Wendy Chase Arenson, J.D., CSPG, is a highly accomplished executive and legal professional currently serving as the Executive Director and President of the Jewish Community Foundation of Orange County (JCFOC). Since stepping into her role in 2012, Wendy has provided strategic and operational leadership that has transformed the Foundation, increasing its assets by 190% and spearheading initiatives like the Life & Legacy program, which secured over 1,000 future gift commitments for local Jewish organizations. Her expertise combines sharp legal acumen with a deep-seated passion for community collaboration.

On this deeply insightful episode, host Jeanne Pepper is joined by Erin Runnion, the Founding Director of The Joyful Child Foundation—In Memory of Samantha Runnion. This impactful 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization is dedicated to the essential mission of preventing crimes against children through comprehensive programs focused on education, awareness, and empowerment for children, parents, and communities.

The foundation's genesis is rooted in a profound and tragic loss that Erin Runnion experienced: the abduction, sexual assault, and murder of her beloved five-year-old daughter, Samantha Runnion, on July 15, 2002. Samantha was an artistic, bright, and joyful little girl, and her tragic death became a national news story. Despite enduring unimaginable grief, Erin made the courageous choice to channel her pain into proactive advocacy for child safety. Within weeks of her daughter's passing, she focused her energy on creating a lasting legacy for Samantha and ensuring her death would be a catalyst for positive change in the world.