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. ⛳

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, Kyle Gibson from The Coterie! Kyle shares the exciting details of the free Riverwalk Concert Series in Kokomo, an initiative he started in 2020 because he believes live music truly brings people together and makes them happy. These popular events are held at the Riverwalk amphitheater, offering a fantastic community gathering space. The series features eight Saturday concerts throughout the summer, each showcasing two bands with a diverse range of musical styles, from R&B and funk to country and bluegrass. Beyond the fantastic music, attendees can enjoy delicious burgers (including unique options like peanut butter and cookie butter burgers!), beers, and, for the first time, cocktails—all accessible within Kokomo's Dora area. The events also highlight local artists and vendors, creating a vibrant atmosphere that goes beyond just the concert. Kyle encourages everyone to come out and enjoy the good times, bringing friends, family, and even dogs. You can find the full lineup and more details at The Coterie website as well as Facebook and Instagram!

On the latest episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, hosts Jessica Ausbrook and Kim Graves from Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union welcome special guest Jason Braun from Dad Camp! Discover how Dad Camp, founded right here in Kokomo in 2006, empowers fathers through unique weekend experiences, fostering stronger family bonds. What started as a local effort has exploded globally, now serving over 15,000 dads and kids in 21 countries! Learn how getting fathers more engaged transforms families and communities, creating a powerful ripple effect far beyond expectations. Jason shares a powerful story of how Dad Camp indirectly led to fathers in Kenya showing up to parenting classes for the very first time, showcasing the profound global reach of their work. ✨ You can support this impactful mission by volunteering or donating at Dadcamp.org, helping to scholarship dads and expand their vital work. Tune in to hear how this Kokomo-born initiative is truly making a difference, one dad and one family at a time! ❤️

This week on The Ripple Effect Podcast, hosts Jessica Ausbrook and Kim Graves from Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union welcome special guest Pastor Joel Larison from Bridgeway Church Kokomo! Bridgeway Church is committed to being a "safe church for everyone," especially for those who've felt disconnected from faith. ️ Joel emphasizes that their mission is not just about sermons, but about being an "outward-facing church" that deeply impacts the community. He reveals an incredible initiative where Bridgeway partnered to wipe out over $1.1 million in medical debt for nearly 600 families across seven surrounding Indiana counties! They also provide hot meals and groceries for families weekly and host community events like a parking lot party and a free kids' camp. Tune in to hear how Bridgeway Church is actively being part of the solution and making a profound difference in Kokomo! ✨

This week on The Ripple Effect Podcast, hosts Jessica Ausbrook and Kim Graves from Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union sit down with Alan T. Girton from the Rotary Club of Kokomo! Alan uncovers the true essence of Rotary: a vibrant service organization uniting diverse business professionals and individuals of all ages. Discover how they foster friendships, support both local and global communities, and make everyone better. They highlight Rotary's incredible impact, from their involvement with Buddy Bags (including a new joint sponsorship with United Way for a delivery trailer! ) to their commitment to teaching valuable life skills. Alan shares how Rotary meetings offer engaging speakers and unique social gatherings, like the 531 Club. Learn how you can join this impactful group, whether you're a seasoned professional, a retiree, or new to town, and become part of a network that's building stronger bonds and a better community.

This week on The Ripple Effect Podcast, hosts Jessica Ausbrook and Kim Graves from Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union welcome a special guest: Jodie Smith from Purdue Extension - Howard County! Get ready to learn everything about 4-H and the upcoming Howard County 4-H Fair from July 7th to the 11th! Jodi debunks myths, explaining that 4-H is much more than just animals and farms, with 80 diverse projects from baking and woodworking to graphic design and even shooting sports. Jessica even shares her own 4-H triumphs, including a Grand Champion win! Discover how 4-H builds lifelong skills, fosters leadership, and offers amazing opportunities for kids (and even adults!) to explore their passions. You won't want to miss seeing all the hard work these young innovators have put in! ✨