All Volunteer, All Heart from Binky Patrol
This show is about the ability to run a non-profit from the heart with a sense of humor and still be successful. We interview our volunteers, partners, and other non-profits to learn from each other, and support each other as we bring love and hope to our communities. Binky Patrol is a 100% volunteer grassroots 501c3 founded in 1996. Binky Patrol makes blankets and gives them away to children and teens in need of a reminder that they matter, are not invisible and that someone cares. We give to children who are ill, abused, or in trauma.
Episodes

Monday Apr 01, 2024
EP55: The Ripple Effect of a Book on Middle School Students
Monday Apr 01, 2024
Monday Apr 01, 2024
Jeanne Malgioglio tells us about her outstanding week at her school. Her students were studying the book, "I Will Always Write Back" by authors Caitlin Alfirenka and Martin Ganda, with Liz Welch. It's a story of friendship, being open to new ideas across the globe and choosing to make things better. Jeanne's students embodied this theme by making over 70 blankets inspired by the story. One of the authors, Caitlin even made an appearance. Susan brought in her own middle school story. Shout out to Walker Jr. High in La Palma. We hope you enjoy this short episode.
Links from this episode:
Jeanne's Binky Patrol chapter page
Walker Jr. High
The book, "I Will Always Write Back."

Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
EP54: Protecting Your Non-Profit from Image Copyright Scams
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their attempts to exploit individuals and organizations. As a nonprofit or small business, staying vigilant and protecting yourself from photo copyright infringement scams is crucial. In this informative PSA episode, Susan Finch from All-Volunteer, All Heart from Binky Patrol shares her recent experience with a suspicious email claiming image copyright violations. With the help of an IP attorney friend, Susan dissects the red flags in the email and provides valuable insights on handling such situations. She also offers practical advice on sourcing legitimate images for your website and the importance of having access to legal counsel for your organization. Join us as we explore these critical issues and learn how to safeguard your nonprofit or small business from falling victim to these deceptive schemes. Stay informed, stay protected, and stay focused on making a positive impact in your community.
Key Points:
Be cautious when using images on your website, and ensure you have the rights to use them.
Consider sourcing images from reputable stock photo websites, hiring a professional photographer, or finding a volunteer.
Be wary of suspicious emails claiming copyright infringement, especially those with unprofessional language or sketchy links.
Do not click on links in suspicious emails, as they may be attempts to extort money or gain access to sensitive information.
Consult with an IP attorney or legal professional if you receive a suspicious email or have concerns about copyright infringement.
Consider having a legal consultant on call to review any potential legal issues.
Get to know your volunteers and their professional backgrounds, as they may be able to offer valuable expertise to your organization.

Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
EP53: Invaluable and FREE Resources for 501C3 Organizations
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Are you running a small non-profit organization and looking for ways to save money and maximize your resources? In this quick podcast episode, Susan Finch, our founder, shares some valuable tips and resources that can help you streamline your operations and promote your cause more effectively. From free email services to volunteer recruitment platforms, Susan covers a range of tools that can benefit your organization without breaking the bank. Listen in to discover how to take your non-profit to the next level!
Key resources mentioned:
Google Workspace: Offers free, unlimited email accounts for non-profits with their domain (e.g., @binkypatrol.org).
TechSoup (techsoup.org): Provides discounts on software, equipment, training, and accounting services for 501(c)(3) organizations.
Nextdoor: A platform where you can register your non-profit, post events, and engage in conversations with the local community.
Local media outlets: Television stations, newspapers, and community broadcasting stations often have opportunities for non-profits to promote events, volunteer opportunities, or share success stories.
Local service organizations: Connect with groups like the Scouts, Lions, Elks, and Kiwanis, as they may have resource directories or volunteer opportunities.
City resources: Register your 501(c)(3) with your local city to be included in their community resources and post volunteer opportunities.
VolunteerMatch (volunteermatch.org): A platform to create and manage volunteer opportunities at a low cost with excellent support and resources for non-profits.
Here are some key questions listeners should discuss with their non-profit leadership to identify additional local partners and resources:
Have we reached out to local businesses to explore potential partnerships, sponsorships, or in-kind donations?
Are there any local community foundations or grant-making organizations that align with our mission and could provide funding opportunities?
Have we connected with local schools, universities, or educational institutions to discuss volunteer recruitment, internship programs, or collaborative projects?
Are there any local faith-based organizations or religious institutions that share our values and could become partners in our cause?
Have we investigated potential partnerships with other local non-profits that have complementary missions or serve similar populations?
Are there any local professional associations, trade groups, or industry-specific organizations that could provide resources, expertise, or networking opportunities?
Have we explored partnerships with local government agencies, such as social services departments, to identify areas of collaboration or support?
Are there any local service clubs, like Rotary or Kiwanis, that we could engage with for volunteer recruitment or community outreach?
Have we contacted local media outlets to discuss potential partnerships, such as public service announcements or featured stories?
Are there any upcoming local events, festivals, or conferences that we could participate in to raise awareness about our organization and build community connections?
By exploring these questions and proactively seeking out local partnerships, non-profit leaders can tap into a wealth of resources and expand their organization's impact within the community.

Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
EP52: Boosting Volunteer Morale: Tips for Thanking and Engaging Your Team
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Today, we're diving into a topic that's close to our hearts: recognizing and appreciating the incredible volunteers who make our mission possible.
Our volunteers are the lifeblood of our organizations, tirelessly giving their time, energy, and skills to make a difference in the lives of others. They are the unsung heroes who work behind the scenes, often without expecting anything in return. But as nonprofit leaders, it's our job to make sure they feel valued, appreciated, and supported every step of the way.
In this episode, we'll be sharing some creative and affordable ways to show your volunteers just how much they mean to you and your cause. From small tokens of appreciation like pins and stickers to heartfelt gestures like personalized thank-you notes and special events, we'll explore a variety of ideas to help you celebrate your volunteers and keep them motivated and engaged.
So grab a cozy blanket, settle in, and get ready to be inspired by the power of volunteer recognition. Together, we can create a culture of gratitude and support that will help our nonprofits thrive and make an even greater impact in the world.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. We are all in this together, working towards a common goal of making a difference in our communities. So, let's lift each other up, celebrate our successes, and show our volunteers just how much they are appreciated.
Here are some key suggestions for non-profits mentioned in the episode:
Recognize and thank volunteers through small gifts like pins, stickers, or patches. These can be ordered in bulk to last for years and distributed to volunteers at events or through chapters.
Apply for grants specifically aimed at volunteer recognition and support to cover the costs of items like pins, stickers, and T-shirts.
Partner with organizations like the Girl Scouts or Boy Scouts, who appreciate patches and can help spread awareness about your non-profit.
Use services like Vistaprint or lynmar.com to order promotional materials such as brochures, banners, and postcards. Take advantage of coupons and sales to save on costs.
Create a store or online platform where chapters can easily order branded items for their volunteers.
Organize contests and challenges for chapter leaders and volunteers to engage them and reward participation with small prizes like fabric kits or branded items.
Encourage volunteers to wear and use branded items to promote your organization and make it easier for people to learn about your mission and how to get involved.
Plan and budget for volunteer recognition initiatives, as they are important for keeping volunteers motivated and committed to your cause long-term.
CopyRetry

Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
EP51: Nonprofits Amplify Your Voice Through Toastmasters
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
Susan Finch is joined by Coleen Gose, a professional speaker and domestic violence survivor, to explore the power of storytelling for nonprofit leaders. Gose's journey from finding her voice to becoming a professional speaker is inspiring and insightful. The episode delves into the importance of nonprofit leaders honing their speaking skills, the value of joining organizations like Toastmasters, and the impact of feedback in improving speaking abilities. Coleen and Susan also discuss the versatility of storytelling across various platforms, such as public speaking, remote presentations, and fundraising.
This episode is packed with valuable advice and encouragement for nonprofit leaders looking to enhance their speaking skills and effectively share their organization's mission and impact. Get ready to be inspired and equipped with practical tips to take the stage with confidence and drive action.
Links from this episode:
Coleen Gose on LinkedIn
Coleen's website
Coleen's book, "A Woman's Journey of a Lifetime: Thriving Through the Transitions of Life."
Find your local Toastmasters Chapter here.
About Coleen Gose:
As a Professional Speaker and Healthy Relationship Coach, Coleen has made it her mission to help corporate professionals build healthy relationships by teaching them transformational skills to build lasting and enriching connections. Coleen believes that we all deserve the room to grow unjudged, take risks, find the best version of ourselves, and still be loved
Coleen earned her BA in Law and Justice from Central Washington University and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. She is a Certified Professional Coach, Certified Trauma Informed Coach and Published Author. She is the founder of Life 2.0 Coaching with Coleen.

Monday Jan 22, 2024
EP50: Volunteering Is As Easy As Writing a Thank You Note
Monday Jan 22, 2024
Monday Jan 22, 2024
Binky Patrol Director, Terrie Madruga joined Susan to talk about how easy it is to volunteer for Binky Patrol. From sewing on labels to taking phone calls to writing thank you notes. If you want to give us a bit of time, we have ideas to make it easy and fun! Join us for this short episode to support our chapter leaders and spark ideas in your heart.
Learn more ways to help at https://binkypatrol.org/ways-to-help/ . We hope to hear from you soon!

Wednesday Jan 17, 2024
EP49: Building Community Stitch by Loving Stitch
Wednesday Jan 17, 2024
Wednesday Jan 17, 2024
Looking for ways to build community in your workplace or neighborhood? In this week's fun and uplifting episode, we talk to Rebecca Heinen who used her passion for crocheting to connect with others across 36 states and counting. Rebecca shares how she started "A Stitch in Every State" to donate handmade crochet items to organizations in need and how it accidentally helped her form bonds at her new job. Tune in to hear Rebecca's creative ideas for starting conversations, from math puzzles to crocheted cat toys, as well as where she finds resources to fund her craft. Her story shows that a hobby like crocheting can make a big difference, stitch by stitch. So grab your yarn and join us for an inspiring chat about building community through crafting.
Links from this episode:
OwlBHooked Etsy
“Call the Midwife” Pattern (apparently, she wrote the pattern from the show!)
Chill Pill Pattern (one of Rebecca's go to for gifts/prizes at work)
Rebecca Heinen on LinkedIn
Ear Savers

Wednesday Jan 03, 2024
EP48: Upgrading Your Nonprofit Website: An Initial Guide
Wednesday Jan 03, 2024
Wednesday Jan 03, 2024
Upgrading your nonprofit's online presence can be daunting, especially with limited resources. In this insightful episode, we walk through the initial steps small nonprofits should take when considering revamping their website. Susan shares practical tips on evaluating your current site, defining goals for an upgraded one, estimating costs, and more. Even if a full site overhaul isn't feasible now, Susan offers simple ways to make improvements, like updating content and switching to a more sustainable web host. Tune in to get an introductory game plan for sprucing up your nonprofit's digital face to better serve your community. With Susan's guidance, you'll be well on your way to an achievable website upgrade.
See the new Binky Patrol website here.
Tools mentioned in this episode:
TechSoup
ThemeForest.net
Avada
Rocket.net
Google Analytics

Wednesday Nov 29, 2023
EP47: Sparking Peace By Reimagining Communication in Education
Wednesday Nov 29, 2023
Wednesday Nov 29, 2023
Susan invited Lori on to the show after the recent Bink-A-Thon in Thousand Oaks. Binky Patrol Director, Carolyn Berndt hosted her event at One Spark Academy and knew Lori has the same heart as Binky Patrol. This inspiring conversation delves into making positive change through education and understanding. Host Susan Finch speaks with Lori Peters, executive director of One Spark Academy, about supporting students through a difficult time and empowering them to create meaningful connections. Lori explains how her alternative learning program focuses on "finding that one spark" in each child and nurturing it through small class sizes, engaging electives like gardening and cooking, and daily "circle time" to practice communication skills. She shares the powerful story of two boys resolving a conflict after weeks of learning these techniques. Their journey illustrates how patience, empathy, and an openness to listen can work wonders. As Lori says, "By creating supportive spaces for young people to develop self-awareness and compassion, we plant the seeds for a more peaceful world."
About our guest:
Lori Peters is the founder of One Spark Academy. She wholeheartedly believes in the principles of teaching the whole child– meeting students’ academic, social, and emotional needs– and inspiring students to be healthy, balanced, and globally aware. In July 2011, after 16 years in public alternative education, Lori put her energy into helping students find their spark and enjoy learning with like-minded peers in a truly unique learning environment.
Links from this episode:
Binky Patrol
One Spark Academy

Wednesday Nov 15, 2023
EP46: Aaron’s Presents Where Kids Are Changing the World
Wednesday Nov 15, 2023
Wednesday Nov 15, 2023
Today I had the pleasure of speaking with Leah Okimoto, Executive Director of the incredible organization Aaron's Presents. Through Aaron's Presents, kids are empowered to make a positive difference in their communities by pursuing service projects of their own design. From providing reflective vests to peers walking home in the dark, to leading cheerleading classes for younger kids, participants experience the joy and fulfillment of helping others. As we'll hear from Leah, these projects not only spread good in the world, but build confidence, purpose, and compassion within the young people carrying them out. Aaron's Presents demonstrates the boundless potential within all children to be a force for good when given the opportunity. I was so moved learning about the transformative impact of this organization. We hope you are inspired by listening to Leah Okimoto share the heartwarming mission and powerful stories of Aaron's Presents.

We make blankets and give them away.
We are an all-volunteer organization that makes blankets and gives them away to children and teens in need of comfort.
We started this podcast to help smaller non-profits get started with ideas and tips we've learned from doing this since 1996. It is possible to have a successful non-profit without paying people large salaries. You just have to think with your heart, and think smart.
Susan Finch started Binky Patrol in 1996 when her mom asked her if she'd help her make blankets for unwed mothers. Susan realized there were more people like her with limited time to volunteer, but a desire to help. All ages and skill levels are welcome! Blankets must be homemade, from the heart, and washable. That's it.
Tune into this podcast to hear stories from early volunteers, recipients, partner organizations and sponsors who believe in the mission of giving kids a reminder that they matter, they are not invisible, and someone cares.
This podcast is sponsored by Funnel Media Group. A boutique podcast production and promotion station.
If you would like to be a guest on our show, book the time here and we follow up with you.