Volunteer San Diego Podcast

VSD Podcast 052: San Diego Food Bank

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 07:30:00 GMT

The San Diego Food Bank is one of our most popular volunteer projects on our Flexible Volunteer Program Calendar. In this episode, I chat with David Ruiz, Volunteer Coordinator of the San Diego Food Bank, and Nancy Trejo and Melinda Redding, our Volunteer San Diego Team Leaders. We discuss our volunteer activities and the population that we serve at the San Diego Food Bank. In addition, there is a monthly opportunity for new volunteers to join the FLEX program and volunteer directly in the project on the same evening.

For more information about this project or any of our other volunteer opportunities, check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guests:
David Ruiz, Volunteer Coordinator, San Diego Food Bank
Nancy Trejo, Volunteer San Diego Team Leader
Melinda Redding, Volunteer San Diego Orientation Leader

Running Time: 6:15

VSD Video 004: Volunteer Week 2008

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 07:58:00 GMT

In a special video edition of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, Elise Rollinson and I return to Wilson Middle School to complete our renovation project that was started during Hands On San Diego last September.

If you or your company are interested in corporate volunteer opportunities, give us a call at 858-636-4131, or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Hosts: Brent Shintani and Elise Rollinson
Guest: Matt Milliron, CBeyond

Special Thanks:
Wilson Middle School Staff
Principal Bernie Nguyen
CBeyond Employees

Running Time: 5:06

VSD Podcast 051: National Volunteer Week 2008

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 07:19:00 GMT

In this episode of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, I'm joined by Lei Ai Yap Imperial from Volunteer San Diego. Lei Ai shares information about the different volunteer opportunities on the FLEX calendar that are open for new members to try, There are a variety of projects in which you can provide a positive impact to the local San Diego community.

Paul Tran also discusses our Signature Event for Global Youth Service Day on Saturday, April 26, 2008. Sign up at our website at www.volunteersandiego.org or give us a call at 858-636-4131 for more information.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guests: Lei Ai Yap Imperial and Paul Tran

Running Time: 4:36

VSD Podcast 050: The Reverse Interview

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 07:51:00 GMT

It's our 50th show, and special guest host Ron Clayton turns the tables on me. Ron and I chat about the origins of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. In addition, I discuss some of my other volunteer projects and activities though Volunteer San Diego.

For anyone interested in the work of non-profits and the work of volunteers, check out the 501c3Cast at www.501c3cast.com. Also check out Ron's website at www.randomactofkindness.net to see some of the volunteers at many of the different FLEX Projects.

To find out more about Volunteer San Diego, check out out website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Hosts: Brent Shintani and Ron Clayton

Running Time: 9:14

VSD Podcast 049: 2008 Global Youth Service Day

Wed, 2 Apr 2008 07:12:00 GMT

As we begin National Volunteer Recognition Month, our SAVY Leaders join me to discuss this year's project for Global Youth Service Day 2008. Please join us for our signature event on Saturday, April 26, 2008.

To sign up for the project, or to find out how you can help, please check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guests: Paul Tran and Abby Ineman

Running Time: 05:27

VSD Podcast 048: Beautified Nature Walks For Teens

Sun, 23 Mar 2008 09:50:00 GMT

In this episode of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, we highlight one of our teen FLEX projects, Beautified Nature Walks For Teens. Team Leader Melissa Camarillo joins me for a discussion about the project.

Paul Tran, one of our SAVY Leaders, also joins me to discuss a special fundraising event in preparation for our Global Youth Service Day project, which will be highlighted in our next episode. Join us at Pat & Oscars in Mira Mesa on Tuesday, March 25th, from 5pm - 8pm to support Volunteer San Diego.

For more information about youth volunteer opportunities, check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guests: Melissa Camarillo, FLEX Team Leader
Paul Tran, SAVY Leader

Running Time: 6:21

VSD Podcast 047: The Best Place To Work

Sat, 8 Mar 2008 04:33:00 GMT

It's been an eventful month at Volunteer San Diego. Kelli Ochoa and Ron Clayton join me to discuss our award for the Best Place To Work from the San Diego Business Journal. Congratulations to our staff, board, and all of our volunteers!

Governor Schwarzenegger recently created a cabinet-level position for volunteering. Check out www.californiavolunteers.org for additional information. Kelli and I discuss the role of Volunteer San Diego as a hub for California Volunteers. We also talk about some the different ways that everyone can get involved in volunteering.

For more information about how you can get involved, check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guests: Kelli Ochoa, Development Director, Volunteer San Diego
Ron Clayton, Volunteer Team Leader and Orientation Leader

Running Time: 5:26

VSD Podcast 046: Corporate Group Projects, Part 2

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:38:00 GMT

In this episode, I continue our conversation with Elise Rollinson, Corporate Relations Manager for Volunteer San Diego. Elise describes some of the different examples of corporate volunteer projects in various community impact areas. We also discuss how Volunteer San Diego can help companies to incorporate volunteer projects into employee team building, company meeting activities, or special events.

If you are company that wants to provide a volunteer opportunities in the San Diego area for your employees, contact Elise Rollinson at erollinson@volunteersandiego.org.

For more information about our corporate team building volunteer program, you can also contact us at 858-636-4131, or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guest: Elise Rollinson, Corporate Relations Manager, Volunteer San Diego

Running Time: 8:51

VSD Podcast 045: Corporate Group Projects, Part 1

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:22:00 GMT

Volunteer San Diego has extensive experience in managing volunteers and volunteer projects. Elise Rollinson, Corporate Relations Manager for Volunteer San Diego, joins me for a discussion about the different types of services that Volunteer San Diego can provide to any company that desires to incorporate volunteer projects into employee team building, company meeting activities, or special events.

We will continue this discussion about corporate volunteer projects in a special bonus episode which will be released tomorrow.

For more information about our corporate team building volunteer program, please contact us at 858-636-4131, or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guest: Elise Rollinson, Corporate Relations Manager, Volunteer San Diego

Running Time: 8:48

VSD Podcast 044: Because Of A Volunteer . . .

Fri, 8 Feb 2008 04:46:00 GMT

In this special extended episode of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, we remember our friend and super volunteer, Bob Lavenstein. Bob passed away from a heart attack on January 21, 2008.

Bob appeared on the Volunteer San Diego Podcast last February to discuss our project at the Polinsky Children's Center. His legacy will live on though all of our volunteers, team leaders, staff, friends, and all of the people whose lives he touched.

We got together with some of the Volunteer San Diego team leaders and staff to share some memories. Because of a volunteer, many lives were enriched.

For more information about Volunteer San Diego, check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Hosts: Brent Shintani and Sue Carter
Guests:
Deanna Encarnacion, Malcolm X Library Team Leader
Stephanie Culbertson, Childcare at the WRC Team Leader
Bob Alden, Volunteer San Diego Board President
Dale Isaacs, Serving Seniors Team Leader
Candice Hodge, Polinsky Songs & Stories Team Leader
Debbie Krakauer, Volunteer Coordinator, Volunteer San Diego
Sarah Adams, Program Director, Volunteer San Diego

Running Time: 13:50

VSD Podcast 043: FLEX Orientation

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 04:59:00 GMT

I'm joined by Ron Clayton, one of our FLEX Orientation Leaders. Ron talks about the FLEX Orientation process, and highlights some of the of the projects and experiences that he has enjoyed through Volunteer San Diego in the past few years.

Check out Ron's website at www.didmy30.com. Ron has posted many pictures at several of the volunteer projects, and has highlighted several stories of many volunteers. Ron has even posted my picture on his site after he finished our interview earlier this month.

For more information on any of our programs at Volunteer San Diego, check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guest: Ron Clayton, FLEX Orientation Leader

Running Time: 7:35

VSD Podcast 042: MLK Day of Service 2008

Sun, 6 Jan 2008 03:56:00 GMT

Sarah Adams joins me to discuss our annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service on January 21, 2008. This year, our SAVY Leaders are partnering up with the Southern Sudanese Community Center of San Diego for a day of service to help renovate some of its facilities. We need people to paint, sort through donations, garden, and many other fun things.

Check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org to sign up for our project, or give us a call at 858-636-4131. For additional information about the annual MLK Day of Service, check out the national site at www.mlkday.gov.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guest: Sarah Adams, Director, Agency & Volunteer Services, VSD
Running Time: 4:34

VSD Podcast 041: Buick Invitational 2008

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 10:26:00 GMT

Calling all golf fans! The 2008 Buick Invitational is coming into town in January. Debbie Krakauer and I talk about the annual volunteer opportunities at the event.

For more information about volunteer opportunities at the Buick Invitational check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Hosts: Brent Shintani and Debbie Krakauer
Running Time: 4:35

VSD Podcast 040: St. Nick Day 2007

Fri, 7 Dec 2007 01:03:00 GMT

Every December 6th, we celebrate St. Nick Day and the spirit of generosity by providing backpacks filled with school supplies, books, and toys to some of the under-served elementary school children in San Diego county. We selected eight schools and delivered 2500 backpacks to students in kindergarten, first, and second grade, and read the story of St. Nicholas to the students.

I spent some time in the morning reading at Maryland Elementary in Vista. Principal Acacia Thede spent some time with me to catch up on the events of the morning.

To find out more about how you can help, check our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131. Visit Rubio's restaurants in San Diego county, and order a St. Nick Meal. One dollar is donated to Volunteer San Diego for every meal sold.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guest: Acacia Thede, Principal, Maryland Elementary School

Running Time: 5:00

VSD Podcast 039: Holiday Volunteer Opportunities 2007

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 22:27:00 GMT

Debbie Krakauer and I highlight holiday volunteer opportunities in episode 39 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. There are many different ways everyone can help, so check out some of our highlighted volunteer opportunities at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Support Volunteer San Diego by attending the St. Nick Soiree on November 29th at Side Bar in downtown San Diego. You can also help support year-round programming at Volunteer San Diego by purchasing a St. Nick Combo at any Rubio's Restaurant in San Diego county.

Hosts: Brent Shintani and Debbie Krakauer
Running Time: 4:23

VSD Podcast 038: St. Nick Packing Party 2007

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 03:49:00 GMT

We celebrate our annual St. Nick Packing Party, which was graciously hosted once again by Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development. Over 90 volunteers joined us to pack 2500 backpacks for our upcoming St. Nick event at eight Title I schools throughout San Diego county in December.

For more information about holiday volunteer opportunities, check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guests: Mary Evers, VSD Board of Directors,
Sue Carter, Executive Director, Volunteer San Diego
Kelli Ochoa, Development Director, Volunteer San Diego

Running Time: 5:00

VSD Podcast 037: When Disaster Strikes . . .

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 03:54:00 GMT

San Diego County was recently stricken with wildfires throughout the entire region. As a lead agency in disaster operations, Volunteer San Diego plays a critical role in disasters by coordinating with many different agencies. Volunteer San Diego serves the San Diego community by connecting volunteers with specific volunteer opportunities as the emerge in the days following the disaster.

In the hours following the initial disaster, Volunteer San Diego activated the disaster response plan. I was among many volunteers mobilized during the disaster to assist with at various agencies, including the 2-1-1 Information Line.

To find out how you can help, contact us at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131. You can also check out our group and cause on Facebook.

Host: Brent Shintani
Running Time: 5:23

VSD Podcast 036: Introducing Our New Logo

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:59:00 GMT

In episode 36 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, Sue Carter and I discuss our new logo, which was recently adopted a couple of weeks ago at Hands On San Diego 2007.

Support the programs of Volunteer San Diego by purchasing merchandise at our Cafe Press store at www.cafepress.com/volunteersd. Support Volunteer San Diego by joining our Causes page and Group on Facebook.

For more information about our programs, please check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guest: Sue Carter, Executive Director, Volunteer San Diego

Running Time: 5:06

VSD Podcast 035: Homework Helpers

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 14:04:00 GMT

In this episode, Debbie Krakauer and I talk about some of our Homework Helper projects throughout San Diego County. Many of the projects need some additional volunteers and team leaders in order to keep running.

We're branching out in Mira Mesa to tutor the local children at an additional location on new dates. Check out the FLEX Calendar for the new project starting on October 2, 2007.

Check the Volunteer San Diego website at www.volunteersandiego.org for information, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Hosts: Brent Shintani and Debbie Krakauer
Running Time: 5:30

VSD Podcast 034: Hands On San Diego 2007

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 14:04:00 GMT

We're continuing our coverage of Hands On San Diego 2007. I'm joined by Debbie Krakauer to give us an overview of the over 100 projects that are taking place throughout the week.

For more information about Volunteer San Diego, and how you can help, please check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Hosts: Brent Shintani and Debbie Krakauer

Running Time: 5:10

VSD Podcast 033: Hands On Signature Event 2007

Sun, 23 Sep 2007 21:14:00 GMT

Over 800 volunteers worked throughout the weekend to make our Hands On San Diego Signature Event at Wilson Middle School a success. Debbie Krakauer and I summarize the events of the day, and talk about the accomplishments of the volunteers.

For more information on how you can help, please check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Hosts: Brent Shintani and Debbie Krakauer

Running Time: 5:11

VSD Video 003: Hands On San Diego 2007 Kickoff

Sat, 22 Sep 2007 23:50:00 GMT

In this special video edition, my special guest co-host Bob Alden and I introduce the signature event for Hands On San Diego 2007 at Wilson Middle School in City Heights. Throughout the day, volunteers helped with painting, gardening, and cleaning projects to revitalize the school grounds.

Sue Carter and Kimberly Boyd talk about Hands On Schools. We'll be back on Sunday to finish up the project. For more information about Hands On San Diego, please check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Please note that there will be multiple items posted to the feed throughout the weekend, so please check for additional items to be downloaded. An audio and video episode will be posted on Saturday, September 22nd.

Hosts: Brent Shintani
Bob Alden, President, Volunteer San Diego Board of Directors

Guests: Sue Carter, Executive Director, Volunteer San Diego
Kimberly Boyd, Director, Hands On Schools

Running Time: 3:15

VSD Podcast 032: Hands On San Diego 2007 Kickoff

Sat, 22 Sep 2007 19:47:00 GMT

We kicked off the Hands On San Diego 2007 signature event today. In this episode, Kimberly Boyd from Hands On Schools talks about how we got started with our special revitalization project at Wilson Middle School in City Heights.

There will be multiple files in the feed this weekend, so please check for additional audio and video episodes. For more information about Hands On San Diego, check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org. There are many different projects and other ways that you can help your community.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guest: Kimberly Boyd, Hands On Schools

Running Time: 5:02

VSD Video 002: Hands On San Diego Promo

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 03:30:00 GMT

Here's a quick video promo for Hands On San Diego 2007, which starts on Saturday, September 22, 2007, hosted by Bob Alden and Denise Luna of the Volunteer San Diego Board of Directors.

We're all ramping up for our signature event this weekend. Please check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org for more information on how you can help.

Hosts: Bob Alden and Denise Luna
Producer: Brent Shintani

Running Time: 0:25

VSD Podcast 031: VSD Team Leader Opportunities

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 22:51:00 GMT

In episode 31 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, I'm joined by Debbie Krakauer, Agency and Volunteer Services Coordinator at Volunteer San Diego. Debbie recently assumed responsibility for the FLEX Volunteer Program, and shares several special opportunities for volunteers and volunteer team leaders throughout San Diego county.

We discuss various projects, including library tutoring, childcare, food banks, and meal service. There are also opportunities for relief team leaders as well. For more information, contact Debbie Krakauer at 858-636-4184, or by e-mail through the Volunteer San Diego website.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guest: Debbie Krakauer, Volunteer San Diego

Running Time: 7:17

VSD Video 001: First Anniversary Show

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 14:00:00 GMT

It's hard to believe that it has been a whole year since we started the show. In this special video edition of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, Sue Carter and I talk about the FLEX program, and take you on a quick video tour of Weed Warriors.

Lupe Ortega, President of North County Community Services, joins us to discuss the volunteer opportunity at the North County Community Services Food Bank. Check out the website at www.sdnccs.org.

Sue and I also discuss the volunteer opportunity at Hands On San Diego 2007 in September. For more information, please check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Hosts: Brent Shintani
Sue Carter, Executive Director, Volunteer San Diego

Guests: Lupe Ortega, North County Community Services
Ranger Janice, San Diego Dept of Parks and Recreation

Special Thanks to Kelli Ochoa for camera assistance.

Running Time: 7:34

VSD Podcast 030: Crafts for a Cause

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 03:02:00 GMT

In episode 30 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, I return to Rebecca's Coffee Shop in North Park to visit with Melinda Redding, Team Leader for Crafts for a Cause, one of our FLEX projects.

I also have a chance to catch up with Beth Rolls-Mathewson, chair of the Hands On San Diego committee. Beth shares some information about the upcoming volunteer event.

If you would like to donate time, materials, or funding to either event, please check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Stay tuned for our first anniversary show on August 13, 2007!

Host: Brent Shintani
Guests: Melinda Redding, VSD Team Leader
Beth Rolls-Mathewson, VSD Board of Directors

Running Time: 6:24

VSD Podcast 029: Got Yarn?

Sun, 15 Jul 2007 21:57:00 GMT

In episode 29 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, I visit one of our FLEX projects in the community of North Park. Our volunteer group of knitters at the Got Yarn? project meets at Rebecca's Coffee Shop on Juniper and 30th every third Sunday of the month. Jo Madden, our project team leader, shares information about the project, donors, and beneficiaries.

Andrea Ladmer, Executive Director of Performance and Entertainment Program for Adult Care Facilities (PEP), stopped by the project to pick up some of the crafts produced by the group, and shared how the crafts would benefit seniors throughout the county.

For more information about this and many other projects, please check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guests: Jo Madden, VSD Team Leader
Andrea Ladmer, Executive Director, PEP

Running Time: 5:40

VSD Podcast 028: Technology at VSD

Sun, 1 Jul 2007 03:04:00 GMT

Technology plays a key role in the daily activities at Volunteer San Diego. In episode 28, we highlight some of the ways technology has improved the way we communicate with the San Diego community. Sarah Adams, webmaster for Volunteer San Diego, joins us for a discussion of our website, agency database, blog, and of course, the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. At Volunteer San Diego, we are always looking for innovative ways to provide outreach to our volunteers, agencies, and community.

Katherine Macdougall and Sue Carter join us to discuss how technology has improved the work process for our FLEX program and the business impact to the organization.

For more information about our programs, or to submit some additional ideas, please give us a call at 858-636-4131, or visit our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guests:
Sarah Adams, Director, Agency and Volunteer Services, Volunteer San Diego
Sue Carter, Executive Director, Volunteer San Diego
Katherine Macdougall, Volunteer Services Coordinator, Volunteer San Diego

Running Time: 9:57

VSD Podcast 027: Weed Warriors

Sat, 16 Jun 2007 02:25:00 GMT

In episode 27 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, I visit Weed Warriors, one of our Flexible Volunteer Program projects. From Tecolote Canyon, our team leader, Eddie Rosenbaum, and project leader, Ranger Janice, talk about the Tecolote Nature Center and the different things our Weed Warriors accomplish at each project.

A special congratulations to Corey at the 501c3Cast for his 75th episode. Check out Corey's show at www.501c3cast.com.

For more information on FLEX projects at Volunteer San Diego, contact us at 858-636-4131, or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Host: Brent Shintani

Guests:
Eddie Rosenbaum, Team Leader
Ranger Janice, Park and Recreation Department, City of San Diego

Running Time: 5:05

VSD Podcast 026: Polinsky Game Night

Wed, 30 May 2007 03:51:00 GMT

We're back with episode 26 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. In this episode, I chat with Angie Valdiconza, team leader at Polinsky Game Night, one of our most popular volunteer projects.

For more information about any of the project on the FLEX Volunteer Program Calendar, please contact us at 858-636-4131, or check out our web site at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guest: Angie Valdiconza

Running Time: 5:22

VSD Podcast 025: 501c3Cast Interview

Sun, 29 Apr 2007 07:01:00 GMT

We are celebrating our 25th episode of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. Corey Pudhorodsky from the 501c3Cast joins us to talk about his show. The 501c3Cast is a groundbreaking podcast for the non-profit community, and provides a valuable resource for volunteers, agencies, and anyone interested in the work of non-profits.

Volunteer San Diego was featured on Episode 60 of the 501c3Cast on November 20, 2006. You can find the 501c3Cast at www.501c3cast.com. For more information about Volunteer San Diego, give us a call at 858-636-4131, or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Host: Brent Shintani
Special Guest: Corey Pudhorodsky, 501c3Cast

Running Time: 9:56

VSD Podcast 024: Volunteer Week 2007, Part 3

Sun, 22 Apr 2007 03:29:00 GMT

In episode 24 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, we continue our coverage of Volunteer Week 2007. From Mission Trails Park in San Diego, Katherine Macdougall and I cover our signature event for National & Global Youth Service Day -- a 5K Walk/Run to benefit under served youth. Our emcee at the day's event was KFMB's Stan Miller, who shared his impressions of the day.

Katherine and I catch up with Amanda Hamilton, our first-place finisher, and our top fundraiser, Catherine Daley. Brad Bowen, one of our SAVY Leaders, talks about the planning and sponsors for the event, and Beth Hogan talks about the fun activities at our Crafts For A Cause station.

Hosts: Brent Shintani and Katherine Macdougall

Special Appearances:
Stan Miller, KFMB Channel 8, San Diego
Sue Carter, Executive Director, Volunteer San Diego

Guests:
Beth Hogan, Outreach Coordinator, Volunteer San Diego
Brad Bowen, SAVY Leader

Running Time: 6:09

VSD Podcast 023: Volunteer Week 2007, Part 2

Fri, 20 Apr 2007 00:56:00 GMT

Continuing our coverage of National and Global Youth Service Week and National Volunteer Week 2007, I review my volunteer activities of the week, and talk about some of the exciting projects on our FLEX volunteer calendar open to new members.

I'll be at various projects throughout the week and weekend, including our 5K Walk to benefit under served youth on April 21st. If you're participating in the La Jolla 5K or Half Marathon on April 22nd, Volunteer San Diego will have a booth at the finish line.

Dine at one of our San Diego Applebee's Restaurants on April 24, 2007, and they will donate a portion of what you spend to Volunteer San Diego. You will need to present a flyer to your server, which you can download from our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Host: Brent Shintani
Running Time: 5:39

VSD Podcast 022: Volunteer Week 2007

Tue, 17 Apr 2007 03:24:00 GMT

We celebrate the launch of National Volunteer Week and National and Global Youth Service Week with episode 22 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. Sue Carter, Executive Director of Volunteer San Diego, and I have a special word of thanks to our volunteers, agencies, and sponsors.

There are many different projects on the FLEX Volunteer Calendar this week that are open to the public, and Melissa Higgins, our Youth Program Coordinator, talks about our special 5K walk this Saturday.

Don't forget to support Volunteer San Diego at Applebee's Restaurants on April 24th. Download a flyer from the Volunteer San Diego website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guests:
Sue Carter, Executive Director, Volunteer San Diego
Melissa Higgins, Youth Program Coordinator, Americorps

Running Time: 07:26

VSD Podcast 021: Recruiting Runners for VSD

Mon, 9 Apr 2007 09:56:00 GMT

In episode 21 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, I am joined by volunteer and team leader Eric Lee. Eric talks about his special fundraising project which combines running and training for local races, while fundraising for Volunteer San Diego. Eric also volunteers in grant writing and research for the organization as well.

If you would like more information about the program, please check out Eric's blog page at vsdrunners.blogspot.com. For more information about any of the programs at Volunteer San Diego, please check out our web site at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Support Volunteer San Diego by dining at a participating Applebee's Restaurant on April 24, 2007. Download a flyer and present it to your server.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guest: Eric Lee

Running Time: 05:15

VSD Podcast 020: National & Global Youth Service Day 2007

Tue, 3 Apr 2007 03:59:00 GMT

It's time for another episode of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, We begin our month long celebration of volunteering by highlighting our special project for National & Global Youth Service Day by our SAVY Leaders on April 21, 2007. Romyn Sabatchi, one of our SAVY Leaders, spends some time with me to discuss our 5K Walk to raise funds for youth programs and projects.

Join us at Mission Trails Park on April 21, 2007, at 7:45am for this special event. We'll be taping a special episode of the podcast from the event, so come on down and you might be on the show. Fundraising information can be found at the Volunteer San Diego website.

For more information to participate in our 5K Walk, please visit our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guest: Romyn Sabatchi, SAVY Outreach Committee
Special Thanks: Melissa Higgins, SAVY Program Coordinator

Running Time: 04:59

VSD Podcast 019: About Volunteer San Diego

Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:08:00 GMT

In episode 19 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, I give a brief overview of some of the great programs and services offered by Volunteer San Diego, including the FLEX Volunteer Program, Corporate Programs, SAVY, Board Connection, and Disaster Response.

Kelli Ochoa, Development Director for Volunteer San Diego, has a special message for everyone.

Check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org or call us at 858-636-4131 for more information about any of our programs. You can also help by providing a donation to keep our year-round programs running.

Host: Brent Shintani
Special Guest: Kelli Ochoa, Development Director, Volunteer San Diego

Running Time: 5:43

VSD Podcast 018: Corporate Volunteer Programs and Services

Thu, 1 Mar 2007 13:30:00 GMT

In episode 18 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, I am joined by Sue Carter for a discussion of two fee-based Corporate Programs -- the Employee Volunteer Program, and Team Building Services. Sue discusses different ways that companies can make a difference in our community, and how Volunteer San Diego can provide these value-added services to support company volunteer programs.

Contact Sarah Adams at 858-636-4136 for more information about our Corporate Programs.

Bob Alden, President of the Board of Directors for Volunteer San Diego, makes a special announcement launching our 2007 Annual Appeal. There is a special link to the donation website at our podcast page -- www.vsdpodcast.org. You can also provide donations by mail to:

Volunteer San Diego
4699 Murphy Canyon Road
San Diego, CA 92123

For more information, please contact us at 858-636-4131, or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Host: Brent Shintani
Special Guests:
Sue Carter, Executive Director, Volunteer San Diego
Bob Alden, President, Board of Directors, Volunteer San Diego

Running Time: 6:33

VSD Podcast 017: Oscar Party 2007

Wed, 14 Feb 2007 08:07:00 GMT

We have a special invitation for all of you in episode 17 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. It's our annual Oscar Party fundraising event for Volunteer San Diego. This year, we're holding our event at Seau's The Restaurant in Mission Valley on Sunday, February 25, 2007 at 5pm. The cost for the event is $45, which includes dinner and all of the exciting events of the evening. Lupe Ortega, our co-host for the Oscar Party, discusses this year's event.

Please support Volunteer San Diego at this special event. RSVP by February 21st at www.volunteersandiego.org, or call Lupe Ortega at 619-851-9111.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guest: Lupe Ortega, Board of Directors, Volunteer San Diego
Special Thanks: Beth Rolls-Mathewson, Board of Directors, Volunteer San Diego, and co-host for the annual Oscar Party.

Running Time: 05:12

VSD Podcast 016: Polinsky BBQ

Mon, 5 Feb 2007 01:20:00 GMT

In episode 16 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, I have a conversation with Bob Lavenstein. Bob and I are co-leaders of one of our popular FLEX Projects at Volunteer San Diego, the Polinsky BBQ. Bob discusses the volunteer opportunity at the Polinsky Center, and what volunteers can expect at the project.

Our Community Cinema project continues on Wednesday, February 7th, with a documentary entitled Hip Hop: Beyond Beats and Rhymes. The community is welcome to attend. Contact Jessica End at Volunteer San Diego for more information.

Save the date on February 25, 2007, for our annual Oscar Party, a special fundraiser for Volunteer San Diego. More information will be provided in our next episode.

For more information on our programs at Volunteer San Diego, check out our web site at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131. If you would like to help me donate funds to Volunteer San Diego, please visit our podcast page at www.vsdpodcast.org.

Host: Brent Shintani
Guest: Bob Lavenstein

Running Time: 07:19

VSD Podcast 015: Buick Invitational 2007

Mon, 15 Jan 2007 07:29:00 GMT

This episode is for all of the golf fans out there. In episode 15 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, we talk about volunteer opportunities at the 2007 Buick Invitational. Debbie Krakauer, Agency and Volunteer Services Coordinator at Volunteer San Diego, discusses the duties of volunteers at a couple of the projects at the tournament.

In addition, Volunteer San Diego is selling discounted tickets to the 2007 Buick Invitational. Tickets are available for $15 for admission to any day of the tournament. Please contact Kelli Ochoa or Debbie Krakauer at Volunteer San Diego to get your tickets today!

For more information on this or any of the other programs at Volunteer San Diego, give us a call at 858-636-4131 or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Host: Brent Shintani
Special Guest: Debbie Krakauer, Volunteer San Diego

Running Time: 6:05

VSD Podcast 014: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service 2007

Tue, 2 Jan 2007 12:22:00 GMT

Happy New Year, everyone! In episode 14 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, we talk about the upcoming Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. Amal Dalmar, one of our SAVY Leaders, and co-chair of our SAVY Outreach Committee, talks about the upcoming renovation project on January 13, 2007.

Our third installment of Community Cinema will be on January 10, 2007 at the main public library. This month's documentary, Twisted, is brought to us in conjunction with the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation at USCD Medical Center in Hillcrest. This screening is open to the public. Contact Jessica End at 858-636-4124 for additional information.

For additional information on any of our projects, or to see a list of donations needed for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, please check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Host: Brent Shintani
Special thanks to: Melissa Higgins, Amal Dalmar, and the rest of the SAVY Leaders.
Running Time: 5:47

VSD Podcast 013: Childcare at the Women's Resource Center

Sun, 17 Dec 2006 14:00:00 GMT

In episode 13 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, we focus on one our North County FLEX Volunteer Projects -- Childcare at the Women's Resource Center in Oceanside. I caught up with Stephanie, one of our Volunteer San Diego Team Leaders, to discuss this project.

For the rest of the month, you can still donate to support year-round programs at my donation page -- http://www.active.com/donate/vsdstnick/brent06.

Rubio's Restaurants of San Diego County are offering the St. Nick Combo until December 25th. One dollar of each meal is donated to Volunteer San Diego to support year-round programming.

For more information about Childcare at the Women's Resource Center or other FLEX Projects, please check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Host: Brent Shintani

Running Time: 05:52

VSD Podcast 012: The Schools of St. Nick

Thu, 7 Dec 2006 03:15:00 GMT

In episode 12 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, we celebrate St. Nicholas Day by visiting nine of the under-served elementary schools in San Diego county. At Carson Elementary, I spent a moment with Dr. Rich Cansdale, Superintendent, Area 3, San Diego Unified School District to discuss A Visit from St. Nicholas, and the importance of successful partnerships with the community.

With several other community volunteers, I spent some time with one of the first grade classes at Perkins Elementary sharing the St. Nicholas story. Kelli Ochoa from Volunteer San Diego and I recap the events of the morning, including a review of all of the schools that were visited. Hundreds of volunteers supported our schools by donating time and funds to make this event possible. It's never too late to get involved, so we reviewed some of the ways you can still help.

Rubio's Restaurants of San Diego County are offering the St. Nick Combo until December 25th. One dollar of each meal sold will benefit the programs at Volunteer San Diego.

If you would like to contribute to the program, our donation web sites will be active until January 2nd. You can find my donation page at http://www.active.com/donate/vsdstnick/brent06.

For more information on A Visit From St. Nicholas, or any of our other programs and services at Volunteer San Diego, check out our web site at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Host: Brent Shintani

Guests:
Dr. Rich Cansdale, Area 3 Superintendent, San Diego Unified School District
Kelli Ochoa, Development Director, Volunteer San Diego

Running time: 5:55

VSD Podcast 011: Holiday Opportunities

Sun, 19 Nov 2006 22:36:00 GMT

We've packed a lot into episode 11, literally. In this episode, my special guest co-host, Katherine MacDougall, Volunteer Services Coordinator for Volunteer San Diego, and I report from two of our holiday projects. We start our report from one of our special events supporting A Visit From St. Nicholas, the St. Nick Packing Party. At this event, 2,700 backpacks were filled with toys and other fun things to be delivered to nine of the under served Title I schools in San Diego County. Check out Episode 9 to learn more about A Visit From St. Nicholas. After the party, Katherine and I traveled to Casey's Place in San Carlos for Holiday Crafts For A Cause to find over 100 volunteers packaging crafts and other donations for the less fortunate this holiday season.

Sign up for Santa's Room Arts & Crafts on the FLEX Volunteer Program Calendar on the Volunteer San Diego website. Santa's Room Arts & Crafts is listed on December 16 and 17. Check out the FLEX Calendar for a lot of other fun holiday volunteer opportunities.

You can support A Visit from St. Nicholas by sponsoring a backpack for a child. It's as simple as going to my fundraising site at http://www.active.com/donate/vsdstnick/brent06.

If you would like to start your own fundraising drive for backpacks, or create your own personal page, you can do so at http://www.active.com/donate/vsdstnick.

For advance donations to attend the St. Nick Soiree, please go to http://www.active.com/donate/vsdstnick/stnicksoiree, or you can check out the Volunteer San Diego website at www.volunteersandiego.org. This party will support A Visit From St. Nicholas. It will be a lot of fun, so please try to attend on November 30th at 6pm at the Luna Lounge in Downtown San Diego. Donations at the door will be $30.

Don't forget to visit Rubio's restaurants of San Diego to order a St. Nick Combo between now and December 25. That's the world-famous fish taco, a cheese enchilada, rice, beans, chips, and a drink for only $6.99. One dollar of every meal goes to Volunteer San Diego to support all of our wonderful volunteer programs, including A Visit From St. Nicholas.

Check out the 501c3Cast. Sue Carter, Bob Alden, and I got interviewed by Corey at the 501c3Cast recently. Anyone who is interested in volunteering, volunteer issues, or the work of non-profit organizations will find this show a valuable resource.

Special thanks to Krista and the rest of the team at Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research and Development for the coordination efforts for the St. Nick program, as well as the loan of the space for the storage and packing of the St. Nick materials.

Special thanks to Casey Kinslow and Casey's Place for the loan of the space for Holiday Crafts for a Cause.

Special thanks to our SAVY Leaders and Melissa Higgins, our Youth Leader Coordinator for the fantastic job at Holiday Crafts For A Cause.

And of course, an extra special thanks to all of our volunteers, for making a difference in the community, and for making all of these projects possible.

For more information about holiday volunteer opportunities or other ways you can help, check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Hosts:
Brent Shintani and Katherine MacDougall

Special guest appearances by Volunteer San Diego Board of Directors and Staff:
Debra Patterson, Board of Directors VSD/AXA Advisors, LLC
Melissa Houston, Board of Directors VSD/Rubio's Restaurants, Inc.
Sue Carter, Executive Director
Kelli Ochoa, Director, Development
Melissa Higgins, Americorps Youth Leader Coordinator

Running time: 09:59

VSD Podcast 010: Stories of Service

Sat, 11 Nov 2006 05:01:00 GMT

We made it to episode 10 of the Volunteer San Diego podcast just in time for Veteran's Day. I conclude my interview with Jamie Dent, Service Learning Coordinator at Volunteer San Diego highlighting the Stories of Service project. In this episode, we highlight the efforts of our teen volunteers, community volunteers, and local community veterans who bring together their skills, knowledge, enthusiasm and experience to produce a documentary.

A special screening of the latest Stories of Service documentaries will occur on November 18, 2006. RSVP to Jessica End at the Volunteer San Diego office at 858-636-4131.

Don't forget that Rubio's Restaurants or San Diego continues the special St. Nick Meal Deal throughout November and December. For every meal purchased, a dollar is donated to Volunteer San Diego for A Visit From St. Nicholas and other year-round programs. To support the program with your personal donation, please check out my personal page at www.active.com/donate/vsdstnick/brent06.

We'll be back one more time this month with a bonus episode focusing on holiday events and special announcements. Check out the 501c3cast for an upcoming episode featuring some of the staff and board members of Volunteer San Diego. Check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131 for more information on any of our programs.

VSD Podcast 009: A Visit From St. Nicholas

Mon, 6 Nov 2006 02:08:00 GMT

This is episode 9 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. We're kicking off the holiday season with a special program called A Visit From St. Nicholas. I spoke with Kelli Ochoa, Director of Development with Volunteer San Diego, about this special event. Kelli discusses the third annual holiday event, and talks about different ways you can get involved with the program.

If you are interested in helping out with a donation for this special program, or would like to become a fundraiser, please check out my personal page at www.active.com/donate/vsdstnick/brent06.

To support the program, Rubio's Restaurants in the San Diego area will be sponsoring a special St. Nick Meal Deal combo from November 7 until December 25, 2006. For every one of these meals purchased, a portion of the funds will be donated to Volunteer San Diego to support A Visit From St. Nicholas and year-round programming.

For more information about this or any of the many programs at Volunteer San Diego, please check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

VSD Podcast 008: Youth Programs

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 13:00:00 GMT

This is episode 8 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. Today, I continue my discussion with Jamie Dent, Service Learning Coordinator at Volunteer San Diego. Jamie discussed the different youth programs including SAVY Clubs and SAVY Leaders.

Remember to attend Community Cinema at the San Diego Main Library at 6pm on November 1st.

A Special Crafts for a Cause Holiday project is being held at Casey's Place on November 18th.

For more information about Volunteer San Diego or any of its programs, check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

VSD Podcast 007: Service Learning

Tue, 24 Oct 2006 07:45:00 GMT

This is episode 7 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast, and the first in a three-part series with Jamie Dent, Service Learning Coordinator at Volunteer San Diego. In this episode, Jamie discusses service learning, his role with Volunteer San Diego, and how service learning is incorporated into some of our volunteer projects.

Jamie also teaches a Service Learning 101 course several times throughout the year. To sign up for the next course, please visit our website at www.volunteersandiego.org, or give us a call at 858-636-4131.

Join us at the San Diego Central Library for our monthly screening of Community Cinema on November 1st at 6pm.

VSD Podcast 006: Friends of Cats

Mon, 9 Oct 2006 10:10:00 GMT

This is episode 6 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. In this episode, we spotlight Friends of Cats. I caught up with Charlie Loach, the President of the Board of Directors of Friends of Cats, Inc. In this interview, Charlie talks about the organization, and describes the volunteer opportunity for us. Charlie also serves as one of our Volunteer San Diego team leaders for the project.

For more information about this or any of our other projects, please give us a call at 858-636-4131, or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

VSD Podcast 005: Kid's Night Out at Casey's Place

Tue, 26 Sep 2006 08:26:00 GMT

This is episode 5 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. In this episode, we highlight a new volunteer project called Kid's Night Out at Casey's Place. Casey Kinslow, the founder of Casey's Place, introduces his organization. Mark, our Volunteer San Diego team leader, talks about some of the details of this exciting new volunteer opportunity.

For more information about this and other volunteer projects, please give us a call at 858-636-4131, or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

VSD Special Edition: Hands On San Diego Kickoff

Mon, 18 Sep 2006 06:45:00 GMT

This is a special edition of the Volunteer San Diego podcast from one of the Hands On San Diego Signature Projects -- Casey's Place in San Carlos. Katherine MacDougall and I give a status report on the project, and highlight some of the other Hands On San Diego Signature Projects that are in need of volunteers later this week.

For more information on how you can get involved, please give us a call at 858-636-4131, or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

VSD Podcast 004: Hands On San Diego Part 2

Wed, 13 Sep 2006 05:00:00 GMT

This is episode 4 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. This is the conclusion of part of a two-part episode highlighting the 16th annual Hands On San Diego event. Mariel Berry talks about the launch of a new project called Community Cinema, and I review some of the FLEX projects that are open to new volunteers during Hands On San Diego week.

For more information about Volunteer San Diego and its programs, call us at 858-636-4131, or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

VSD Podcast 003: Hands On San Diego Part 1

Tue, 12 Sep 2006 05:00:00 GMT

This is episode 3 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. This is the first part of a two-part episode highlighting the 16th annual Hands On San Diego event. Katherine MacDougall from Volunteer San Diego describes the event and some of the signature projects.

For more information about Volunteer San Diego and its programs, call us at 858-636-4131, or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

VSD Podcast 002: FLEX and Team Leaders

Sat, 26 Aug 2006 04:35:00 GMT

This is episode 2 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. In this episode, we describe the Flexible Volunteer Program in more depth. Katherine MacDougall from Volunteer San Diego talks about the role of the Team Leader for FLEX volunteer projects.

For more information about Volunteer San Diego and its programs, call us at 858-636-4131, or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

VSD Podcast 001: Mira Mesa Homework Helpers

Sun, 13 Aug 2006 16:30:00 GMT

This is episode 1 of the Volunteer San Diego Podcast. In this episode, we introduce Volunteer San Diego, the Flexible Volunteer Program, and spotlight one of our FLEX projects, Mira Mesa Homework Helpers. For more information about Volunteer San Diego and its programs, call us at 858-636-4131, or check out our website at www.volunteersandiego.org.

Mira Mesa Homework Helpers is one of the many projects on the FLEX calendar.