“Beyond the Bash” trailer introduced

At a recent Huntington County Community School Corporation (HCCSC) board meeting, Indiana Care Center’s Pastor Ashlyn Kippert introduced a new initiative designed to provide ongoing support for students and families facing financial difficulties. Known as the “Beyond the Bash” program, this effort aims to address the year-round needs of students through a mobile care trailer that will circulate among HCCSC schools.

Pastor Kippert outlined the evolution of the Care Center’s community support efforts, which initially began as a back-to-school event for students needing essential supplies. Since then, this annual event has grown into a large-scale collaboration, drawing support from local organizations and churches, with last year’s Back-to-School Bash serving over 3,000 community members.

The new “Beyond the Bash” program will provide resources for students year-round, addressing needs for clothing, shoes and hygiene products through an innovative mobile trailer, which was made possible by donations from local businesses such as Bendix and Duke Energy. “This is not a thrift store,” Pastor Kippert emphasized, noting that the trailer will be stocked exclusively with new items, ensuring students receive high-quality essentials.

The streamlined process allows teachers, counselors, and administrators to easily identify needs and submit requests via an online portal. Once approved, students will have the opportunity to visit the trailer at their school, creating a dignified shopping experience similar to a traditional store.

The trailer will be stocked with contributions from community partners and businesses, who have committed to regular donations to ensure the trailer remains fully supplied. This commitment reflects the HCCSC and Indiana Care Center’s shared dedication to alleviating burdens for both students and staff by providing for basic needs and allowing educators to focus on their core mission.

The board and Pastor Kippert expressed appreciation for the collaboration, with board members affirming the importance of the initiative. “Thank you for allowing us to do what we’re doing,” Kippert said, acknowledging the support and enthusiasm that HCCSC has shown for the project.

The “Beyond the Bash” initiative will launch in the coming months, with an emphasis on community partnership, dignity, and ensuring students have access to necessary items to thrive both academically and socially.