Startup Grind Lansing
EXPERT CONNEXIONS: Giving Tuesday: The Business of Giving
Nonprofit teams work tirelessly all year to serve those who need it most. Now, it’s our turn to give back!
This special episode focuses on the spirit of Giving Tuesday, shining the spotlight on the incredible work of nonprofits making a difference in their communities.
We’ve packed SIX expert interviews into one new episode featuring:
✨ Greater Lansing Care Foundation
✨ Catholic Charities of Ingham, Eaton & Clinton Counties
✨ Todd Martin Youth Leadership
✨ Grit, Glam & Guts
✨ Ele’s Place – Capital Region
✨ To Work In Grateful Service (TWIGS)
Learn the secrets to successful fundraising and how community support transforms lives. Celebrate the power of giving and discover practical tips to amplify your impact during this charitable season.
CLIENT STORY: Michigan Hands and Voices – Empowering Families: The DHH Guide Program for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Children
For families navigating the world of deafness or hearing loss, finding support that genuinely understands their unique challenges is invaluable. The **Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) Guide Program**, part of the **Hands and Voices – Guide by Your Side** initiative, offers just that kind of partnership. By connecting families with trained DHH guides—adults who have grown up deaf or hard of hearing—this program provides emotional support and practical guidance from those who have lived the experience.
### A Beacon of Support
The DHH Guide Program’s core mission is to reassure families that someone who understands their journey is there to walk alongside them. The program focuses on emotional support and provides families with a unique perspective through the personal stories and experiences of DHH guides. These guides share their wisdom and insights on navigating the world with hearing loss, helping parents better understand their child’s needs while fostering hope for the future.
As one guide explained, “Our DHH guides are adults who grew up deaf or hard of hearing…they provide the unique perspective of having walked the path that your child will walk one day.” This lived experience is the cornerstone of the program, creating a nonjudgmental space where families can seek advice, share their concerns, and gain a sense of solidarity.
### Bridging Two Worlds: Language and Communication
One of the most valuable aspects of the DHH Guide Program is the ability of guides to bridge two worlds: the hearing world and the signing Deaf world. Many guides have spoken and sign language experience, allowing them to communicate effectively with families from diverse backgrounds. This dual perspective is particularly beneficial for families navigating the challenge of deciding between spoken language and sign language for their child.
A DHH guide shared their journey: “I was fortunate to have a very dedicated family who taught me a lot about language and communication… If I can give both that child and make it accessible for them, I’m going to do that.” This sentiment highlights the program’s commitment to empowering children by providing them with all available communication tools—whether that’s learning spoken language, sign language, or both.
### Navigating Technology and Accessibility
As technology evolves, the DHH Guide Program also offers families insights into the latest tools and resources for enhancing communication and accessibility. For many families, understanding which technology or system will work best for their child’s unique needs can be overwhelming. DHH guides, who come from diverse backgrounds and have firsthand experience with assistive technology, can help families make informed decisions about what will be most effective for their child’s learning and communication.
The relationship between guides and families is one of mutual learning. Just as a Jedi master might teach a Padawan, guides, and families engage in a dynamic process of shared knowledge and discovery, helping to navigate hearing loss’s complexities with expertise and empathy.
### Inspiring Success and Building Community
Another powerful aspect of the DHH Guide Program is the representation it provides. Seeing successful adults who are deaf or hard of hearing can be deeply inspiring for both children and their families. It offers hope, showing that a child’s potential is limitless and that achievements are possible despite their challenges.
Balance. Pillars. Audits. Placemaking – UnoDeuce Storytelling in November 2024
This November recap captures the essence of educational enrichment, empowerment, democratic integrity, and vibrant community life. Each component showcases the potential within individuals and communities to thrive and innovate, crafting a better tomorrow. Whether through after-school programs, Girl Scouts, election integrity, or simply seeing the city in a new light, these stories remind us of our collective power to inspire change.
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Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:39 Girl Scouts
01:17 Election Audits
01:44 Creative Cityscapes
Remember, there’s always another story to tell, and we would love to tell your story. Please connect with us: https://www.unodeuce.com/contact/
#videostoryteller #nonprofitvideo #unodeucemultimedia
EXPERT CONNEXIONS: Marketing Strategies for Giving Tuesday
Get Ready for Giving Tuesday with Actionable Tips and Strategies!
In this episode of Expert Connexions, Julie Holton Smith is joined by Alexis Neumann and Mary-Kate Horgan of mConnexions to share their best advice for nonprofits. Whether you’re starting your campaign last minute or planning a big event, this conversation is packed with practical ideas to boost donations and connect with your community.
Discover:
- How to create urgency and engagement on social media
- Ways to involve your supporters and amplify your reach
- The importance of storytelling to show where donations go
- Why follow-up is key for keeping donors engaged year-round
🎯 Don’t miss out on these expert insights to make your Giving Tuesday and year-end fundraising a success. Watch now and get inspired to take your nonprofit’s impact to the next level!
👉 Visit mConnexions.com for more tips and resources.
Celebrating Giving Tuesday with Positive Somebody
Celebrating Giving Tuesday with Positive Somebody
Welcome to Giving Tuesday! It’s a time for generosity and community, and here at UnoDeuce Multimedia, it’s our opportunity to make a meaningful impact. This year, we’re thrilled to spotlight Positive Somebody, an incredible organization dedicated to fostering positive coping strategies for children and families across mid-Michigan.
Meet Paul Schmidt and Giving Tuesday
Hi! I’m Paul Schmidt, owner and creative video strategist at UnoDeuce Multimedia. Over the years, one of my favorite events has been our Giving Tuesday giveaway. It’s a chance to partner with amazing organizations and contribute to meaningful change.
This year, we’re proud to introduce Positive Somebody, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering children with the tools and resources they need to cope positively. Let’s dive into their story and learn about their incredible mission.
What is Positive Somebody?
Positive Somebody is a nonprofit organization focused on promoting positive coping mechanisms for children and families in mid-Michigan. Their mission is delivered through various programs, with the centerpiece being their “Positive Packs.” These packs are thoughtfully curated to support children’s mental and physical well-being, including:
- Journals: For self-reflection and expression
- Nutrition Guides: Encouraging healthy eating habits
- Sleep and Hydration Tips: Supporting physical wellness
- Fidgets and Breath Stones: Tools to manage stress
- Lists of Local Organizations: Connecting families with additional resources
Positive Somebody is creating a meaningful impact in their community through this comprehensive support system.
Why Positive Coping Matters
Jenny, a representative from Positive Somebody, shared her personal story of childhood trauma and how it inspired her to create the organization.
“When you grow up with trauma, you don’t feel like you’re anybody. I wanted to make sure kids knew they were somebody and could live a positive life.”
Her story underlines the importance of positive coping strategies in transforming young lives. By building resilience and self-worth, Positive Somebody is helping children navigate challenges and embrace their futures with confidence.
Collaborating with UnoDeuce Multimedia
This Giving Tuesday, we’re proud to announce that Positive Somebody will receive a 60-second video crafted by UnoDeuce Multimedia. This video will highlight their mission and help them reach a wider audience to spread awareness about their impactful work.
Jenny expressed her excitement, saying:
“I am so excited. I’m so thankful for this opportunity.”
We’re equally thrilled to work with Jenny and Positive Somebody, using our storytelling expertise to amplify their message and inspire others to join their cause.
Stay Tuned for the Journey Ahead
As we approach 2025, we’re excited to embark on this journey with Positive Somebody. Our collaboration will result in a compelling video that captures their essence and motivates others to get involved.
Follow us on our website, Facebook, and all social platforms to stay updated on our progress. We’ll share every step of this exciting partnership!
A Call to Action
Giving Tuesday is more than a day—it’s a movement to create lasting change through generosity. If you’re inspired by Positive Somebody’s mission, consider supporting their work or finding ways to make a difference in your own community.
For more information or to connect with us at UnoDeuce Multimedia, visit our website or reach out on social media. Let’s continue to tell stories that matter.
Conclusion
Giving Tuesday is about coming together to uplift and support one another. Positive Somebody exemplifies this spirit through their work. As we move forward in our collaboration, we aim to amplify their message and demonstrate the power of positive coping strategies.
Stay tuned as we share more inspiring stories shaping our world. Until next time!
CLIENT STORY: The Davies Project – How The Davies Project is Empowering Families with Free Transportation to Medical Appointments
The Davies Project: Empowering Families Through Free Transportation
Navigating medical appointments can be an overwhelming challenge for families, especially those with children who face health issues. The added burden of unreliable transportation often becomes an insurmountable obstacle to accessing vital care. This is where The Davies Project makes a difference. Offering free transportation services, they provide more than just a ride—they bring hope and ensure that no child misses essential healthcare due to transportation barriers.
Bridging the Transportation Gap
For families, particularly those on Medicaid, transportation is often a major barrier to healthcare. Studies reveal that up to 70% of children reliant on specialty clinics are on Medicaid, with many missing critical appointments due to unreliable transportation.
The Davies Project’s mission is simple yet profound: to remove these barriers so that families can access the care they need. By providing free rides, they ensure children make it to their appointments while offering peace of mind to parents who might otherwise struggle to get there on time.
Volunteers: The Heartbeat of the Service
The Davies Project thrives because of its dedicated volunteers. These individuals form the backbone of the service, donating their time and resources to ensure families can access healthcare.
With over 60 volunteers, the project offers flexible schedules, allowing participants to choose when and how they can help. Volunteers use their own vehicles, adding a personal touch to every ride. To ensure the safety and comfort of passengers, The Davies Project provides car seats, booster seats, and training for all drivers.
One volunteer remarked, “They are just the most incredible group of human beings,” reflecting the care and compassion that define the organization.
Ensuring Consistent Healthcare Access
For families with children facing chronic health conditions or newborns in neonatal intensive care (NICU), reliable transportation can mean the difference between attending a medical appointment and missing it.
The Davies Project prioritizes consistent transportation, whether it’s for routine check-ups, specialized treatments, or visits to cardiology or pulmonology clinics. For families with infants in the NICU, the ability to visit regularly is critical for both the baby’s healing and development. The Davies Project ensures that parents can make these essential trips without worrying about logistics.
Building Community Through Events
Beyond transportation, The Davies Project fosters a sense of community among families by organizing events like movie nights, sports gatherings, and local fairs. These occasions allow families to connect, relax, and bond outside the stresses of healthcare.
One standout event, Max’s Race, began as a memorial and has evolved into a family-friendly fair that raises awareness for the organization while bringing joy to participants.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, The Davies Project aims to expand its reach across Greater Lansing, with a broader vision of improving healthcare accessibility statewide and eventually nationwide. By collaborating with volunteers, healthcare providers, and local institutions, the organization seeks to create lasting, positive change in the lives of families in need.
Get Involved
The Davies Project relies on community support to achieve its mission. Volunteers, donors, and supporters all play crucial roles in helping the organization thrive.
Whether through donations, volunteering, or participating in events, every contribution makes a difference in ensuring children receive the healthcare they deserve. As one volunteer shared:
“I can’t imagine volunteering for an organization that does more for so many people in so many ways, especially at the most difficult times for families.”
To learn more about how you can get involved, visit their website or reach out today. Every effort counts, and with your support, The Davies Project can continue to transform the lives of families facing healthcare challenges. No family should have to navigate this journey alone.
GUEST BLOG: 10 Ways to Make Sure You’re Choosing the Right AV Technology For Your Next Event
Company events are your chance to shine, to connect with your audience, and leave a lasting impression. But let’s be honest, without the right AV technology in your event, your message can easily get lost in the shuffle.
Whether you’re hosting a corporate get-together or speaking at a conference, high-quality AV solutions can turn a good event into an unforgettable one. Think crystal-clear sound, stunning visuals, and seamless interactions – the kind of things that keep people engaged and talking about your event long after it’s over.
But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right AV gear? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are 10 tips to help you make smart AV investments for your next event:
Don’t Procrastinate on Planning
We all secretly love a great procrastination session, but when it comes to events, early planning is your secret weapon. Without it, you’ll wait till the last minute, and suddenly, the AV equipment you need is nowhere to be found, and you’re left scrambling. Not fun, right?
The sooner you start planning, the smoother your event will be. You’ll have your pick of venues, plenty of time to secure the right tech, and a stress-free lead-up to the big day. So, set those reminders, create those to-do lists, and get the ball rolling early! Your future event audience will thank you.
Set Business Objectives
Every event is unique, and your AV needs will change depending on what you’re trying to achieve. So, before you dive into new tech purchases, take a step back and ask yourself: What do I want this event to accomplish?
Having clear objectives is like having a roadmap for your AV choices. It helps you focus on the tech that truly matters and avoid wasting time and money on unnecessary bells and whistles.
Plus, when you know your goals, it’s easier to communicate your vision to vendors and partners. This ensures everyone’s on the same page, working together to create an event that wows your audience and delivers real results.
Consider Your Attendees
Your AV technology should be a perfect match for your audience. Think about their age, their tech-savviness, and any specific needs they might have. If you’re catering to a younger crowd, you may want to add more flare with interactive elements like touch screens or live polls. But if your audience is less tech-inclined, keep it simple and user-friendly.
The goal is to create an experience that’s both engaging and accessible for everyone. So, put yourself in your attendees’ shoes and choose AV tech that’ll make them feel comfortable and excited to participate.
Have a Clear Budget
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room – budgets. Events can get pricey, so having a budget in place is crucial.
Think about your spending limits before you start booking venues or renting AV gear. This helps you avoid those “oops, we overspent!” moments and ensures you’re getting the most bang for your buck.
If you’re a frequent event host, consider the pros and cons of buying vs. renting AV equipment. Buying might save you money in the long run, but remember, tech evolves fast. You might end up needing to upgrade sooner than you think.
Pick the Right Location
The venue you choose can make or break your event. It’s not just about fitting everyone in – it’s about creating the right atmosphere and ensuring your message comes across loud and clear.
Bigger venues often need more powerful sound systems and extra lighting to create the right ambiance. And don’t forget about acoustics! High ceilings and open spaces can make it tricky for people to hear your presentation, so factor that into your decision.
In short, choose a venue that complements your event and supports your AV needs. It’ll make a world of difference in how your audience experiences your brand.
Do a Site Visit
There’s no substitute for seeing your venue in person. Photos and floor plans can only tell you so much. A site visit lets you experience the space firsthand, get a feel for the layout, and spot any potential AV challenges.
Think of it like test-driving a car before you buy it. You want to make sure it’s the right fit, right? During your site visit, check things like: Are there any awkward corners that might need extra speakers? Does the stage need more lighting? Are there enough power outlets for all your gear?
Addressing these questions beforehand means you’ll be prepared for anything on event day, with no surprises.
Consider Power Requirements
AV equipment can be power-hungry, and not all venues may be suitable for it. Before you commit, check the venue’s power capabilities to ensure they can handle the demands of your AV setup, especially if you’re planning to use high-powered equipment.
If there’s any doubt, consider bringing in additional power sources or even a backup generator. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to keeping the lights on – literally.
Think About Accessibility
You want to make sure everyone feels welcome and included at your event. Think about the different needs your audience might have and plan your AV tech accordingly.
For individuals with hearing impairments, consider closed captioning on your video monitors or providing assistive listening devices. If you have visually impaired attendees use large, clear visuals in your presentations to make sure everyone can follow along.
It’s all about creating an experience that’s enjoyable and accessible for everyone, regardless of their abilities.
Have a Backup Plan
Technology can be finicky, and even the best-laid plans can go awry. So, it’s always wise to have a Plan B in your back pocket.
Pack those spare cables, batteries, and any other essential AV accessories. And if your budget allows, consider having a tech-savvy person on standby to troubleshoot any unexpected glitches.
Remember, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring your event runs smoothly, even if technology throws you a curveball.
Work With an Event Planner
If your in-house team is already stretched thin, consider bringing in a professional event planner. They’re pros at handling logistics, from venue selection to catering to, yes, AV tech. They often have connections with AV providers, which can translate to better deals and top-notch service.
Plus, outsourcing some of the planning frees up your team to focus on what they do best. It’s a win-win – you get a stress-free planning process and a great event, all while keeping your team happy and productive.
Make the Right AV Technology Choices
Company events are your chance to shine. They’re an opportunity to connect with your audience, build relationships, and leave a lasting impression.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to choosing AV solutions that perfectly match your event’s goals and your audience’s needs. So start making smarter technology choices to help you create an experience that’ll have people talking for weeks to come.
Author Name: Cameron Magee
Author Bio: Cameron Magee, the owner of avad3 Event Production, is a passionate and dedicated professional who began his journey in event production as a curious 12-year-old at his childhood church. Today, he leads a team of hard-working production professionals, having built avad3 from his college dorm room into a national production company, committed to both client success and the well-being of his team.
EXPERT CONNEXIONS: Demo: One Click AI
In this episode, Julie Holton Smith is joined by Jesse Flores and Scott Remington from SuperWebPros to unveil One Click AI—a tool designed to simplify AI adoption by slashing learning curves and eliminating the need for prompt engineering. Watch the live demo to see how One Click AI can instantly create strategies, automate tasks, and save time with just a click. Whether you’re planning a Black Friday campaign, onboarding new employees, or streamlining internal workflows, One Click AI has you covered! 🎥
Highlights in this episode:
• Why Jesse built One Click AI to lower AI’s barriers for business owners.
• A real-time demo of how One Click AI can plan a Black Friday campaign in seconds.
• How nonprofits can use One Click AI to enhance Giving Tuesday and year-round fundraising strategies.
• Exclusive offer: Use code EXPERT for 50% off your first year! 🌟
Ready to see what AI can do for you? Sign up for a 7-day free trial and explore the full potential of One Click AI! 👉 https://oneclickai.pro/
CLIENT STORY: Arts Council of Greater Lansing – ” My City” by Masaki Takahashi
“My City” is a semi-autobiographical illustration of Lansing, Michigan, as it is today in poetry form. Commissioned by the Arts Council of Greater Lansing and written and performed by Masaki Takahashi, it was the opening video for this year’s Creative Placemaking Summit held at the Cadillac Room in REO Town in Lansing, Michigan. Special thanks to Stage One at Sycamore Creek for using their space to record.