Episode 18

full

Published on:

2nd Dec 2025

Spotlight on The Samaritan Inn: The Journey from Homelessness to Hope

In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd converses with Dana Riley, the donor relations manager for The Samaritan Inn, North Texas' largest nonprofit homeless program. They discuss the organization's strict yet transformative program requirements designed over its 42-year history, emphasizing financial independence, mental health counseling, and job readiness. Dana highlights the evolution of The Samaritan Inn from serving single men to accommodating families in a purpose-built campus. They delve into the organization's recent takeover of Community Lifeline Services, which includes a grocery store-style food pantry and emergency assistance programs. Dana shares heartening success stories and underscores the critical need for volunteer support and donations. The podcast also provides insights into common misconceptions about homelessness and how to effectively support nonprofit initiatives.

Links:

https://www.saminn.org

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-samaritan-inn

https://www.instagram.com/thesamaritaninncollincounty/#

https://www.facebook.com/SamaritanInn/

https://saminn.org/haw-week/

https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook

https://thenonprofitnook.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged

https://www.instagram.com/thenonprofitnook/

https://flodesk.com/c/G0H0UB

00:00 Introduction to The NonProfit Nook

01:15 Meet Dana Riley: Advocate for the Homeless

02:11 The History of the Samaritan Inn

07:42 Expanding Services: Community Lifeline Center

09:42 Unique Programs and Success Stories

20:02 How You Can Help the Samaritan Inn

23:34 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Mentioned in this episode:

All Episodes Previous Episode

Listen for free

RSS Feed Apple Podcasts

Show artwork for The NonProfit Nook

About the Podcast

The NonProfit Nook

Tools, Tips & Real Talk for Changemakers

Welcome to The NonProfit Nook — the podcast for nonprofit leaders, board members, staff, and community champions who want to strengthen their organizations and make a bigger impact... without burning out in the process.

I’m Wendy Kidd—business owner for over 20 years and nonprofit leader for just as long. I created this show because I know how overwhelming it can be to lead a nonprofit. Most of us didn’t get into this work thinking we’d be running a business—we just wanted to help people. But the truth is, running a nonprofit *is* running a business, and I’m here to help make that part easier.

Each week on The NonProfit Nook, you’ll get real talk and real tools.
We’ll dive into the nuts and bolts of nonprofit management—strategic planning, budgeting, board engagement, donor communication, volunteer recruitment, and more. No fluff—just practical advice and conversations that help you work smarter and lead with confidence.

You’ll also hear:
- Stories from inspiring North Texas nonprofits and the local heroes behind them
- Tips from experts on marketing, digital tools, DEI, nonprofit culture, and sustainable leadership
- Real conversations about burnout, boundaries, time management, and self-care—because leadership shouldn’t feel lonely

Whether you're leading a nonprofit, supporting one, or just passionate about the mission, The NonProfit Nook will give you the tools, encouragement, and inspiration you need to thrive.

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review to support the show, and follow us on social media @thenonprofitnook for more nonprofit insights, stories, and resources.

Let’s make nonprofit life a little easier—and a lot more impactful.

About your host

Wendy Kidd

Wendy Kidd is a seasoned event planner, nonprofit leader, and small business consultant with over 20 years of experience helping organizations thrive. As the host of The NonProfit Nook, she draws on her deep knowledge of running a business, fundraising, volunteer engagement, and community building to share practical strategies and inspiring stories with nonprofit leaders.

Passionate about equipping nonprofit professionals with the tools they need to create lasting change, Wendy brings an approachable, encouraging style to every episode—making complex topics simple and actionable.