Philanthropy feels big until you hear how it actually happens: a local decision, a monthly gift, a grill fired up after a storm. We sit down with Stephanie Riffle of United Federal Credit Union to trace how community power grows when autonomy meets purpose. Stephanie shares why UFCU treats Northwest Arkansas like home turf even with Michigan headquarters, how that flexibility unlocks smarter partnerships, and what she’s learned serving boards that center kids and families: Saving Grace, Boys & Girls Club of Benton County, Arkansas Children’s Auxiliary Northwest, and Champions for Kids.
You’ll hear the heart behind Saving Grace’s model for young women aging out of foster care — and why choosing not to take government funding keeps the mission nimble and focused. We dig into the quiet heroics of monthly giving, the storytelling spark of Butterflies & Blooms, and a collaboration-first mindset that feeds neighbors faster when disaster strikes.

Along the way, we get personal — twins launching into college and cosmetology, the sanity of early nights and tidy spaces, karaoke and comfort TV, and the restorative rituals of 30A beach trips. The thread through it all is practical generosity. If you’ve ever wondered whether $25 a month matters, this conversation will shift your math on impact.

If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who cares about kids and community, and leave a quick review to help others find these stories. Your small action might spark someone else’s first monthly gift.