In this enlightening episode of the "Inspiring Good" podcast, explore the profound impact of community engagement and leadership within Elkhart County, Indiana. The episode features philanthropist, board member, and leader Will Weed. It delves into how the generosity and dedication of local leaders have created a thriving network of nonprofit organizations. Listen as our guest discusses his experiences and contributions, sharing insights into the vital role of nonprofits in supporting mental health, education, and childhood development.

00:00:06: Introduction to the Inspiring Good Podcast

00:00:20: Introducing the hosts, Marshall King and Kevin Deary

00:00:27: Introducing the guest, Will Weed

00:00:41: Will's contributions to nonprofit organizations

00:01:38: Will’s experience growing up in Elkhart County and in a family business

00:03:36: Will's motivation to get involved in nonprofit sector

00:05:48: Challenges in the nonprofit sector

00:08:27: Formation of Stable Grounds nonprofit

00:11:00: Will’s involvement and support for Stable Grounds

00:14:52: Measuring success in nonprofits

00:17:01: Importance of cross-collaboration in the community

00:19:24: Introduction and shared services for nonprofits

00:20:23: Personal collaboration and leadership style

00:20:55: Creating stability and transparency in Elkhart County

00:22:22: Importance of addressing broader issues for effective solutions

00:23:12: Leadership qualities and board involvement

00:24:07: Stepping up in unexpected situations

00:25:11: Value of attending regional Boys and Girls Club conferences

00:25:51: Prioritizing giving and values in the decision-making process

00:28:05: Opportunistic giving and supporting new leaders

00:29:12: Returning on investment in philanthropic efforts

00:29:22: Service in Horizon Educational Alliance

00:30:36: College dropout rates and alternative pathways

00:33:52: Appreciation for community involvement

00:34:30: Vision for Elkhart County's future

00:36:02: Show credits

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This show is a production of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County. It is powered by equipment from Sweetwater and recorded in the Viaggio Studio at weIMPACT in Elkhart's River District. Editing is done by the award-winning communication students at Goshen College, home of one of the best college radio stations in the nation. Listen to Globe Radio at 91.1 FM. Learn more about the Community Foundation of Elkhart County at inspiringgood.org You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Music is provided by Sensational Sounds. Thanks for listening. We hope you are inspired and inspire good and your community.

In this episode, we delve into the extraordinary work of Elkhart County Jail Ministry and its commitment to transforming lives. Our conversation starts with a detailed introduction to the ministry's initiatives, highlighting how individuals are provided with opportunities and support to lead meaningful lives post-incarceration. We'll explore the impactful journey of Cory Martin, the chaplain and CEO, who transitioned from a congressional aide to a jail chaplain with a mission of humanitarian service. The episode sheds light on the deeply personal experiences that shaped Corey’s path and his innovative approach toward rehabilitation.

00:00:28: Introduction of Cory Martin

00:00:35: Cory's background and transformation of jail ministry

00:01:10: Overview of Elkhart County Jail and ministry activities

00:02:18: History of the Elkhart County Jail Ministry

00:03:05: Cory's journey to becoming the chaplain

00:04:00: The impact of relationships on Cory's chaplaincy

00:05:05: COVID-19's impact on the jail ministry

00:06:00: Challenges faced by released inmates

00:08:00: Importance of stable housing and reentry homes

00:10:00: Stigma and challenges of having a felony conviction

00:12:00: Purpose and redemption in jail ministry

00:14:08: Creative initiatives in the jail ministry

00:16:29: The impact of music and art in telling inmate stories

00:18:00: Recidivism rates and inmate transformations

00:19:02: Success stories of former inmates like Bobby and Lisa

00:20:17: Introduction to the jail ministry services

00:20:46: Defining success in the Elkhart County Jail Ministry

00:22:26: The impact of redefining success

00:23:02: Engagement with local churches and assistant chaplains

00:25:07: Introduction to the crocheting program

00:27:04: Changing stereotypes through proximity

00:28:10: Vision for new ministry projects

00:30:11: Creating support communities for the formerly incarcerated

00:31:29: Finding hope in unexpected places

00:33:19: Conclusion and credits

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This show is a production of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County. It is powered by equipment from Sweetwater and recorded in the Viaggio Studio at weIMPACT in Elkhart's River District. Editing is done by the award-winning communication students at Goshen College, home of one of the best college radio stations in the nation. Listen to Globe Radio at 91.1 FM. Learn more about the Community Foundation of Elkhart County at inspiringgood.org You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Music is provided by Sensational Sounds. Thanks for listening. We hope you are inspired and inspire good and your community.

In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast, join us as we delve into the heartwarming and impactful work of First Light Mission. Established as the Goshen Interfaith Hospitality Network in 1995, the organization has grown exponentially, now providing much-needed shelter, support, and resources to unhoused families in the Goshen area. With Mindy Morehead, who leads the organization, we discuss the mission's evolution, current operations, and profound impact on the community, offering a beacon of hope during challenging times.

00:00:30: Introduction to First Light Mission

00:00:50: Mindy’s connection and role at First Light Mission

00:01:09: Overview of First Light Mission’s services

00:01:47: History of First Light Mission

00:02:54: Increased need for services and crisis calls

00:04:14: Staff and family involvement in First Light

00:05:27: Transition to a new facility

00:07:22: Partnerships and community support

00:09:01: Community generosity and donations

00:11:01: Importance of new clothing for guests

00:12:23: Transformational changes at First Light

00:13:06: Expansion plans and addressing housing needs

00:14:00: Additional programmatic services

00:15:05: Requirements for guests

00:17:06: Interaction and support among guests

00:18:05: Significance of handmade quilts

00:18:37: Cleanliness and order at First Light

00:19:13: Forced transitions and the importance of First Light

00:20:12: The origin of the name "First Light"

00:20:37: Discussing the organization's logo and visuals

00:20:47: Mindy's support system and self-care

00:21:37: Challenges faced during Covid

00:24:19: Homelessness in Elkhart County

00:26:12: Success stories from First Light

00:27:36: How to connect and support First Light

00:28:38: Advice for new CEOs

00:30:16: What gives Mindy hope

00:31:00: Show credits and acknowledgments

Send us a text

This show is a production of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County. It is powered by equipment from Sweetwater and recorded in the Viaggio Studio at weIMPACT in Elkhart's River District. Editing is done by the award-winning communication students at Goshen College, home of one of the best college radio stations in the nation. Listen to Globe Radio at 91.1 FM. Learn more about the Community Foundation of Elkhart County at inspiringgood.org You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Music is provided by Sensational Sounds. Thanks for listening. We hope you are inspired and inspire good and your community.