We Are For Good Podcast – Episode 611 Summary

Title: BlinkNow: A Journey of Love + Sustainable Community Development
Guest: Maggie Doyne, Humanitarian, Activist, Co-founder and CEO of Blink Now Foundation
Release Date: March 24, 2025

Introduction and Guest Background

In this inspiring episode, hosts John McCoy and Becky Endicott welcome Maggie Doyne, a remarkable humanitarian and the driving force behind the Blink Now Foundation. Becky introduces Maggie’s extraordinary journey, highlighting her achievements as a CNN Hero of the Year (2015), Forbes 30 Under 30 Social Entrepreneur, and recognition from the Dalai Lama as an unsung hero of compassion. Maggie is also the author of Between the Mountain and the Sky, A Mother Story of Love, Loss, Healing, and Hope, which is being adapted into a groundbreaking documentary now making waves on the festival circuit.

The Genesis of Blink Now

Maggie recounts her transformative experience at 19 years old during a gap year after high school. What began as a backpacking adventure led her to a small village in Nepal, where she encountered impoverished children, including a girl laboring to crush stones in a riverbed. "Once you see something, like a five-year-old breaking rocks, you just know you have to act" (Becky, 04:09). This pivotal moment ignited her passion to make a tangible difference, leading her to establish the Blink Now Foundation alongside her co-founder, Top Mala—a respected Nepalese man with deep community ties.

Community-Centered Approach

Maggie emphasizes the foundation's unique approach to community development, rooted in deep listening and collaboration. She explains, “Everything we did was with the intention of how do we go deep and stop these problems from happening in the first place” (Maggie, 10:02). Rather than imposing solutions, Blink Now works alongside community leaders to address the multifaceted challenges faced by children and their families. This holistic strategy includes:

• Kopila Valley Children's Home: Providing a safe and loving environment for homeless and orphaned children.
• Education Programs: Currently educating over 400 children, the foundation emphasizes comprehensive education beyond basic schooling.
• Women’s Center and Health Programs: Empowering women through education, job creation, and health initiatives to foster financial equality and community resilience.

Impact and Growth of Blink Now

Since its inception in 2007, Blink Now has grown to employ 175 staff members, serving thousands of Nepalese children, women, and community members. Maggie shares, “Children need to be loved, nurtured, treasured, kept safe, educated, and at the heart and center of all communities” (Maggie, 10:02). This child-centric philosophy has eradicated child labor in the region, transforming lives and breaking cycles of poverty and violence. The foundation's success is evidenced by its ability to attract 3,000 annual visitors eager to learn and support its mission.

Philanthropy and Agency

Maggie delves into the essence of meaningful philanthropy, advocating for empowering communities rather than merely providing aid. “Philanthropy is just doing one small thing and not even having the answer... but knowing that that one small act, that one small step can lead you to something else” (Maggie, 35:49). She stresses the importance of granting agency to those on the front lines, allowing communities to define their own needs and solutions. This approach fosters sustainability and ensures that interventions are culturally and contextually appropriate.

Documentary and Storytelling

A significant highlight of the conversation is Maggie’s upcoming documentary, Between the Mountain and the Sky. She narrates the emotional journey of creating the film, which captures her personal story of love, loss, and resilience. “The film is the story of love, motherhood, loss, hope... it's everything I could have ever wished for” (Maggie, 31:22). The documentary not only showcases the foundation's impact but also serves as a legacy piece for future generations, reinforcing the power of storytelling in driving social change.

Final Insights and Call to Action

In closing, Maggie offers profound insights on maintaining hope and purpose amidst global challenges. She reflects, “Children are our greatest teachers... they are the anchor in this moment and this hope and belief that we can come together for them” (Maggie, 22:50). Maggie encourages listeners to take small, meaningful actions to support children and communities worldwide. Her final mantra resonates deeply: “Look at a child's face today. Watch them smile. Watch their wonder, watch their presence and learn from it” (Maggie, 39:51).

Supporting Blink Now

Maggie invites listeners to support Blink Now through various means:

• Become a Monthly Supporter: Contribute at any level to sustain the foundation’s efforts.
• Attend the Blink Now Summit: Engage with like-minded individuals and learn more about sustainable community development.
• Volunteer Opportunities: Participate in camps and other initiatives to directly impact children’s lives.
• Follow Blink Now: Stay updated through blinknow.org and the upcoming documentary launches.

Conclusion

This episode of the We Are For Good Podcast offers a heartfelt and comprehensive look into Maggie Doyne’s dedication to transforming lives through the Blink Now Foundation. Her story is a testament to the power of empathy, community collaboration, and the enduring impact of investing in our children’s futures. Whether you’re a nonprofit professional, philanthropist, or a passionate world changer, Maggie’s journey provides invaluable inspiration and actionable insights to fuel your mission for good.

Notable Quotes:

• Becky Endicott (04:09): "Once you see something, like a five-year-old breaking rocks, you just know you have to act."
• Maggie Doyne (10:02): “Children need to be loved, nurtured, treasured, kept safe, educated, and at the heart and center of all communities.”
• Maggie Doyne (35:49): “Philanthropy is just doing one small thing and not even having the answer... but knowing that that one small act, that one small step can lead you to something else.”
• Maggie Doyne (22:50): “Children are our greatest teachers... they are the anchor in this moment and this hope and belief that we can come together for them.”
• Maggie Doyne (39:51): “Look at a child's face today. Watch them smile. Watch their wonder, watch their presence and learn from it.”

For more information on supporting Blink Now and to watch the upcoming documentary, visit blinknow.org.