Community Connections

Welcome to Nutrition in Motion: Thriving Through the Summer ! I'm your host, Jennifer Quinonez, Program Coordinator at Kings Partnership. In today’s episode, I’m honored to be joined by Ijeoma Nnadi, a registered dietitian with a passion for promoting healthy lifestyles. Together, we dive into practical tips for building healthy eating habits, choosing nutritious snacks, and staying hydrated,...

In this special behind-the-scenes episode, KPFP’s Executive Director Gaby Rodriguez and Operations Manager Karina sit down for an honest, unscripted conversation—no host, just two leaders reflecting on their shared journey. Tune in as they explore the heart of Kings Partnership: the mission that brought them here, the evolution of their leadership roles, and the pivotal moments that have shaped th...

In this special episode, host Aliyah Ortiz sits down with  Dr. Elizabeth Sanchez Arvizu to explore the intersection of psychology and mental wellness. From character archetypes to leveling up emotional intelligence, we dive deep into how geek culture can empower us to understand our minds and heal in unique, creative ways. Whether you're a seasoned gamer, comic book lover, or just curious abo...

This episode, “Community Care & Overdose Prevention: A Conversation on Harm Reduction,” features an insightful discussion with Cindi Sanchez and Juan Ramirez from the Kings County Syringe Exchange Program, part of the Kings County Department of Public Health. Learn how harm reduction strategies—such as syringe services, naloxone distribution, and HIV/Hep C testing—are saving lives and promotin...

In this episode of Rooted in Advocacy , we’re joined by Lisajo Naricisse, co-founder of Learn and Grow With Special Needs —a nonprofit organization rooted in compassion, empowerment, and community. Lisajo shares the inspiring story behind the organization’s creation and how it has become a lifeline for parents navigating the journey of raising children with special needs. Through education, hands-...

In honor of Child Abuse Awareness month, we bring you this special episode of Community Connections highlighting the powerful work CASA (Court Appointed Special Adovcates) of Kings County does in the lives of foster youth in our community. Roxanne Sanchez, CASA Program Coordinator and Terry March, CASA Advocate discuss the successes, challenges, misconceptions and more on what it means to be invol...

 With April right around the corner, we’re excited to host a special episode in honor of Child Abuse Awareness Month. In this episode, we will be joined by Jason Williams , Executive Director of Brain Wise Solutions in Fresno, CA . Jason will share valuable insights on embracing a trauma-informed approach when caring for children, nurturing relationships, and building stronger communities.  Suppor...

Join us for a special episode of Community Connections as we celebrate Champions Recovery: 25 Years of Transforming Lives. Executive Director Frank Ruiz and Director of Treatment Services Jessika Schneider take us on a journey through Champions' history, its impact in Kings County, and the key programs that support individuals on the road to recovery. From mental health integration to communi...

Join us for this exciting episode as we sit down with Marilyn Castaneda—a familiar name in the community! Not only does she work with Kings Partnership, but she also co-runs a local cookie business, The Sweet Crumb, with her two sisters. Discover the challenges they’ve faced, the sweet successes they’ve celebrated, and the journey of balancing entrepreneurship with community work. Don’t miss this...

In this episode of Community Connections , KPFP Operations Manager Karina Casarez talks with Cameron Jones, a former KPFP employee now working at Lemoore College. Cameron reflects on her time at KPFP, where she focused on community outreach and engagement, and shares how those experiences shaped her work in higher education. She discusses the differences between outreach at KPFP and community coll...

In this episode of Inclusive Organization Culture: Strengthening Community Bonds Inside and Out , we dive into the heart of creating an inclusive organizational culture that not only strengthens internal community bonds but also extends its positive impact outside the workplace. Our guest and newest Kings Partnership team member, Jennifer Quiñonez, shares insight on how mental health is important...

In this episode of Community Connections , Gisselle speaks with Paty Diaz, the visionary behind PATY’Studio, a faith-based dance studio dedicated to empowering individuals through movement and spirituality. Paty shares her passion for performing arts, how faith is a core part of her overall mission, and the ways her studio has fostered a strong sense of community. She also delves into the exciting...

In this episode, Gaby from Kings Partnership and Pearl Hernandez from Lily of the Valley/Life of Victory sit down to discuss the powerful youth programs offered by their organizations and the incredible collaboration between them. They share insights into how these programs are empowering young people, building leadership skills, and creating pathways to brighter futures. Tune in to hear about the...

In this heartfelt episode of Navigating Grief During the Holidays , I sit down with Diana Díaz Madera, the inspiring founder of Corazón Norte. As a bilingual, bicultural Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Public Health Practitioner, Diana brings a unique perspective to the table, helping individuals and organizations create healing spaces that honor diverse experiences. We explore the complexitie...

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Denise Taylor from New Beginnings by Circle T Ranch , a non-profit dedicated to healing through equine-assisted therapy. Join us as we explore how horses are helping victims of violence, survivors of PTSD, veterans, and individuals with disabilities find a path to recovery. With the guidance of skilled equine specialists, New Beginnings provides a unique...

In this episode, we’re joined by Pamela Martinez, Community Energy Resilience Project Manager at The Climate Center, to discuss the vital role of funding in addressing climate resilience. Pamela helped guide KPFP through the grant application process for The Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation’s (LCI) Extreme Heat and Community Resilience Program (EHCRP), and we’re thrilled to sha...

In this episode of Building Stronger Communities Through Collaboration, we shine a spotlight on Kings County Action Organization (KCAO), a vital community-based organization dedicated to empowering residents and fostering collaborative efforts to address the most pressing challenges in Kings County. Tune in to listen to your host, Marilyn, discuss with Community Development Manager, Savino Perico,...

Learn about the inspiring mission behind Northstar Courts, a new low-income apartment complex dedicated to transforming lives through affordable living in this latest episode! Join in as our host, Gisselle Tamayo, chats with Community Partnership Manager, Ana Martinez-Plummer about the vision, development, and goals of this pivotal housing initiative in Kings County. Together, they explore how Nor...

In this episode, we sit down with Alyssa Blue, Prevention Coordinator at Kings Partnership, and Jerrett Johnson with the Kings County Office of Education to explore the evolving landscape of youth drug trends. They share insights on how substance use is changing, the importance of early intervention, and equipping young people with the tools to become advocates for their own well-being. The conver...

Join host Gaby Rodriguez from Kings Partnership for a special episode of Community Connections ! Today, we’re excited to welcome Alexis Woodside, Regional Clinic Manager, Nathan Lacle, COO, and Dr. Debra Winegarden, founder of MindDivers Inc. In this episode, we’ll explore the groundbreaking work of MindDivers, an organization that uniquely blends scuba diving with therapeutic practices to support...

In this episode, we're thrilled to feature Isaiah Galindo from the Kings County Tobacco Control Program. Join us as we explore the critical efforts to promote a tobacco-free lifestyle in Kings County. Isaiah Galindo, a key advocate and strategist in tobacco control, will share his insights on the innovative programs and strategies being implemented to reduce tobacco use and its harmful effect...

In this episode of Community Connections , we're diving into the power of local health data with Elizabeth Bobo, Senior Account Manager at Conduent Healthy Communities Institute (HCI). Join our host, Karina, Operations Manager for Kings Partnership, as she explores how HCI powers the KPFP website, providing crucial data that empowers our community partners. Discover how local health data is c...

In this episode, we explore how UCPCC Parent & Me is deeply rooted in the community, helping families navigate challenges, and building a stronger, more inclusive environment for everyone. Listen as Barbie Brown, Facilities and Event Coordinator and Victor Perez, Program Director, share inspiring stories and highlight the power of community in fostering resilience and growth. Whether you’re a...

Listen in as we unravel the layers of wellness & mental health and also share insight on the journey to positive well-being with Devonderia Sanchez, LMFT & Owner of F.I.T. Whether you’re navigating life’s challenges, seeking personal growth, or simply curious about the diverse dimensions of wellness, this episode of Community Connections offers an authentic conversation and professional pe...

"Join us in this uplifting episode as we sit down with Rob Isquierdo, the founder of Reestablishing Stratford. Hear his journey of creating a community non-profit from the ground up, overcoming challenges, and making a lasting difference. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about passion, purpose, and the power of community." Support the show