DGS EP08 - Movements Begin with You: Doing Good One Step at a Time

In this week’s episode of Doing Good Is Simple, Chris Marlow is joined by two long-time friends and integral members of Help One Now, Brennan and Lamar. 

Together, they reflect on their journeys with the organization, discuss the deep, transformational work being done across communities, and explore how the simplest acts of kindness can lead to profound change. 

As they delve into the heart of the Help One Now mission, they highlight the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and the belief that small steps lead to big transformations.

• The Beginnings of Help One Now:

Brennan and Lamar’s journey with Help One Now began in the early 2010s, starting with volunteer trips to Haiti. 

Their first trips were full of humble lessons, discovering that empowering local leaders to create lasting change was the key to transforming communities.

• The "Thin Space" Concept:

Lamar and Brennan share their reflections on what they call “thin spaces”—moments when the gap between the human experience and the divine feels especially close. These moments happen during deep relationships and shared struggles, like those witnessed on the ground in Haiti and other countries where Help One Now works.

• Building Ferry Village in Haiti:

One of the most touching stories shared was the creation of Ferry Village in Haiti, a project focused on providing safe homes for children rescued from trafficking. Brennan and Lamar discuss the challenges of the early days, when the land was barren and the community was in its infancy. 

Today, the village is thriving, offering not only a safe space for children but also education and opportunities for growth.

• The Importance of Longevity in Nonprofit Work:

As the Help One Now team celebrates over 15 years of impact, Brennan reflects on the importance of long-term commitment. 

While Western culture often craves instant gratification, the true work of transforming communities is a marathon, not a sprint. The ongoing success of the organization is a testament to the dedication of its partners, donors, and leaders.

• The Role of Small Acts in Creating Big Change:

One of the guiding principles of Help One Now is the idea that change doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful. 

Small actions like raising funds through garage sales, investing in local businesses, and offering time and resources are what have built the foundation for large-scale transformation.

At the heart of this episode is a powerful reminder that doing good doesn’t require grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s the small, seemingly insignificant steps that create the greatest impact. 

Whether it’s supporting local leaders, investing in children’s futures, or simply saying “yes” to an idea that feels uncertain, every contribution matters. The story of Help One Now proves that with commitment and perseverance, we can build lasting change one person, one family, and one community at a time.

As Brennan, Lamar, and Chris highlight, we are all part of something bigger than ourselves. And if we remain dedicated, even the smallest efforts can spark a movement of transformation. 

It’s time to take that first step, no matter how small, and join a movement that is changing the world.

This Show is sponsored by Help One Now

Check out our Live Show Events here: LinkedIn & Youtube

Subscribe to our Newsletter: Doing Good Is Simple Newsletter