In The Loop Podcast

Eric talked about the need for the San Antonio Food Bank and the many programs that it has to serve so many of South Texas's Hungry.  We talked about opportunities for you to get help and to give help to the San Antonio Food Bank. Website: https://safoodbank.org Phone for Help: 210.431.8326

People think about giving their families the gift of a pet during the holidays.  Lisa encouraged people to think about adoption first.  We talked about the benefits of adoption, and all the services ACS and other shelters offer to adopters.  We also talked about the shelter's upcoming Home For the Holidays event on 12/20 and 12/21 with lots of Christmas activities for the family.   Website:  www.saacs.net 

The Red Kettle Campaign and Angel Tree has started.  We talked about the important mission of the Salvation Army and the programs right here in San Antonio.  We talked about the need for Volunteers for the Red Kettle Campaign.  We also talked about how our listeners can get involved and help with the Salvation Army. Website:  www.salvationarmysatx.org    Register To Volunteer: www.registertoring.com    

We discussed the mission and history of Guide Dogs of Texas, Katelyn talked about the positive live changing difference a Guide Dog can make to someone that's visually impaired.  She talked about how the Guide Dogs are trained and what they go through. We also talked about how listeners can help they achieve their mission.  

This is the 29th year the Gotcha Covered Collection Drive will helping San Antonians in need.  The collection drive takes place December 7th at the Park North Shopping Center form 9a - 3p.  The collected goods help Haven For Hope, The San Antonio Food Bank, and Battered Women and Children's Shelter.  Howie talks about the importance of the drive, how you can help, how you can volunteer, and more. Website: www.gotchacovered.org 

Mike talked about the unique role the Tobin Center plays in San Antonio including: the economic impact, the educational impact, and the entertainment impact.  He talked about the Resident companies that partner with the Tobin.  He talked about free community events and the upcoming fundraiser on November 1st.   Website: https://www.tobincenter.org 

We discussed two topics.  Suicide Prevention Month and Substance Abuse Awareness Month.  We discussed how common both are and how to get help.  We discussed how Laurel Ridge Treatment Center has a 40 year history of helping people with both of these issues.  We talked about the signs that a loved one may be experiencing suicidal thoughts or having substance abuse issues.  We also talked about how to get help.  The key takeaway is there help and hope.  If you have concerns for yourself or a loved one you can call 988 or Laurel Ridge Treatment Center at 210-491-3591. Suicide and Crisis Lifeline - 988 Laurel Ridge Treatment Center Hotline - 210-491-3591 Website:  https://laurelridgetc.com

Mary talked about the long history of Family Service and how today it offers services to every aspect of the family including preborn to seniors.  The programs and numerous and Mary explained how they are designed to help with a wide range of family challenges.  We also talked about the upcoming 2nd Annual Take Walk on the Westside. Website: www.family-service.org    

The mission of Guardian Community is to help veterans, first responders, and their families with PTSD.  The program is unique and very successful.  Shanon shares her story and the story of other with PTSD. Website:https://guardiancommunity.org

We introduced Major Romack to our San Antonio audience.  We talked about what was happening in Kerrville and how the San Antonio Salvation Army was helping.  We talked about the role of the Salvation Army as a church.  We talked about the many way and people that the Salvation Army helps by giving a hand up rather than a hand out.  Also talked about upcoming events and how you could get involved. Website:  San Antonio Area Command

Desiree Holmes talked about the 43 year history of Any Baby Can was well as the current programs to help parents that have lost a child from 0 - 17, or have a child with Autism.  We also discussed upcoming projects that people could help with. Website: www.abcofswtx.org

For more than 70 years the San Antonio Humane Society has been working to meet it's mission to protect and improve the lives of dogs and cats by providing shelter, care, adoption, rescue, spay/neuter programs, and community education.  Kim talked about the many programs they have to achieve that mission and how individuals and groups can help them achieve that mission through volunteering, fostering, donating, and more.  We also talked about some of the great pets that have been there for over 150 days and would make great pets like  Atlas,  Sandford, and  Elsie, Website:  https://sahumane.org/

We discussed everything About the library in San Antonio. Like the 95th anniversary of the Carver branch And the celebration this August 2 We also discussed All the wonderful features of the San Antonio public library, including digital And audiobooks, Tutoring services, Test prep services, Kanopy Streaming And much much more. Website:  www.mysapl.org

Ginny talked about the Alzheimer's Association mission of helping caregivers and individuals with Alzheimer's and other Dementia.  Have you ever wondered what the signs of Alzheimer's are.  Ginny goes into all of them and what to do if you think you or your loved one had Dementia and/or Alzheimer's.  The first thing is to call the Support life from Alzheimer's Association at 800.272.3900.  They will help you create a plan to help you as you go forward.  Ginny talked about the need for volunteers to help with a number of different missions.  She talked about the early onset Dementia and the importance of getting help as soon as possible.  She also talked about the free Caregiver Conference that's coming up on August 23.  You can find out more about that at https://www.alz.org/sanantonio/education-programs/conferences-and-events  .  Website: www.alz.org/sanantonio

At 5am on the Day of the Kerrville Floods, the Salvation Army was already at a local Walmart helping with food, supplies, and comfort.  Since then, with the help of other Salvation Army chapters from around the country, they have been working to help families and first responders with food, supplies, and emotional comfort.  The need is great and Major Phil talks about the devastation they've seen, the impact on the community, and how inspiring it's been to see the outpouring of donations and volunteer service.  He talks about what he's personally seen and what the Salvation Army will do in the present and the future.   Website: Donations - www.helpsalvationarmy.org Phone number: 800-SAL-ARMY 

Guests: Liz Presley: President of Friends of San Antonio Public Library Ben Durocher: Manager Talked about the 60 year history of the Friends of San Antonio Public Library and it's mission.  Talked about the three branches that need Friends groups and how you can become a member of FOSPL.  Talked about the Book Cellar and all the unique things they sell.  Talked about upcoming events like the "Back To School" book sale on JUly 28th. Website: friendsofsapl.org

We talked about the vision of this great project and how it will help San Antonio.  We talked about how it’s mission to create a place in San Antonio that helps with wellness, beauty,  history, art, equity, research, and education.    The Arboretum San Antonio is in the beginning stages and we discussed current opportunities to get involved and be part of the building of this project Website: https://www.arboretumsa.org

We discussed the mission of The Nature Conservancy and how, with the help of partners, is helping to preserve lands in Texas.  These lands help make Texas a better place to live and include the benefit of helping with Aquifer recharge, wildlife protection, and more. Website: www.nature.org/texas

We talked about the many ways that Warrior's Heart helps Active Duty, First Responders, Veterans, Law Enforcement, EMS, Paramedics, and others overcome the challenges of Alcohol Abuse, Prescription Drug Abuse, PTSD, Trauma, Military Sexual Trauma, Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Cocaine Abuse, Meth Abuse, Heroin  Addiction, Substance Abuse and Chemical Dependency.  There are many programs but we focused on the powerful Art Therapy.  We also talked about the Warrior's HeArt exhibit at Grunt Style now through Veteran's Day showing this powerful art.    Dan shared an incredible success story with us, too. Website: www.warriorsheart.com  Phone 24/7 Warriors Heart Hotline - 866-955-4035. Website for "Service Is A Lifestyle" www.gruntstyle.com

Jonathan talked about the vision he had for Unite SA since high school but how it call came together during covid. He talked about their mission to create a local Christian network of businesses and Nonprofits with the goal of mobilizing the Body of Christ in San Antonio through community. He talked about Let Us Unite which is a gathering this Memorial Day Weekend at San Pedro Springs Park, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. The schedule and other information on Unite SA and Let Us Unite can be found at: www.unitesatx.com    

We talked about the mission of Girls on The Run, the unique challenges facing girls in San Antonio and how the Girls On The Run  programs help girls throughout Bexar County and the adjacent counties to overcome those challenges and reach greater confidence.  Website:  https://www.gotrsanantonio.org

Hope and I discussed the mission of the zoo, it's long history, upcoming events,and how our listeners could help the Zoo achieve their mission.

We talked about the history and the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Texas. We talked about the important impact having a "Big" could have on a child.  Also, talked about the impact being a "Big" can have on the volunteer.  Hugh tells his personal story of having a little Brother.  Big Brothers Big Sisters is need of men to be Big Brothers.  Hugh explains why and he explains how they particularly need men of color.   For More information: www.bigmentor.org

Jennifer talks about the Alliance's Mission to serve and equip the Church, Individuals, families,and businesses in fulfilling the biblical call to care for children and families impacted by the foster care system.  She share's her inspiration story of how she created the organization and the story of how Alliance is helping children and families. Website: https://alliance4orphans.org

Federica Soriano talked about the unique role that Children's Rehabilitation Institute / TeletonUSA plays not only in San Antonio but in the United States.  CRIT provides therapy for children 0 - 18 years with neurological, muscular, and skeletal disabilities through a comprehensive, compassionate, state-of-the-art rehabilitation program focused on family healing and inclusion.  SHe talked about the unique program that has families coming from all over the US to San Antonio for Treatment.  She talked about help heal patients and families.  Here are the two videos of success stories that she talked about:  Holly & Hanna https://youtu.be/tcJQ1ycu3Es?si=DQOif3JEXocmPtv2 Travis https://youtu.be/qPxFv3pGNxU?si=1l611G0u7x9YlqvU Website / Video: www.critusa.org 

Clarity Child Guidance Center Talked about the new MST program that Clarity will be launching.  MST stands for Multisystemic Therapy and the program is for At-Risk Youth with intensive needs.  She talks about the program, who it'll help, its unique treatment, and its incredible success. Website: https://www.claritycgc.org Phone: 210-616-0300 

The Air Force Wounded Warrior Program is a Congressionally mandated program dedicated to providing comprehensive non-medical support for seriously wounded, ill and injured Total Force Service Members.   We talked about the power of their programs, the upcoming 2025 Air Force and Marine Corps Trials.  The Trials are being held March 14 – 20 and are an paralympic-style competitive event featuring 11 sports adapted to the individual capabilities of the wounded warrior athletes. Winners will compete in the 2025 Department of Defence Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, CO.   We also talked about many of the other life changing programs. Website: https://www.woundedwarrior.af.mil/

Cash and Host, Milton Glueck  talked about the important work Warriors Heart was doing to help Veterans and 1st Responders with addiction and PTSD.  One of their programs is the K9 Therapy program in which shelter dogs trained by Cash and other Warriors in the program provide support to the Warriors.  Dogs can help with PTSD attacks, nightmares, and other issues.  Cash shared her own personal story about how her Service Dog Ottis, helps her.  This month is National  Dog Training Education Month. If you or a loved one is a warrior who is struggling with addiction, PTSD and/or co-occurring issues, you can call Warriors Heart's 24-hour Warriors Heart hotline (866-955-4035) that answered by warriors or visit https://warriorsheart.com/connect 

February is Heart Month and we talked about the many many programs that the American Heart Association has to help people.  Heart disease and Stroke are the number 1 and number 5 leading killers in the US.  Gyna, talked about the importance of learning CPR and how the AHA can help with classes, she talked about the other programs on prevention of High Blood Pressure including movement and better nutrition.  She talked about clinics they work with to provide blood pressure monitoring assistance and more.  Website: www.heart.org Phone: 210-810-3090 Interested in having a talk on CPR and Heart Health to your group: gyna.juarez@heart.org  

The San Antonio Ready To Work program is a unique program that helps people in San Antonio find better jobs through training, education, and employment program.  The program helps eliminate obstacles to employment or better employment with a variety of different programs.   We discuss the program, success stories, and how you can get involved as a participant or an employer. Website: https://readytoworksa.com

We talked to Krista McAnally, Director Daisy Cares and  Lea LaPort, Founder No Kill San Antonio about the homeless pet population in San Antonio and the number of animals euthanized each year.  We talked about the many services offered by Daisy Cares including food distribution, some vet care grants, and training.  We also talked about the upcoming Claws and Paws Construction project coming up.  We talked about how No Kill San Antonio promotes The No Kill Equation in San Antonio and we talked about how fostering could help reduce the number of euthanized pets. Daisy Cares - www.daisycares.org No Kill San Antonio - https://www.facebook.com/NoKillSanAntonio

Talked about the Bear Den Sanctuary and how it’s helping feral cats stay healthy and happy.  Also talked about the problem with feral cats in San Antonio and what individuals can do to help through TNR (Trap Neuter, Release).  Finally, we talked about her future plans for the Bear Den Sanctuary and how our listeners can be a part of the mission through donations and fostering.

Over the holiday, people may have seen cognitive changes in their loved ones that lead them to wonder if they have dementia.  Ginny talked about the steps you want to talk, the support you can get right now, and the importance of detecting and treating dementia early.  She explained that not every cognitive change was dementia and it was important to get with a Neurologist or Gerontologist as soon as you can to determine what’s going on.  She also talked about the incredible support you can get from the Alzheimer’s Association hotline and the website. Resources:  24/7 Hotline #: 800-272-3900 Website: www.alz.org San Antonio and South Texas Chapter Page: https://www.alz.org/sanantonio

Mike Fresher has been a part of the Tobin Center since it began 10 years ago.  We talked about the challenges in the beginning, the philosophy and the mission of the Tobin Center, The innovative program, the community involvement programs that help everyone enjoy the arts, and the incredible economic impact of the Tobin Center on San Antonio. 

We discussed all the great things that happened at the San Antonio Zoo in 2024 and the terrific things coming to the Zoo in 2025.  We talked about how they compliment the mission on the Zoo including the efforts toward conservation including a new baby capybara, named Tupi,.  We talked about Zoo Lights through the end of the year, how you can spend the night at the Zoo, volunteer opportunities, and more.  Website: https://sazoo.org

December is a big time for the Salvation Army here in San Antonio.  We talked about the mission of the Salvation Army and how they help those in need in San Antonio from childhood to seniors.   Discussed the two important programs in December, Angel Tree and The Red Kettle Campaign and how our listeners can help and make a huge difference.

We spoke with Shannon Miller, Director of the Office of Historic Preservation City Of San Antonio and Trish DeBerry, President and CEO Centro San Antonio. Downtown San Antonio comes alive during the holidays.  And there are several new events and attractions that successfully create great time for listeners and locals and economic boom for downtown San Antonio.  We talk about Holidays On Houston Community Dinner ,  The Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park, The New San Antonio Coffee Festival,  The Holidays on Houston Street Market, the Christmas movies at Legacy Park, the Drone Light shows, and much more. 

This is the 28th annual Gotchacovered event in San Antonio.  Howie and I talk about mission of the event to have a one spot donation drive on December 1st from 9a – 3p at Park North.  You can be a part by donating on that day: new or gently used clothing, Non-perishable food items, canned our boxed foods, and new toiletries.  100% of the donations stay in San Antonio and are used to help Haven For Hope, San Antonio Food Bank, and Battered and Women’s Shelter.  For a list of items needed or how to volunteer go to www.gotchacovered.org

We discussed the important mission of Respite Care of San Antonio and how it’s helping to support families caring for children with developmental disabilities and complex medical needs.  Their  programs, including a childcare center, camps, and community respite programs, have been proven to reduce caregiver stress, strengthen families and help prevent child abuse and neglect.  We talked about a new and exciting program that has developed that’s going to double the amount of people they can help.  We talked about all their programs and Rebecca shared a great story about the impact their services have had on clients (bring a handkerchief). Website: www.respitecaresa.org

Talked about the mission of CAM and how they act as an “Emergency Room” for San Antonio’s homeless population.  We talked about the how CAM Christian Assistance Ministry (CAM) is once again on a mission to make sure that the families it serves experience the joy of Christmas. CAM is collecting new, unwrapped toys and gifts to stock its Emergency Christmas Store. Their goal is to collect enough items so that 1,700 children ages 0 to 18 can receive two gifts each.   The CAM Emergency Christmas Store provides a free shopping experience for CAM clients who don’t have the ability to provide gifts for their children this Christmas. Parents can select gifts, books, stuffed animals, socks, gloves and other goodies for their children at no cost.  Gifts must be received on or before Dec. 10. Links to online gift registries are available on the CAM website, christianassistanceministry.org.  Also talked about how CAM was recognized by the Texas Homeless Network as the 2024 Outstanding Community Organization of the Year. Website: christianassistanceministry.org

The Tobin is celebrating it’s 10th anniversary.  We talked about it’s mission to provide a world-class venue that promotes a diverse range of cultural, educational, and artistic experiences that improve the quality of life in San Antonio. About Tobin Center. An Incredibly Powerful Vision.  And how they achieve that mission in the past ten years and what it looks like in the future.  We talked about the many ways, through collaboration, the Tobin helps other arts organization achieve their goals.  We talked about some of the shows coming to the Tobin and the new programs designed to make the Arts more accessible to everyone.  We also talked about membership, volunteer opportunities, and more. Website: www.thetobincenter.org

1 in 3 people of all ages suffer from Domestic Violence.  The mission of We talked about the programs and services offered by Family Violence Prevention Services, including the Youth Advisory Council that is taking this issue to students.  We talked about why victims hesitate to get help and we talked about how you can get help if you are a victim or you know a victim.  We also discussed the many resources available to the victims and families of domestic violence. Website:  www.fvps.org 24 hour Crisis Hotline: 210-733-8810

The mission of Mission Road Ministries is to provide residential and non-residential services to children and adults with intellectual and other developmental disabilities; helping them maintain their independence and dignity.  Lynette talked about some of the programs including the group homes, their benefits, how to learn more about them, and tips on navigating the system to get a loved one in the program.  If You Need More Information Website: www.missionroadministries.org Email: info@@mrmsat.org

In 1988 the Foundation jumped in to save the Majestic and Empire Theatres and restore them.  Jaselyn, talked about the mission of the Majestic Empire Foundation, the Joci Awards, the Scholarships provided by the Foundation (over $1,606,000 in scholarships), the history of the two buildings, tours, how you can get involved and much more about this successful foundation on San  Antonio Youth and the community. Website: www.themajesticempirefdn.org Phone:  210-223-4343

September is Suicide Awareness Month.  We talked about the startling statistics about suicides.  We also talked about resources like Laurel Ridge Treatment Centers that are available for people that have concerns about suicide; whether it’s for themselves, loved ones, or friends.  Mental Health effects 8 out of 10 people and we talked about Mental Health as a whole and how Laurel Ridge is helping people.    Also talked about the upcoming “Hope Rises” event September 27 from 2 – 4p at Laurel Ridge. Website: https://laurelridgetc.com Phone:  210-491-9400 Number for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (24/7) 988

We talked about the unique and successful approach that Robyn’s NEST has taken to help children (and sometimes their families)learn.  Eight years ago Robyn decided to take the learning to the families and it’s been a big success.  We talked about how listeners could get involved and upcoming fundraisers. Website: https://www.robynsnestsa.org

Discussed recent Caregiver Summit and the ideas that came out of the Summit. Talked about how the upcoming Walk To End Alzheimer’s serves not only as a the largest fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association but it is also a way for people interested in Alzheimer’s to learn more about it.  Ginny talked about recent research and findings in Alzheimer’s research and how you can get involved.  And we shared the 24 hour Help Line number for anyone needing any information about Alzheimer’s. Help Line: 800-272-3900 Website: www.alz.org

Amy Palmer talked about the unique mission of Soldier’s Angels, to provide aid, comfort, and resources to the military, veterans, and their families.  Housed out of San Antonio, this nationwide organization provides services nationwide including: food assistance,  direct support to patients in VA hospitals, care packages to uplift men and women serving now, and Caregiver Support.   Their motto is: May No Soldier Go Unloved, May No Soldier Walk Alone, May No Soldier Be Forgotten, Even After They Come Home.™ Website: www.soldiersangels.org Phone: 210-629-0020

We talked about how the Salvation Army Emergency Family Shelter and it’s truly helping families in need.  Talked about the Salvation Army’s role in helping people in Houston during the last two floods and their role in disaster relief.    Talked about touring and volunteer opportunities.  And we talked about the upcoming 7th Annual Celebrity Bowling fundraiser coming up in September. Website: www.salvationarmysatx.org

Our guests were, Dawn White-Fosdick, President and CEO and Valerie Salas Narvaez, Director of Homeless Services We talked about the history and mission of Christian Assistance Ministry.  Talked about the unique approach of CAM to help San Antonians in crisis, including low-income families, senior citizens, single parents, and others in need.  We focused on the homeless situation in San Antonio, and what listeners could do to help.  Valerie Narvaez shares her unique story about homelessness and how it help her with her job at CAM. Website: https://christianassistanceministry.org