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Thriving Forward

Thriving Forward

By: Megan Lasaponara & Sarah Collins-McGowan
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Too often Rochester, NY is featured in the news for its problems. But this area is rich with community-based organizations striving to improve the lives of its residents. Join local a pediatrician, Dr. Megan Lasaponara, as she interviews people who are involved in good works all over the region. We will learn about each organization and how our guests found their path to community-based work. If you are ready to hear good news and feel inspired by what Rochester has to offer, join us as we talk to the people making our community ever better.

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Episodes
  • Keyvo Owens: Rise Up Rochester
    Jun 18 2025

    Rise Up Rochester, Incorporated (RUR) works to interrupt violence and provides support to crime victims and their families. RUR mediates disputes, mentors high-risk individuals, facilitates support groups for families of homicide victims, and provides case management and other wrap around services for victims, families and neighborhoods impacted by violence. RUR can be found in schools, on the streets, and at other community events to communicate, “It doesn’t have to end this way!”

    Keyvo Owens is the CERV Coordinator for Rise Up Rochester. In this episode we discuss what brought Keyvo to RUR, the work they are doing now, and hope for the future.

    Website: https://www.riseuprochester.net/

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    30 mins
  • Lindsay Jewett: Best Buddies
    Jun 4 2025

    Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

    Lindsay Jewett is the Director of Mission Advancement for the Rochester Office of Best Buddies. In this episode we discuss why she was drawn to working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and how her personal mission has evolved over the years. We also spend time discussing the amazing work of the local, national, and international arms of this nonprofit organization.

    Website: https://www.bestbuddies.org/newyork/

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    39 mins
  • Jennifer Philips - Director of Expressive Arts and Music Fundamentals at the Hochstein School.
    Feb 7 2024

    The mission of The Hochstein School is to provide people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities with access to excellent music and dance education in a community that nurtures and encourages personal achievement. Today's guest is Jennifer Philips. She is the Assistant Dean and Chair of Expressive Arts and Music FUNdamentals at the Hochstein School. She is a Board Certified Music Therapist and a Certified Neurologic Music Therapist.

    Listen in to learn more about the programs offered at this local arts organization.

    Website: https://hochstein.org/


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    22 mins
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