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Discover RVR's achievements through inspiring Success Stories of individuals who have risen to fortune, acclaim, or remarkable accomplishments. More Success Stories Heaven Cantwell & Skyler Watson Through River Valley Resources Adult Education, Boot Camp, Heaven Cantwell and Skyler Watson not only earned their HSED credentials; they also built a friendship, a support system, and a brighter future for themselves and their families. After enrolling in HSED classes in December, both young women remained dedicated to their educational goals while balancing the responsibilities of being working mothers. Despite the challenges of work, family life, and returning to school, Heaven and Skyler stayed committed and successfully earned their High School Equivalency Diplomas. After enrolling in HSED classes in December, both young women remained dedicated to their educational goals while balancing the responsibilities of being working mothers. Despite the challenges of work, family life, and returning to school, Heaven and Skyler stayed committed and successfully earned their High School Equivalency Diplomas. During their time in the program, the two discovered a shared passion for helping others and quickly realized they both dreamed of pursuing careers in healthcare. Motivated by their determination to create better opportunities for themselves and their children, Heaven and Skyler applied to Beckfield College and were accepted into the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing program, beginning classes on April 6th. Through WIOA Youth, Young Adult Services, and supportive service funding, assistance was provided to help support their transition into college and career training. Funds helped cover essential items needed for success in nursing school, including laptops, bags, and shoes. Heaven and Skyler’s journey is a powerful example of perseverance, resilience, and the impact of supportive education and workforce programs. As working mothers, they have shown tremendous determination in overcoming obstacles while continuing to pursue their goals and invest in their futures. River Valley Resources is incredibly proud of Heaven and Skyler as they begin this exciting new chapter toward careers in nursing. Their story highlights how education, encouragement, and support services can help individuals achieve life-changing success while inspiring those around them. My Success Story

Discover RVR's achievements through inspiring Success Stories of individuals who have risen to fortune, acclaim, or remarkable accomplishments. More Success Stories Dalton At just 18 years old, Dalton came to River Valley Resources with determination and a clear goal: to earn his High School Equivalency Diploma and begin building a stable future. When he enrolled in Adult Education, he faced several barriers, including limited work history, unemployment, low income, and unreliable transportation due to his truck being out of service. Despite these challenges, Dalton remained focused and committed to changing his circumstances. Through hard work and perseverance, Dalton successfully earned his HSED, graduating on May 20. With his education milestone achieved, he turned his attention to gaining real-world work experience. He was placed in a Work Experience (WEX) position with North Vernon Parks and Recreation, serving as a maintenance worker and learning valuable hands-on skills. Before beginning his WEX placement, Dalton completed career readiness workshops, including interviewing, workplace expectations, and soft skills training. These sessions helped him build confidence and prepare for success on the job. To ensure he had what he needed to start strong, he also received supportive services for essential work items such as boots, jeans, a lunchbox, thermos, and sweatshirt. Dalton quickly proved himself to be a dependable and hardworking team member. His supervisor consistently praised his performance and was so impressed that he planned to meet with the Parks Director to discuss the possibility of bringing Dalton on as a permanent employee. Since enrolling in the program, Dalton has achieved several major accomplishments: Earned his HSED Successfully completed his WEX placement Repaired his truck, restoring reliable transportation Built work experience and strong employer references Dalton’s journey reflects the power of determination and the impact of supportive education and workforce programs. His progress shows what is possible when young adults are given the tools, guidance, and encouragement they need to succeed. With his strong work ethic and growing confidence, Dalton’s future looks bright—and this is only the beginning. My Success Story

Discover RVR's achievements through inspiring Success Stories of individuals who have risen to fortune, acclaim, or remarkable accomplishments. More Success Stories Document Arllo Harrison Document Wilder Oswald Document Tina Kinirsky Document Jordan Kinsler Document Document Tasha Theetge Skylar Watson Document Dalton Success story Kristy Hay Kristy Hay is a student at Ivy Tech Community College. She has already completed her technical certificate and is nearing completion of her AAS in business administration. She will complete her associates in the summer and begin her bachelors in the fall of 2025, thanks to the new partnership of Ivy Tech Madison and IU Southeast. Through Ivy Tech’s work study program, she came to join River Valley Resources as an intern for our CEO Konnie McCullum in August of 2024. However, this is not her first experience with RVR. In 2014 she graduated from RVR’s Rural Works program, which is a program devoted to educating community members about resume writing, interview skills and how to best present and explain past obstacles. She is still utilizing the skills she learned through Rural Works today! Kristy’s journey has not been an easy one. In 2014 through 2016, Kristy was an inmate at Rockville Correctional Facility, upon her release in 2016 she worked hard to change the direction of her life. In 2022, she decided to return to college and has met many milestones since then. She is a straight A student with a GPA of 3.65 and has been on the Dean’s list 5 semesters, including last fall semester. She is hopeful to be joining RVR as a full time employee once she finishes school. My Success Story

River Valley Resources, workforce development, nonprofit organization, job training, adult education, community resources, employment services, career readiness, economic development. Taste of the Town SEPT 14 | 5:30-8PM Learn More Purchase Tickets SPONSORED BY Our Mission Meeting Needs. Finding Solutions. Building Lives. Learn More Our Events Register & Help Make Change Learn More Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate Learn More Procurment Request for Proposals (RFP) Learn More We strongly believe in the value of evidence-based practices. Providing vital tools and resources needed for your success. Are you ready to seize new opportunities and elevate your career? Or are you a business owner looking to enhance your team's skills? We provide the tools and resources to support you, no matter your role or stage in your professional journey. Explore the offerings available for individuals and employers below, and connect with a Navigator for personalized assistance to guide you toward success. For Individuals For Employers Adult Education Offers free programs that teach math, reading, science, social studies, and writing. These programs help adults earn a high school equivalency diploma, pursue college, or enter entry-level certification. Learn More Business Services Provide individuals with training and career services, and partner with businesses to develop solutions to address their talent needs. The services are based on eligibility and funding available. Learn More Child Care Assistance The federal Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) and On My Way Pre-K, River Valley Resources assistance offers resources that increase child care availability, affordability, and quality. Learn More Clearinghouse The Clearinghouse is located in Madison, Indiana. The project began in 2007 and now involves over 100 partners working to provide economic benefit to southeastern Indiana. Learn More Employment Assistance Employment assistance program gives job seekers opportunities for employment, education, and training, helping them gain the skills needed to advance in their careers. Learn More Jane's Kids Jane’s Kids, a program at the Clearinghouse of Jefferson County, provides financial assistance to families for children’s summer activities. Bethany Legacy Foundation established this endowmen. Learn More Jobs for Americas Graduates (JAG) A school-based program where students across the region work on a wide array of competencies, including financial literacy, public speaking, resume writing, and college/industry tours. Learn More La Casa Amiga La Casa Amiga helps all nationalities gain access to the services they need to become active community participants. Allowing the community to appreciate what other cultures bring to us Learn More INCAP The Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway (INCAP) provides new opportunities for education and career training for students who want to learn through a combination of real-world experiences. Learn More Rural Works RVR developed the first rural, proprietary program modeled after the nationally acclaimed Cincinnati Works project, which helps individuals move from poverty to long-term stability. Learn More Senior Employment Program The New Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) at River Valley Resources assists seniors 55 and older in furthering their education or providing career training. Learn More Young Adult Services The program allows teens and young adults to work with a career advisor to identify their skill sets and interests and use that information to develop a plan for education and employment. Learn More Thinking is hard work. One can't bear burdens and ideas at the same time. Remy de Gourmont Join Us Make a donation Make a difference Donate Today

Save the Date Taste of the Town Monday, September 14, 2026 5:30-8:00pm Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Madison Historic Eagle Cotton Mill Learn More Purchase Tickets Sponsored by

Fundraising is the heartbeat of our community, and it thrives thanks to the incredible generosity of individuals and companies like yours. Your support can make a real difference! We are hosting an event, "Taste of the Town," on Monday, September 15, 2025, to raise critical funds to support education, childcare, reentry into the workforce, and historic renovations to our building within our community. Taste of the Town Fundraiser September 14, 2026 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Madison Historic Eagle Cotton Mill About the Taste of the Town The Taste of the Town is a premier community event supporting River Valley Resources programs. After two years of strong fundraising success, the event continued to grow in its third year by strengthening sponsor partnerships, expanding restaurant participation, and increasing community engagement to support workforce development, education, and family services across southeast Indiana. Secured and cultivated corporate sponsorships by developing targeted outreach and value-driven sponsorship packages. Increased sponsor participation and retention through strategic promotion, recognition, and event visibility opportunities. Built partnerships with local restaurants and businesses to expand event reach and community engagement. Promoted sponsor brands across digital, print, and event marketing channels to maximize exposure and support fundraising goals. Sponsor A sponsor, plays a vital role in supporting programs Learn More Culinary Partner A sponsor, plays a vital role in supporting programs Learn More Tickets A sponsor, plays a vital role in supporting programs Purchase SPONSORED BY: Donate A sponsor, plays a vital role in supporting programs Donate

News Recent articles published. Building hope through education in the Hoosier hills. Lumina Foundation Focus | Fall 2019 COLUMBUS, Ind.—The landscape of southern Indiana often comes as a surprise to those who view the Hoosier state as a vast, flat expanse of corn and soybeans. The corn and beans are here, but so too are dairy farms and forests that climb over steep hills and slope down to the Ohio River. Dollar General Literacy Foundation Press Release: Dollar General Literacy Foundation for RVR Adult Education grant. Thank you to @DollarGeneral Literacy Foundation for our 2026 adult literacy grant! Funding received will support our Consulting English Language Learner Classes. #dollargeneralliteracygrant New program helping inmates in Dearborn County earn high school diplomas SUBMITTED BY NOWCAST WLWT5 Dearborn County October 2024 Offering inmates a new beginning at the Dearborn County Jail. The sheriff's office is teaming up with a local community college to offer courses inside the jail. First Ripley Co. inmate receives high school equivalency diploma SUBMITTED BY RIVER VALLEY RESOURCES October, 2024 Leia Woody is the first student to earn her GED through the program The program allows inmates at the jail to gain their HSE with River Valley Resources. Gardner Insurance Agency, Inc. staff presenting a check to River Valley Resources SUBMITTED BY RIVER VALLEY RESOURCES Dec 9, 2024 GIA Staff had the pleasure of presenting a check to River Valley Resources last week alongside our 2024 Smile-maker, Anne Peters. State again designates River Valley Resources as a Program of Excellence SUBMITTED BY RIVER VALLEY RESOURCES Sep 17, 2024 Earlier this week, the Indiana Department of Workforce Development notified 21 adult education programs across the state of their designation … River Valley Resources Receives Program of Excellence Award RIVER VALLEY RESOURCES - PRESS RELEASE Sep 13, 2024 Earlier this week, the Indiana Department of Workforce Development notified 21 adult education programs across the state of their designation as a Program of Excellence. Published in Ivy Tech News, July 10, 2024 On July 10, 2024, 10 inmates at the Scott County jail graduated from one of the first OSHA-10 Jail Pilot Program in the nation. This OSHA-10 program is the result of a partnership between Ivy Tech Sellersburg, River Valley Resources, the Carpenters’ Union, and the Scott County Sheriff’s Department. Scott County inmates graduate from their OSHA-10 program From prison to the office of the Governor Published in the Versailles Republican, June 27, 2024 Ripley County is celebrating a recent success story at home. Jessica Ogden was recently honored by meeting and telling her story to Governor Eric Holcomb. She was invited by Director of Adult Education at River Valley Resources – Work One We Need Your Support Today! Donate

2026 Taste of the Town is a premier community event supporting River Valley Resources programs. Why Sponsor Us? Support River Valley Resources, showcase your brand, and connect with the community—all while helping local families and workforce programs thrive! Taste of the Town SAVE THE DATE: SEPT. 14, 2026 Your sponsorship can make a lasting impact in southeast Indiana. Partner with us by becoming a Taste of the Town sponsor today. Become a Sponsor Sponsor Packet Become a Sponsor Why Sponsor Us? Support River Valley Resources, showcase your brand, and connect with the community—all while helping local families and workforce programs thrive! Make a lasting community impact through workforce and family programs. Boost your brand visibility via event marketing and promotions. Reach a targeted audience of local leaders and residents. Show your commitment to social responsibility . Network with other businesses and community partners . Celebrate local restaurants and culinary talent with the community Sponsorship Packages Platinum Sponsorship Package ($20,000) Exclusive logo placement on all Taste of the Town marketing materials Premiere sponsorship recognition during the fundraising ceremony. VIP access for 16 guests (2 tables), including reserved seating at the fundraising ceremony. Dedicated social media mentions and press coverage. Gold Sponsorship Package ($10,000) Exclusive logo placement on all Taste of the Town marketing materials Premiere sponsorship recognition during the fundraising ceremony. VIP access for eight guests (1 table), including reserved seating at the fundraising ceremony. Dedicated social media mentions and press coverage. Silver Sponsorship Package ($5,000) Logo placement on Taste of the Town website and printed materials. Verbal acknowledgement during save the date Complimentary tickets for two guests to the fundraising ceremony. Recognition on social media mentions. Custom Sponsorship ($____) Let's have a conversation about options. Advertising Instructions for Taste of the Town Sponsors To ensure your business receives full recognition, please submit the following promotional materials by the requested deadline: Please Provide: High-resolution company logo (PNG, JPG, or EPS preferred) Business name as you would like it listed Website address Social media handles (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.) A brief business description (optional, 1–2 sentences) Sponsor Recognition May Include: Event signage Printed event materials River Valley Resources website Social media promotions Email marketing and event announcements Submission Instructions: Please email materials to dbrewer@rivervalleyresources.com by July 31, 2026. We appreciate your partnership and support in making Taste of the Town a success. Terms and Conditions Sponsorship Commitment By sponsoring the Taste of the Town event organized by River Valley Resources (RVR), sponsors agree to the terms outlined in their selected sponsorship package. Payment Terms Sponsorship fees are due in full upon confirmation. Payments are non-refundable. Logo Usage Sponsors grant RVR permission to use their logos for event promotion. Any use beyond event promotion requires prior written consent. Event Participation Sponsors are responsible for providing accurate guest information for invitations and registrations. Any changes to guest lists must be communicated to RVR in advance. Cancellation Policy If the event is canceled or postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, sponsors will be notified promptly. Fees may be refunded or applied to future events at RVR’s discretion. Liability River Valley Resources, Inc. and its affiliates are not responsible for any damages, losses, or injuries incurred by sponsors or their guests during the event. Indemnification Sponsors agree to indemnify and hold harmless RVR, its directors, officers, employees, and agents from any claims or liabilities related to their sponsorship. Governing Law This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Indiana. Disputes will be resolved via arbitration in Madison, Jefferson County, Indiana. Amendments Any changes to these terms must be agreed upon in writing by both parties. Anchor 1 Advertising Thank you for your support. We're thrilled to have you on board and look forward to seeing you at the event. Choose a Sponsor Level

If you're in the food, beverage, or hospitality industry, 'Taste of the Town' is the premier event to showcase your brand. SAVE THE DATE: SEPT. 14, 2026 Taste of the Town This event celebrates the flavors, creativity, and hospitality that make our region special. Your participation helps showcase the best our culinary community has to offer. Become a Culinary Partner Download Flyer Culinary Partner at the Taste of the Town RVR’s 3rd Annual Taste of the Town invites outstanding local food creators to showcase their signature dishes and celebrate the community’s vibrant culinary scene. Your culinary team’s presence would add tremendous value, offering a chance to highlight your specialties, connect with new audiences, and be part of one of the year’s most anticipated food events. If you’re interested in participating, we can share additional details about setup, timing, and requirements. Thank you for considering this opportunity—we hope to celebrate great food together in 2026. Why you should showcase your savoring services: Exposure — Connect with hundreds of food lovers, influencers, and potential customers eager to discover new flavors. Expand Your Customer Base — Make direct connections, collect leads, and boost your social media presence. Network with Industry Leaders — Collaborate with chefs, restaurateurs, and suppliers for future opportunities. Instant Feedback & Testing — Get real-time reactions to your dishes and refine your offerings. Support Local — Your participation supports local charities, showing customers you care. Event Overview Event Name: 2026 Taste of the Town Date: Monday, September 14, 2026 Location: Fairfield Inn by Marriott & Suites of Madison, Historic Eagle Cotton Mill Address: 108 St Michaels Ave, Madison, IN 47250 Expected Attendance: 200 Contact On Event Day: Diane Brewer or Hotel Front Desk Timeline 4:00 PM – Vendor check‑in opens 4:30-5:00 PM – Booth table setup 5:30 PM – Event opens to the public 8:00 PM – Event concludes 8:00–9:00 PM – Breakdown & cleanup Booth Setup & Logistics What’s Provided: One 8‑ft table with table cloth Two chairs Basic signage with your business name Access to electricity (if requested in advance) Reserved booth location at the venue What You Should Bring: Cooking/serving equipment Extension cords (commercial‑grade) Table coverings and décor Food warmers or coolers Branded materials (menus, business cards, etc.) Serving cup, bowl, plate, or etc. Setup & Breakdown: Setup must be completed 60 minutes before opening (5:00 pm) Booths must remain open for the full event duration. Breakdown begins only after the event ends. Menu & Sampling Guidelines Provide 1–3 signature tasting items. Portion sizes: 2–4 oz. Allergen information must be clearly displayed, if applicable provide gluten free portions No last‑minute menu changes without approval. Marketing & Promotion As a culinary partner, you agree to: Allow use of your logo, business name, and dish photos in event promotions. Share event announcements on your social media channels. Provide any promotional materials at least 30 days before the event. Emergency Procedures In case of emergency, notify event staff immediately. Follow all instructions from safety personnel. Become a Culinary Partner Interested in moving forward? I can send setup information, timelines, and participation requirements. REACH ME AT: dbrewer@rivervalleyresources.com 812-274-0969 Culinary

Culinary Partners Menu

A fundraiser in a nonprofit organization is responsible for raising funds to support the organization's operations and initiatives Fundraiser Talk of the Town-Parties with a Purpose Thank you for considering hosting a Talk of the Town party! These unique gatherings are the heart of this community fundraiser. By opening your home, business, or favorite venue, you help create memorable experiences while supporting the mission of River Valley Resources (RVR). River Valley Resources is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving our community. Proceeds from Talk of the Town events support RVR programs and services that strengthen and connect people throughout our region. What is Talk of the Town? Talk of the Town is an engaging series of creative parties hosted by community members, businesses and municipalities. Guests sign up to attend the experiences that interest them most—whether it's a dinner party, behind‑the‑scenes tour, outdoor adventure, or themed gathering. The events were revealed at our Kick‑Off Sign‑Up Party on October 1, 2026 at Madison Automotive Group (formerly McCubbin Ford). Guests select and purchase tickets to attend the parties throughout the season. The Role of a Party Host As a host, you create the experience! The Talk Committee and River Valley Resources will support you along the way. Hosts typically: Choose a theme or experience for their party or work with your talk committee contact to create a party theme. Select a date, time, and guest capacity Provide the food, beverages, and atmosphere for the gathering Help spread the word by inviting friends and sharing through personal networks Review and approve the short event description used in promotions Your creativity is what makes Talk of the Town so special. How River Valley Resources Supports You RVR works alongside hosts to make the process easy and enjoyable. We will: Help shape your party idea and finalize event details Write and promote your event description Market the parties through print, media, and social platforms Provide volunteers for larger gatherings when available Maintain general event liability insurance for the Talk of the Town program Recognize and celebrate our generous hosts in event materials A Few Helpful Notes Hosts provide the party experience and related expenses. RVR collects ticket payments and manages registrations. If plans change, simply let us know and we will work together on the best solution. As a host, some of your party-related expenses may be tax-deductible—be sure to check with your tax advisor for details. Our goal is to make this a fun, rewarding experience for everyone involved. Party Planning Details Party Host Planner First name* Last name* Company name Email* Phone* Multi-line address Country/Region* Address* City* Zip / Postal code* Party information Talk Committee's Name* Party Title / Theme: * Dress Code:* Casual Chic Business Casual Theme Dress Cocktail Attire Location* Party Date* Time* Time : Hours Minutes AM Rain date (if applicable) Type of refreshment Non Alcoholic Alcoholic Other If alcohol will be provided at your party, do you have the required liquor license and licensed server(s)? Yes No I need to register for a liquor and server licenses. Alcohol will not be provided at this event. Maximum Number of Guests:* Special Notes* Host Signature* Drawing mode selected. Drawing requires a mouse or touchpad. For keyboard accessibility, select Type or Upload. Date* Month Day Year Submit Thank You Your willingness to host helps make Talk of the Town – Parties with a Purpose a meaningful and memorable community event. We are grateful for your generosity and creativity in supporting River Valley Resources.

La Casa Amiga is a place to help Spanish speaking newcomers gain access to the services they need and become active participants of the community. At River Valley Resources, Inc., La Casa Amiga Friendship House stands as a welcoming doorway to new opportunities. Community members find not only support, but a place where dreams are encouraged, voices are strengthened, and futures are rebuilt with confidence. Through services such as citizenship guidance, English Language Learning, and translation support, La Casa Amiga Friendship House helps individuals take courageous steps toward belonging, empowerment, and a brighter tomorrow. Our Mission La Casa Amiga fosters cultural understanding by serving diverse groups of people in our community and supporting them as they build bridges from their own cultures to the wider Jefferson County community. Through inclusive programs and initiatives, we empower new immigrants and long‑time residents to share traditions, learn from one another, and grow together as active and valued members of our shared home. About Our Program La Casa Amiga serves as a vital hub for newcomers, connecting them to essential resources and fostering their active participation within our community. This welcoming space celebrates the rich diversity of cultures, enriching our Jefferson County community while improving the lives of immigrants and residents alike. Services La Casa Amiga events and services provide linkages between cultures and people and help new immigrants and residents become valuable participants in their community. ESL (English as a Second Language) Classes Tutoring for Children Kids’ Wednesday Bilingual Class Interpreting & Translating GED Courses Legal Needs Assistance Passport Applications Ways to participate and help: Volunteer with ESL Classes (Monday, Wednesday,Thursday) Donations of Toys (Christmas Season), Hygiene Products, School Supplies, and Diapers Call 812-274-0981 Visit River Valley Resources, Inc Clearinghouse, 100 East Second Str, Madison, IN 47250 Follow us Office Hours Monday 9AM - 12:pm, 3:00-5:00 PM Tuesday 1:30-5:30 PM Thursday 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM