Articles by Mike Rhodes

By Missy Modesitt, Executive Director, Muncie BY5— MUNCIE, IN—Indiana’s early childhood care system is spiraling into chaos. From massive economic losses to unbearable burdens on families and providers, the situation is not only unsustainable—it’s indefensible. A recent report revealed the lack of reliable child care is costing Indiana more than $4.2 billion each year. These losses stem from working parents being forced to miss shifts, reduce hours, or quit their jobs entirely due to inconsistent or unaffordable care options. It’s not a theoretical problem—it’s happening in real time across the state. Nearly sixty percent of parents report missing work because…

By Molly Ford Flodder— MUNCIE, IN—Building on the success of a 50th anniversary Ice Cream Social last June and the current effort to raise money for a new outdoor basketball court,the Center is hosting a Scoops for Hoops event, set for Saturday, June 21, from 4-6 p.m. The event will offer free hotdogs, free ice cream sundaes, a raffle, and many activities for children and families. The staff hopes for more than the 300 who attended an ice cream social last year. Again, the location will be at the Center at 1110 W. 10th Street in Muncie. One of the…

By Theda Parker— MUNCIE, IN—JobSource is proud to announce the appointment of Ashley Soldaat as the new director of Muncie Scholar House. With deep roots in the Muncie community, extensive leadership experience, and a longstanding commitment to serving the region’s most vulnerable families, Soldaat brings a powerful vision and proven expertise to the role. “I am honored to step into the role of director at Muncie ScholarHouse,” said Soldaat. “Supporting vulnerable families has always been at the heart of my work, and I’m excited to continue that mission in a new way  by empowering student parents to achieve their educational…

By WaTasha Barnes Griffin, CEO, YWCA Central Indiana— MUNCIE, IN—YWCA Central Indiana has been recognized by PathStone Corporation for its outstanding partnership, ongoing contributions, and unwavering support of shared community goals. During the Annual Partnership Luncheon hosted by PathStone, YWCA was presented with a special honor acknowledging its leadership in advancing equity, empowering women, and families, and helping build stronger, more resilient communities in Central Indiana. PathStone Corporation, a national nonprofit dedicated to community development and self-sufficiency for underserved populations, commended YWCA Central Indiana for its collaborative spirit and commitment to addressing housing insecurity, workforce development, and the needs of women…