WINONA LAKE — The Kosciusko County Young Republicans hosted their 3rd Annual Golf
Scramble in June at Stonehenge Golf Course and more than 80 golfers helped raise $2,500 for CASA of Kosciusko County.

Young Republicans proudly presented Erin Rowland Jones, CASA’s executive director, with a $2,500 donation to support their work advocating for abused and neglected children in the local court system.

“We are proud to support CASA and the incredible impact they make in the lives of children
right here in Kosciusko County,” said Joe Sobek, Chairman of the Kosciusko County Young
Republicans. “This event is about more than golf — it’s about investing in our community’s
future.”

CASA of Kosciusko County provides trained volunteer advocates to speak up for children who have experienced abuse or neglect, ensuring their best interests are always at the front and center of their journey through the child welfare system. The funds raised will help CASA continue its mission of providing hope, stability, and a consistent adult presence in the lives of vulnerable children.

Executive Director Erin Rowland Jones expressed her gratitude: “We are deeply thankful to the Kosciusko County Young Republicans for choosing CASA as this year’s beneficiary. Every
dollar raised helps us ensure that we have a community volunteer trained and ready to walk alongside any child who needs a voice and an advocate.”

Plans are already underway for next year’s scramble, continuing the tradition of bringing the community together for a worthy cause.

For more information about CASA, click here.

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WARSAW — On Friday, Generous Coffee marked its one-year anniversary in downtown Warsaw by celebrating community, collaboration, and generosity.

Generous kicked off the celebration by welcoming dozens of community members, nonprofit leaders, and local partners into its renovated café space to reflect on the vision that launched just one year ago and to unveil an exciting new chapter for its mission.

“What started as a dream, and a lot of hard work, has turned into something more beautiful than we imagined,” said Tyler Silveus, Co-Founder and CEO. “This isn’t just a coffee shop, it’s a gathering place where generosity fuels purpose, and where local heroes are honored every day.”

Nonprofit Partners Honored

Over the past year, Generous Coffee has partnered with four local nonprofits: Baker Youth Club, Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts, Cardinal Services Inc., and CASA of Kosciusko County, using its donation-based coffee bar and coffee bean sales to raise both funds and awareness for their causes.

A New Chapter: One Nonprofit, Four Months at a Time

Looking ahead, Generous Coffee announced a new structure for its nonprofit support model. Moving forward, the coffee roastery will spotlight one nonprofit partner every four months, allowing for deeper engagement and storytelling around each cause.

What’s more, each nonprofit partner will be matched with a corporate sponsor to help underwrite the cost of the coffee bar, meaning more of the community's donations go directly to the featured nonprofit.

The first corporate sponsor in this new model is DreamOn Studios, and the next nonprofit to be featured is Agaitas, a faith-based organization that uses free sports camps to reach underserved children locally and internationally.

Executive Director Ryan Burgher shared about Agaitas’ mission and growing reach from summer camps in Kosciusko County, to pop-up events at local mobile home parks, and even global efforts in India, Brazil, and soon Cameroon.

"We use sports for kids to feel loved and to hear about Christ,” said Burgher. “We go where the need is greatest, whether it’s a mobile home park in Indiana or a remote village overseas. And we’re able to do that thanks to support from organizations like Generous Coffee and DreamOn Studios.”

A Space With a Mission

Guests were invited to enjoy coffee, pastries, and conversation inside the space that was lovingly renovated just over a year ago. Several nonprofit partners also shared how they’ve used the space for donor events, holiday parties, and community gatherings.

“This place was built for more than coffee,” said Silveus. “It was built for connection, for generosity, and for the stories that bring us all together.”

About Generous Coffee
Generous Coffee is an impact-driven coffee roastery located in downtown Warsaw, Indiana that donates 100% of profits to non-profits. Founded by Ben Higgins, Tyler Silveus, and a group of purpose-led entrepreneurs, Generous Coffee exists to create meaningful connection while generating funds for nonprofits around the world. Every cup of coffee supports a cause.

Learn more at: generouscoffee.com

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WARSAW — "Dancing with the Stars for Charity" took place at the Warsaw Performing Arts Center in late March, marking a remarkable celebration of community spirit, dazzling dance performances, and philanthropy. The one-night-only extravaganza delivered an unforgettable evening of talent and generosity to a near sell-out crowd.

Nine teams, comprised of enthusiastic community members and dedicated staff from Warsaw Community Schools, graced the stage to support local charities. The event stood out not only for its star-studded lineup but also for the meaningful collaboration between community members and school staff.

The dance performances were nothing short of spectacular, thanks to the choreography expertise of students enrolled in the Warsaw Community High School Dance program. These talented students worked tirelessly to ensure each routine was a perfect blend of creativity and precision.

What made the event even more remarkable was that over $13,000 was raised, with 100% of all ticket proceeds donated to 11 local charities.

Among the beneficiaries, Joe’s Kids received a $1600 donation thanks in part to their designated team winning the coveted Mirror Ball trophy. Each of the other represented charities (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Cardinal Services, CASA of Kosciusko County, Combined Community Services, Kate’s Kart, Kosciusko Community Trap Neuter Return, Magical Meadows, and Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts) received a donation of $1300. Additionally. the WCHS dance department also received $1300 as a small token of appreciation to be used for future dance recitals.

Fans in attendance were treated to a diverse array of dance styles, from elegant ballroom to energetic hip-hop, all performed with passion and flair. Beyond the glitz and glamour, "Dancing with the Stars for Charity" embodied the true spirit of community collaboration, as members from different walks of life joined forces to support causes close to their hearts.

Organizers have already begun planning the event for the following year, with Saturday, March 29, 2025 announced as the next scheduled date.

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WARSAW — A five-year haiutus has apparently caused a strong demand for Saturday night's return of Dancing with the Stars for Charity.

The event features nine local dance couples competing in a contest similar to the reknowned televison show.

Tonight's competition at the Performing Arts Center at Warsaw Community High School starts at 7:30 p.m.

While  advanced ticket sales have been strong, organizer of the event, Programming Director Kris Lake said tickets will still be availble at the door tonight.

Tickets are priced at $25 for adults and $15 for students.

All of the proceeds from ticket sales will go directly to supporting 11 local charities.

Tickets may be reserved online at warsawschools.org/pac, or by calling the box office at (574) 371-5040.

Among the selected beneficiaries are Joe’s Kids, Magical Meadows, Combined Community Services, Kosciusko Community Trap Neuter Return, Cardinal Services, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts, CASA of Kosciusko County, and Kate’s Kart. The WCHS Dance Department and Warsaw Performing Arts Center will also receive a portion of the proceeds. 

The nine couples have been practicing for weeks.

"Dancing with the Stars for Charity" embodies the true essence of community collaboration, as individuals from various backgrounds come together to champion causes dear to their hearts.

[gallery columns="1" size="full" ids="90978,90979,90980"]

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WARSAW — Prepare to move and groove, Kosciusko County!

The Warsaw Performing Arts Center, in collaboration with Kensington Digital Media, joyfully announces the revival of "Dancing with the Stars for Charity," a fundraising extravaganza set to sizzle this spring.

After a five-year pause, this electrifying event returns to the stage of WCHS PAC on Saturday, March 23. It promises to be a cornerstone fundraiser, benefiting 11 local charities. Each participating team has rallied behind a regional not-for-profit, standing as their advocate on the glittering stage. All proceeds from ticket sales will be divided among the nine charities, as well as supporting the WCHS Dance Department and Warsaw PAC.

A stellar lineup of eighteen luminaries from Kosciusko County will don their dancing shoes, collaborating with student choreographers from the WCHS Dance Department. Together, they'll deliver an evening brimming with live entertainment and heartfelt community engagement.

Among the local luminaries taking center stage are individuals like Shawn Brown (Lake City Living Magazine), Chris Cage (Willie 103.5), Sea Grandon (Atelier), Lakesha Green (Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts), Trace Hansen (Eastlake Skate Center), Mike King (107.3 WRSW), Travis McConnell (McConnell Law & B&B Courthouse Market), Chris Plack (Cardinal Services), Randy Polston (Combined Community Services), Laura Rothhaar (Kosciusko Convention & Visitors Bureau), Jim Smith (Kosciusko County Sheriff), and Suzanne Stokes (Warsaw Parks Department).

Additionally, shining stars from Warsaw Community Schools include Angela Dieleman (WCHS/Middle School Orchestra Teacher), Megan Dinse (WCHS Step One Teacher), Kayla May (Eisenhower BSL), Karri Morgan (Claypool 6th Grade Teacher), Emily Gough (WCHS Science), and Paul Zakaria (WCHS Senior Class Principal).

WCHS Dance Student Choreographers include Courtney Brower, Emma Bradford, Dakota Gardner, Ella Gonzalez, Michael Hertel, Malori McDaniels, Victoria Peloza, Kennedy Polk, Shannon Smith, and Kaelyn Stoffel.

The evening's emcee will be Kris Lake, the Morning Show Host from 107.3 WRSW and Brianne Stewart, WCHS Dance Instructor, will oversee the student participation.

Various not-for-profit organizations will be supported through the efforts of each dancing team. Charities chosen include Joe’s Kids, Magical Meadows, Combined Community Services, Kosciusko County TNR, Cardinal Services, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts, CASA of Kosciusko County and Kate’s Kart.

Tickets for "Dancing with the Stars for Charity" will be available for purchase starting in January.

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INDIANAPOLIS — Andrea Herschberger, of Nappanee, was recently awarded and recognized as the Indiana CASA of the Year by the Indiana State Office of GAL/CASA in Indianapolis.

Herschberger has been a volunteer for CASA of Kosciusko County for 14 years and in that time has advocated for 26 children, recently having been appointed to her 27th child, according to a news release provided.

CASA volunteers are specially trained volunteers who advocate in court for the best interests of children who have often been abused and neglected. A CASA serves as the voice of the child and the eyes and ears of the court.

“While often needing to make difficult decisions in her reports and in court, Andrea always does so with grace and respect. She always makes sure that all pertinent information is presented to the judge with the focus always on the child, their best interests, needs, safety and future at the forefront,” said CASA of Kosciusko County Executive Director Erin Rowland Jones about Herschberger.

In the nomination, Herschberger was praised by DCS, CASA staff and foster parents for children she has advocated for and was described as a "gentle warrior" for the children she serves.

While accepting her award at the Indiana State CASA Conference, Herschberger thanked her husband, sons and daughters-in-law for their support. She stated while addressing the crowd of CASA staff and volunteers from across the State of Indiana, “I realize that this award could have gone to so many of you just as easily. And it makes my heart warm and I feel so proud to be a part of a group like this ... I can’t make a difference for lots of people, but I can make a difference to someone and together all of us can make a difference in the [lives of the] children of Indiana.”

CASA of Kosciusko County is a nonprofit organization committed to advocating for the best interest of children who are at risk of, or who have suffered from, abuse and neglect, the release states.

“The children of our community need your help. These children, whose voices our volunteers represent, are brought into the court system due to no fault of their own. The cases our volunteers are seeing represent the very worst cases of abuse and neglect. These children not only need an advocate in court, they need a caring, consistent adult meeting with them during the most traumatic time of their lives,” stated Rowland Jones.

If you would like more information on how to become a CASA volunteer or would like to donate, call CASA of Kosciusko County at 574-372-2401 or visit www.casachildren.com.

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WARSAW -- Everyone who is saddened or angered by stories of child abuse and neglect was encouraged Wednesday at a blue pinwheel planting ceremony to be pro-active instead of burying their heads in the sand.

The ceremony, organized by CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Kosciusko County, took place at noon at the county courthouse.

CASA of Kosciusko County Executive Director Erin Rowland Jones explained, “We are here to bring some attention to child abuse prevention. April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and we urge the entire Kosciusko County community to engage in activities that strengthen families in our community.”

She said they plant pinwheels each April as they are the national symbol of child abuse prevention. The pinwheel represents the playfulness and whimsy of a happy childhood that all children should have.

“We, as a community, are here to stand up against child abuse and bring attention to child abuse prevention,” Rowland Jones said.

Kosciusko County Local Office Director for the Department of Child Services Sara Cole said, “Most often when I tell people what I do for a living, they say things like, ‘I could never do what you do.’ And I’ll be honest with you, what we do at DCS is very challenging.”

Another thing that people often ask her is what can they do to help.

“So, if you are asking yourself, ‘What can I do to help children in the community of Kosciusko County?’ I have some suggestions for you,” Cole said.

She suggested a person could become a mentor to youth who are struggling, become a CASA volunteer, become involved with their church and find ways to give back.

“But beyond any of that, and most importantly, I will tell you that the department is in desperate need of foster parents to take in children,” Cole said. “Whenever a child is removed from their caregivers due to abuse and neglect, we try to place children as close to their home as possible so the children can maintain their relationships in school and in the community.”

If possible, DCS will place children with relatives or kinship family to ensure a child’s comfort in a challenging time, she said. “Currently, most of the children placed through Kosciusko County are placed with relatives and kinship care, which is a huge benefit to the children. However, when relatives and kinship are not available, DCS relies on foster parents to take children in.”

Cole said over the past year, there have been several situations where children had to stay the night in the local DCS offices due to no relative or foster care placement being available to the child.

“DCS staff does our best to make the child feel as comfortable as possible in these situations, but staying the night in an office does not compare to going to a home with a bed to sleep in,” she said.

She encouraged those at Wednesday’s event to consider becoming a licensed foster parent, to take time to learn about the process and make an informed decision.

“As a final thought, I want to remind you all that everyone in Indiana is a mandated reporter of child abuse and neglect. If you suspect or have concerns of abuse or neglect, please call our hotline, which is staffed by DCS employees 24/7/365. The number to call is 1-800-800-5556,” Cole stated.

Former Jail Chemical Addiction Program (JCAP) Director Courtney Jenkins told her own story about dealing with CASA.

“Our family was directly impacted by CASA nearly 20 years ago when we assigned a CASA for our son. We were in a custody battle and trying to get his biological dad’s parental rights terminated,” she said. “We didn’t really know what to expect.”

One day she was at home and the CASA made a visit. Jenkins said she was “mortified” because she felt like the CASA was there to judge her family.

“But what I really quickly came to understand was that (she) was there to represent our son. She wasn’t there to judge my messy house or my half-dressed kids. She really came so that she could be a voice for our son. And, she stepped in when our love and protection weren’t enough. We needed somebody who could unbiasedly advocate for him and speak to the judge and the courts on his behalf without the he said/she said and without the emotion that a parent has behind it. And she did that. She did it in the most kind and compassionate ways,” Jenkins recalled.

The CASA visited Jenkins’ son at school, interviewed neighbors, Jenkins’ husband’s co-workers and family.

“She was just this sweet, kind, compassionate woman who was not assuming. She just was there to speak for our son. And, she was able to do such a wonderful job because she had had, one, a great life experience, but also she had received great training through the CASA organization,” Jenkins said. “For us and our family, we’ve always been incredibly grateful for her kindness and her compassion and her ability to fill that gap between what we could do for our son and what needed to be done for him.”

She said she will always be grateful to CASA for all that they do in advocating for children.

Rowland Jones said Jenkins’ story brings up a good message.

“We at CASA typically get involved in cases when there has already been abuse and neglect, but we need more volunteers because often the judges do want to appoint us to family law cases where there could be issues where a child’s voice needs to be heard. There could be safety issues or other issues involved, so there is a preventative nature in some of the work that we do,” she said.

Those in attendance at the event then marched around the county courthouse in support of child abuse prevention, led by Jenkins and Judge Karin McGrath. At the end of the march, everyone planted pinwheels on the courthouse lawn.

McGrath then spoke, recalling what Cole had said previously about people telling her they can not do what she does for her career because it’s too sad and difficult.

“Well, guess what? Sadness and the difficulty does not go away if you bury your head in the sand and not get involved. It’s still there, you’re just not taking any action to make it better,” she said. “I think it’s part of the human condition we feel sadness when we hear of things like the number of children who are abused and neglected in this country alone. We should feel sad, we do feel sad. That is human.”

But to “really care” about that information is to take action and do something “in your little way with where you’re planted to make a change and to make that better. That is the most important thing we take away from events like this: What can I do? What am I going to do?” McGrath said.

She said a person may not be in a place in their life where they can be a foster parent, they may not have time “right now” to be a CASA but there are things a person can do. “If you’re not sure what those other little things are, talk to Erin, talk to Sara, talk to all the folks here who are involved now. They can point you in the right direction. There’s action every single one of us can take to watch out for these kids and to avoid seeing more of these children in my courtroom,” McGrath said.

For more about CASA, visit the website at https://casachildren.com/.

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WARSAW -- Kosciusko County on Wednesday began looking at how to divvy up the final remaining $5 million in money from the American Rescue Plan Act on Wednesday.

A dozen groups made pitches –- big and small –- to the county ARPA committee.

County Commissioner Cary Groninger said their approach in making deciding how to use the money comes down to long-term investments and choosing between needs versus wants.

Also on the committee are Sue Ann Mitchell and Mike Long.

After nearly two hours of discussion, the committee made recommendations that will go to the county commissioners and county council for a final decision.

Requests came from numerous entities. Fire and police departments sought radios and pagers, work release wanted a metal detector and Animal Welfare League sought money for several needs. 

The biggest request came from the North Webster Community Center, which is seeing increased traffic but has serious roof problems. They were seeking $650,000 and were preliminarily approved for about $250,000.

County officials also want to put side aside a large amount of money to be used for road work on CR 1300N and improvements to the Justice Building.

The following is what was sought and what the committee recommended:

• Beaman Home Requested $63,000 for its new facility on South Buffalo Street it acquired a year ago. About $44,000 was recommended.
• Combined Community Services requested $202,000 to construct a new garage that would be used in part for storage. The request was tabled.
• Etna Green Fire Department requested $119,700 for new pagers. The request was turned down and they will seek a backup source of funding.
• Kosciusko County Senior Services requested $119,000 to buy a bus. The request was tabled.
• Kosciusko County Work Release requested $5,800 to purchase a metal detector to help keep weapons and contraband out of the facility. The request was recommended.
• Milford Fire Department requested $48,000 to purchase portable radios. About $32,000 was recommended.
• Animal Welfare League requested $158,000 for insulation in the new feline building, parking lot improvement and other expenses. About $24,000 was recommended.
• Warsaw Police requested $50,000 for portable radios. About $11,000 was recommended.
• Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office requested $86,000 for new body cams and related equipment for officers. The request was recommended.
• North Webster Community Center requested $650,000 for among other things, immediate roof and window repairs. About $252,000 was recommended.
• YMCA of Kosciusko County requested $280,000 to develop a new facility. The request was tabled.
• CASA of Kosciusko County requested $24,100 for several items including fingerprinting equipment. About $19,000 was recommended.

Mitchell noted that some groups who previously received ARPA money have not needed all of what they were given and will be asked to return unused portions.

The committee will meet again on May 10.

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