Inspiring Good

We talk with Lindsay Aguilar about how Building Strong Brains brings more than 80 partners together to help more children enter kindergarten ready to learn. We get specific about the no-wrong-door approach, what readiness really means, and how the summer Countdown to Kindergarten program removes barriers for working families. • Lindsay’s path from youth development to leading a countywide early ch...

We talk with Jim Conklin of Cultivate Food Rescue about why hunger keeps showing up even when our food system produces massive excess. We trace how a local, logistics-first model rescues perishable food, turns it into real meals, and helps communities aim for near zero hunger.  • Cultivate’s pivot from culinary school roots to perishable food rescue  • How food waste and food insecurity intersect...

We sit down with Maggie Okponobi of Owls Club and get specific about how a senior community can fight loneliness with daily connection, learning, and a place to belong. We also trace Maggie’s path from teaching to Peace Corps service to nonprofit leadership, and why she believes our community is stronger when we truly notice older adults.  • Owls Club’s mission for adults 55+ and why “active” matt...

We sit down with retired educator Jane Allen to trace how Stable Grounds grows from a school mental health shortage into a trusted place where kids find calm with miniature horses and donkeys. We talk through the moment the community could not ignore, the fundraising miracles that followed, and what it takes to keep a youth mental health nonprofit sustainable.  • early warning signs in schools and...

We talk with Scott Griffey about how a small weekend backpack effort for hungry students grows into Gymtown Food Bank, Elkhart County’s newest and only food bank. We trace the real mechanics of fighting food insecurity, from door-to-door deliveries during COVID to countywide partnerships that move food faster and with more dignity.  • teachers spotting hunger first and asking for help  • backpack...

We talk with Andy Murray, Chief Strategy Officer at the Community Foundation of Elkhart County, about aligning business discipline with community care to boost kindergarten readiness, expand trail connections, and coordinate hunger relief. A story-driven look at convening partners, funding systems, and building momentum that lasts. The episode includes: • role of a chief strategy officer as conven...

What does it take to carry a legacy without getting stuck in the past? We sit down with outgoing executive director Darrell Peterson and incoming leader David Gaona to explore how Lifeline Youth Ministries, a long-standing youth organization in Elkhart, turned a devastating fire into a season of growth, forged a culture built on intentional relationships, and executed a rare, joyful leadership tra...

Life and Legacy: Vince Turner's Transformative Journey In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast, hosts Marshall King and Kevin Dearie sit down with Vince Turner, a communications expert from Goshen, Indiana, known for his prolific career in broadcasting, sports writing, and community service. Vince shares his journey from being a foster kid at Indiana State University to becoming a celeb...

Board Chair Dave Weaver shares his remarks from the Community Foundation of Elkhart County’s 2025 Annual Meeting. In this special episode, Dave reflects on growth, stewardship, bold ideas, and the power of working together to strengthen the place we call home. His message highlights how generosity, collaboration, and thoughtful risk-taking are lighting the way forward for Elkhart County. Send us F...

Empowering Young Entrepreneurs: Kris Weimer's Journey with Startup Moxie In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast, hosts Marshall King and Kevin Deary interview Kris Weimer, the dynamic leader of Startup Moxie Elkhart County. Kris shares her journey from a music teacher and school principal to directing a transformative entrepreneurial program aimed at high school students. Startup Moxie...

In the Inspiring Good Podcast, hosts Marshall King and Kevin Deary engage Mark Mikel, the retiring executive director of the Center in Nappanee. Mark shares his decades-long journey of service, highlighting the Center’s wide-ranging support services like food pantries, rent assistance, free baby immunizations, and more. Mark recounts the transformative Vision 2020 project, a collaborative communit...

In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast, hosts Marshall King and Kevin Deary talk with Dr. Rebecca Stoltzfus, President of Goshen College, discussing her journey back to her alma mater and her vision for the college. The conversation highlights Goshen College’s history, its focus on undergraduate education, and the college’s enduring Christian and service-oriented values. Dr. Stoltzfus share...

In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast, host Marshall King talks with Bob Deputy, a prominent business and civic leader in Elkhart, Indiana. Bob shares the rich history of his family's involvement in the community, from living in the historic Ruthmere Mansion to running the Godfrey Conveyor Company, which later transformed into the successful Godfrey Marine. He discusses the evolution...

This episode was recorded before Kevin Deary went on health leave from the foundation. In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast, hosts Marshall King and Kevin Deary talk with Carrie Berghoff, Chief Development Officer at the Community Foundation of Elkhart County. Carrie discusses her role in managing relationships with 600 fundholders and donors, the significance of donor-advised funds, and...

Community Care and Collaboration: A Conversation with Naomi Leary In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast, hosts Marshall King and Kevin Dearie talk with Naomi Leary, Executive Director of The Window in Goshen, Indiana. Naomi shares her experiences and challenges in her first six months as Executive Director, highlighting The Window's mission to provide food, clothing, and care to those...

In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast, co-hosts Marshall King and Kevin Deary sit down with John Mastrojohn, President and CEO of the Center for Hospice Care. Mastrojohn shares how he journeyed from emergency services to palliative care, reflects on the personal and professional impact of hospice work, and discusses the challenges and rewards of leading a hospice organization. Key insights...

In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast , hosts Marshall King and Kevin Deary engage in an insightful conversation with Chris Kingsley , the President and CEO of ADEC Inc., an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The discussion navigates through Chris's leadership journey, the mission and evolution of ADEC, and the impactful...

Join us for an enlightening episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast where hosts Kevin Deary and Marshall King sit down with Alex Strati , the new Director of Professional Advisors at the Community Foundation. Alex brings his wealth of experience from a successful banking career to discuss what drives his passion for community service and philanthropy. This Episode's Highlights: Mentorship and L...

Serving the Underserved: A Conversation with Paul Shetler Fast In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast, hosts Marshall King and Kevin Deary talk with Paul Shetler Fast, the executive director of Maple City Health Care Center in Goshen, Indiana. Paul discusses the comprehensive care services provided by the center, which include primary care, pediatrics, mental health, and dental programs. Th...

In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast, hosts Marshall King and Kevin Deary engage with Rob LaRoy, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Elkhart County, discussing the organization's mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals. The conversation delves into various aspects of animal welfare, challenges in the nonprofit sector, and innovative programs that support the commu...

Tune in to the Inspiring Good podcast for a compelling conversation with Tami Hicks, where we explore her leadership journey and the extensive programs under her guidance at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Elkhart County. Discover the club’s diverse initiatives, from robust music and creative arts programs to esports and mental health support. Tami also shares her personal advocacy for Angelman Syndro...

In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast, we focus on the less talked about but crucial aspects of cancer care: navigating health insurance and financial support. Cancer Resources of Elkhart County, under Peter Norton's experienced leadership, plays a key role in helping patients understand their insurance coverage and manage the often-overwhelming financial burdens that come with cancer...

Reflecting on a Legacy of Compassion and Community Commitment In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast , brought to you by the Community Foundation of Elkhart County, we reflect on the remarkable career of Candy Yoder, the Chief Program Officer, who recently announced her retirement. Known for her dedication to helping others, Candy's journey from social work in New Mexico to influential...

In this enlightening episode of the "Inspiring Good" podcast, explore the profound impact of community engagement and leadership within Elkhart County, Indiana. The episode features philanthropist, board member, and leader Will Weed. It delves into how the generosity and dedication of local leaders have created a thriving network of nonprofit organizations. Listen as our guest discusses...

In this episode, we delve into the extraordinary work of Elkhart County Jail Ministry and its commitment to transforming lives. Our conversation starts with a detailed introduction to the ministry's initiatives, highlighting how individuals are provided with opportunities and support to lead meaningful lives post-incarceration. We'll explore the impactful journey of Cory Martin, the chap...