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12 Cool Things to Give - "Secret's Out Idaho" Podcast Mini-Series

12/16/2020

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We think it's pretty cool to give back. We're partnering with United Way of South Central Idaho to empower you to make a BIG impact in our region by donating what it needs most.

As part of our 12 Cool Things to Give campaign, every month we’ll go into detail about each category (because some of these "cool things" might surprise you). Get empowered with the mini episodes below or online here to be a changemaker in Southern Idaho.
 
Guest: Sonya Haines, Director of Resource Development at United Way of South Central Idaho
Hosted by: Connie Stopher – Southern Idaho Economic Development

Episode #1: Pet Food

​The fur babies are along for the ride! In this episode, we share why it’s important to donate your favorite pet food so animals in need don’t go hungry. 

Episode #2: Books

​Education and fairytales found in donated books provide hope and imagination for people of all ages. Sonya Haines from United Way of South Central Idaho goes into detail about what books to give and who benefits from them.

Episode #3: Unique Foods

​Did you know peanut butter, honey, canned meat, snack packs and chunky soup are the most needed food donations? And don’t forget the can opener! Listen to this month’s episode with Sonya Haines from United Way of South Central Idaho to learn more.

Episode #4: Lice Kits

​Lice infestations do not discriminate. Lice kits provide schools with a cure to keep students from falling behind, but can be pricey for schools or food pantries to provide. Sonya Haines from United Way of South Central Idaho shares why this item is a huge help for schools and food pantries.

Episode #5: School & Art Supplies

Needed all year long (not just in August & September!), sketchbooks, wooden pencils, tissues and more can help students AND teachers make it through the school year. Check out what supplies you can give and why it’s so important to donate throughout the year.

Episode #6: Laundry Detergent

Laundry detergent is a vital household item that can often be too expensive to afford for families big and small. Listen in to hear from Sonya Haines of United Way of South Central Idaho on why laundry detergent should be on your donation list.

Episode #7: Hotel Vouchers

Hotel vouchers are an essential donation for people in crisis situations. These vouchers can provide organizations the ability to serve the homeless, cancer patients and their families, displaced domestic violence victims, refugees, foster kids or others in need. Learn how community members, hotel owners and AirBnB hosts can play a key role in helping our Magic Valley citizens in crisis.
 
  • Support Voices Against Violence - vavmv.org

Episode #8: Hygiene Kits

​The most basic care necessities are often hard to come by for struggling families and they are some of the most needed items. From kids going to school to people going in for a job interview, items like deodorant, hair ties & combs, feminine products, dental care, razors, nail clippers and sunscreen are so valuable to families and individuals in crisis. Listen to find out how to put together a low-cost kit, what to put in them, and how to donate them today!
 
  • Support Voices Against Violence - vavmv.org
  • Support Valley House Homeless Shelter - (208) 734-7736

Episode #9: Gas/Gift Cards

​Consider donating gift cards, including gas cards, to local non-profits that will help our local families the most. With these gift cards, homeless shelters, food pantries, hospitals and other non-profits can purchase the items they need when they need them and help those in need get to work, the grocery store, or job interviews.
​
  • Humane Society - twinfallsanimalshelter.com
  • Support Voices Against Violence - vavmv.org
  • Support Valley House Homeless Shelter - (208) 734-7736

Episode #10: Time

Your time is one of the most valuable things you can give. How valuable? One hour of your time is $25 to a non-profit! Whether you’re an individual or employer, learn where and how to be a changemaker in your community.
 
  • Sleep in Heavenly Peace - shpbeds.org
  • Humane Society - twinfallsanimalshelter.com
  • Support Voices Against Violence - vavmv.org
  • Support Valley House Homeless Shelter - (208) 734-7736

Episode #11: Pillows

Did you know foster children often only take one item with them to transition between homes? Pillows become a sense of stability and are often considered a luxury item. Listen to learn why new pillows are a great item to donate!
 
  • Sleep in Heavenly Peace - shpbeds.org
  • Humane Society - twinfallsanimalshelter.com
  • Support Voices Against Violence - vavmv.org
  • Support Valley House Homeless Shelter - (208) 734-7736
  • CSI Refugee Center - refugeecenter.csi.edu

Episode #12: Money

​Nothing beats monetary donations to aid your favorite Southern Idaho non-profits. Learn why $1 can go further than you think and how to support the United Way of South Central Idaho and other non-profits around the Magic Valley.

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unitedwayscid.org/12coolthingstogive
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Secret's Out Idaho: Special Episode "Why We Give ft. United Way of South Central Idaho"

11/1/2020

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Why We Give

​Guests:

Bill Maikranz, United Way of South Central Idaho, President & CEO
Sonya Haines, United Way of South Central Idaho, Director of Resource Development
Susan Potucek, Clif Bar & Company, Human Resources Manager
Jeff Schroeder, the assistant coordinator at Martha and Mary's Food Pantry
Hosted by: Connie Stopher – Southern Idaho Economic Development
In this special episode of Secret’s Out Idaho, we talk with United Way of South Central Idaho about the amazing work they do to create lasting change in our community. We also talk with local companies like Clif Bar to food pantries like Martha and Mary’s Food Pantry to discover how it’s all the community partners rallying together that solve real problems and have a generational impact on our region. #MagicValleyStrong
 
0:35 - Bill Maikranz, United Way of South Central Idaho, President & CEO
10:30 - Susan Potucek, Clif Bar & Company, Human Resources Manager; Sonya Haines, Director of Resource Development at United Way of South Central Idaho
23:25 - Jeff Schroeder, assistant coordinator at Martha and Mary's Food Pantry; Sonya Haines
39:50 - Bill Maikranz
​About Southern Idaho
Experience the Southern Idaho lifestyle
Explore career opportunities in Southern Idaho

Follow us on social so you never miss an episode!
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​
About United Way of South Central Idaho
Like United Way of South Central Idaho on Facebook to stay empowered! 
12 Cool Things to Give: unitedwayscid.org/12coolthingstogive

Follow Martha and Mary’s Food Pantry on Facebook!
Learn more about Clif Bar’s community initiatives!
Keywords: clif bar, community, volunteer, donations, food pantries, food pantry, donate, giving back, give back, cool things to donate, United Way, Idaho, Southern Idaho, Twin Falls Idaho, interviews, conversations, life, fun, Secrets Out Idaho, magic valley
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How to Support Rural Southern Idaho during COVID-19 | #MagicValleyStrong

7/15/2020

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It's more important than ever to support our local businesses. From ordering takeout to buying gift cards to sharing this post, there are so many ways to support our local, rural businesses. Use the tips below for ways, big and small, to help our community AND check out the restaurants and stores listed below to support.

These are just a sampling of the amazing small businesses in our rural communities. Have more you'd like us to list? Comment below!
​
Let's stay #MagicValleyStrong 💪

For more ways you can help, check out our COVID-19 portal!

If you have questions about our Rural Economic Development Services, please visit our website: southernidaho.org/reds
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Supporting the Magic Valley during COVID-19 | #MagicValleyStrong

6/15/2020

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Whether you’re a struggling small business, a family in need or are looking for ways to help during these difficult times, below is a list of resources to get you started.
 
We're here to help at Southern Idaho Economic Development.

​Please reach out to our team at 208-732-6459 or 
visit our contact page with any questions, concerns or ideas!

BUSINESS SUPPORT

The organizations listed below are here to support Magic Valley businesses. Whether it’s emergency funding, recruiting workers, helping market changes to your business due to COVID-19, or other assistance, please don’t hesitate to call us.
  • Southern Idaho Economic Development – (208) 732-6459 or contact us via email here.
    • Rural Economic Development Services (REDS) - If you own a business in the rural communities of the Magic Valley, our Rural Economic Development Services program is dedicated to supporting business retention and expansion in our rural communities. Contact Ervina, our REDS Specialist, at ervinac@southernidaho.org with questions on how we can support you!
  • Small Business Development Center – If you’re in need of disaster loan assistance, emergency funding and more, the CSI Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is here to help your small business succeed.
  • Region IV Development - Region IV Development’s Loan Division focuses solely on the progression of small businesses and will walk step by step with business owners to find financing that will meet their needs. The Region IV Development team can partner with banks or work individually with entrepreneurs to provide financing for real estate, equipment, inventory, tenant improvements and working capital from the Magic Valley to the Treasure Valley.
  • Idaho Women's Business Center - The Idaho Women’s Business Center staff is available to field all calls and concerns regarding COVID-19. The team is here to answer questions on building a business online, financing concerns and assistance, and next steps. The Idaho Women’s Business Center has gone 100% virtual, helping businesses navigate these tough times through phone, Zoom and virtual trainings/workshops. Find them online at idahowomen.org, or contact them at info@idahowomen.org, or (208) 996-1570.
  • Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce - The Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce has a one stop shop for updates from businesses with changes to operations, hours, special offers, etc. Click here! Their COVID-19 Resources page also has additional resources for businesses, including the Idaho Chamber of Commerce and Department of Labor. And follow them on Facebook for good news and updates! 
  • COVID-19 USDA Federal Rural Resource Guide - USDA and its Federal partners have programs that can be used to provide immediate and long-term assistance to rural communities affected by
    the COVID-19 outbreak. These programs can support recovery efforts for rural residents, businesses and communities through technical, training, and management assistance; financial assistance; and state and local assistance.
  • RestoreYourEconomy.org - RestoreYourEconomy, managed by the International Economic Development Council, is your resource for up-to-date information related to COVID-19 and its economic impacts. 
  • Small Business Administration - Find comprehensive COVID-19 small business guidance and loan resources (disaster loans, paycheck protection, debt relief, etc.) with the SBA.
  • Idaho Rebounds Cash Grants - Idaho Rebounds Cash Grants can help small businesses negatively affected by the pandemic, totaling $300M for more than 30,000 businesses. The program is targeted for small businesses that did not receive the Paycheck Protection Program or received less than $10,000 from this program.

WORKFORCE SUPPORT

If you’re struggling to find workers or are looking for a job or unemployment insurance, these organizations are a great place to start:
  • College of Southern Idaho Workforce Development & Training
  • Idaho Department of Labor​

SUPPORT FOR SOUTHERN IDAHO FAMILIES

  • United Way of South Central Idaho – (208) 733-4922 – The United Way has an abundance of resources to help families in need.
  • For immediate assistance, call 211 – a national hotline that connects people to the help they need (available in Idaho Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
  • Magic Valley Area Humanitarian Center - 723 F Street, Rupert, ID - (208) 261-2533
  • South Central Community Action Partnership - (208) 733-9351 - The SCCAP helps low income families and individuals with rent, utilities, food and heating bills. 
    • Twin Falls: 550 Washington St. South
    • Burley: 314 East 5th St.
  • While senior centers throughout the Magic Valley are currently closed, centers like the Twin Falls Senior Center will continue to provide home-delivered meals through the Meals on Wheels program.
  • Food Pantries:
    • Idaho Food Bank
    • Gilbert's Food Pantry (College of Southern Idaho) - If you are a current CSI student who is food deficient, please know that your request will be handled privately and confidentially. You will need to fill out the Gilbert's Pantry Request Form. If you are unable to do so you may email your request to rlopez@csi.edu. The pantry will remain open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, until further notice, to provide free emergency food assistance to CSI students. 
    • Mustard Seed (Twin Falls) - 736 Main Ave N, Twin Falls, ID - (208) 733-9515 Ext. 1
    • Martha and Mary’s Food Pantry (Jerome) - 212 3rd Ave E, Jerome, ID - (208) 404-6610
    • Mountain View Food Pantry (Burley) - 317 Mountain View Lane, Burley, ID – (208) 678-5460
    • Blaine County Hunger Coalition (Blaine County) - 121 Honeysuckle St, Bellevue, ID - (208) 788-0121

WAYS YOU CAN HELP

  • Support Local Businesses: Here is a great list of ways to #BuyLocal208 via Idaho Bucket List
    • Buy Local Program - Gift cards for all your favorite local businesses all in one place!
  • Donate Blood: The American Red Cross and blood banks across the nation are in desperate need of blood donations. Find your nearest blood bank and schedule an appointment here: redcross.org
  • Sew masks: Sew masks for the Magic Valley Area Humanitarian Center – head to mvhumanitarian.org to find out how to make and donate masks
  • N95 Masks: Donate unused and extra N95 Masks to United Way of South Central Idaho – call for more information: (208) 733-4922
  • Donate: Physical goods or financial donations are needed at local food pantries (listed above), animal shelters and senior centers.
  • Support the Meals on Wheels program here.
  • Are you a local manufacturer? Manufacturing bottles for hand sanitizer, masks and other needed healthcare items is a great way to help. Connect with our team at 208-732-6459 with questions!
  • 12 Cool Things to Give – We recently partnered with the United Way of South Central Idaho to put together a list of the most needed donations, from food to pillows to books.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

Staying home and away from loved ones and colleagues can be detrimental to mental health. There are a few things you can do to help cheer up those around you and your neighborhood while you’re social distancing:
  • Southern Idaho Tourism – Follow them on social media for tips on staying active while social distancing and ideas to stay inspired while you're home.
    • Instagram: @visitsouthernidaho
    • Facebook: @VisitSouthernIdaho
  • Writing encouraging messages on your sidewalk with colorful chalk can put a smile on your neighbors’ faces when they’re out and about.
  • Check in on your elderly neighbors (from a safe distance) to see if they need supplies, food or medical attention.
  • Here are more ways to help your neighbors​
Have something to add to the list? Contact our Marketing Manager at madeleineb@southernidaho.org
Follow us on social media for up-to-date information:​
Facebook: Southern Idaho Economic Development
Instagram: @southernidahoed
LinkedIn: Southern Idaho Economic Development
Twitter: @southernidahoed
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"Secret's Out Idaho" Episode 35: The Rainbow Elephant in the Room

3/22/2020

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​Guest: Mike Ramsey, author and entrepreneur
Hosted by: Connie Stopher – Southern Idaho Economic Development
 
He sold potatoes. He wrote a book. And he owns his own successful marketing company. Idaho native and owner of Nifty Marketing, Mike Ramsey, shares his experience growing up in a non-traditional family, his best small business tips and why he chose to start a company in Burley, Idaho.
About Mike

More about Nifty Marketing

Get Mike’s book at mikeramsey.org

​Visit Burley, Idaho

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Burley Idaho, small businesses, entrepreneurship, entrepreneur, small business, small business owner, skiing, hot springs, Snake River, mountain biking, boating, adventure, life of adventure, Idaho, Southern Idaho, Twin Falls Idaho, interviews, conversations, life, fun, Secrets Out Idaho, adventure, outdoor recreation, outdoors, magic valley
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"Secret's Out Idaho" Episode 34: Letting Go - Creating a World-Class Climbing Gym in Twin Falls, Idaho

3/15/2020

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​Guest: Don Campbell, owner of Gemstone Climbing Center, local farmer, and climbing enthusiast
Hosted by: Connie Stopher – Southern Idaho Economic Development
 
Would you ever climb to 21 feet and let go? Don Campbell has—and in this week’s episode, he talks all about what it took to open the world-class Gemstone Climbing Center in downtown Twin Falls, what makes rock climbing the ultimate sport, and his love for fish farming.
About Don

Find out more about
​Gemstone Climbing Center

Visit Buhl, Idaho
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"Secret's Out Idaho" Episode 33: Magic Valley Mamas - Namaste... in Southern Idaho

3/8/2020

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Guest: Sami Ashenbrener, Idaho native, physical therapist, yoga instructor and mom
Hosted by: Connie Stopher – Southern Idaho Economic Development

Why is camping better in Idaho? What’s it like to run an ultramarathon? Is it normal to cry during hot yoga? Sami Ashenbrener – Idaho native, physical therapist, yoga instructor and mom – has the answers on our latest episode, plus the best kid-friendly activities here and what brought her back to the Magic Valley after leaving for California.
About Sami

Find out more about CPR Physical Therapy

Visit Hive Hot Yoga

​Explore Rudy’s - A Cook’s Paradise
​About Southern Idaho
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​in Southern Idaho


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rafting, kayaking, yoga, hot yoga, camping, Idaho native, physical therapy, trail runner, trail running, adventure, life of adventure, Idaho, Southern Idaho, Twin Falls Idaho, interviews, conversations, life, fun, Secrets Out Idaho, adventure, outdoor recreation, outdoors, magic valley
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"Secret's Out Idaho" Episode 32: The Great Idaho Myth

3/1/2020

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Guest: Sarah Rohrbach, social media coordinator, business owner, outdoor adventure enthusiast.
Hosted by: Connie Stopher – Southern Idaho Economic Development
 
Is Idaho just a government conspiracy? It’s what this week’s guest thought before she found her dream job in Southern Idaho. As Southern Idaho Tourism’s social media coordinator, Sarah Rohrbach has firsthand tips to find the best secret spots and how to make friends in a small town.
About Sarah
Visit Southern Idaho Tourism online

Follow her on Instagram @earthtosarahwp
​Stay up to date on Sarah’s adventures: worldtosarah.blog

​
About Southern Idaho
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​
business owner, Black Magic Canyon, City of Rocks, hiking, small town life, waterfalls, outdoor adventure, kayaking, entrepreneurship, entrepreneur, moving to Idaho, adventure, life of adventure, Idaho, Southern Idaho, Twin Falls Idaho, interviews, conversations, life, fun, Secrets Out Idaho, adventure, outdoor recreation, outdoors, magic valley
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"Secret's Out Idaho" Episode 31: Finding Adventure and Community at the College of Southern Idaho

2/23/2020

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​​“Life feels more like an adventure here.”

​This week’s episode we chat with Sammi Sanchez, College of Southern Idaho student body president, on why she chose Twin Falls over Boise, her time on the diversity council and why community colleges like CSI are the best place to get your start.
About Southern Idaho
Experience the Southern Idaho lifestyle
Explore career opportunities in Southern Idaho

Follow us on social so you never miss an episode!
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About Sammi
Learn more about the
College of Southern Idaho

​Explore CSI Outdoor Recreation
Apply for a CSI Foundation scholarship
​
adventure, life of adventure, diversity, community college, college, college of southern idaho, Idaho, Southern Idaho, Twin Falls Idaho, interviews, conversations, life, fun, Secrets Out Idaho, adventure, outdoor recreation, outdoors, magic valley
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"Secret's Out Idaho" Episode 30: Love, Garbage, and Renewable Energy - How Southern Idaho is Reducing its Carbon Footprint

2/16/2020

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​Love, garbage and renewable energy. Josh Bartlome from Southern Idaho Solid Waste talks all about the unexpected energy source sitting in your garbage can, how we’re reducing our regional footprint AND his surprising love story.
Visit Southern Idaho Solid Waste online:
​
sisw.org/about.html
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Tags/Keywords: sustainability, go green, recycling, Idaho, Southern Idaho, Twin Falls Idaho, interviews, conversations, life, fun, Secrets Out Idaho, adventure, outdoor recreation, outdoors, magic valley
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  • About Us
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