Bridges We Build

In this episode of Bridges We Build , we sit down with Jake Stotlemeyer, Program Manager of Food Access & Nutrition, and Frankie Ditlevson, Food Access & Nutrition Education Specialist, to talk about the growing reality of food insecurity across Northwest California—and the powerful sense of community that continues to rise alongside it. Together, they share what they’re seeing on the grou...

In this episode of Bridges We Build , we sit down with Cesar Albequerque , one of Catholic Charities’ DOJ‑accredited immigration representatives. After leaving a career in the corporate world, Cesar embraced nonprofit work with a deep commitment to supporting immigrant families. He shares what led him to this calling, how he navigates the challenges of legal advocacy, and how education, trust, and...

From writing grant proposals to tracking outcomes, there’s a lot that happens behind the scenes to keep nonprofit programs running—and growing. In this episode, we talk with LaSette Wellen, Director of Public Funding at Catholic Charities of Northwest California, about what it takes to secure funding, build trust with partners, and keep programs strong. It’s a look at the backbone work that helps...

Every organization has a mission—but behind that mission is a deeper “why.” In this episode of Bridges We Build, we sit down with Jennielynn Holmes, CEO of Catholic Charities of Northwest California, to explore the values, experiences, and vision that drive her leadership. Jennielynn shares her journey from growing up in a low-income family to becoming the first in her family to graduate college,...

Content Advisory: This episode includes discussion of substance use, relapse, and suicidal thoughts. Please take care as you listen. What does it take to turn a shelter into a true community hub—and a stepping stone to stability? In this episode of Bridges We Build, we talk with Kurt Peterson, Director of Shelter Services at Catholic Charities of Northwest California. Kurt brings decades of experi...

What does it really take for a family to rebuild their lives? For Kayla, it started with stability—and the support of a community that saw her potential. In this episode of Bridges We Build, we hear from Kayla, a courageous mother who spent time at the Caritas Family Center with her children. She shares her journey through homelessness, the turning points that helped her move forward, and how wrap...