In this inspiring episode, Zac sits down with Carmen Lydia, the powerhouse behind The Madrina Project in San Antonio, TX. Carmen shares her heartfelt journey from receiving a donated dress to building a nonprofit that empowers young women through confidence-building events and access to formalwear for milestone events like prom and graduation.

Carmen discusses the evolution of the project, the creation of the annual Empowerment Conference, and the deep community partnerships that sustain their mission. Tune in to hear how The Madrina Project creates moments of dignity, celebration, and transformation—one dress at a time.

Host:

Zac Brown: "The Non-Profit Guy"

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacjordanbrown/

Guest:

Carmen Lidia Fajardo, Founder of The Madrina Project

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-lidia-fajardo-99325723b/

The Madrina Project Website:

https://www.themadrinaprojectsa.org/

The Madrina Project LinkedIn Page:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-madrina-project/posts/?feedView=all

Find Us:
YouTube: / @theboostchannel
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50nKlDy81jHuoobIFLwiHy
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-giving/id1803474427
Facebook: / theboostchannel
Website: https://theboost.fm/beyond-giving/

Topics Covered

• Origin Story: Carmen’s personal experience that sparked The Madrina Project.
  
  
• Mission in Action: How the organization provides dresses and builds confidence.
  
  
• The Empowerment Conference: Learn to Earn model with education, leadership, wellness, and self-worth sessions.
  
  
• Creative Programming: From pop-up boutiques to musical welcomes and Hot Cheetos with cheese.
  
  
• San Antonio Roots: Why collaboration and community make this city special for nonprofit work.
  
  
• Tech & Tracking: How Nonprofits HQ is helping The Madrina Project grow sustainably.
  
  
• Future Vision: Girl-led conference development days and expanding partnerships.
  
  

How to Get Involved

Donate Dresses: Particularly gray velvet hangers and boutique-quality gowns.

Spo<