On the latest episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, hosts Jessica Ausbrook and Kim Graves from Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union welcome Andrew Dulmes of the Kokomo Fire Department. They're talking about the annual 9/11 Memorial Tribute event, which brings the community together to honor local heroes and first responders. Andrew explains that the event features a series of challenges, including a stair climb (110 flights to match the World Trade Center), a 5K run, and a CrossFit workout. This year, they're also adding a Strongman Masters National Competition. All proceeds go to three different scholarships for first responders: the Marty Meyers Scholarship (Fire Department), the Deputy Carl Koontz Scholarship (Sheriff's Department), and the FOP Scholarship (Police Department). The event is a full team effort, with participation from the fire, police, and sheriff's departments, as well as dispatch. To register, donate, or volunteer, visit the Kokomo Fire Department's 9/11 Facebook page.

This week on The Ripple Effect Podcast, hosts Jessica Ausbrook and Kim Graves from Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union welcome a special guest, Shannon Spencer! Shannon is on a mission to empower the community with a powerful new grassroots organization, 100+ People Who Care in Howard County. Shannon explains how the group makes it easy to make a huge impact on local nonprofits. For just a $100 donation each quarter, members get to nominate their favorite nonprofits and vote for a winner. She details the unique process, including a five-minute pitch from finalists to ensure a level playing field without fancy presentations. Since starting in January, this incredible group has already given away over $40,000 to local causes, with recent winners including Bridges Outreach and Amy's Hope. What makes it so special is that the money is given directly to the winning organization on the very same night. Shannon emphasizes that this is a low-commitment way to make a big difference and see exactly where your money goes. The next vote is in September, and you can still join the movement! ️

On the latest episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, hosts Jessica Ausbrook and Kim Graves from Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union welcome a special guest, Travis Tacklinger from Bridges Outreach to discuss the organization's multifaceted work and a brand-new, exciting project. Travis shares that Bridges Outreach, which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, focuses on a holistic ministry for Kokomo's youth. The organization's four key areas include after-school programs, a mentoring program, a housing program that helps renters become homeowners, and a student employment initiative.❤️ The big announcement is the launch of Kokomo Little Links, an 18-hole mini-golf course with a shaved ice stand located at Cutler Park. This new student-run business, along with the existing Frozen Sandlot, will provide year-round internship and employment opportunities for high school and college students. The park itself is undergoing a major transformation, with new amenities including pickleball courts, tennis courts, and brand-new bathrooms, making it a major destination for both local residents and visitors from Championship Park. The new venue is set to open in the late summer, with a soft launch this fall and a full season planned for next year. Travis emphasizes that this project, a decades-old dream, was made possible by the incredible support and generosity of over 20 different community groups in Kokomo. ⛳