I had the privilege of interviewing Zoot Velasco, Director of the Gianneschi Center at California State University, Fullerton on his new research project that studied organizations that grew by double or more during the last recession. What did they have in common? The answers will surprise you.

Since COVID, this small but mighty nonprofit has tackled THREE virtual fundraising events in the past 6 months. Learn from StandUp for Kids OC's Development Director, Michael Olson, how they managed a Collaborative Giving Day with 19 other organizations, launched a new Virtual Run event, AND transitioned their in-person gala virtually using Facebook and YouTube. See it all in action on their YouTube channel.

OC Grantmakers invites the nonprofit, philanthropic, and business community to four days of learning and discussion around equity, innovation, and resiliency. This year’s virtual summit, with sessions spread out over four days, is open to executives, staff and board members, and offers an opportunity for leaders of all ages and experiences to connect, grow and learn with one another. Hear from program committee co-chairs Nithin Jilla and John Guastaferro on the exciting things they have planned to keep us engaged for this upcoming virtual event!

Are you a volunteer looking for opportunities to serve? Or a nonprofit searching for a place to post your opportunities? Volunteeer Network OC is a free online platform and mobile app that has over 400 volunteers, and growing daily, looking for placed to give their time and skill. Learn more about how they can help your organization reach more volunteers, and how the app can also serve as a volunteer management tool. Great resource for small and growing nonprofits.

Still considering a virtual fundraiser for the year? Joya Scholars, a tiny nonprofit in Orange County took on the bold move of canceling their in-person event and making it a 30 min live fundraising event using Stream Labs and YouTube Live. Not only was it fun and engaging, it cost them nothing! Well, other than 6 weeks of staff and volunteer time. And that's not even the best part... they now have 10 individual video segments they can utilize throughout the year to share with potential board members, donors and community stakeholders. They took all their stories throughout the year and made it something that can be utilized all year long. To view the event visit their YouTube Page.

When City, Foundation and Community come together for youth. In this interview we meet Joe Perez, City of Anaheim- Municipal Government Superintendent of Community Services who oversees the Human Services component of city programs. Learn about Project S.A.Y. (Supporting Anaheim Youth) and how Anaheim Community Services and Anaheim Community Foundation plays a roll in making it a success.

Family Resource Centers (FRC) are the one-stop shops for families and children needing access to a food, resources, referrals and a safe person to talk to in times of stress. Providing much needed guidance and support, the Oasis Center located on Paul Revere Elementary school is a hub for all families in need, but especially those in the surrounding areas. Here how they serve Anaheim residents, and continue to serve event after COVID.