment and training for individuals with little or no work experience.

Since she took the helm in 1992, Initiative has grown from one house and one homeless family to a multi-faceted agency that improves and strengthens the lives of homeless and low-income women, children and families through affordable housing, enhanced life skills and employment.

Providing employment was the motivation behind Initiative’s re:loom project, a program that helps homeless adults transition into a life of stability.  Re:loom employs and empowers homeless and low-income individuals through weaving beautiful, one-of-a-kind products out of donated upcycled materials.

Recently, Lisa and the re:loom employment program were chosen by Sara Blakely and Spanx as the Fall 2013 Leg Up winner which acknowledges female entrepreneurs and their businesses/products.

www.affordablehousingatl.org
www.reloom.org

facebook.com/reloom
twitter.com/re_loom
pinterest.com/re_loom

Direct download: 11-25-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Lisa_Wise_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Kim Conner is the founder of Fairywood Thicket Farm, a program specifically designed to help active duty, returned veterans, and civilian contractors deal with their rehabilitation from injuries and disabilities, including physical, psychological, and emotional. It is not only beneficial for the veteran, but also for spouses, parents, children, and extended family members.

The program uses the healing powers of a horses to help with emotional and physical development. It seems like a simple statement, but the back of a horse is the best place for the heart of a person.

Kim is currently looking at adding an Intern House to assist 1 – 2 homeless vets make a transition and get on their feet. The plan is to teach them the basics of equine care as well as how to help other vets with horses; such as a Mentor program to become PATH certified and be able to continue the work, as well as have a little rest and a chance to get on their feet. Instead of a hand out they will be helping the facility help others and be a major part of every day operation.This part of their program is in the planning stage and will require a lot of support from sponsors and benefactors.

Fairywood Thicket Farm is a brand new facility with 2 Registered PATH International Instructors and a Crisis Counselor.  They also have 22 amazing horses ready and able to assist vets and their families in any way possible. They will also offer  Team building and their same assistance to Police, Fire and Medical.

Direct download: 6-3-2013_The_Better_You_Network_Kim_Connor_.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Margarita Moldovan was raised in Atlanta and was given her first opportunities to perform at Cross Keys High School under the direction of James T McRaney and Janet Hirschberg, where she learned that performing is wonderful, but creating a show that transcends its components is hard, rewarding work.

Margarita holds a BA in Literature from GA State University and a MAT in Drama from SCAD. Her passion is teaching young people how valuable the “invisible” people are and watching as her students turn new skills into art. You may learn a bit more at www.performingartsnorth.org or “like” us on Facebook at Performing Arts North.

Performing Arts North is a not-for-profit 501c3 educational theater company with programs for children, teens and adults. Their mission is to provide a safe space where anyone in the community can come and exercise creativity, take creative risks, and learn from each other while fostering a sense of belonging and understanding of the arts. They believe that art is for everyone and everyone has something valuable to contribute.

Direct download: 6-3-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Margarita_Moldovan_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Since its inception, the Andrew Oswald Memorial Fund has been blessed with tremendous community support, enabling the following accomplishments:

  • More than $20,000 in support of teen safe driving
  • $44,000 for 11 Andrew Oswald Memorial Scholarships ($4,000 over 4 years to Georgia high school student-athletes playing lacrosse in college)
  • Nearly 500 lacrosse equipment rental packages to encourage new players to try the sport without initial investment in equipment
  • Grants of approximately $35,000 to support lacrosse programs and individuals across the Atlanta area

AJO4LAX encourages all lacrosse players to:

  • PLAY LAX
  • MAKE GOOD CHOICES and
  • CELEBRATE LIFE
Direct download: 5-27-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Kathleen_Oswald_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

David Epstein's pas­sion for com­mu­nity and the well being of his neigh­bors spurred the vision of Atlanta Con­tact­Point (ACP), a non­profit orga­ni­za­tion estab­lished in 2012 to engage chil­dren and adults through the power of play and support and engage the community with wellness programs such as sports, fitness, nutrition, and social responsibility.

David, known affectionately as "Mr. David", is a preschool teacher and tennis coach who loves working with people of all ages.
He has been work­ing with chil­dren at his neigh­bor­hood preschool, as well as on the fields and courts for over 8 years. "Mr. David" runs sum­mer sports pro­grams in Atlanta and directs a ten­nis pro­gram in upstate NY for 7 weeks. He enjoys play­ing ten­nis, base­ball, and roller hockey.

“Mr. David” is a grad­u­ate of Lehigh Uni­ver­sity where he received a BS in Finance. He lived and worked in NYC for 3 years before mov­ing to Atlanta in 1995, which quickly became home.

Direct download: 5-27-2013_The_Better_You_Project_David_Epstein_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Sarah Schober is the Manager for BioNetwork at A-B Tech.  She works closely with the Center’s natural products testing and manufacturing programs and assists natural product and life science entrepreneurs with laboratory manufacturing, and regulatory practices.

BioNetwork at A-B Tech delivers education, outreach and laboratory programs that promote life sciences.  Educational topics include, but are notlimited to, current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) for dietary supplements and personal care products; basic and analytical laboratory skills; and customized industry training.  Our diverse outreach programs aim to support life science endeavors and awareness through community and educational partnerships, both outreach and education programs may be geared toward K-12 students or adult learners.  Analytical assistance for botanicals includes constituent, microbial, and pesticide detection and quantification.  Well-equipped laboratory space is available for rent to those interested in product research, testing, and development.

Direct download: 5-20-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Sarah_Schober_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Amy Hamilton, herbalist, farmer and mother is living her dream of farming medicinal herbs in western NC, where she's lived for nearly 20 years.

She is a founding member of Appalachian Botanical Alliance (ABA), a cooperative of herb growers, formed in 2012 with a mission to continue the legacy of Appalachian sourced medicinal herbs. ABA is focused on cultivating western and traditional Chinese medicinal herbs of high quality and in consistent supply.  Amy's farm is Appalachian Seeds Farm & Nursery. She grows heirloom tomato seed and medicinal herbs.

Direct download: 5-20-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Amy_Hamilton_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Dr. Jeanine Davis is a horticulture professor with NC State University located at a research facility in the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina.  For over 25 years, her program has been dedicated to helping farmers improve the profitability of their farms by growing new crops, transitioning to organic agriculture and adopting more sustainable practices.  Her current efforts are focused on woodland botanicals, Chinese herbs, hops, truffles, broccoli, and organic heirloom tomatoes.  You can learn about her program on her website at http://ncherb.org which has links to her blog, Facebook page, and Twitter account.

Ms. Alison Dressler is a Research Assistant in the NC Alternative Crops and Organics program at the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center.  Her efforts are dedicated to helping grow the agricultural sector of the natural products and medicinal herb industries in western North Carolina.  She is currently involved with helping a new medicinal herb cooperative, a natural products branding effort, and a growing bloodroot for dye project.  She recently completed a 168 page report on special forest botanicals in Southern Appalachia.

Direct download: 5-20-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Dr_Jeanine__Alison_Dressler_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

The Melanie Thornton Youth Arts Foundation, a non-profit organization, develops leadership potential in youth through arts enrichment programs and experiences throughout the Metro Atlanta area.

Lois Thornton Chisolm has over 15 years experience developing youth arts enrichment programs and instructing youth from age 2 to 18 in a large variety of arts disciplines.  While living in Europe, Lois taught performance skills, image creation and dance to performing artists. Lois also choreographed for TV shows and live concert performances while she managed their careers.  Some well known artists Lois managed include La Bouche, Melanie Thornton, C-Block, Jemini and T-One.  These artists performed in numerous countries, sold over 12 million singles and albums and have been awarded gold and platinum sales awards in more than 25 countries around the world.

Throughout the years, Lois has used her skills, knowledge and experience to teach in a way that increases student’s self esteem and gives them a genuine appreciation for art forms.  Lois has developed exciting and captivating teaching techniques that keep her students motivated as they grow more poised, graceful and confident in themselves and their expression.   She started a small scholarship fund in memory of her most famous client and sister, Melanie Thornton, in 2002 and then developed and expanded it into the Melanie Thornton Youth Arts Foundation, Inc., an official 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

The foundation’s mission is to develop leadership skills in youth, particularly those that are disadvantaged, by providing an opportunity to experience the arts and be inspired to do positive and creative things with their lives.  For more information go to www.foundationforyoutharts.org, The Melanie Thornton Fan Page on Facebook, Youthartsfund on Twitter and Youthartsfund Channel on Youtube.

Direct download: 5-13-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Lois_Chisholm_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Mary Lou Surgi is the executive director of Blue Ridge Food Ventures in Asheville, North Carolina—the region’s largest shared-use food processing incubator. After spending about 15 years working and living overseas doing everything from being a Peace Corps Volunteer in Malaysia to running a pig re-population project in Haiti, she decided to stay home and go to culinary school. Not wanting to work in a restaurant, and wanting to combine her international food and agriculture experience with food and economic development she found her dream job with Blue Ridge Food Ventures where  she has worked with hundreds of food entrepreneurs and farmers to help them start up their food businesses.  Mary Lou holds Masters’ degrees in Public Health and Food Systems as well as a Culinary Degree.

Chris Reedy is the Program Manager of Blue Ridge food Ventures.  He attended the University of Kentucky and graduated with a degree in finance.  After graduating, Chris went on to earn a MBA with a concentration in finance from Xavier University’s Williams School of Business in Cincinnati, OH.  Immediately after receiving his degree, he joined a Kentucky based holding company and worked as a project manager & financial analyst.  In 1997, Chris founded an import company and traveled throughout Asia working with small producers to sustainably and equitably produce and market their products.  In 2009, he was a founding member of the Southern Appalachian Hops Guild and began to work with farmers throughout the region to create an emerging industry.  His current position allows him to work with and consult with farmers, food artisans and natural product producers on all aspects of their products from intake of raw materials to finished product branding.

Blue Ridge Food Ventures is an 11,000 sq. ft. shared-use kitchen incubator and natural products manufacturing facility that offers support in product development, guidance through the maze of regulations governing safe production of food products and dietary supplements, advice on packaging and label design, and much more.

We're here to help people who dream--of getting their artisan food products to market, of running a baking or catering business, or even operating their own hot dog cart! We also help individuals and small businesses that want to make natural products and herbal dietary supplements, and get them into bottles and tubes and onto store shelves.

Direct download: 5-6-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Chris_Reedy__Mary_Lou_Surgi_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Annice Brown, Assistant Regional Director, of the SBTDC, Asheville, NC has over 20 years experience in economic development, managing, and implementing policies and programs promoting public and private sector development in the U.S. and internationally. Prior to coming to Asheville, Annice spent 20 years in Washington, D.C. where she worked for the World Bank on environmental management projects; the French National Agency for Research and Development. She has also worked in marketing and sales for an organic cotton apparel manufacturer in Asheville. Currently, she is VP of the North Carolina Natural Products Assn.

As a part of their economic development mission, the SBTDC provides direct service to economic development organizations, government agencies, and university departments. Their team of research analysts and strategic planning specialists has facilitated the development of numerous local and regional economic strategies; managed project feasibility studies; provided technical assistance for entrepreneurial programs (such as small business incubators); crafted community economic development plans; designed business needs assessments; and conducted market analyses.

Their ability to tap the expertise and resources of our university colleagues uniquely allows the SBTDC to assist county and municipal governments; regional economic development partnerships; chambers of commerce; councils of governments; community development corporations; community colleges; and various other organizations.

Direct download: 5-6-2013_The_Better_You_Network_Annice_Brown_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Greg Cumberford, President and Co-Founder, Bent Creek Institute, Inc., is a botanical natural products industry executive. He co-founded Bent Creek Institute in 2006 to grow Western North Carolina’s role as a competitive sourcing region for medicinal plants and value-added botanical products. Prior to joining as BCI’s President in 2011, Mr. Cumberford worked as a senior manager for over 13 years with Gaia Herbs, a leading US grower and manufacturer of botanical extracts. He has BS degree from Stanford University. His avocational interests include natural horsemanship, running, and culinary travel.

Joe-Ann McCoy, PhD, serves as the director of the Bent Creek Germplasm Repository (BCGR) located at the NC Arboretum in Asheville, NC.  Joe-Ann completed her doctoral research in Plant Physiology from Clemson University which focused on the development of seed, rhizome, and in vitro propagation protocols for Actaea racemosa L. (black cohosh)and analysis of associated triterpene glycosides.  Her MS was focused on developing in vitro propagation and optimal HPLC extraction & analytical methods for Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s Wort).  Prior to BCGR she served as medicinal plant curator for the USDA NCRPIS (North Central Regional Plant Introduction Station) and the NIH ISU Center for Research on Dietary Supplements in Ames, IA.  She has worked with various aspects of native and medicinal plant collection, cell culture, propagation, and analytical research for the past 16 years.

BCI’s mission is to grow an economic cluster in WNC rooted in reverence for our region’s unique biodiversity and botanical traditions, and expressed through scientific testing, research, strategic advisory, and horticultural collaborations. BCI helps their partners clear hurdles as they develop new natural products and grow new specialty crops in our region. The Bent Creek Germplasm Repository (BCGR) of The North Carolina Arboretum is North America’s only gene bank dedicated to archiving, conserving, and storing medicinal plants and related endophyte germplasm for medical and horticultural research. Anchored by BCGR’s botanical research and conservation activities, BCI fosters sustainable jobs growth based on validated botanical medicines and integrative healthcare solutions that serve the wellness needs of our region, our state, and our nation.


Ross Perloe CFP®, CLU®, CLTC  moved to the Atlanta area in 1976 after graduating from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

Currently residing in Sandy Springs, GA with his wife, Michele, and daughter, Sydney, he began his Financial Services career in 1994.

His passion in business is to help his clients make informed decisions as it relates to their financial planning so as to protect their families and businesses from unnecessary risks.

For over 10 years Ross served as an officer of a large Home Owners Association and currently is the President of the Riverwood High School Foundation.   He can be contacted at 404-252-7965, or the web at www.myltc.com or via email at rperloe@gmail.com

Direct download: 4-22-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Ross_Perloe_Podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Byron is the Founder and Executive Director of VISION 9:38. He was born and raised in Cartersville, GA and is 1990 graduate of the University of West Georgia. He is currently pursuing a Masters of Divinity at Reformed Theological Seminary.

Byron has spent 21 years as a missionary to college students on various campuses - ​Alabama State University, Tuskegee University, Morehouse College, Morris Brown College, Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University, Huntingdon College, and Auburn University Montgomery. He has raised nearly $2 million in his fund raising efforts over the past 21 years.

Byron is married to Kim for 19 years.  They have five children - Kelsey, James Byron II, Kaitlyn, Jordan, and Jonathan.

Do you know of any African-American missionaries? Statistics tell us that less than 1% of all missionaries are African-American. Why? Have you ever wondered why there are so few African-American missionaries?  There are many challenges that they are facing, but the biggest barrier is funding. How do we overcome this funding difficulty?

VISION 9:38 desires to stand in the gap. VISION 9:38’s committed to empowering and equipping minority missionaries to enable them to labor effectively in the harvest for a lifetime of kingdom impact by providing funding for deserving and qualified minority missionaries, training them in how to raise and maintain funding, and finding innovative fundraising solutions to create a sustainable model.

Direct download: 4-15-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Byron_Johnson_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Tom Scales is Chairman of the Board of Directors and a Co-Founder of The Innocence Revolution.  He previously was the Executive Director of VOICE Today Inc.

Tom is a survivor of child sexual abuse and the author of “Terrible Things Happened to Me: A True Story of Violence and Victory.”

He was the recipient of the 2012 Georgia Author of the Year Award In the category for Inspirational Books presented by the Georgia Writers Association.  He also was the recipient of the 2012 Unsung Hero Award, presented by Save Our Children and Families.

Direct download: 4-15-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Tom_Scales_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Kimberly Sellars-Bates is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. She was born at Grady Memorial Hospital and is a product of the Atlanta Public and Fulton County School systems. Upon graduating from Alabama State University with a B.A. in Psychology in 1990, she returned to her hometown and began working at Spelman College.  It was there where she was introduced to the world of development.

A research and grant writing professional, Kimberly is president of her own development consulting firm, KSTB Enterprises, LLC.  Founded in 2007, KSTB analyzes and implements action plans for all ongoing fundraising initiatives including: individual, corporate, and foundation prospect research, annual fund appeals, grant proposal writing and Board solicitation and training. KSTB also works with the organization’s Program Managers and Board of Directors to ensure successful fundraising efforts including signature fundraisers.  Her company is currently responsible for over $13mill in grants and contracts.

Kimberly is certified by NeighborWorks America, a national nonprofit organization created by Congress to provide financial support, technical assistance, and training for community-based revitalization efforts. She is also a grant reviewer for The Educational Foundation of America and Georgia Department of Education Federal Charter Schools.

Her organizational affiliations include active membership in the Pi Alpha Omega Graduate Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Order of the Eastern Star (Peace Chapter #146), the Metro Atlanta Alabama State University Alumni Association (Secretary), Board Member of the Atlanta Nonprofit Professionals, Association for Professional Researchers in Advancement (APRA), and the Fulton County Task Force for the Aging.  She is President of the PTSA and Communications Chair for Sandtown Middle School.

Realizing the importance of philanthropy, Mrs. Sellars-Bates is the Advisor for her children’s foundation- The T&T Project. Their foundation helps all children who have been affected by tragedy and/or misfortune.

Mrs. Sellars-Bates is married to her college sweetheart, TaDarol Bates, and they have two children – Taylor Cimone, age 19, and TaDarol Christopher II, age 14. The Bates family are active members of Zion Hill Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA.

Direct download: 4-8-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Kimberly_Sellars-Bates_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Rachael Bregman is the Rabbi for Open Jewish Project which strives to enrich and invigorate young Jewish Atlanta one relationship at a time.  She is also one of the rabbis at The Temple, Atlanta’s oldest and largest Synagogue.  When not developing community engagement models for Jewish Atlanta and beyond, she is ardently working to add the Jewish voice to the outcry against human trafficking and other issues concerning basic human rights.  Originally a Boston native, she currently lives in Virginia Highlands in a converted factory loft condo on the beltline, an urban revitalization project with her partner, Dan, his daughter Alyssa and their puppy, Safi.

Open Jewish Project is the next generation of Jewish Americans.

Vision
We envision a world where younger/youngish Jews in Atlanta identify with Judaism as meaningful and relevant.

Mission
Housed within The Temple, Atlanta’s oldest and largest congregation, yet serving the whole Atlanta younger/youngish Jewish adult community, we are driven to enrich and invigorate the lives of post college-pre-preschool Jews in Atlanta by cultivating a deeper self-knowledge and a stronger relationship to Judaism, Jews, the Divine and the larger world resulting in meaningful Jewish living one relationship at a time.

We aspire to function as a concierge service to young Jewish Atlantans in partnership with other organizations which serve them through personal, one on one attention, peer to peer connection, community creation and skills/tools building in order to DO and BE Jewish.

We are not membership drivers, we are Jewish life validators.  If you are looking to find a synagogue, we will help you find the right match even if it is not at the Temple, Open Jewish Project's base of operations.  They know that not everyone does Jewish the same way-they merely care that your Jewish life is rich and meaningful wherever you choose to express it.

Values
We value growth and evolution through open conversation, feedback, shared ownership, respect for the opinions of others, non-coercive learning and inclusion, equality, and struggle (We are after all, the children of Israel which means one who wrestles with the Jewish stuff).

Direct download: 4-8-2013_The_Beter_You_Project_Rachael_Bregman_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

CEO Chonchol Gupta, earned his M.B.A. and Master of Global Management at Tulane University, where he researched international banking for the World Trade Center of New Orleans. Chonchol is excited about the enthusiasm the Rebirth Financial platform has received. "When I started out I thought that it would be people in California lending to people in Texas, but it’s not that at all," says Gupta. "It’s people looking for positive community impact and a good investments in their own backyard."

Rebirth Financial was founded in February 2010. With origins in New Orleans, the Rebirth Financial team understands the importance of small business in a community. The team has also witnessed the economic support individual lenders can provide a small business. Rebirth Financial streamlines the loan review process allowing individual and institutional lenders to easily and securely take investments off of Wall Street and invest them in profitable community businesses. Rebirth Financial’s platform and JAS rating system allow lenders to diversify their portfolio and contribute to their community.

Direct download: 4-1-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Chonchol_Gupta_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Tara Roberts co-founded Girltank, a social enterprise designed to connect, inspire and fund female social entrepreneurs and innovators from around the world. Tara served as the Senior Editor for CosmoGirl magazine and the Lifestyle Editor for Ebony, Essence and Heart & Soul magazines. She published her own internationally distributed magazine, Fierce, which was nominated as best new independent magazine in 2003 by Utne magazine. And she has edited critically-acclaimed books for girls: Am I the last Virgin? Ten African American Reflections on Sex & Love and What Your Mama Never Told You: True Stories About Sex & Love. Tara is a graduate of Mount Holyoke College and the Founder Institute Santiago.

Girltank is a community hub and crowdfunding platform designed to help women and girl changemakers grow and scale their bold and daring social enterprises.

Girltank's vision is a world in which powerful women with disruptive ideas - hailing from every region of the planet - are challenging the status quo, pushing forward transformative ideas and inspiring a new understanding of women and girls as leaders, as entrepreneurs, as innovators. We see this empowered generation of female changemakers working together to usher in a dynamic world leadership that is nurtured on principles of collaboration, compassion, empathy and bold action.

We aim to inspire, connect and fund female social entrepreneurs and changemakers.

Girltank won a $15K grant from Free Range Studios in 2011 to start Girltank, a $40K fellowship from Start-Up Chile in 2011 to grow our community and the Mothers of Invention award from Newsweek, the Daily Beast and Toyota in 2013 to launch our courses and workshops. Currently, Girltank has a network of approximately 1,500 women and girl changemakers from over 100 countries.

Girltank showcases the stories of female changemakers in our dynamic multimedia library; we offer a capacity-building course and local funding workshops in our think tank; and we provide a crowdfunding platform for women social entrepreneurs and changemakers to share their inspiring work with the world and for donors and investors to easily find and support their projects.

Direct download: 4-1-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Tara_Roberts_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Adoption Discovery is a program that educates and equips people to adopt any child available for adoption. We show people how to adopt children for $0 in 9 months or less.

Bridgette Bradley was a volunteer for CASA, a court appointed special advocate when she realized there were so many children available for adoption and millions of people trying to adopt. She founded Adoption Discovery to solve the problems people encountered when attempting adoption. Families all over the U.S. now experience adoption made easier and children find forever families.

Direct download: 3-25-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Bridgette_Bradley.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Marc E. Parham has been successfully consulting for all types of businesses for over 20 years. He has consulted for small to mid-sized business, large corporations, and non-profit organizations in all areas of business development. He has certifications in Project management, Network Engineering, Non-profit Management and other areas of business development. Marc has made it his mission to help people start and grow their small businesses. He has created a successful business coaching program that has assisted many people in changing their lives. He is also available for speaking and training events.

LINKS
 
Direct download: 3-25-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Marc_Parham_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Angela Williams is the founder of VOICE Today, a passionate child advocate and voice for survivors. She is an international speaker, author, and survivor of 14 years of child sexual abuse. Visit www.voicetoday.org to learn how you can get involved in THE VOICE MOVEMENT to save the next generation of children and help a survivor heal. Please link with us on twitter @avoicetoday and Facebook/VoiceToday.

VOICE Today, Inc. is breaking the silence and cycle of child sexual abuse worldwide through awareness, prevention and healing programs worldwide. We change the social norms by removing the stigma of child sexual abuse from the victim and placing it on the abuser and placing responsibility on adults to be trained and vigilant to protect children from child sexual abuse. We want to bring prevention and healing programs into community.

Direct download: 3-25-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Angela_Williams_Podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Well known for his innovative vision and engaging presence, Jason inspires his audiences to identify the forces that impact their lives and businesses.  Also known as “The Guy” who Makes the Paper Talk, with business plans garnering millions in capital for clients, Jason has the dynamic ability to communicate vision.  Audiences are guaranteed to learn and laugh with Jason’s real-world approach to execute their goals and strategies with total confidence.

With more than 20 years of corporate and entrepreneurial experience, Jason has owned, operated, and sold various businesses including franchises (Edible Arrangements, Quiznos). To his credit, he consults entrepreneurs through Bass Business Plans and Development, and has recently launched TriScion Web Videos, at a time when internet video is poised to dominate the web as a way to do business.

Book Jason:
Phone:             678-615-8509
E-mail:             JasonBass@BassBusinessPlans.com

Websites:        www.BizBlogCast.com
www.BassBusinessPlans.com
www.TSWebVideos.com

Direct download: 3-18-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Jason_Bass_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Dr. Courthney Russell and Chris Johnson began a non-profit named A2H2. A2H2 focuses on health literacy and education as well as being a resource for the indigent population. A2H2 is a mobile health and outreach that seeks to meet the needs of the homeless on the streets of Atlanta.

Courthney Fitzgerald Russell, Jr. was born to proud immigrant parents on July 24, 1979 at a military base in Fort Knox, Kentucky. He is married to Emily with one son, Courthney Russell, III. Dr. Russell is a recent graduate of medical school and is now preparing for residency in 2014. He has had many jobs and will soon be a resident; however, he says no job will ever be as amazing as the ones where he can work primarily with “my people”.

Direct download: 3-18-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Dr__Kourtney.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

In 1999, Bart Suddereth founded Millennium Training Systems (MTS), www.millenniumtrainingsystems.com,MTS was created to assist the development and implementation of programs to improve Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, (STEM), literacy for America’s students. Bart and his copyrighted, Share, Read and Build approach to learning, have helped thousands of students across the United States gain STEM awareness.

As an Educational Consultant and Coach, Mr.Suddereth has lead the World Championship 100 Scholars Robotics Alliance (www.usfirst.org) and 100 Black Men of Atlanta’s Project Success Program since 2005.  As a Robotics Training Expert, Bart's teams have competed with teams from all over the world. They have conducted Robotics Training Workshops, throughout America that have transformed the lives of youth.

The 100 Black Men of North Metro, Inc., presented Mr. Suddereth its 2011 Mentoring Award in recognition of his contributions. He has also been featured in CNN’s Black in America programs.

As a part of initiatives to increase mentoring in S.T.E.M, Bart has been featured in productions with partnerships between FIRST (www.usfirst.org), Massachusetts Institute of Technolog, and Time Warner Cable.

Bart is currently working with numerous organizations, including McNair Achievement Programs, NASA, and FIRST, in the transformation of our culture to a greater understanding of S.T.E.M.

Direct download: 3-11-2013_The_Better_you_Project_Bart_Suddereth_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Mr. Leland Smith the CEO and Director of Business Development for SolidHires, with responsibility for recruitment and marketing programs, brand management, and corporate sponsorships. Prior to joining SolidHires, Leland worked in recruiting management, business development and as a senior trainer at several companies, and my proudest accomplishment, serving over 22 honorable years in the U.S. Army. Notable are my many years leading several top achieving teams as a recruiting manager and trainer for several Army units.

He holds a bachelors degree in Human Resources Management & graduated from the Executive Programs in Leadership and Disciplines of Business from Notre Dame University. In addition, A graduated from the United States Army First Sergeant Course, Army Guidance Counselor/Operations Course among many others while in the U.S. Army.

SolidHires is a Military Focused Hiring, Education and Resource Event Provider . We are a Veteran Owned Business based in Marietta, GA. We focus on training and providing career opportunities to the military community. Our #1 goal is to assist veterans in reaching their career and personal goals NOW.We feel it's past time to eradicate the high unemployment rate especially within our veteran/transitioning military population.

 
LINKS
Direct download: 3-11-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Leland_Smith_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Meet a grassroots organization that is working to help improve the financial health of low-to-moderate income aspiring entrepreneurs, individuals and families in the Metro Atlanta area.

Urban Asset Builders is an asset building organization that is working to help empower LMI Atlantans to be financially secure and build economic stability for themselves and their families.

Venus “Ms. ABC” Lockett is an Asset Building Coach and the Founder of Urban Asset Builders.  She is on a mission to instill a mindset that credit and savings are assets and works with low-to-moderate income (LMI) aspiring entrepreneurs and individuals to build their assets in credit and savings so they may start their businesses or realize their dreams with their own skin in the game.  You can learn more about their mission on their website at www.UrbanAssetBuilders.com.  You may also follow urban Asset Builders on Facebook and twitter @ATLAssetBuilder.

Direct download: 3-11-2013_The_Better_you_Project_Venus_Lockett_podcast.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Corey Moore, Owner at ProNetworker, LLC: http://www.pronetworker.com &

Owner, Business & Tax Advisor at Fortune Financial Group (FFG) http://www.ffgga.com

Fortune Financial Group (FFG) is a financial institution whose objective is to empower its clients through financial knowledge. FFG is a Georgia-based company, which is comprised of professionals that are dedicated to providing the necessary tools that will promote financial growth.Specialties:Individual Tax Preparation, Small Business Tax Preparation, Home-Based Business Tax Preparation, Individual Budgeting, Business Budgeting, Corporation Formation, Business Consulting,

ProNetworker is a resource center for business events; networking events, seminars, business expos, workshops, lunch & learn, etc. ProNetworker also creates and host networking events, seminars, expos, etc.

He is has a Business Management degree from Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA

Direct download: 3-4-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Corey_Moore.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Lori A. Manns is Founder and President of Live Healthy and Thrive Youth Foundation, a 501C3 non-profit organization dedicated to fostering and promoting kids health.

Live Healthy & Thrive Youth Foundation, Inc., (LHTYF) is an award winning, 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization dedicated to fostering and promoting kids' health. Established in 2010, we are committed to providing practical, healthy educational workshops and activities that will affect the lives of children for generations to come. We aim to assist children  suffering from childhood obesity, diabetes and hypertension to become healthier and happier. We also intend to assure that kids who are currently healthy, stay that way by encouraging them to have healthy habits. We educate kids from all races and backgrounds about why health is essential at an early age. The Live Healthy & Thrive Youth Foundation provides a variety of programs and events, free of charge to kids ages 6-12 who live in the metro Atlanta area.

Direct download: 3-4-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Lori_Manns.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Invest Atlanta is the official economic development authority for the City of Atlanta.  Its purpose is to strengthen Atlanta’s economy and global competitiveness in order to create increased opportunity and prosperity for the people of Atlanta. Invest Atlanta is governed by a 9 member board of directors, chaired by the Mayor of Atlanta.

Invest Atlanta’s programs and initiatives focus on developing and fostering public-private partnerships to accelerate job creation/economic growth, neighborhood revitalization/investment and innovation/entrepreneurship. Invest Atlanta’s economic tools include bond financing, revolving loan funds, housing financing, tax increment financing and tax credits.

Eloisa Klementich joined the Invest Atlanta in November, 2011 as the Director of Business Development. Her areas of focus are to oversee Invest Atlanta’s business retention, business expansion efforts and entrepreneurship growth for the City of Atlanta.

Dr. Klementich joined Invest Atlanta from the US Economic Development Administration where she was a Special Assistant for Economic Development working within the Office of the Secretary. At the EDA, she was detailed to the National Incident Command to work on the Federal response to the Gulf Oil Spill. In June 2008, she was appointed as California’s Assistant Deputy Secretary for Economic Development and Commerce by Governor Schwarzenegger. She was instrumental in forming the new Governor’s Office of Economic Development and the state’s innovation program (iHub program).
Prior to her appointment, Dr. Klementich worked as a Marketing Manager for the Economic Development Agency at the County of San Bernardino; Executive Director of the Los Angeles County Division of the League of California Cities; and the founding Director for the Mayor’s Office of International Trade under Los Angeles Mayor James K. Hahn.

Additionally, she served as Chief Field Deputy to Los Angeles Councilmember Alex Padilla; District Director to California State Assemblyman Tony Cardenas; Special Market Coordinator to Anheuser-Busch Sales of Sylmar; and Marketing Manager at General DataComm de Mexico in Mexico City.

Dr. Klementich also served as a consultant for Mexico’s President Vicente Fox, working closely with the President’s Special Advisor on Constituent Services, Dr. Juan Hernandez, on best practices for addressing constituent issues and requests.

Dr. Klementich received her Bachelor’s Degree from Pitzer College in Claremont.  She holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from el Instituto Tecnologico de Monterrey and two Master’s Degrees, in Urban Planning and Latin American Affairs, from University of California, Los Angeles.  She received her Doctorate in Public Administration from the University of LaVerne in 2010. Lastly, she is a Certified Economic Developer which is a national recognition denoting a mastery of principal skills in economic development.

Direct download: 3-4-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Eloisa_Klementich.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Remington Youngblood, the founder of Change 4 Georgia (C4G), was looking for a way to help in his community.  C4G is a community service program inclusive to students that thanks our troops and veterans for their service, dedication and sacrifice in protecting our freedom and keeping our country secure.  C4G benefits our brave troops by collecting items from their "Wish List" that they need or want and that add comfort and fit in their backpacks. C4G also benefits the families of our troops and veterans by providing them with food, clothing, school supplies, personal items, furniture and appliances.  During the holidays, C4G also conducts a toy drive.

11-year-old Remington’s efforts have been highlighted in many publications.  He is recipient of numerous awards, an inspirational speaker and has over 70 local businesses supporting his efforts to help “serve those who are serving us.”

Remington is enrolled in advanced classes, is on a debate team, is the Vice-President of Builders Club, and attends church at Brown’s Bridge.

Remington makes time for friends and extracurricular activities:  he has two first-degree black belts - one in karate and one in Tae Kwon Do; and he plays flag football and basketball, rock climbs, golfs, and participates in 5k races and triathlons for a cause.

Remington’s voice and his actions are an inspiration to everyone.  He represents our children and grandchildren.  He is their voice – he is our future.  The troops have given him the call sign “Hollywood” and his nickname is “The President.”

www.change4georgia.org
https://www.facebook.com/Change4Georgia
http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=216669276&trk=tab_pro
https://twitter.com/change4georgia

 

Direct download: 3-4-2013_The_Better_You_Project_Remington_Youngblood.mp3
Category:Non-Profit -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

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