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Inside the Hub: Celebrating Community, Collaboration, and Legacy with Danielle Robinson

Inside the Hub: Celebrating Community, Collaboration, and Legacy with Danielle Robinson

# Celebrating Community, Collaboration, and Legacy: Inside the UnoDeuce Multimedia Livestream with Danielle Robinson

Welcome to a behind-the-scenes look at the recent **UnoDeuce Multimedia Livestream interview at the Child and Family Charities nonprofit hub.** Hosted by Melik, this special conversation featured **Danielle Robinson, Vice President of Corporate Communications and Responsibility at Jackson**, who reflected on her career, her upcoming retirement, and the lasting impact of community partnerships.

This conversation was more than an interview—it was a celebration of legacy, unity, and what happens when people come together for the common good.

## At the Heart of Community Action

Melik welcomed Danielle with his trademark warmth, inviting her to reflect on her decades of service. Danielle’s career has been shaped by her passion for corporate responsibility, with a focus on helping communities thrive. With retirement right around the corner, her reflections carried extra weight—highlighting lessons learned and the importance of leaving a legacy rooted in service.

The exchange felt less like a formal interview and more like two neighbors talking about the things that matter most: community, family, and the power of collaboration.

## A Career Defined by Impact

One of Danielle’s most powerful memories from her time at Jackson involved **supporting teens experiencing homelessness** through Child and Family Charities’ Gateway Youth Services.

She recalled how then-CEO Julie Thomas approached Jackson with a bold request: to help expand services for vulnerable teens. Jackson stepped up, working hand-in-hand with Child and Family Charities to create what is now known as **Jackson House.**

The result? The capacity to serve teens doubled, providing safer, more effective support. Danielle calls it a legacy project that she and her colleagues are “really proud of.” It was more than philanthropy—it was partnership in action.

## Finding Help or Lending a Hand

Danielle also emphasized how individuals can get involved.

* **Child and Family Charities Website:** The central place for anyone seeking services at Jackson House or wanting to learn about programs.
* **Jackson’s Giving and Grants Page:** A resource for those interested in corporate giving, funding priorities, and nonprofit partnerships.

Her message was simple: whether you need help or want to help, the resources are right at your fingertips.

## Why the Nonprofit Hub Matters

When asked about the value of the nonprofit hub, Danielle didn’t hesitate: **collaboration.**

Instead of competing, organizations here come together to maximize efficiency, expand impact, and create unity. Danielle noted that this culture of partnership is what makes the hub unique—and what allows it to serve more people, more effectively.

“We know that there are efficiencies that can be gained. We know that there are many different ways to serve the community, but working together, we serve the community best.”

## What’s Driving Change at the Hub?

Though less than a year old, the nonprofit hub is already making waves. Danielle credits its success to:

* **Bold Leadership:** Julie Thomas from Child and Family Charities made the vision possible by offering the physical space.
* **Shared Responsibility:** Big Brothers Big Sisters, under Megan’s leadership, stepped in as fiduciary, managing the business side.
* **Clear Roles:** Each organization knows its lane, collaborates without competition, and keeps the mission first.

The result? Less drama, more action, and a spirit of unity that fuels real progress.

## Danielle’s Next Chapter

Retirement for Danielle doesn’t mean slowing down. Her plans include more time with family, volunteering at church, and supporting local causes. She jokes about “just showing up” as a supporter, but it’s clear her impact will continue—just in a more flexible, joy-filled way.

As she put it: “When work and passion really click, it’s not really work.”

## Signs of a Thriving Community

Danielle lit up as she described the hub’s grand opening: every parking space filled, people from across the community coming together, and a buzz of energy surrounding tours, events, and activities.

It wasn’t just an event—it was proof that the hub is already serving as a unifying space for collaboration and connection.

Lessons from Danielle’s Story

Here are some of the key takeaways from the UnoDeuce Multimedia Livestream:

1. **Collaboration is Key** – Community work is strongest when done together.
2. **Leadership Means Stepping Up** – Progress happens when someone takes action.
3. **Unity Brings Strength** – Put ego aside and keep the mission first.
4. **Giving Never Ends** – Retirement or not, there are always ways to serve.
5. **Celebrate Your Team** – From volunteers to local businesses, everyone plays a role.

## Spotlight on Partnerships: Paper Image Printing Center

The event also highlighted the role of local businesses like **Paper Image Printing Center,** which provides custom branded apparel for nonprofits and businesses alike. As Melik noted, these items help teams become “walking billboards,” spreading visibility and pride. It’s yet another example of how collaboration—whether through services, funding, or creativity—strengthens the community.

## Final Thoughts: The Real Meaning of Community

The UnoDeuce Multimedia Livestream with Danielle Robinson was more than an interview—it was a reminder of the **power of unity.** Danielle’s career, her ongoing commitment, and the energy of the nonprofit hub all point to one truth: **when people work together, they can achieve extraordinary things.**

So whether you’re donating, volunteering, or simply showing up, remember Danielle’s words:

> “There’s no community without unity. Put pride aside, work together, and see how much more you can accomplish.”

CLIENT STORY: First Day Homecare – Lila’s Story: How Private Duty Nursing Made a Difference During a Medical Crisis

CLIENT STORY: First Day Homecare – Lila’s Story: How Private Duty Nursing Made a Difference During a Medical Crisis

Lyla began experiencing neck pains that ended up turning her life upside-down. With the help of First Day Homecare, Lyla has been able to live her best life possible with around the clock care, and have set her mom Jennifer’s mind at ease with their exceptional care.

Learn more at: https://firstdayhomecare.com/

Inside Lansing’s Nonprofit Hub | How Child and Family Charities Transformed a Hospital into Hope

Inside Lansing’s Nonprofit Hub | How Child and Family Charities Transformed a Hospital into Hope

Take a tour inside the Child and Family Charities Nonprofit Hub with Executive Director Julie Thomasma and host MetroMelik. What was once an empty hospital campus has been transformed into a thriving space where nonprofits and mission-driven businesses work side by side to serve families, kids, and the Lansing community. From CASA to Big Brothers Big Sisters, Origami Rehab, NAMI, and more, this hub brings essential services together under one roof—making collaboration seamless and support easier to access. You’ll hear success stories, discover how organizations share resources, and get a look at how the hub is designed to help nonprofits thrive on tight budgets. 👉 Learn how community partners turned old hospital corridors into collaborative spaces. 👉 Meet the organizations already making a difference inside the hub. 👉 Find out how YOU can get involved, tour the space, or support the mission.

CLIENT STORY: Great Commission Studios: To The Ends Of The Earth

CLIENT STORY: Great Commission Studios: To The Ends Of The Earth

This video is a brief glimpse at this past summer’s showcase for Great Commission Studios, titled “To The Ends of the Earth.” From their website: Great Commission Studios exists to glorify God through dance. Their studios are a place where Christ-centered dance education is important to families. They hold to a high standard of dance education for all levels and genres, including tap, ballet, lyrical, modern, acro/tumbling, Zumba, and pointe.

MISSION CONTROL: Empowering Women and Building Community With Rebecca Kasen

MISSION CONTROL: Empowering Women and Building Community With Rebecca Kasen

The Mission Control podcast, hosted by Paul Schmidt, offers an unfiltered look at the stories behind impactful nonprofit leadership. In this episode, listeners and readers are given a front-row seat to the journey of Rebecca Kasen, Executive Director of the Women’s Center of Greater Lansing (WCGL). What emerges is a powerful story of purpose-driven leadership, strategic transformation, and fierce commitment to community.

### Meet the Host and Guest

Paul Schmidt, creative video strategist at UnoDeuce Multimedia, has built a podcast that brings nonprofit stories to life. This episode introduces Rebecca Kasen (pronounced “Kay-sen”), a passionate and energetic leader who has revitalized WCGL through strategic vision, empathy, and collaboration. Rebecca’s work embodies the essence of mission-driven leadership, and her insights provide a roadmap for both aspiring and seasoned nonprofit professionals.

### The Mission: Empowerment With Flexibility

The Women’s Center of Greater Lansing has a clear mission: to empower women in the Lansing community, enabling them to achieve their unique potential. Rebecca emphasizes that empowerment is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Whether a woman needs counseling, career coaching, social support, or basic hygiene supplies, WCGL meets her where she is.

The Center’s approach is dynamic. Needs evolve, and so do services. Rebecca and her team keep their eyes and ears open, constantly adjusting programs to reflect the reality on the ground.

### From New Jersey to Lansing: A Pandemic Pivot

Rebecca Kasen didn’t plan on moving to Michigan. But when the pandemic confined her family of four in a small New Jersey apartment, change became necessary. A job opportunity in Lansing sparked their move across the country. Trading traffic noise for midwestern calm, Rebecca stepped into a city that would soon become the launchpad for her next professional chapter.

While adjusting to Lansing wasn’t without its humorous moments—like feeling out of place among MSU faculty parents—Rebecca’s adaptability and sense of humor smoothed the transition.

### A Career Built on Advocacy

Rebecca’s roots are in advocacy. Her early roles with Disability Rights New Jersey and Disability Rights Michigan exposed her to the policy and service sides of nonprofit work. Whether helping individuals secure vital services or advocating for statewide policy change, she always centered people’s lived experiences.

At Community Access Unlimited, she assumed a leadership role in legislative advocacy, advocating for funding and support for direct support professionals. This balance of micro and macro perspectives would later shape her leadership style at WCGL.

### Leading the Women’s Center

Rebecca’s path to WCGL was serendipitous. One bad day at her previous job led to some impulsive job applications. But when WCGL responded, Rebecca saw the potential right away. The Center’s \$167,000 annual budget and two-person staff weren’t daunting—they were an open canvas.

Three years later, Rebecca had nearly tripled the Center’s budget, expanded the staff to nine, and diversified the programming. Her leadership recipe included:

* Strong board support
* Creative autonomy
* A commitment to transparency and staff empowerment

She fosters an environment where staff are encouraged to grow—even if it means eventually pursuing better opportunities elsewhere. That’s the kind of leadership that builds loyalty and sustainability.

### The Programs That Make an Impact

WCGL offers an ever-growing menu of programs tailored to community needs. Among them:

* **Counseling Services**: A hybrid model allows clients with insurance to help subsidize care for those who can’t afford it or can’t safely use insurance.
* **Social Space and Computer Lab**: Drop-in areas foster connection, creativity, and job readiness.
* **Bold Steps Business Lab**: Up to 18 coaching sessions help women launch or grow small businesses.
* **Empower to Save Program**: A partnership with Adventure Credit Union helps women develop savings habits with matched incentives.
* **Hygiene Distribution**: High-need essentials are distributed to over 200 people on every open day.
* **Garden and Canning Workshops**: Teaching practical skills with an emphasis on accessibility.

These programs are supported by a flexible strategy that allows WCGL to pivot quickly. Rebecca knows that agility is a competitive advantage in the nonprofit world.

### Financial Growth and Sustainability

Upon joining WCGL, Rebecca discovered serious revenue gaps—particularly around insurance billing. With her mother’s background in nonprofit finance and her own problem-solving instincts, Rebecca restructured the Center’s funding model. Billing insurance where possible and using those funds to support low-income clients made a substantial difference.

This smart, adaptable approach is how WCGL grew its budget from \$167,000 to nearly \$500,000 in just three years.

### Collaboration Over Competition

In a nonprofit-rich city like Lansing, collaboration is key. Rebecca prioritizes partnerships over turf wars. Her team:

* Co-produces public events and performances
* Hosts workshops with culinary, financial, and wellness partners
* Coordinates referrals with other organizations to avoid duplicating services

Her dream? A cooperative retail incubator to complement existing kitchen incubators, allowing entrepreneurs to get retail experience before launching full businesses.

### The \$20 Million Dream

Rebecca isn’t content to rest on the progress already made. Her long-term vision includes:

* A larger, purpose-built headquarters
* Incubator retail space
* Accessible co-working areas
* An expanded career boutique
* Transitional housing for trafficking survivors and young adults

This dream complex would be a comprehensive women’s empowerment campus, providing comprehensive services to help women rebuild their lives.

### Wellness for the Warrior

Despite her packed schedule, Rebecca makes space for self-care. Whether it’s crafting, yoga, or planning real family vacations, she models healthy boundaries. Her Sunday yoga sessions are sacred, and even in her free time, she’s likely experimenting with a new art project.

### Advice for Aspiring Nonprofit Leaders

Rebecca offers practical advice: Honor the past while stepping boldly into the future. Her transition at WCGL was eased by building relationships with the organization’s founders, learning from them, and setting clear boundaries. She encourages leaders to:

* Seek wisdom from long-time supporters
* Avoid erasing legacy in the name of change
* Know when to make the organization their own

“Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater,” she says. Evolution and continuity can—and should—coexist.

### Staying Connected

Rebecca remains open to collaboration, new ideas, and conversation. She can be reached via:

* Email: [rebecca@lansingwomen.org](mailto:rebecca@lansingwomen.org)
* Social: WCGL is active on all major platforms

She’s always seeking partners, donors, and dreamers who want to help bring her vision to life.

### Closing Thoughts

Rebecca Kasen exemplifies what it means to lead with heart and strategy. Her story reminds us that real impact starts with a clear mission, a flexible approach, and a deep respect for community. From New Jersey roots to Michigan leadership, her journey inspires action.

Rebecca’s work proves that change happens when people care enough to build it—and bold enough to lead it.

*To hear Rebecca’s full story, subscribe to the Mission Control Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, or your favorite platform.*

ARTS ROLL-CALL: Cait Schneider–Reflections on Art and Nature

ARTS ROLL-CALL: Cait Schneider–Reflections on Art and Nature

Welcome to episode 30 of Arts Roll Call, a podcast for the arts curious. Join host Robin Miner Swartz as she interviews artist Cait Schneider. They talk about Cait’s journey as an artist, her love of the earth and its beauty, and how the two connect within her work. She also shares about a new piece that just went up in REO Town.

About Arts Roll Call
Arts Roll Call pulls back the curtain to explore the lived experience of artists and arts organizations in the Greater Lansing region. Presented by Arts Council Greater Lansing and hosted by local celebrity Robin Miner-Swartz, this podcast was created to give the Council’s members an opportunity to share their thoughts and talk about the role of the arts and why they are important to the region and the community. Whether you are from the Greater Lansing area or not, if you are a lover of arts and culture, you will enjoy getting a peek into the creative minds of these leaders and makers in the arts. For more information on the Arts Council of Greater Lansing, visit lansingarts.org. This production is sponsored by UnoDeuce Multimedia and Miner-Swartz Editing & Consulting. Please Note: The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host, producers or the Arts Council of Greater Lansing.

CLIENT STORY: Communities in Schools of Michigan: Nurturing a Brighter Future Through Compassion and Community

CLIENT STORY: Communities in Schools of Michigan: Nurturing a Brighter Future Through Compassion and Community

When it comes to raising strong, resilient children, no one does it alone. It takes a village—mothers, mentors, neighbors, advocates, and allies—each doing their part to make sure every child feels safe, supported, and seen. That’s exactly what Communities In Schools (CIS) of Michigan embodies. Under the care-filled leadership of CEO Mallory DePrekel, CIS wraps its arms around students and families across the state, making sure no child falls through the cracks.

This mission is deeply maternal at its core. It’s not just about academic success—it’s about ensuring children have their most basic needs met: food, safety, love, and a sense of belonging. That maternal energy is also what drives community champions like State Senator Sarah Anthony and corporate partners like Jackson. Together, they nurture students not only through policy or funding, but with the intention and tenderness of caregivers determined to give every child a better future.

Senator Anthony’s advocacy is rooted in heart. Her words echo the love of a mother who refuses to let any child be left behind: “Children are really where my heart lies.” She’s not just showing up in the legislative chambers—she’s showing up emotionally and relationally, understanding the invisible weight many students carry.

Meanwhile, Jackson’s commitment goes beyond corporate giving. Their backpack drives—thousands strong—are an act of care, a gesture that says to each child, *You matter.* Their employees don’t just pack supplies; they pack encouragement and dignity into every bag, giving children the tools they need to walk into the school year with confidence.

CIS doesn’t stop at backpacks or supplies. They appear when glasses are missing, when stomachs are empty, and when housing feels unstable. Their approach is one of maternal stewardship—quietly observing, listening closely, and responding with action born of love. Like a mother who anticipates needs before they’re voiced, CIS asks, *What do you need to thrive?* and then does whatever it takes to deliver.

The disparities in Michigan schools—peeling walls in one district, polished floors in another—are jarring. But instead of looking away, CIS and its champions draw closer. Their work is not about charity. It’s about justice, equity, and care—the kind of radical, relentless care mothers are known for.

Every child deserves a champion, someone who won’t let them be forgotten. Through Communities In Schools, Senator Anthony, and Jackson, Michigan’s youth are being reminded daily that they are cherished, not overlooked. It’s a legacy of love that will shape generations to come.

But the work is not done yet. There’s always another child to nurture, another need to meet, another heart to uplift. Together, we all have a role to play in this great act of community mothering—one child, one act of love at a time.

Celebrating Success: Big Brothers Big Sisters Wins Most Outstanding Video of the Year

Celebrating Success: Big Brothers Big Sisters Wins Most Outstanding Video of the Year

Big Brothers Big Sisters recently found itself in the spotlight for a powerful reason—winning *Most Outstanding Video of the Year* at the Deucey Awards. This exciting milestone highlights more than just a compelling video; it celebrates the heart of a community-driven mission and the people behind it. Executive Director **Megyn Forrest** and her team brought their story to life with authenticity, passion, and purpose—and UnoDeuce Multimedia was proud to help bring that story to the screen.

For Megyn, this wasn’t just a typical recognition. “It’s so exciting,” she said. “My team, my board—we’re all thrilled, and we’ve been shouting it from the rooftops.” That enthusiasm comes from knowing that this moment honors years of hard work and the deep relationships built through mentorship.

The video itself showcased not only the incredible impact of the “Bigs” and “Littles” but also lifted up the staff and community who make these connections possible. “What was really special is we were not only celebrating and highlighting our program and mentorship,” Megyn shared, “but also our team and staff—people who fully believe in our mission.”

This marked Big Brothers Big Sisters’ first collaboration with UnoDeuce, and the process was one of openness and trust. Megyn and her team invited the video crew to everything—events, interviews, daily interactions—creating an environment where authentic moments could unfold naturally. “The process was wonderful,” she said. “We loved working with you and your team.”

And the results speak for themselves. The video became a central piece of the organization’s *Big Breakfast*—their largest annual fundraiser—helping the community feel the impact of mentorship firsthand. “That’s where it made the most impact,” Megyn explained. “Hearing directly from the Bigs, Littles, and families—it brings the mission to life.”

When the nomination came, it was a surprise—but a welcome one. Megyn and her team quickly went to work rallying community support and using the spotlight to lift up not just their agency, but fellow nominees as well. “We saw it as an opportunity to celebrate all of us.”

Winning the Deucey Award was the cherry on top of an already meaningful experience. While the trophy is still on its way, the pride and excitement are already felt throughout the organization. And this win? It’s just the beginning.

Looking ahead, Big Brothers Big Sisters is more energized than ever. Megyn encourages the community to keep following their journey and get involved—whether by becoming a mentor, donating, attending events, or simply sharing the story.

Their message is clear: storytelling has power. And when done with heart, it can inspire an entire community to rally behind a mission. Here’s to big wins, big hearts, and the incredible work still to come.

EXPERT CONNEXIONS: Startups and Community: Purpose-Driven Leadership

EXPERT CONNEXIONS: Startups and Community: Purpose-Driven Leadership

What if the secret to breakthrough innovation lies in embracing failure as your greatest teacher?

In this episode from Startup Grind Conference 2025, host Julie Holton Smith sits down with Pastor Tom Arthur of Sycamore Creek Church, a leader who’s revolutionizing how we think about community building, risk-taking, and sustainable growth.

From launching church campuses to running food business incubators, Tom shares unconventional wisdom that will transform how you approach your next venture.

What You’ll Discover:
✅ Why “failing fast” isn’t just for tech startups, it’s essential for any growing organization
✅ The power of cross-industry networking
✅ How to apply billion-dollar acquisition strategies to potential partnerships
✅ Why global networking matters even in your local community initiatives

Tom’s journey from divinity school to becoming a startup ecosystem co-founder proves that innovation knows no industry boundaries. His insights on building platforms for others to succeed will give you fresh perspectives on leadership, community engagement, and sustainable business growth.

About Our Host:
Julie Holton Smith is a 3x Emmy Award winner, marketing strategist, and an entrepreneur. As the founder of mConnexions and host of Expert Connexions, she brings insightful conversations with purpose-driven leaders to help you grow and lead with intention.

About Our Guest:
Tom Arthur is a Pastor at Sycamore Creek Church. He specializes in church adoptions, community incubation, and bridging the gap between faith-based initiatives and startup innovation. His work includes launching multiple church campuses and operating food business incubators.
📢 Don’t miss our special mini-series featuring leaders from the Startup Grind Conference 2025!

Special thanks to Foster Swift, LEAP & the Lansing Regional SmartZone for supporting this series.

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