Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Jerry Rosa, Operations Director for Nashville Diaper Connection, who discusses the organization’s efforts and mission “to connect families with diapers because every baby deserves a healthy start.” Jerry explains how Nashville Diaper Connection began in 2013 when founder Doug Adair identified diaper need as a critical unmet community requirement, growing from distributing 18,000 diapers in a garage to now providing 4.5 million diapers annually across 28 counties, serving approximately 7,000 babies monthly. The organization operates through three main programs: community partnerships with 50 organizations, health connections providing diapers as incentives for medical visits, and Diapers for Diploma offering 200 diapers monthly to 25 campus students. Jerry shares personal stories from deliveries demonstrating the significant impact of their work, including a scene where families waited over an hour for diaper distribution. The organization’s core values focus on dignity, equity, and strong community partnerships, with volunteers contributing 9,000 hours annually to help package diapers for distribution.
Nashville Diaper Connection Impact Overview – Jeremy and Jerry discuss Nashville Diaper Connection’s history and impact. Founded in 2013 by Doug Adair, the organization has grown from distributing 18,000 diapers in its first year to 4.5 million diapers last year, helping approximately 7,000 babies monthly. Jerry explains that the need for diapers remains significant due to both their high cost and the health issues that arise when families lack access to clean diapers. The organization operates through partner organizations and upholds core values of dignity, equity, and strong community partnerships.
Diaper Distribution Program Overview – Jerry explains the organization’s diaper distribution process, noting that while donations are received, the majority of diapers are purchased using funds raised every three weeks. Volunteers package the diapers into bundles of 25, clocking 9,000 hours of work annually. The organization operates three programs: a community program partnering with 50 organizations, a connections program offering diapers as incentives for health visits, and a Diapers for Diploma program providing 200 diapers monthly to 25 campus students.
Diaper Distribution Expansion Plans – Jerry shares experiences from delivering diapers across 28 counties in Middle Tennessee, highlighting stories of need from schools, colleges, and clinics. He explains that diaper need spans all socioeconomic statuses, not just low-income families, and describes their goal to expand coverage to all 40 Middle Tennessee counties by 2030, having already distributed 4.5 million diapers last year with a target of 5.5 million this year.
Nashville Diaper Distribution Program – Jerry explains that diapers cost families approximately $100 per child per month, with many families having multiple children, making the expense challenging to afford. He describes how Nashville Diaper Connection works with community partners to distribute free diapers, noting they have already distributed 20 million diapers. Jerry highlights the significant need in the community, mentioning long lines at distribution events held monthly by partner organizations.
Diaper Drive Volunteer Opportunities – Jerry discusses upcoming volunteer opportunities, including the World’s Largest Diaper Drive in May aiming to collect 50,000 diapers and raise $30,000 in monetary donations. He explains that diaper distribution is a year-round need, with funding required every three weeks for truckloads of diapers. Jerry also mentions a corporate diaper wrapping event, the Corporate Wrap-Off Competition, scheduled for September 18th at The Putt Zone in Nashville, where teams can compete while supporting the mission.
Nashville Diaper Connection Support Initiative – Jerry shares how his personal background has deepened his understanding of the importance of supporting immigrant families in Nashville, particularly regarding basic needs like diapers. He emphasizes the significant impact Nashville Diaper Connection has in preventing health issues for children and highlighted the dedication of his team of nine who work tirelessly to meet community needs.
Nashville Diaper Connection Initiatives – Jerry provides information about Nashville Diaper Connection, including contact details (info@nashvillediaperconnection.org and nashvillediaperconnection.org) and current initiatives like the World’s Largest Diaper Drive and a potential “Putts for Butts” putting competition in June. He mentions their potty training initiative aimed at reducing diaper costs for families, particularly those needing daycare services, as well.
Visit https://www.nashvillediaperconnection... to learn more and get involved with Nashville Diaper Connection.
