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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 Tasha Theetge In 2007, I was 17 years old. I woke up one morning and decided I was going to leave high school, had my daughter at a young age, and got married. I began working as a food server at the local casino, working crazy hours and doing everything I could to navigate the challenges of life. Then life happened—I got divorced at 23 and became a single mom to a newborn and a 5-year-old. I worked two jobs and lived in a studio apartment, often going on days without eating just to ensure my kids had everything they needed and wanted. Fast forward two years: I met my current husband, Jeff. As we got to know each other, I embarrassedly admitted that I was a high school dropout. He asked why I hadn’t pursued my GED/HSED. I explained that I often felt like my own worst enemy, constantly talking myself down and making excuses for not having time to pursue it. He mentioned a woman named Nina, who works at River Valley Resources and offers GED/HSED classes in Vevay at the Tech Building, including evening classes on my days off. I said I would think about it. Two weeks later, he asked if I had reached out to Nina, and of course, I made another excuse for not doing so. One Tuesday evening, he showed up at my doorstep and told me to get dressed to go to class, offering to watch the kids while I tried it out. I accepted his encouragement. When I walked into the class, Nina welcomed me warmly, and her encouragement was extraordinary. I had never met anyone who cared about my education and future as much as she did. After committing to attending classes for six weeks, Nina scheduled my testing at Ivy Tech. I was a bundle of nerves that morning, sitting in the parking lot having a panic attack because I was so scared. Just before I got out of my car, Nina called to wish me luck and reminded me to breathe. Taking her advice, I walked into that testing center with newfound confidence. Three hours later, I passed! I earned my diploma! I had conquered my fear! I felt an immense sense of pride and gratitude towards Nina and my husband; they had provided the extra push I needed, but they said that I was the one who had done the work. Now, I work with individuals who need the same encouragement. I have become the person I always wanted to be, and I am incredibly proud of my HSED. Even more so, I am grateful to work at the place that helped make my dreams come true of helping individuals who were like me. I am a mom of three and a wife to a man who is my biggest supporter. I tell my clients, "If I can do it, so can you." I am here for them every step of the way. I’m not just their coach, I’m their friend. I am so thankful for River Valley Resources. My Success Story

English language learning refers to the process by which individuals, particularly young children, acquire English as a second language, often after establishing their home language, leading to speak English. Get started today! Clearinghouse 855-591-7848 or New Albany 800-262-6017 > MyConnectAble English Language Learning Course Outline An English Language Learning (ELL) course is an educational program that aims to teach English to non-native speakers, providing a comprehensive approach to mastering the language. This type of course is designed to improve learners' communication skills in speaking, writing, reading, and listening, all while fostering an understanding of English grammar, vocabulary, and cultural nuances. Course Objectives: Develop Communication Skills: Improve listening, speaking, reading, and writing abilities in English, enabling learners to communicate clearly and confidently in various settings (e.g., personal, professional, academic). Master English Grammar: Help students understand the structure of English grammar, including sentence construction, tenses, and parts of speech, to build solid language foundations. Expand Vocabulary: Introduce a wide range of vocabulary through engaging activities and real-world contexts, empowering learners to express themselves more precisely. Cultural Competency: Provide insight into English-speaking cultures, social etiquette, and language use in different contexts (e.g., formal vs. informal). Enhance Pronunciation: Help students fine-tune their pronunciation and intonation to sound more natural and improve their spoken English comprehension. Promote Practical Application: Enable students to apply their language skills in real-world situations, such as making phone calls, writing emails, navigating daily conversations, and understanding English media. An English Language Learning course is invaluable for anyone looking to enhance their English language skills for work, study, or personal development. It not only focuses on building linguistic proficiency but also aims to provide learners with the tools they need to confidently use English in diverse contexts. English Language Learning Locations Clark County Jeffersonville Township Public Library 211 E Court Ave, Jeffersonville, IN 47130 Alicia Lewis , Class Instructor, 317-932-0692 Floyd County The Anchor Building 800 E. 8th Street, New Albany, IN 47150 Alicia Lewis and Alex Swetnam , Class Instructor, 317-932-0692 Jefferson County La Casa Amiga Friendship House - Clearinghouse 2026 ELL Class (1-year course) Sign‑Up is Closed Open Registration Begins October 2027 100 East Second Street., Madison, IN 47250 Clarissa Guillen , Class Instructor, 812-274-0981

The Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway (INCAP) is a new option to help Hoosiers prepare for promising careers. Employers lead the pathway, ensuring students have the skills and knowledge to fill in-demand jobs. Ready to learn more? Jennifer Tyra call ‪(502) 627-0547‬ or email JTyra@rivervalleyresources.com Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway (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, on-the-job experience and classroom learning, and for employers committed to developing talent in their industries to fill workforce needs. INCAP meets high school and adult students where they need to be met, offering programs that combine relevant coursework and on-the-job training to learn professional skills that meet industry needs and help strengthen Indiana. Employers are helping define the skills and knowledge INCAP students need to fill the jobs of today and tomorrow. This is a major differentiator for INCAP, and it means students will be ready for in-demand careers and employers will have access to well-prepared talent. INCAP credentials and degrees are recognized by employers and higher education, so students have options for what comes after their INCAP program, whether that’s an in-demand career or additional education options in college or via INCAP. School A customized business solutions designed to help employers attract and recruit skilled, job-ready employees for their business. Learn More Employers Employers unite with a shared voice to shape workforce priorities and take the lead in educating and training new talent. Learn More Middle & High School Educators Indiana students now have another option to prepare for a successful career after high school with paid on-the-job training paired with traditional classroom learning. As a complement to the high school-to-college pathway, students who complete INCAP AP earn the Employment Honors Plus Seal with their high school diploma as well as an INCAP AP credential. Industry Talent Associations (ITAs) collaborate with educators to identify the required competencies and skills students need to learn on-site and in the classroom. While employers teach students the competencies needed to complete their apprenticeship program, students also complete relevant coursework taught by educators in the classroom. This alignment of classroom education and on-the-job learning ensures students are ready for the workforce or are prepared to pursue a college degree or enter the INCAP Career Program (INCAP CP). The INCAP Apprenticeship Program (INCAP AP) offers a new option for students who want to learn through real-world, on-the-job experiences. Students will gain consistent and high-quality education and training that meets industry standards in their careers of interest. Both employers and higher education recognize INCAP credentials and degrees. Therefore, depending on the selected INCAP AP occupation, students may be able to complete a two- or four-year college degree in fewer years, given the credit they receive for their INCAP AP credential. Teachers help equip students with the knowledge they need to be successful in their work-based learning experience and chosen career path. INCAP gives students an additional way to thrive beyond the traditional classroom-only path by offering real-world, on-the-job experiences to explore their passions and achieve their dreams. INCAP ensures that more students, especially those who don’t prefer classroom learning, are encouraged to pursue the education and training they need for promising careers. High school students who participate in work-based learning experiences are often surprised by how well they function as professionals, giving them confidence in their futures. Schools Employers Employers Working together, we can strengthen Indiana’s position as a national business leader. CONSTRUCTION Indiana Construction Roundtable Foundation Jesse Linville jesse.linville@mattisoncorp.com BANKING Financial Services Academy/ Indiana Bankers Association Chris Fisher cfisher@indiana.bank LIFE SCIENCES BioCrossroads Melanie Vuynovich mvuynovich@biocrossroads.com HEALTHCARE BioCroads Cassie Squilace csquilace@biocrossroads.com IT Technical/Indiana Chamber Foundation Dennis Trinkle dennis.a.trinkle@gmail.com MANUFACTURING Conexus Indiana PJ McGrew pmcgrew@conexusindiana.com The Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway is a new approach for employers to help educate and train high schoolers and adult students for in-demand careers. INCAP provides employers with a high-quality, well-organized structure to build their talent pipeline. By helping employers collaborate and speak as one voice about their industry’s talent needs, employers align on the competencies needed for in- demand occupations within their industry and the necessary education to develop their future workforce. INCAP is supported by Industry Talent Associations, organizations charged with leading employer engagement. Also called ITAs, they are already active in multiple industries and are seeking employers to join their efforts to choose occupations and build the relevant education and training framework. ITAs serve two primary functions: develop education and training materials and assessments for use during on-the-job training, and provide occupation-specific training for employees who supervise on-the-job work. High school students participate in paid apprenticeships (the INCAP Apprenticeship Program) while adults learn through industry-led training while working full- or part-time (the INCAP Career Program). In the INCAP Apprenticeship Program (INCAP AP), students spend most of their time on site and participate in apprenticeship programs year-round, meaning employers get eager new employees ready to support business needs. Students who complete INCAP AP have the education and training they need to hit the ground running, helping to build industry-specific talent pipelines. The INCAP Career Program (INCAP CP) allows employers to offer a training program for employees to advance within their own company and receive a degree that is recognized across their industry and by higher education. Industry Talent Associations (ITAs) bring together peers across an industry to create education and training materials and develop assessments for each occupation. Employers also receive support from the ITA in the form of recruitment assistance and supervisor training. Employers can retain local talent that, in turn, helps Indiana communities and businesses thrive. On-the-job training combined with classroom learning allow young professionals to grow, thrive, and build a successful future in their chosen industry. Employers can help students discover promising careers they might not have considered. INCAP contributes to a stronger business climate and economy in Indiana, positioning the state as a destination for business growth, talent development, and retention.

Get started today! Clearinghouse 855-591-7848 or New Albany 800-262-6017 > MyConnectAble Instructor Resources Our resources offer guidance for any phase of the study and writing process. Burlington English Get Started Classroom Cereal Get Started Essential Ed Get Started Google Drive Get Started Google Classroom Get Started INTERS Get Started JMATH Get Started Kahoot Get Started Khan Academy Get Started Quizlet Get Started RVR Academy Get Started Screencastify Get Started ZOOM Get Started Livebinder 1 Get Started Livebinder 2 Get Started Learning Platforms River Valley Resources has two of the best learning platforms available to students after they have completed 12 hours of in-person classes. This makes learning completely portable and flexible! In addition, several teachers have online classes. This allows learners to work around their schedules and move on more quickly to whatever is next! Click on the product logos below for more information.

We are a dedicated team focused on a single goal: identifying needs, developing solutions, and enhancing lives through effective connections. Meet The Team Chief Executive Officer Margo Olson Margo co-founded River Valley Resources Inc. in 1990 and has made numerous contributions to Indiana’s workforce development system since 1978. She has a master’s degree from Indiana State University and is a Certified Compensation Professional as designated by World at Work, a professional association for compensation, benefits and total rewards. Margo is an experienced manager and leader. Director of Adult Education Region 9 & 10 Katherine Walton For six years, Katie Walton served as an adult education teacher at River Valley Resources, teaching classes in several locations across Region 9. She is an active member of the Indiana Adult and Continuing Education Association (IAACE) and currently serves as President of this organization. Recently, Katie Walton was appointed Director of Adult Education for River Valley Resources, a role that allows them to expand their impact and leadership in the field. Child Care Development Fund Supervisor Leslie Abbott Leslie is the Regional Supervisor for the Childcare Development fund and Pre-K pilot program services for River Valley Resources, Inc. She began employment with River Valley Resources In October 2007. Leslie is a graduate of the University of Mississippi. Chief Operating Officer Konnie McCollum Konnie is a professional with a Master of Science in Adult Education from Indiana University and a strong background in education and workforce development. As a certified Offender Workforce Development Specialist, she supports justice-involved individuals and created Indiana’s first accredited pre-apprenticeship program for local jails. She was awarded the 2021 COABE Outstanding Administrator of the Year. Chief Administrative Officer Kristal Biehle Kristal has been with River Valley Resources since 2009 and employed with the organization since 2012. In this role, she oversees financial and human resources operations, ensures regulatory compliance, and supports the organization’s mission and sustainability. She has also secured grant funding from the Commission on Higher Education to help expand services and impact. Work One Operations Shanell Clayton Shanell holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and is certified in Human-Centered Design, Predictive Index, and Forte. She leads change management initiatives to improve program implementation and enhance employee engagement. Passionate about fostering growth, Shanell focuses on creating environments where teams can thrive and contribute to River Valley Resources' success. Board of Directors Curtis Adkins Faith-Based Organization Misty Gilbert, LCSWS Health Systems Stephanie Withered Banking & Financing Jon Bond Economic Development Jeff Hartz Healthcare Kevin Carrick First Financial Bank Tocarra Gartin, MPH Diversity/Equity/Inclusion David Terrell Policy & Planning BOD

Jane's Kids The Bethany Legacy Foundation (BLF) established the Jane’s Kids Endowment in 2023. Jane Jacobs had great compassion in her heart for children, so when she learned there were many children in the community whose families could not afford summer activities, she did something about it. That lead to the creation of the Jane’s Kids Summer Scholarship Fund, which marked its 10th anniversary in 2024. 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 endowment to provide perpetual funding for the program, as delivering safe, fun, and engaging activities for local youth aligns with Bethany Legacy Foundation’s mission of making Jefferson County the “healthiest place in the world.” Annual grants from this Designated Endowment will be sent to River Valley Resources to support the Jane’s Kids program so they can continue to provide access to summer programs for our youngest residents. To donate to this fund, click the GIVE NOW button and select “Jane’s Kids Endowment” from the drop down. Give Now Application for Crystal Beach Passes This application is for the Crystal Beach Aquatic Park Bethany Legacy Foundation Pool Program and is only available to residents of Jefferson County, Indiana who qualify for SNAP and/or WIC. Proof of benefits and residency is required. To apply, families and individuals in need should visit River Valley Resources - Clearinghouse, 100 E. Second Street, Madison, IN, between the hours of 8am to 1:30 pm , to complete application. • Families facing financial hardship, with at least one child in the household, will be directed to apply to the Jane’s Kids program first. This provides free day passes to Crystal Beach for children. SNAP or WIC enrollment is not required for this portion of the program. • Families and individuals who qualify for SNAP or WIC will be directed to apply for passes funded by Bethany Legacy Foundation. These passes are valid for 20 visits to Crystal Beach throughout the summer. Additional benefits may be available for qualifying families and individuals, including access to swimming lessons, water fitness, and more. This program is available to the first 425 qualifying individuals.

Discover RVR's achievements through inspiring Success Stories of individuals who have risen to fortune, acclaim, or remarkable accomplishments. More Success Stories Tina Kinirsky Tina Kinirsky first joined RVR as a Rural Works client in 2014. She successfully completed the program and began building a stable future. However, life presented setbacks, and Tina experienced a relapse that led to her re-incarceration. Rather than let that define her, Tina chose to grow. While incarcerated, she enrolled in RVR’s occupational skills training program, where she completed the Accuplacer course and earned her MSSC-CPT (Certified Production Technician) certification. Recognized for her exceptional mathematical abilities, Tina began tutoring fellow inmates through RVR’s prison education program. Upon release, Tina was hired by Grote Industries and continued her work as a tutor for RVR. She quickly expanded her role, contributing to data management for the Adult Education program and serving as a teacher’s assistant in local jails. Always striving for more, Tina also enrolled in college to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Business. In December 2024, Tina will graduate with her degree and step into a new role as RVR’s jail teacher, serving multiple correctional facilities. Her journey is a testament to resilience, transformation, and the power of second chances. Tina is a passionate, dedicated educator who now helps others rewrite their own stories—and we couldn’t be prouder of her. My Success Story

We are a non-profit organization established in 1990 to assist low-income and disadvantaged Hoosiers in obtaining and maintaining gainful employment. History River Valley Resources, Inc. (RVR) is a private, non-profit organization founded in 1990 to help low-income and disadvantaged Hoosiers obtain and maintain gainful employment. From the mid-1970s to 1990, federal workforce development services were available through the local Community Action Agency—Ohio Valley Opportunities, Inc. (OVO). In November 1990, three OVO employees created River Valley Resources, Inc. (RVR), a stand-alone 501(c)(3) dedicated solely to workforce development programs and services in Southeast Indiana. RVR contributes to providing federal employment and training services; however, the organization's service area and services offered have expanded to serve its clients and communities better. RVR's guiding mission is to develop a competitive workforce through collaborative and innovative services for individuals, employers, and communities. RVR has over 30 years of experience designing, implementing, and managing high-quality workforce development and community service programs such as Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs (WIOA) and One-Stop Operator, employment services, Jobs for America's Graduates (JAG) in over 17 area high schools, WIOA Title II Adult Education and Family and Social Services Act voucher program in over 12 counties. River Valley Resources, Inc. is also the owner/operator of a multi-tenant non-profit center, manager of the Summer for Kids program in partnership with a women's re-entry prison, convener of the Jefferson County non-profit roundtable, and lead partner in two ex-offender re-entry programs: an Ivy Tech Community College credentialed job training and preparation program inside the all-female Madison Correctional Facility, and for all genders at the Scott County Detention Center. 1990 River Valley Resources is founded. 1998 River Valley Resources was awarded a $5 million Welfare-to-Work grant to serve individuals in southeastern Indiana. It has been featured on the Department of Labor's Best Practices website. 2005 River Valley Resources was awarded a $2 million federal grant for the Projects With Industry Program, which created and expanded job and career opportunities for individuals with disabilities. 2010 River Valley Resources received a planning grant from the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs to study the feasibility of creating a multi-tenant center for non-profit organizations and a collaborative food pantry. This led to Clearinghouse. 2015 River Valley Resources began partnering with Ivy Tech Community College to provide transition services to female offenders at the Women's Correctional Facility in Madison, Indiana. This led to the development of the "Madison Model," which is now being replicated in other locations across the state. 2017 River Valley Resources was awarded the service provider contract to provide Adult Education in 6 of the Economic Growth Region's 10 counties. 2019 River Valley Resources hosted a group of Annie E. Casey fellows who will connect researchers nationwide with young scholars and encourage them to conduct rural poverty research. 2022 River Valley Resources added La Casa Amiga to the Organization. 2024 River Valley Resources became the service provider for the DOL Senior Community Services Program. 2024 River Valley Resources hosted its inaugural TASTE OF THE TOWN fundraising event.

Get started today! Clearinghouse 855-591-7848 or New Albany 800-262-6017 > MyConnectAble Courses Take the next step in your career and enroll in one of our professional training courses. Whether you're interested in welding, nursing, pharmacy, or medication administration, we offer hands-on, expert-led programs designed to equip you with the skills you need to succeed. Welding A course provides hands-on training in various welding techniques, including MIG, TIG, and Stick welding. Students learn to safely operate welding equipment, work with different materials like steel and aluminum, and read blueprints and welding symbols. The course covers welding safety, weld inspection, and basic fabrication skills. It is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the welding industry or further apprenticeship training. Emphasis is placed on both technical skills and workplace safety. Qualified Medication Aide (QMA) A course trains individuals to assist in the administration of medications under the supervision of a licensed nurse. The course covers topics such as medication management, proper administration techniques, recognizing side effects, infection control, and patient privacy. Students also learn how to record and report medication-related information accurately. The program includes both classroom instruction and practical training in a clinical setting. Upon completion, students are prepared to take the certification exam and work as QMAs in long-term care facilities, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings. Pre-Apprenticeship in Welding A course introduces students to the basic skills and knowledge needed for a welding career. It covers welding safety, equipment use, and various welding techniques like MIG, TIG, and Stick welding. Students learn to read blueprints, understand welding symbols, and work with different materials. The course includes hands-on training, weld inspection, and basic fabrication. It prepares students for entry-level jobs or apprenticeship programs and emphasizes workplace safety and soft skills. The duration typically ranges from a few weeks to months. Pharmacy Technician (Pharm Tech) A course provides students with the knowledge and skills required to assist pharmacists in dispensing medications and managing pharmacy operations. The course covers topics such as medication preparation, dosage calculations, drug interactions, pharmacy law and ethics, and inventory management. Students learn to handle prescriptions, prepare medications, and provide customer service in a pharmacy setting. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training in a clinical or simulated environment. Upon completion, students are prepared to take the certification exam and work as pharmacy technicians in hospitals, retail pharmacies, and other healthcare settings. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) A course provides the essential training required to assist healthcare professionals in caring for patients. The course covers basic nursing skills, patient hygiene, vital signs monitoring, infection control, and safety protocols. Students also learn how to assist with daily activities such as feeding, dressing, and mobility. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Upon completion, students are prepared to take the certification exam and begin working as CNAs in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and home care. Child Development Associate (CDA) The Child Development Associate (CDA) course is a professional development program designed to equip early childhood educators with the knowledge and skills needed to support children's growth and development. The course focuses on fostering effective teaching strategies, creating nurturing environments, and understanding developmental milestones. Peer Recovery Coach A course is designed to train individuals who have personal experience with recovery from substance use or mental health challenges to assist others in their journey to recovery. These courses typically focus on the skills and knowledge necessary to support individuals in recovery, advocate for mental health and substance use issues, and empower others to take charge of their healing process. Welcome to Our Courses Earn a recognized career credential to enhance your resume and showcase your skills. Register

Shirley Kloepfer, La Casa Amiga, Retirement Party R.S.V.P. 1/8 La Maestra ¡Estás Invitado(a)! ¡Acompáñanos a celebrar la Fiesta de Jubilación de Shirley Kloepfer! Fecha reprogramada: 11 de abril | 1:00–4:00 PM Knights of Columbus – Madison 2250 Lanier Dr, Madison, IN 47250 Disfruta una tarde con: Música de mariachi en vivo Deliciosos platillos de restaurantes locales Presentación de reconocimientos y convivencia comunitaria La oportunidad de convivir con Shirley y amistades Debido al espacio limitado, invitamos a los asistentes a llegar entre 1:00 y 4:00 PM para celebrar el increíble recorrido de Shirley. Apoya a La Casa Amiga Friendship House con una donación —ayudando a financiar programas y servicios para miembros de la comunidad que necesitan acceso a recursos como las clases de inglés (ELL). Por favor confirma tu asistencia (RSVP) para asegurar tu lugar, ya que el cupo es limitado. Confirma tu asistencia para asegurar tu lugar. ¡Celebración de Jubilación de Shirley! ¡Estamos ansiosos por verte y honrar sus increíbles contribuciones! Por favor, confirma tu asistencia para asegurar tu lugar, ya que el cupo es limitado. No olvides dejarle un mensaje a Shirley al RSVP. R.S.V.P.

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We offer free classes helping adults gain the skills needed for a high school equivalency diploma, higher education, or entry-level job certification. Career Training MyConnectAble Career Training Courses: Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Welding Qualified Medication Aide (QMA) Pre-Apprenticeship Welding Pharmacy Technician Peer Recovery Coach Child Development Associate (CDA) Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Digital Literacy Classes Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Pre-Apprenticeship Building Trades Get started today! Clearinghouse 855-591-7848 or New Albany 800-262-6017 >