Whitko School Corporation School Resource Officer Tim Clark shares how the Community Foundation helped get Jake to assist with connecting with students.

By Deb Patterson
InkFreeNews

WARSAW — “Us in Motion 2021” was the theme of the Kosciusko County Community Foundation’s virtual celebration Tuesday, Nov. 9. The presentation, done via video, featured the impact of grants to two non-profit organizations — Whitko School Corporation School Resource Officer and Fellowship Missions.

There were highlights from the last fiscal year, introduction of foundation team members and new board members. Recognition was also given to retiring board member Marlene Mulero-Betances who served on the board from September 2011 until Nov. 21. She was involved in donor relations, grant applications, governance and the executive committee. She was presented a plaque commemorating her service.

Whitko School Resource Officer Tim Clark discussed how the foundation assisted him in acquiring a K-9 partner and vehicle to help with duties with the Whitko School Corporation. Clark had observed the reaction of students when the principal briefly brought her dog to school one day. The students, who normally would not interact with a school principal, appeared drawn to her and the dog. “I had the idea this would be a great way to break the ice with the kids,” he stated.

John Warren, board member, presents Marlene Mulero-Betances with a recognition plaque of her 10 years on the foundation board.

South Whitley Police Department did not have the funds, but he was given the approval to get a dog and a special vehicle if the funds could be raised. He reached out to the Community Foundation.

Clark was provided contact options and grant opportunities. Through the foundation’s assistance, Jake, his K-9 partner was purchased. Since the introduction of Jake to the students, a change in students has been observed.

Assistant Principal Jonathan Baker and Natalie Stewart, mental health therapist for the school, shared what they have witnessed between students and Jake, the connections students have with Clark and Jake.

Eric Lane, founder and executive director of Fellowship Missions, explained how the foundation helped when COVID hit and 46 individuals were confined in a less than 9,000 square foot building. The foundation provided a grant to aid in moving residents to Camp Mack and Camp Crosley.

Through the foundation, he connected with Camp Crosley and Camp Mack in partnerships to help house individuals during COVID. The move was seamless and effortless. “We watched substance abuse triggers disappear, those who never opened up become comfortable talking.”

Mark Battig, executive director of Camp Crosley, added to the story of how the partnership helped them become who they were, a social gathering place.

Additionally, the foundation provided $20,000 in support of Fellowship Mission’s additional recovery services.

Stephanie Overby, executive director, noted during the last fiscal year, donors gave nearly $8 million and 24 new funds were created. More than $6.3 million was given out in grants to areas of education, arts/culture, faith, environmental, health, recreation and human resources. There was $653,000 in scholarships given to 168 students and COVID relief grants were awarded to 35 nonprofit organizations.

Receipt of a $4.5 million grant from the Lilly Foundation for the Working Together Initiative to deal with employment, housing, job training, affordable childcare and attracting workforce talent was announced.

Team members and their duties were introduced as were existing board members and three new board members.

Kevin Deardorff, board president, who provided opening and closing comments, noted the 2022 annual celebration is planned to be in person.