In this insightful episode of the Good For Others podcast, host John Valencia is joined by Parina Parikh, Associate Vice President at Jobs for the Future (JFF), to explore the rapidly evolving world of work. Together, they examine the challenges and opportunities emerging in today’s employment landscape, particularly in light of technological change, automation, and shifting workforce demands.

Parikh shares her expertise on how JFF is actively working to build equitable pathways to economic advancement. She highlights the importance of skills-based hiring, the transformation of education systems, and the role employers and community organizations must play in fostering inclusive economic mobility.

Throughout the episode, John and Parina emphasize:

• The need for adaptability and lifelong learning in modern careers
• Strategies to bridge the skills gap and prepare workers for in-demand roles
• How cross-sector collaboration can support underserved communities
• Why equity and access must remain central in workforce development initiatives

Whether you’re an employer, educator, policy advocate, or job seeker, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives on how to shape a more just and prepared workforce for the future.

In this episode, host John Valencia sits down with Tonya Torosian, Chief Executive Officer at Promises2Kids, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting foster youth in San Diego County. Promises2Kids provides critical services like emergency shelter, college scholarships, and mentorship programs to help children heal from trauma and build a brighter future.

John discusses the organization's flagship initiatives:

• The Polinsky Children's Center, offering emergency shelter and protection.
• Guardian Scholars, providing scholarships and mentoring for foster youth pursuing higher education.
• Camp Connect, reuniting brothers and sisters separated in foster care through special events and overnight camping trips.
• Foster Funds, supplying basic needs and enrichment opportunities for foster youth.

The conversation explores the deep emotional needs of foster children, the importance of community support, and how Promises2Kids empowers youth to break the cycle of abuse and neglect. John also shares how listeners can get involved through volunteering, donations, and spreading awareness.

In this episode, John Valencia sits down with Gina Lee, Director of Staffing and Programs with Partnership for a Better San Diego—a trailblazing initiative connecting nonprofits, employers, and workers to build a more inclusive, equitable local economy.

💡 Hear how this powerful coalition is:

Tackling workforce barriers in underserved communities

Leveraging cross-sector collaboration for systems change

Creating accessible career pathways in healthcare and beyond

📢 If you're passionate about equity, workforce development, or community-driven change, this conversation is a must-listen!

On this week’s Good For Others Show, host John Valencia sits down with Kellye Buchanan, Director of Philanthropy at Walden Family Services and a powerhouse in nonprofit fundraising. With over $25 million raised for causes in San Diego, Kellye shares the secrets behind building meaningful donor relationships and driving mission-focused impact. 💡

If you work in the nonprofit world—or just care about making a difference—this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. 💙

On this episode of The Good For Others Show, host John Valencia sits down with Darlene Cossio, Director of Marketing Communications at Goodwill Industries of San Diego, to uncover the incredible impact Goodwill has beyond just donation centers and thrift stores!

Tune in to hear how Goodwill is:

🔹 Empowering Careers by provides job training and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and other barriers to work

🔹 Offering hands-on experience in retail, e-commerce, transportation, and more through their paid training programs

🔹 Focused on sustainability & recycling by keeping usable goods out of landfills while funding job programs

🔹 Creating real change through their community impact with 1,200+ employees (58% with disabilities or barriers to work)

If you're looking for a meaningful career, workforce training, or a way to support your community, this episode is a must-listen!

🌎 Learn more: sdgoodwill.org

On this episode of The Good for Others Show, we’re thrilled to welcome the one and only Eva Matthews, CEO of Mama’s Kitchen, to the podcast! Tune in as she shares her vision for sustainable growth at Mama’s Kitchen, the power of collaboration in the nonprofit sector, earning national and California Food is Medicine accreditation, and how Mama’s Kitchen is truly woven into the fabric of our community.

On this episode of the Good For Others Show, we sit down with Chelsy Clark, Regional Corporate Relations Director at the American Cancer Society, to explore the power of partnerships in the nonprofit world.

Tune in to hear her candidly discuss her mother's inspiring triumph over breast cancer and how it fueled her dedication to meaningful causes like the American Cancer Society. Through a lighthearted conversation filled with humor—like her fun preferences for tacos over pizza—Chelsy reveals the personal motivations that drive her work and her commitment to making a difference.

Networking and mentorship are cornerstones of Chelsy's success, and she shares how bringing one's authentic self to the table can lead to life-changing opportunities. From a creative partnership resulting in life-saving outcomes to the significance of mentorship, Chelsy talks about the power of networking in the nonprofit sector. We also explore the strategic initiatives of the American Cancer Society in Southern California, where patience and long-term planning are key to fostering successful community relationships. Join us for an enriching conversation that highlights the potential for impactful results in the world of nonprofits.

In this inspiring episode, Good For Others welcomes Lucy Eagleson, the Executive Director of A Reason to Survive (ARTS), to discuss how art and creativity can transform communities and empower individuals. With over 15 years of experience in impact-driven spaces, Lucy shares her journey from filmmaker to nonprofit leader, the values that guide her work, and the innovative programs at ARTS that are giving young people a platform to explore, create, and grow.

From lightning-round fun to deep dives into mentorship, equity, and creativity’s role in community development, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and heartwarming stories. Plus, Lucy shares her "Three Wishes" for the future of nonprofits and young creatives.

Tune in to discover how small acts of creativity can drive big change and why the best way to lead is by staying curious and authentic.

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