659. Designing Programs with Dignity: Lessons from Give Back’s Transformative Model (Melissa Helmbrecht)
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Overview
Meet Melissa Helmbrecht 🤝, the CEO of Give Back. Founded by Bob Carr, this organization is rewriting what opportunity looks like for young people who've faced the hardest circumstances—from homelessness to abuse. In this episode, Melissa shows us the deep, lasting impact of true mentorship and the power of a supportive community.
Melissa shares how Give Back helps students not just survive, but truly thrive as leaders through comprehensive scholarships, dedicated coaching, and mentorship. We dive into Bob Carr’s inspiring legacy, whose mission of giving grew from a $250 scholarship he once received, now creating powerful systems of dignity for the next generation.
This episode is a testament to belief, the power of second chances, and in the extraordinary power of what happens when we create spaces where people feel seen, valued, and free to become who they were meant to be.
Learn:
The importance of mentorship in transforming lives.
Every act of kindness can create a ripple effect.
Youth who are counted out can become leaders.
Dignity should be at the center of support systems.
Community involvement is crucial for youth empowerment.
Belief in potential can unlock limitless opportunities.
Generosity is not just about money; it's about connection.
Intergenerational support can bridge gaps in society.
Success is a collective effort, not an individual achievement.
The stories of youth can inspire and drive change.
“The young people who are counted out are the young people that we’re counting on. ”
Episode Transcript
Download Full Episode Transcript Here
Episode Highlights
Melissa's Formative Journey (05:00)
The Story of Give Back (07:00)
The Power of Small Acts of Kindness (07:23)
Empowering the Counted Out (10:06)
Reframing Identity and Potential (12:42)
Programs Centered in Dignity (15:30)
Building Trust and Consistency (18:10)
Stories of Transformation (21:09)
The Power of Lived Experience (22:32)
Bridging Generations in Philanthropy (25:49)
Transforming Adversity into Opportunity (28:22)
Melissa’s One Good Thing(30:21)
Powerful Quotes
"Give Back is, fundamentally an organization that reflects back a young persons worth and value to help them unlock their full potential.”." - Melissa Helmbrecht
"The young people that we serve don't just make it through, they lead." - Melissa Helmbrecht
“Bob Carr has given more than $100 million to this cause.” - Melissa Helmbrecht
“He made a commitment that when he became successful, he would reach back out to young people like himself and he would invest in them.” - Melissa Helmbrecht
“The biggest thing that I've learned in life is that when I think I'm helping someone, they’re really helping me.” - Melissa Helmbrecht
"It's in the persistence that we find hope." - Melissa Helmbrecht
"When we choose to be generous, it always comes back." - Melissa Helmbrecht
"We need to get the word out that we exist so we can find more kids to come into community with." - Melissa Helmbrecht
"The power of lived experience cannot be overstated." - Melissa Helmbrecht
"It's extraordinary to see young people working to achieve their dreams and full potential." - Melissa Helmbrecht
"The reciprocity in this work is the thing that keeps giving back." - Melissa Helmbrecht
"Success isn't a one-person operation."- Melissa Helmbrecht
Melissa’s One Good Thing: “None of us can get there alone; it’s all because of the people around us who help. That’s why we should never be ashamed to ask for help”
Resources Mentioned:
Through the Fire: An American Story of Turbulence, Business Triumph and Giving Back - Bob Carr
Connect with Melissa
LinkedIn / Email: mhelmbrecht@giveback.ngo
Connect with Jon
Connect with Becky
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