Photo of Trisha Drain, Executive Director of Newton County Community Services
From food needs to transportation struggles, sometimes things don’t always play out how people want them to. Enter Trisha Drain of Newton County Community Services. Her team is here to support everyone’s needs and assure them that it is OK to ask for help.
After over 20 years in healthcare, Trisha took a step back and wondered if there was a way she could utilize her skills and love for service to make a larger impact.
“I went back to school full time online while continuing to work full time to pursue my bachelors in Community Health Education at IU Northwest,” Trisha said. “Along that timeframe, I spoke to the director at Jasper County and volunteered weekly with her agency, where I was later able to complete my final grant writing internship. An opening came available here with Newton County, and I took the position. I have a love of rural communities and a passion for serving. It has been a good fit!”
Stepping into this role was no easy task; nonetheless, she’s made the most of her first few years growing the agency’s existing programs.
“I was filling some big shoes of the previous director, who was well-loved, but I established a great team, and together, we have been able to increase the participation of all of our programs,” said Trisha. “In the last two years, Food Pantry participation has increased 100%, and we now have an organized and full pantry with a shopping environment to provide dignity and choice to those neighbors in need. We have increased the number of public transportation one-way trips by 60%. Our senior lunch program has increased 60% in the first year and an additional 40% in the second year, with re-established activities such as health education and field trips.”
Thanks to support from volunteers and donors, the team continues to develop new plans for Newton County’s residents.
“We were able to establish Newton County’s first Community Garden. Recent grant funding will have us adding raised beds for next spring for all ages and abilities to enjoy. We also now assist with rent and utilities through our Energy Assistance Program as well as our Emergency Food & Shelter Program through United Way. I hope to to find success in continuing the good work started here.”
Thank you for leading so many efforts that impact our communities every day, Trisha!
Interested in helping Trisha and her team accomplish their goals for the community? See their volunteer and work opportunities at https://www.newtoncountycommunityservices.org/employment-volunteer-opportunities/!
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