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Daphne Uter, Founder and CEO of the One Life to Live Foundation, joins us to share her inspiring journey and the heartfelt mission of her nonprofit organization, rooted in a powerful family legacy. Journeying from Haiti to the United States, her life has been a tapestry of service, from her days in the United States Navy to her impactful work with the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center. Discover how her foundation, named in honor of her late aunt's wisdom, "you only have one life to live," champions the holistic wellness of women, veterans, and caregivers of wounded veterans.

We navigate the often turbulent waters nonprofits face when it comes to funding, particularly those supporting caregivers. Daphne offers insight into how her organization overcomes these challenges through creative fundraising approaches like crowdfunding and strategic partnerships. The story of a caregiver for an army veteran with dementia poignantly illustrates the profound impact and necessity of the foundation’s work. We also explore the concept of "friendraisers" versus traditional fundraising, emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration, especially during their main annual fundraiser in October, aligning with National Caregivers Month.

The conversation broadens to highlight the critical need for self-care among women veterans and caregivers, who often juggle numerous responsibilities. Daphne discusses how the foundation fosters a sense of belonging and community, underscoring the importance of self-care activities for all caregivers. The episode wraps up with an invitation to connect and collaborate on future initiatives, highlighting the transformative power of sharing stories within the veteran community. Don't miss the chance to learn from Daphne's unwavering dedication and the invaluable lessons her foundation offers to support those who serve and care for others.

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James Jackson, president of the Call on Me Foundation, shares an incredible story of transformation from his time in the Marine Corps to starting a powerful nonprofit. With heartfelt sincerity, he reveals the personal experiences and passions that led him to provide crucial support for families of veterans who have passed away unexpectedly. These families often face challenges in silence, and James, alongside ambassadors like Leslie, is creating a community through shared experiences and support. Our conversation explores his transition into the construction industry and the founding of the foundation in February 2023, driven by a mission to aid families affected by military suicides, including poignant stories like that of Greg Gillum's family.

Guiding us through the meticulous process of determining which families receive aid, James highlights the importance of assessing genuine need. The foundation's collaborations with other nonprofits, such as Tunnels to Towers, showcase the power of partnerships in enhancing support for veterans. Fundraising is a cornerstone of the foundation's efforts, with events like the September gathering at Cisco Brewery, an annual reunion, and the Memorial Day MURPH fitness challenge. These gatherings not only raise essential funds but also foster a sense of community and solidarity among veterans and their families.

As the conversation unfolds, James addresses the broader challenges facing nonprofits, such as securing donations and increasing awareness. By collaborating with organizations like One Man, One Mic Foundation and the Warrior Golf Academy, the foundation amplifies its impact, offering diverse resources like equine therapy and focusing on Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) treatments. The episode wraps up with a powerful message on building bridges between foundations, emphasizing community connections, and includes a public service announcement with vital resources like 988 and 211 for veterans and their families.

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Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Mitch Maki, President of the Go For Broke National Education Center, as we uncover the enduring legacy of Japanese American veterans from World War II. Discover the powerful story behind the phrase "Go For Broke" and how it became the rallying cry for the brave 100th/442nd Regimental Combat Team. These soldiers, who faced fierce battles abroad and prejudice at home, became the most decorated unit of their size in U.S. military history. Dr. Maki shares his lifelong passion for preserving their stories, driven by his own childhood experiences in Los Angeles.

We journey through America's past mistakes, examining the internment of Japanese Americans and its painful legacy. Reflecting on the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, we discuss how acknowledging these injustices can inform our approach to contemporary issues of race and political leadership. There's a yearning for the bipartisan cooperation once exemplified by leaders like Tip O'Neill and Ronald Reagan, and we explore how their spirit of unity can guide us in today's polarized world. By learning from history, we aim to foster a more cohesive society.

This episode also highlights the innovative ways the Go For Broke organization inspires civic engagement among young Americans. Through storytelling initiatives like the Torchbearers program and the Go For Broke Journalism Institute, students connect historical events with modern-day issues, cultivating pride and a commitment to positive change. From fashion collaborations to journalism projects, we showcase the transformative power of these narratives in nurturing a deeper understanding of loyalty, sacrifice, and civic duty across generations.