In our latest conversation, we had the pleasure of hosting Stephanie Barca, a licensed social worker, therapist, and Vice President of the Children’s Kindness Network. She introduced us to the lovable Moozie the Cow, an engaging mascot that helps children grasp the value of kindness at an early age. Through reading programs, puppet kits, and joyful community events, Moozie encourages kids to explore empathy, compassion, and self-care in a fun, memorable way. We were captivated by Stephanie’s personal stories of how even the smallest act of kindness can bring light to a child’s world. She reminded us that when kids learn to be kind—both to themselves and others—they gain a powerful foundation for building strong relationships and healthier communities.

We also learned that the Children’s Kindness Network focuses on four pillars of kindness—to self, others, animals, and the earth—ensuring a well-rounded approach to caring and empathy. Stephanie shared details about volunteer opportunities, Moozie kits for families in need, and the annual essay and art contest that sparks children’s creativity and sense of purpose. Hearing about the joy kids experience when they see Moozie in person—or receive a Moozie kit during challenging times—reinforced how meaningful this work truly is. We left our time with Stephanie feeling inspired, convinced that nurturing kindness in young hearts has a ripple effect that can brighten our entire community and beyond.

Key Takeaways:

Early Kindness Matters: Teaching children about empathy and compassion in their formative years fosters healthy social and emotional development.

Moozie the Cow Magic: Whether it’s the robotic version, the mascot suit, or a plush puppet, Moozie captivates kids’ attention, making lessons about kindness stick.

Four Pillars of Kindness: The Children’s Kindness Network highlights being kind to self, others, animals, and the earth, offering a comprehensive approach to empathy.

Open to All: Schools, families, teens, community groups, and even homeschool co-ops can volunteer or request curriculum binders to enhance kindness education.

Creative Participation: Children can write essays or create art for the annual contest, become youth ambassadors, or lend a hand at events—every form of kindness matters.

Operation Moozie: Through generous sponsorships and donations, the organization ships Moozie care kits to kids in tough situations (like deployed parents or natural disasters), reminding them they’re never alone.

Children's Kindness Network
https://www.moozie.org/

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
www.thehooverteam.com

We were thrilled to sit down with Chris and Elaine Whitney, founders of OneGenAway, to learn about their incredible mission to fight hunger throughout Middle Tennessee. Hearing their story of humble beginnings—starting with a single car trunk full of bread—and watching it grow into a multifaceted operation was truly inspiring. They shared how OneGenAway rescues perfectly good food from local grocery stores, restaurants, and caterers, then distributes it freely through mobile food pantries and direct partnerships. Chris and Elaine’s focus on preserving dignity and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere for anyone in need is just as vital as the groceries themselves. Their story also highlighted how volunteering plays a major role in their success: families, students, churches, and businesses have all stepped up to help sort, bag, and give away thousands of pounds of food each week.

We were especially moved by the compassion they weave into everything they do—like their plan to open a nonprofit center offering free dental and medical care, counseling, and a pay-as-you-can café. No matter where they serve, Chris and Elaine make it a point to foster collaboration, believing that uniting with other organizations amplifies everyone’s impact. Their tale is a vivid reminder that we’re never too small to dream big and that real change happens when we pair practical solutions with genuine care for others. Simply put, if OneGenAway can help feed countless individuals, then each of us has the power to use our own gifts and resources to make a meaningful difference in our own corners of the world.

Key Takeaways

Starting Small, Dreaming Big
They began by picking up surplus bread in a Hyundai Santa Fe—now they’re operating multiple refrigerated trucks, a warehouse, and are expanding beyond Tennessee. No dream is too big if we’re willing to take the first step.

No Barriers, Only Dignity
OneGenAway doesn’t require applications or proof of income. They believe in offering a shame-free experience where people can come, select groceries, and be treated with dignity.

Volunteers are the Heartbeat
Whether it’s high school students earning service hours or community members looking to make a difference, volunteers keep everything running smoothly. Their distributions are kid-friendly and always welcoming to new faces.

Collaboration Over Competition
By partnering with schools, nonprofits, grocers, and caterers, OneGenAway is able to rescue thousands of pounds of food each day. Working together magnifies impact.

Hope is Contagious
Chris and Elaine’s personal experiences of struggle and faith led them to serve others in similar situations. Their story proves that when we help one person, we set off a chain reaction of hope.

Future Vision
They’re developing a nonprofit center with free medical and dental services, counseling, childcare, and a community grocery store—all under one roof, ensuring more resources are easily accessible.

We were inspired by Chris and Elaine’s passion and heart for service. They reminded us that all of us can do our part by volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word. This episode stands as proof that every act of kindness—no matter how small—helps build a stronger, more compassionate community.

One Generation Away
https://onegenaway.com/

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
www.thehooverteam.com

In this inspiring episode of You Matter Nashville, we had the pleasure of speaking with Alan Long, the Executive Director of High Hopes Development Center. High Hopes has been serving children and families in Middle Tennessee for over 40 years, providing an inclusive preschool alongside a pediatric therapy clinic.

Their unique model supports children with and without special needs, fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where all children can thrive. Through their integrated approach, High Hopes not only meets the educational and developmental needs of children but also provides critical support and resources to families navigating the complexities of raising children with special needs.

Alan shared his personal journey from a successful corporate career to fulfilling his calling in education and nonprofit leadership. He spoke candidly about the pivotal moment when he realized his passion for working with children and the encouragement he received from his wife to follow his heart. His passion for making a difference in the lives of children and families is evident as he discusses the impact High Hopes has on the community.

From the dedicated teachers and therapists to the families who find solace and hope within its walls, High Hopes embodies a mission-driven organization focused on positive outcomes and lasting change.

We explored the various therapy services offered, the importance of early intervention, and the challenges families face when seeking support for their children. Alan emphasized the critical role of early diagnosis and intervention in setting children up for success and how High Hopes partners with families to provide individualized care plans that address their unique needs.

Key Takeaways:

• Inclusive Learning Environment: High Hopes integrates typically developing children with those who have special needs, fostering empathy, friendship, and advocacy from an early age.
• Therapy Services: Offering speech, occupational, physical, feeding, and behavioral therapies, High Hopes provides a comprehensive approach to pediatric care.
• Impactful Success Stories: Alan shared uplifting stories of alumni like Connor Bossie, who overcame early challenges and went on to graduate from Vanderbilt University.
• Community Need: With families coming from 17 counties, the demand for inclusive education and therapy services far exceeds current capacity.
• Volunteer and Giving Opportunities: The organization welcomes donations, volunteers, and community support to help meet the growing needs of the children they serve.
• Upcoming Events: High Hopes hosts events such as the Strings and Stories singer-songwriter night, the Runway of Hope fashion show, and the Giving on the Green golf tournament to support their mission.

High Hopes
https://www.highhopesforkids.org

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
www.thehooverteam.com