Healing the World from Louisville: The SOS Model

Made possible by The Lou Review Foundation Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting local businesses and nonprofits by amplifying their mission through storytelling.In this inspiring episode of The Lou Review Podcast, host Rosa Hart sits down with Denise Sears, President and CEO of SOS (Supplies Over Seas) — a Louisville-based nonprofit transforming surplus medical supplies into life-saving resources around the world and in our own backyard.Denise shares her fascinating journey from international economics to nonprofit leadership, and how she helped evolve SOS from its original mission of international aid to a dual focus that now includes addressing local health inequities in Louisville.Throughout their conversation, Denise and Rosa explore:The power of partnerships and how accreditation has helped build trust with hospitals and global organizations.The critical importance of ethical practices in the medical supply chain.How volunteers are the heartbeat of SOS’s mission, creating meaningful connections both locally and globally.SOS’s approach to disaster relief, from hurricane zones to conflict areas, and how community-specific solutions save lives.Real-life stories of hope and transformation that remind us why this work matters.This episode is a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of health and community well-being, and ends with a call to action: support your local initiatives and consider how your time, talents, or donations can make a global impact.🌟 Episode Takeaways:SOS was founded in 1993, focused on international medical aid.Denise Sears has expanded SOS to include local health initiatives in Louisville.Accreditation has helped forge stronger hospital partnerships.A reputation for quality has increased global collaboration.Ethical distribution of medical supplies is a core value.Volunteers are essential to SOS’s mission and local outreach.Disaster relief efforts are customized to fit community needs.SOS’s work changes lives — with stories to prove it.Addressing local health needs promotes community prosperity.Health and community well-being are deeply interconnected.🔗 Learn more about SOS or get involved at https://soshealthandhope.org💛 This episode is brought to you by The Lou Review Foundation Inc., committed to building a stronger community by telling the stories that matter most.🎧 Listen, share, and support local.