Spring is a time of new growth and change and Collective partner Groundwork Indy (GWI) has embraced this dynamic season in stride. After a major move from their Central Canal location on Burdsal Parkway to the Circle City Industrial Complex along Pogue's Run, GWI has had a season of growth. The new move coincided with the launch of another GroundCorp Team, working with the nearby Arsenal Tech High School. The GroundCorp is an environmental stewardship, landscape design-build, and maintenance service. GroundCorp members work part time, receiving valuable, paid, hands-on experience, while also participating in structured, life-skills and job preparedness training provided by program partners. One of the first projects GWI will work on is the Pogue's Run Unified Stream Assessment, to assist with the waterway committee's habitat survey. Neighbors interested in supporting the habitat survey on May 15th, 18th, or 22nd can email kelly@ourwaterways.org.
Another positive, major change with GWI is the hiring of their new Executive Director, Adam Velazquez. Born and raised in Northwest Indiana, Velazquez has spent much of his time out in nature and gained his passion for helping others from his parents. Most recently, he has served as a case manager and director at Helping Veterans and Families (HVAF), and is excited to transition toward environmental work and youth development, increasing capacity to provide resources and support to local youth and larger community. Welcome, Adam!
Photo above: Groundwork Indy Staff pose in front of the Citizens Energy Group Rock Dam. From left to right stands Adam Velazquez (Executive Director), Ronald Rice (Interim Executive Director), Ian Oehler Land Stewardship Manager & Bike Program Coordinator), and Elizabeth Wallin (Managing Director). |
This month, ROW recognizes a dynamic duo along our Pogue's Run Waterway: Amanda Wade and Susan Vogt. Long-time active members of the Pogue's Run Waterway Committee, Wade and Vogt have lead a number of community cleanups, events, and gatherings along the waterway throughout the years.
AM while Vogt, Director of Economic Development for 
rain delay. Over 30 neighbors and friends made their way out to Vinny's Drive Bar for a walk 2.5 mile from the levee to AJ Thatcher Golf Course along Eagle Creek. The group's main objective was to spot the neighborhood's two roosting eagles, affectionately identified as 'Ben' and 'Babe', who sit atop a massive nest above the golf courses' fourth hole. Walkers were treated to an eagle flyover as well as observing the other eagle partner standing watch over their eggs. A huge thank you to Bryan Crouch, of AJ Thatcher Golf Course, Vinny's Drive Bar, and our Little Eagle Creek co-chairs Jeb Bardon and Joan Servaas for organizing a spectacular event where eagles soar. 
