

609. People, Place, Practice, Policy: RestoreOKC's Community-Led Model - Caylee Dodson
Meet Caylee, Co-Founder and Executive Director of RestoreOKC. Caylee joins us to share how she and her team have taken a radically different, community-led approach to addressing complex, systemic issues in their city. It's a powerful case study on how data can be a helpful tool (but not the driver), how grassroots programs are transforming access to education, jobs, and housing, and how meaningful partnerships are key to lasting change. 🤝
Their work has sparked sustainable, community-led development that’s been recognized with state and national awards—including Caylee being named USA Today’s Oklahoma Woman of the Year. ⭐ This one is a must-listen for anyone passionate about driving systemic change and building more just, thriving communities. 🎧 Live now!
💡Learn:
- RestoreOKC’s “people, place, practice, policy” framework for community-led change
- The importance of centering community voice and lived experience in program development
- How partnerships and collaboration help address complex, systemic challenges
- Practical tips for self-care as a nonprofit leader
Episode Highlights:
- Caylee Dodson's Journey and Formative Experiences (2:54)
- RestoreOKC's Community-Led Approach (13:00)
- How RestoreOKC leverages partnerships and collaborations to address systemic issues (22:00)
- Place-Based Approaches to Community Development (30:19)
- Self-Care in Nonprofit Leadership (39:37)
- A Powerful Moment of Philanthropy in Caylee's Life (35:00)
- Caylee's One Good Thing: Be a presence of radical warmth and hospitality. (37:00)
Explore the Episode Shownotes: www.weareforgood.com/episode/609
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