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- Meet the Team
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
- Taste of the Town 2026 | RvR 2025
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: Silent Auction Donate an item or service to the auction Donate
- About Us
River Valley History Inc. has assisted thousands of individuals in developing skills that enable them to seize opportunities for successful careers. About Us For over 30 years, River Valley Resources, Inc. has assisted thousands of individuals in developing skills that enable them to seize opportunities for successful careers. The organization has also advocated for equity, helping those who may have been overlooked or left behind. River Valley Resources is recognized as a leader among community organizations, fostering partnerships that contribute to the public good. We will continue to ensure that the River Valley Resources experience is welcoming and accessible to everyone and is known for its commitment to service. We are committed to addressing the challenges facing our communities and our organization i n this evolving environment. Our Mission Our Mission “Developing a competitive workforce through collaboration and innovative services for individuals, employers, and communities.” History River Valley Resources is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1990 to help low-income and underserved Hoosiers obtain and maintain gainful employment. Since its inception, RVR has managed over $250 million in federal, state, and local workforce development-related grants and contracts. RVR administers more than 1.8 million federal Workforce Investment Act (WIA) funds in Indiana. Learn More Our Mission Expertise River Valley Resources has been a Workforce Investment Act (WIA) service provider since the act's inception in 1998. It is the only WIA service provider in Indiana.
- News
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. Taste of the Town Press Release: By The Courier News Jul 27, 2026 River Valley Resources Inc. (RVR) will hold its third annual Taste of the Town fundraiser Monday, Sept. 14, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Fairfield … 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
- Courses | RvR 2025
Get started today! For more information call (812) 565-9195 > 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. 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. 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. 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. National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) NCCER stands for the National Center for Construction Education and Research. This organization sets training and certification standards for construction professionals. Their goal is to create a safe, skilled, and sustainable workforce. They do this by offering industry-recognized training programs. When you earn an NCCER certification, you prove that you have the skills needed for the job. You also show that you understand safety guidelines. Many construction companies prefer to hire NCCER-certified workers, and some require this certification for employment. This helps them ensure quality and safety on job sites. Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) A Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) is a medical assistant who has earned professional certification. While medical assistants handle both administrative and clinical tasks in hospitals and physicians’ offices, CCMAs focus more on hands‑on clinical work. Their duties often include taking vital signs, recording medical histories, preparing exam rooms, disinfecting instruments, drawing blood, giving injections, and administering medications — all under a physician’s supervision. CCMAs may also assist directly during patient exams. Most medical assistants work full‑time, with schedules that may include evenings, weekends, or holidays. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the majority work in physicians’ offices, followed by hospitals. 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. Welcome to Our Courses Earn a recognized career credential to enhance your resume and showcase your skills. Register
- Meet Our Partners
Thank you to our partners who allowed us to meet the needs, find solutions, work lives in southeastern Indiana, assist our community, and support their needs. Meet Our Partners Thank you to our partners who allowed us to meet the needs, find solutions, and build lives in southeastern Indiana. The following partners helped raise more than expected. These partnerships allowed us to assist our community and support their needs. We are thankful for these crucial partnerships that help us make an impact on communities in southeastern Indiana. Jefferson County Community Corrections
- Success Stories | RvR 2025
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 Document Tina Kinirsky 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
- Success Stories TinaK | RvR 2025
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
- Locations
Programs in Southeast Indiana; Bartholomew, Brown, Clark, Crawford, Dearborn, Decatur, Fayette, Floyd, Franklin, Harrison, Henry, Jackson, Jefferson, Jennings, Lawrence, Monroe, Ohio, Orange, Ripley, Rush, Scott, Switzerland, Washington, and Wayne Counties. Get started today! For more information call (812) 565-9195 > MyConnectAble Class Locations Notification High School Equivalency (HSE/GED) Earned by passing a test in score subjects that measure skills equal to those of graduating seniors Read More > Chat English Language learning Refers to students whose first language is not English but who are learning English. Read More > Lab Career Training Prepares you for jobs that require specialized training or education. Read More > Mail Contact Information Didn't find what you were looking for? Submit a request for more help. Read More > Additional Adult Education Teachers Marita Berry maritaberry@rivervalleyresources.com Carey Bowling cbowling@rivervalleyresources.com Rebekah Brinson rbrinson@rivervalleyresources.com Cassy Coulter ccoulter@rivervalleyresources.com Charles Stucker cstucker@rivervalleyresources.com 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.
- Inquiry Services Page | RvR 2025
Explore our services and get in touch Our Services 01. Custom Project Tailored solutions designed to meet your unique requirements. Our team collaborates closely with you to understand your specific needs, ensuring a perfect fit for your project goals. We bring your vision to life with dedicated craftsmanship and attention to detail. Receive a solution built precisely for you. Show more 02. Personal Solution Planning Receive a personalized strategy developed just for you. We delve into your individual circumstances and objectives to craft a bespoke plan designed for success. This service ensures all aspects of your situation are considered for optimal outcomes. Get a clear roadmap tailored to your life. Show more 03. Expert Guidance Package Unlock strategic insights and actionable advice from industry leaders. This package provides comprehensive direction to navigate complex challenges and seize opportunities. Benefit from curated knowledge to refine your objectives and enhance performance. Make informed decisions with confidence. Show more
- Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway (INCAP)
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? Sealy Hyatt call (812) 801-9009 or email shyatt@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 Thomas Jeschke incap@indianaconstruction.org 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.
- Register For Luncheon | RvR 2025
We’re excited to reconnect with you at our Lunch on April 7, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM! Please fill out the form below to reserve your spot and let us know if you’re interested in participating in our Donor Re-Engagement Initiative. Register for the Gratitude Luncheon We’re excited to reconnect with you at our Lunch on April 7, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Bethany Legacy Foundation, Jefferson County Community Space! Please fill out the form to reserve your spot and let us know if you’re interested in participating in our Donor Re-Engagement Initiative. River Valley Resources is launching a Donor Re-Engagement Initiative to reconnect with supporters who have drifted out of touch and strengthen its mission of building a competitive workforce. We’re inviting RVR champions to help reach out through personal notes, calls, or messages, with tools provided. Join us for Lunch on April 7 from 10:00 AM–2:00 PM to learn more and get involved.
