The Columbia City Common Council meeting held on April 22, 2025, featured a significant presentation from Easterseals Northeast Indiana, focusing on their community programs and ongoing challenges. Stacy Duell, Vice President of Community Supports, and Vicki Lowton, Chief Development Officer, provided updates on their initiatives and staffing issues.

Easterseals operates a Creative Learning Center in Columbia City, currently facing a staffing shortage with two positions unfilled. Despite this, the organization has expanded its programming, including a new supervisor expected to start in mid-May. They are preparing for summer events such as the Bridal and Farmers Markets, which provide participants opportunities to showcase and sell their artwork.

The organization has also adapted its programming based on family feedback, shifting to a more flexible schedule that allows participants to choose specific activities, such as ballroom dance or art classes. A new gaming room has been introduced, fostering social interaction among participants, which has shown positive results in communication skills.

Easterseals is actively involved in workforce development, offering various training programs in partnership with Cardinal Services. These include certified nursing assistant (CNA) training and hospitality certifications, aimed at helping community members enhance their employability. The organization has seen an increase in student enrollments in their pre-employment transition services, with 37 students currently participating.

The meeting also addressed the challenges of staffing in group homes and supported living facilities. Easterseals reported a 50% vacancy rate in these areas, prompting discussions on long-term strategies to improve staffing levels. The organization is exploring various employment models and has initiated a marketing campaign to attract new staff, emphasizing the rewarding aspects of the job.

Duell highlighted the importance of community support and expressed gratitude for the city's assistance over the years. The presentation concluded with an invitation for council members to tour the Creative Learning Center to witness the programs firsthand.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing efforts of Easterseals to adapt and grow its services in response to community needs while navigating significant staffing challenges. The council's support remains crucial as the organization seeks to enhance its impact in Columbia City and surrounding areas.