By Lesley Devoss—
MUNCIE, IN – Students from Ivy Tech Community College’s Human Services Group Process and Skills (HUMS 206) course recently completed a series of group sessions with justice-involved individuals at Delaware County Community Corrections (DCCC), focusing on the central theme of motivation and personal growth. The collaborative project provided an opportunity for students to apply classroom learning in a real-world setting while helping participants explore what it means to stay motivated in challenging circumstances.
Over 8 weeks, students facilitated and supported motivational group sessions designed to help individuals identify personal goals and develop strategies for change. Topics included the sources and barriers to motivation, the impact of positive and negative self-talk, and how to set and manage SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals.
“Our class has conducted and facilitated a motivation group that focused on what motivates, who motivates, and what can hinder someone’s motivation,” said student Angelica Lucio. “We also covered how to carry these goals forward even after the sessions end.”
Students took on active roles during each session—some serving as group leaders, others supporting and encouraging participation. “My group and I led the session on how to stay motivated, especially in environments that don’t exactly encourage success,” said Delena Main.
For many students, the experience offered powerful insight into the realities of working in the human services field. “What surprised me the most was how open all of the group members were and their willingness to participate,” said Jessica Barnes. “It gave me a better understanding of group facilitation and showed how important it is to create a safe space.”
The sessions also encouraged personal reflection and growth among students. “It has given me more perspective on working in the human services field,” said Barnes. “It’s one thing to read about it in a textbook and another to experience it firsthand.”
Despite challenges such as keeping discussions on track or addressing moments of resistance, students rose to the occasion. “The challenge was getting back on topic during group,” said Main. “We learned to redirect with encouragement and examples that helped the clients refocus.”
Melanie Wright, Program Chair for the Human Services Program, praised the collaboration for its educational and community impact, “This collaboration provided an invaluable opportunity for my students to apply their classroom learning in a real-world setting, building critical skills in group facilitation and client engagement. Working with justice-involved clients on motivation not only enhanced their professional development but also allowed them to make a meaningful impact in their community. It’s a true testament to the power of education and partnership in fostering growth and change.”
The collaboration between Ivy Tech and DCCC highlights the mutual benefits of community partnerships. Students gain hands-on experience while justice-involved individuals receive structured support aimed at personal development. “This kind of collaboration helps everyone grow,” said Lucio. “It gives clients a voice and students real-life experience that will carry into their future careers.”
“Having the student-run Motivation group at Delaware County Community Corrections provided an excellent opportunity for students to gain experience with facilitating in a group setting with a difficult population,” said Jayne Meranda, Executive Director of Delaware County Community Corrections. “Clients that participated in the groups reported a positive experience and enjoyed working with the students. Some even thanked us for putting them in the group. I hope this can be the start of a partnership with Ivy Tech giving the students experience in facilitating groups and the clients an opportunity to work with others aside from their Case Managers.”
Many students expressed that the experience has reaffirmed or refined their career goals. “I’ve wanted to help people my whole life,” said Lucio. “This program reminded me why I’m on this path and just how much of a difference support can make.”
As these future human services professionals prepare to enter the field, their message is clear: collaboration, compassion, and community engagement are essential to building a better future. “You are enough! Change isn’t easy, but it’s possible—and it all starts with you. Give it your best and keep pushing,” said Lucio, reflecting the hope and encouragement that shaped the tone of the group sessions.
To learn more about the Human Services Program at Ivy Tech Muncie-Henry County, visit online at ivytech.edu/muncie or email askmuncie@ivytech.edu today.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana’s largest public postsecondary institution and the nation’s largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state’s engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns to the needs of the community. The College provides seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a Bachelor’s degree. Follow Ivy Tech on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn for the most up-to-date information.
