Spotlight
The 2026 GRIT Days of Learning transformed Washington State College of Ohio in Marietta into a hub of ideas, inspiration, and collaboration as leaders and innovators from across Ohio gathered for two impactful days. With purpose at its core, the conference delivered memorable keynotes, rich learning experiences, and engaging breakout sessions designed to spark bold thinking and intentional leadership. From insightful discussions to practical takeaways, the momentum in every room highlighted a shared drive for growth, resilience, and community‑centered progress.
Stats & Figures
County Highlights
40 Under 40 Adams County Chamber Event
Recognizing Leadership & Partnership: 40 Under 40
The Adams County Chamber of Commerce’s 40 Under 40 recognition event was a powerful celebration of emerging leaders who are shaping the future of Adams County through their work, service, and commitment to community.
The Chamber’s leadership in hosting this event reflects a deep investment in recognizing talent, encouraging leadership, and celebrating the individuals who are helping our county grow and thrive. Bringing together businesses, families, educators, and community members, the evening highlighted the strength of local connections and the importance of acknowledging those making a difference.
The GRIT Project was proud to support and stand alongside the Chamber in recognizing this year’s honorees. GRIT’s role in events like 40 Under 40 is rooted in our mission to help individuals understand their strengths, see what’s possible, and move toward meaningful, sustainable futures. Recognition events like this reinforce those same values by showcasing real examples of success close to home.
By highlighting young professionals who are leading, building, serving, and growing in Adams County, the 40 Under 40 recognition helps:
Demonstrate that leadership and opportunity exist within our local communities
Celebrate diverse career pathways and journeys, reinforce the value of hard work, perseverance, and purpose, and provide visible role models for students and young people.
For GRIT, supporting efforts like 40 Under 40 strengthens the bridge between education, workforce development, and community leadership. These moments of recognition help students and job seekers see how skills, preparation, and perseverance translate into real-world impact.
The 40 Under 40 event was not just an evening of awards—it was a meaningful recognition of people and pathways, made possible through the Chamber’s commitment to celebrating local leadership and through partnerships that believe in lifting up talent across our region.
The GRIT Project is proud to present the GRIT Award to Vitruvian, recognizing their commitment to creating opportunity through collaboration and purpose‑driven work. Vitruvian has chosen to dedicate the GRIT Difference Maker Award to the partners who make this work possible every day, and we couldn’t agree more.
We extend our gratitude alongside Vitruvian to their local school partners: New Lexington High School, Nelsonville‑York High School, Southern Local School District, Eastern Local School District, and Eastland‑Fairfield Career and Technical Schools.
We also recognize their community partners: Survivor Advocacy Outreach Program, Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District, Athens Economic Development Corporation, YBI, Area 14 Workforce Development Board, OhioMeansJobs–Athens County, and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
These partnerships reflect what the GRIT Award stands for, believing in a shared mission, showing up consistently, and working together to create real opportunity in our communities. None of this happens alone, and we’re proud to celebrate partners who lead with purpose.
Six Certifications. One Bright Future.
When 11th‑grader Dusty Larson signed up for a welding boot camp in Ashtabula County, he was simply curious. Growing up around his family’s trucking business, he assumed that path might be his future, but with support from the GRIT Project and the Future Plans coaching process, Dusty discovered something more.
In just two months, Dusty earned all six welding certifications offered through the program, lifetime credentials that open doors to high‑demand, high‑wage careers right after high school. His instructors praised not only his skill, but his determination and gratitude for the opportunity.
With hands‑on training, personal coaching, and real credentials, Dusty gained more than certifications, he gained confidence, direction, and excitement for what comes next. And that’s exactly what the GRIT Project is designed to do.
Barnesville High School career fair
Barnesville High School held the school’s first career fair Nov. 25, 2025. The well-attended event exposed students to a wide variety of employers and post-secondary options, and GRIT Community Outreach Partner Lisa Duvall was able to talk with many students who had already completed steps one and two of the Future Plans five-step process. Congratulations to career navigator Kristi Sloan and BHS school counselor Nate Kearns on a great day!
Hope in Ohio: Belmont & Monroe Counties Suicide Prevention Community Conversation
The BHM Mental Health and Recovery Board, in conjunction with the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health, held another in a series of community conversations centered around breaking down stigma, raising awareness, sharing resources and gathering feedback to guide local mental health priorities. The conversation gave attendees the opportunity to hear from officials with the Oho Department of Behavioral Health, including Director Tia Marcel Moretti; officials with the Belmont Harrison Monroe Mental Health and Recovery Board; the East Central Ohio ESC; local elected officials and business leaders; and the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Tony Coder, executive director of the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation, led a raw but still hopeful discussion with Christy Block, whose son died by suicide. From left, BHM Board Executive Director Lisa Ward, Belmont County Coroner Amanda Fisher, Coleman Services COO Kasey Osselborn and Wilson Funeral Home Vice President/Funeral Director Jarrett Wilson, discussed the notable rise in completed suicides locally; available resources such as 988, the suicide and crisis lifeline; 800-354-4357, the Belmont/Harrison/Monroe crisis line; and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. The community conversation was held in the Union Local Middle School auditorium.
Brown County Chamber Hosts 2026 Annual Meeting & Economic Forecast
The Brown County Chamber of Commerce held its 2026 Annual Meeting and Brown County Economic Forecast on January 15, 2026, with the theme “Building Tomorrow Together.” The event highlighted the collaborative spirit that continues to drive our community forward and showcased exciting economic developments coming to Brown County.
Local leaders, business owners, and community partners gathered for a morning of networking and learning, gaining valuable insight into the county’s future growth and opportunities. The meeting emphasized the importance of working together to strengthen our local economy and support long-term success.
It was a great morning of connection, collaboration, and forward-thinking focused on building a strong future for Brown County.
Brown County Chamber Networking in Russellville
We recently had the pleasure of attending a Brown County Chamber meeting at The Vault Coffee Shop in Russellville, a beautifully restored old bank that has been transformed into a warm and welcoming coffee shop. It was a wonderful setting to gather with members of the Brown County Chamber of Commerce and spend time networking with our amazing community partners.
We had a great time building new connections, strengthening existing relationships, and sharing ideas that support the growth and success of Brown County.
I was especially honored, along with Amy Queen, to be recognized as new Chamber members. We are truly grateful for the warm welcome and excited to be more involved in this incredible organization.
We look forward to continuing to connect, collaborate, and grow together in our community!
Upcoming events: Small Business Essentials on March 12th at the Brown County Chamber office.
Meeting with Felicity-Franklin Local Schools
On January 23, 2026, we had the opportunity to meet with staff from Felicity-Franklin Local Schools to discuss Future Plans and our 5-Step Process, as well as their vision for supporting students through workforce development, industry credentials, and postsecondary opportunities.
The meeting highlighted the strong commitment and collaborative spirit of the Felicity-Franklin team in preparing students for future success. We were very impressed with the programs and initiatives they have in place to help students explore careers, build skills, and plan for life after graduation. We also enjoyed the opportunity to meet Fred, the school’s service dog, who plays an important role in supporting students’ well-being.
We were also grateful for the invitation to attend their FLIGHT NIGHT – 2nd Annual College and Career Night for students in grades 7–12. It was a great opportunity to further strengthen our partnership and support students as they plan for their futures.
Flight Night at Felicity-Franklin
We had a great time at Flight Night at Felicity-Franklin High School Career Fair! This event gave us a valuable opportunity to connect with students, parents, and community partners while sharing more about Future Plans and our 5 Step Process. We enjoyed answering questions, discussing career and college pathways, and highlighting the resources available to support student success.
In the coming weeks, we’re excited to begin assessing Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors as part of our ongoing commitment to helping students set goals, explore options, and prepare for their future. We appreciate the strong community support and look forward to continuing this important work together.
Jackson County OMJ and GRIT: A Partnership Driving Workforce Success
For more than three years, Ohio Means Jobs (OMJ) Jackson County has partnered with The GRIT Project to expand opportunities for individuals seeking career advancement. What began as an innovative outreach program inside the local jail has grown into a collaboration that continues to break down barriers and create pathways to self-sufficiency.
Sharissa Hickey, workforce supervisor at OMJ Jackson County, explained that the first joint effort with the GRIT Project involved bringing OMJ services directly to incarcerated individuals. “We did interview skills, resume workshops—everything we do here, we brought to them in four different sessions,” she said. That initial project laid the foundation for a relationship that now includes GRIT funding and the Future Plans assessment, both of which have become integral to OMJ’s approach.
The Future Plans assessment is now part of OMJ’s intake process for adults and youth. According to Hickey, it helps guide individuals toward careers that align with their skills, even when they arrive with preconceived ideas about their future. “Even if we’re not going to use GRIT funding, we still use that assessment,” she noted. “It has helped us a ton.”
One of the most significant impacts of GRIT funding has been its flexibility. Traditional workforce programs often require participants to meet strict eligibility criteria, leaving some individuals without support. GRIT fills that gap, allowing OMJ to assist youth who may not have significant barriers but still need work experience and mentorship. “Kids need that extra person in their corner,” Hickey said. “GRIT lets us help individuals who wouldn’t normally qualify for our programs.”
The partnership has produced numerous success stories. Several individuals have completed CDL training funded by GRIT, and one local STNA is on track to finish her LPN program this December. Hickey also shared the story of a young man who was homeless and found stability through a GRIT-funded work experience at a local 4-H camp. “He has secure housing and wages through GRIT. Now he’s employed full-time and still has housing,” she said. “That was near and dear to our hearts.”
For other OMJ centers considering a partnership with GRIT, Hickey’s advice is simple: “If you’re on the fence, do it. We thought it was too good to be true, but it really is this easy. GRIT fills the gaps for people who don’t fit in the boxes.”
Looking ahead, OMJ Jackson County’s goal remains clear—help as many individuals as possible access the services and opportunities this partnership provides. “We don’t have some big elaborate plan,” Hickey said. “We just want to make sure that as many people in Jackson as possible can get the services this affords.
Healthy Meals for Healthy Minds Event Supports Jackson County Families
Angela Pinson attended the Healthy Meals for Healthy Minds event on Saturday, December 13, at Wellston Intermediate School, joining community partners in an effort to support local families with nutritious food and helpful resources.
The event anticipated the distribution of 200 food boxes, with whole families walking through the space to receive fresh food and connect with service providers. To encourage engagement, provider tables were placed between food distribution stations in a walk-through style setup, allowing families to access resources at their own pace. While some participants stopped to talk and ask questions, others moved quickly through the line—both experiences were welcomed as part of meeting families where they are.
Food for the event was generously provided by the Joe Burrow Foundation and Kroger. Their support, along with the dedication of local partners and volunteers, helped make the day a success.
We are grateful for the continued collaboration and ongoing support for Jackson County families and look forward to future opportunities to serve the community together.
Steubenville Nutcracker holiday display
GRIT Project Senior Director Alison Bragg and GRIT Community Outreach Partners Leigh Ann Smith and Lisa Duvall made a pre-holiday stop in Steubenville to check out the city’s renowned Nutcracker Village. The world’s largest collection of life-sized nutcrackers numbers more than 200 and is a free holiday exhibit in the heart of downtown Steubenville.
Coaching at Chesapeake High School
Pictured here, Sophomores at Chesapeake High School participate in GRIT coaching where a through a 1-on-1 session individuals receive helping in identifying their career favorites and next steps. 2/20/2026
Assessing students at Ironton High School
A roomful of Sophomores at Ironton High School take the Future Plans career assessment as step 1in the GRIT Project process aimed at guided students along a career path. 2/25/2026.
Through a strong collaboration between OMJ, Washington Career Center, Overbrook, and The GRIT Project, seven students earned their STNA certifications—and all are now employed. This partnership demonstrates how aligned support, persistence, and shared goals can create real workforce success.
Switzerland of Ohio Schools-Monroe Central, River, & Swiss Hills Career Center Students Complete Step Two of the Future Plans career process
Sophomore students at Monroe Central, River, and Swiss Hills Career Center have successfully completed Step Two of the Future Plans process: one-on-one career coaching. Through these personalized sessions, students explored career interests, discussed postsecondary options, and began connecting their strengths and goals to future pathways.
This spring, coaching will continue with juniors who were not able to complete sessions last year. In addition, our team is working closely with guidance counselors to review assessment data and coaching notes. These insights are being used to strengthen student career portfolios and support meaningful conversations about next steps for the coming school year.
GRIT Collaboration Strengthens Regional Partnerships
On January 13th, partners from Washington, Monroe, Morgan, and Noble counties came together for our GRIT Collaboration meeting. This regional partnership is focused on removing barriers, strengthening connections, and working collectively to better support individuals and families across our communities.
By collaborating across county lines, we continue to move forward with shared goals and coordinated efforts to create stronger pathways and brighter futures throughout our region.
Our next GRIT Collaboration meeting will take place on April 13th at 10:00 a.m. We look forward to continuing this important work together.
Leadership Training Series Builds Stronger Community Partnerships
As the Community Outreach Partner, I had the opportunity to attend Part One of the Leadership Training Series: Building Relationships That Get Results, held January 22 at Washington State College of Ohio in Marietta. This series launched in partnership with Future Plans, The GRIT Project, and D. Byers & Associates to support nonprofit and community leaders serving Appalachian Ohio.
The training focuses on strengthening relationships, enhancing collaboration, and building strategies that help organizations better serve their communities. Part Two of the series will take place February 25, continuing the work of equipping leaders with tools that foster meaningful partnerships and lasting impact.
Monroe County HOPE Alliance meeting
Monroe County HOPE Alliance brings together community members, organizations, and leaders who are passionate about creating a healthier, safer Monroe County. Whether you’re new to prevention or already involved, this is a great opportunity to connect, share ideas, and make a difference. We met on February 5th to talk about Mental Health Awareness Month that is coming up in May.
Together, we can strengthen our community through prevention, collaboration, and action. Everyone is welcome—come see how you can get involved!
Hope in Ohio: Belmont & Monroe Counties Suicide Prevention Community Conversation
The BHM Mental Health and Recovery Board, in conjunction with the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health, held another in a series of community conversations centered around breaking down stigma, raising awareness, sharing resources and gathering feedback to guide local mental health priorities. The conversation gave attendees the opportunity to hear from officials with the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health, including Director Tia Marcel Moretti; officials with the Belmont Harrison Monroe Mental Health and Recovery Board; the East Central Ohio ESC; local elected officials and business leaders; and the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Tony Coder, executive director of the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation, led a raw but still hopeful discussion with Christy Block, whose son died by suicide. From left, BHM Board Executive Director Lisa Ward, Belmont County Coroner Amanda Fisher, Coleman Services COO Kasey Osselborn and Wilson Funeral Home Vice President/Funeral Director Jarrett Wilson, discussed the notable rise in completed suicides locally; available resources such as 988, the suicide and crisis lifeline; 800-354-4357, the Belmont/Harrison/Monroe crisis line; and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. The community conversation was held in the Union Local Middle School auditorium.
Empowering Educators at Morgan Local School District through the Future Plans assessment
On January 5th, I had the pleasure of leading a professional development day with the dedicated educators of Morgan High School, engaging teachers across grades K–12. The sessions focused on the Future Plans assessment, an overview of Future Plans and The GRIT Project, as well as the importance of this assessment in helping students better understand their strengths and future pathways.
Throughout the day, teachers experienced the assessment for themselves, sparking meaningful conversations about how it can be used with students to explore talents, aptitudes, and interests. The energy, collaboration, and thoughtful dialogue made it an impactful day, centered on empowering educators with tools they can immediately bring back to their classrooms to support student growth and planning.
GRIT Collaboration Strengthens Regional Partnerships
On January 13th, partners from Washington, Monroe, Morgan, and Noble counties came together for our GRIT Collaboration meeting. This regional partnership is focused on removing barriers, strengthening connections, and working collectively to better support individuals and families across our communities.
By collaborating across county lines, we continue to move forward with shared goals and coordinated efforts to create stronger pathways and brighter futures throughout our region.
Our next GRIT Collaboration meeting will take place on April 13th at 10:00 a.m. We look forward to continuing this important work together.
Leadership Training Series Builds Stronger Community Partnerships
As the Community Outreach Partner, I had the opportunity to attend Part One of the Leadership Training Series: Building Relationships That Get Results, held January 22 at Washington State College of Ohio in Marietta. This series launched in partnership with Future Plans, The GRIT Project, and D. Byers & Associates to support nonprofit and community leaders serving Appalachian Ohio.
The training focuses on strengthening relationships, enhancing collaboration, and building strategies that help organizations better serve their communities. Part Two of the series will take place February 25, continuing the work of equipping leaders with tools that foster meaningful partnerships and lasting impact.
Building pathways through partnership
Future Plans recently met with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Appalachia Ohio to learn more about their pilot program at Morgan High School, Beyond School Walls. This innovative initiative connects students with local businesses and government professionals through workplace mentoring, helping them explore real-world career pathways and build meaningful connections within their community.
During the meeting, both organizations discussed opportunities to collaborate within the Future Plans Five-Step Process. Strong alignment was identified in the early assessment stages, with Big Brothers Big Sisters serving as a valuable partner in Step 3 — the Discovery phase — by providing hands-on career exposure and mentoring experiences.
This potential partnership would enhance opportunities for Morgan High School students, strengthen connections between schools and local employers, and support students as they explore their future goals beyond the classroom.
Morgan High School and Future Plans Partner to Map Student Career Paths
On February 12th, Morgan High School leaders met with Future Plans to review student career assessment and coaching data and plan for the next steps. The session focused on using these insights to connect students with valuable credentials and local workforce opportunities, a key goal of the regional GRIT Project.
The partnership will continue in March when Future Plans and PortfoliOH co-host a hands-on training for school staff. The training will provide a deeper dive into the platform, helping educators better support students as they build their future plans.
From GRIT to the Road: Nathan Bettinger’s Path to Career Success
GRIT participant Nathan Bettinger is making a meaningful impact as a highway technician for Noble County, helping keep local roads safe for the community. After completing the Future Plans assessment and coaching, Nathan successfully passed his CDL on his very first attempt. The assessment and coaching process aligned well with Nathan’s strengths as a hands-on worker with strong attention to detail, helping guide him into a career that fits his skills and interests.
This opportunity has not only supported Nathan’s professional growth, but has also positively impacted his family life by providing stability and valuable time with his loved ones. Nathan is a tremendous asset to Noble County, contributing daily to the safety and upkeep of local roads while demonstrating how the GRIT Project supports individuals, families, and communities.
GRIT Collaboration Strengthens Regional Partnerships
On January 13th, partners from Washington, Monroe, Morgan, and Noble counties came together for our GRIT Collaboration meeting. This regional partnership is focused on removing barriers, strengthening connections, and working collectively to better support individuals and families across our communities.
By collaborating across county lines, we continue to move forward with shared goals and coordinated efforts to create stronger pathways and brighter futures throughout our region. Our next GRIT Collaboration meeting will take place on April 13th at 10:00 a.m. We look forward to continuing this important work together.
Caldwell High School Sophomores complete career coaching
Tad Seacrest, College and Career Navigator at Caldwell High School, assists a student in connecting to her virtual Zoom session for one-on-one career coaching. By helping students access these personalized sessions and navigate available resources, Tad ensures they receive individualized guidance as they explore career interests, plan next steps, and build confidence in their future pathways.
All Sophomores completed their step 2 of the Future Plans 5 step process.
Leadership Training Series Builds Stronger Community Partnerships
As the Community Outreach Partner, I had the opportunity to attend Part One of the Leadership Training Series: Building Relationships That Get Results, held January 22 at Washington State College of Ohio in Marietta. This series launched in partnership with Future Plans, The GRIT Project, and D. Byers & Associates to support nonprofit and community leaders serving Appalachian Ohio.
The training focuses on strengthening relationships, enhancing collaboration, and building strategies that help organizations better serve their communities. Part Two of the series will take place February 25, continuing the work of equipping leaders with tools that foster meaningful partnerships and lasting impact.
Shenandoah High School Reviews Data to Guide Future Pathways
Shenandoah High School recently completed its data meeting with Future Plans, reviewing student assessment and career coaching insights and discussing next steps to support student success. The information gathered will be presented by career navigator Maureen Christian to the Board of Education to help guide conversations around future pathways and strategic planning for students.
In addition to these forward-focused efforts, Shenandoah High School continues to make exciting progress on its new wing. While construction is still underway, the expansion is already making big waves and represents a strong investment in the future of the school and its students.
Noble County Cares Coalition Advances Recovery Mapping Efforts
The Noble County Cares Coalition met February 10 at the Noble County Health Department to discuss recovery capital and asset mapping efforts aimed at strengthening support systems across the community.
Community interviews remain a key part of this process. February 23, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the OSU Extension Noble County Office work will continue on the process. The next meeting will be on March 10, 2026.
Partners: Noble County OSU EXT. Noble County Health Dept.
Wellness Coalition Plans for a Healthier 2026
The Noble County Wellness Coalition met February 19 at the OSU Extension Noble County Office to plan its 2026 calendar of events. Coalition members discussed upcoming initiatives, community partnerships, and opportunities to support wellness efforts throughout Noble County.
Through collaborative planning and shared resources, the coalition continues to promote healthier lifestyles and strengthen well-being across the community.
Parnters: OSU EXT. Noble County Wellness coalition
Business Advisory Council Meeting & PortfoliOH Training – March 13
Caldwell High School will host the Noble County Business Advisory Council meeting on March 13 at 9:00 a.m. Area business leaders are invited to attend and engage in important conversations focused on strengthening our local workforce.
During the meeting, Future Plans and Portfolio OH will provide a hands-on presentation and training for businesses on how to utilize the Portfolio platform. This session will demonstrate how employers can connect with emerging talent, identify skill sets, and help bridge workforce gaps across the region.
We encourage area businesses and community partners to join us as we continue building stronger pathways between education and industry.
WorkOhio Southeast Hub Kickoff Event
WorkOhio Southeast Hub Kickoff Event
Yesterday, partners from across the region came together at the WorkOhio Southeast Hub Kickoff Event in Caldwell to strengthen collaboration around workforce development and community impact.
Our Future Plans team was proud to be part of the day presenting on Steps 1 & 2 of our Future Plans 5‑Step Process (Assess & Coach), while also connecting with attendees to share how GRIT and Future Plans continue to support individuals throughout their career pathways.
It was an energizing afternoon of updates, relationship‑building, and forward momentum for the Southeast region. Great things are ahead!
Western High School Students Participate in Virtual Healthcare Fair
Students at Western High School recently had an amazing opportunity to attend a virtual healthcare fair, getting a front-row look at some of the most in-demand careers in the industry today!
This is the Future Plans Discovery step in action. By connecting students with healthcare professionals and exploring career pathways they may not have considered before, experiences like this can truly open doors and shift perspectives.
Healthcare is one of the fastest growing fields in our region, and events like this help students start making that connection between their strengths and real career opportunities right here in Southern Ohio.
Way to go, Western High School! We love seeing students take that step toward exploring their future.
OhioSE Annual Meeting
Sara Hunt, Community Outreach Partner for Future Plans, recently attended the annual OhioSE meeting representing Scioto and Pike Counties!
OhioSE plays a vital role in supporting economic development across Southeastern Ohio, and being at the table for conversations like these is an important part of Future Plans’ work in the region. Hearing what’s happening across Southeastern Ohio and staying connected to the bigger picture of regional development helps Future Plans continue to show up in the most meaningful ways for the communities we serve.
Events like this serve as a great reminder of just how much is happening across our region and how important it is to stay connected.
GRIT Presentation for Senior Intervention Specialist Class
Sara Hunt recently visited Shawnee State University to speak with Mrs. Spires’ senior class of future Intervention Specialists! She shared how Future Plans and The GRIT Project can support the individuals they will soon be serving in their communities.
She was joined by Ann Everman, a Career Specialist from Community Action, who did a fantastic job explaining the vital services her organization offers. It is all about collaboration! By presenting together, Sara and Ann helped ensure these future educators know exactly what resources are available to help remove barriers for their students.
Sara also brought along the Virtual Headset that are available through Scioto County OMJ. These headsets give participants the opportunity to experience immersive career training firsthand.
Big thanks to Mrs. Spires for the opportunity, this was such a wonderful experience! We can’t wait to see the impact these future educators will have!
Scioto County GRIT Coalition Meeting
Scioto County GRIT Coalition Meeting Recap
We had a wonderful February 19th coalition meeting with great conversations, strong community connections, and some exciting updates across Scioto County. Thank you to everyone who showed up and made it such a productive morning!
Save the Date!
Our next meeting is set for May 21st, 2026 at 9:30 AM. We would love to see you there! Reach out if you have anything you’d like added to the agenda.
Sara Hunt | sara@futureplans.org | 740-464-9518
Shawnee State Business Expo
What a great day at Shawnee State’s Business Expo! Sara Hunt, Community Outreach Partner, had the pleasure of attending alongside Sarah Redoutey, connecting with local businesses and community partners right here in Southern Ohio.
Events like this are exactly why the work Future Plans does matters. Getting in the room with local employers, hearing what they need, and sharing how Future Plans can help bridge the gap between talent and opportunity is what community partnership is all about.
A huge thank you to Shawnee State for hosting such a well-organized event and for creating a space where businesses and community organizations can come together!
OhioSE Annual Meeting
Sara Hunt, Community Outreach Partner for Future Plans, recently attended the annual OhioSE meeting representing Scioto and Pike Counties!
OhioSE plays a vital role in supporting economic development across Southeastern Ohio, and being at the table for conversations like these is an important part of Future Plans’ work in the region. Hearing what’s happening across Southeastern Ohio and staying connected to the bigger picture of regional development helps Future Plans continue to show up in the most meaningful ways for the communities we serve.
Events like this serve as a great reminder of just how much is happening across our region and how important it is to stay connected.
Frontier High School Sophomores career coaching- Future Plans Step-2
As part of the GRIT Project, sophomores completed Step-2 — Coaching — by participating in small-group career coaching meetings via Zoom. These sessions gave students the opportunity to explore career interests, ask questions, and gain guidance in a supportive setting—making it a valuable experience for our sophomore class.
Chocolate party fundraiser supporting the life-saving, survivor-centered work of EVE Inc.
We attended EVE’s Chocolate Party to support an organization making a meaningful impact in our community. The event helped raise awareness and funds for EVE Inc.’s survivor-centered work, providing safety, advocacy, and hope to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
Future Plans in Action at Waterford High School
Waterford High School recently embarked on Step-2 of the Future Plans process, completing both student coaching and a data review meeting. During this phase, sophomores participated in one-on-one career coaching sessions designed to help them better understand their assessment results and explore future pathways aligned with their interests, strengths, and goals.
Following the student coaching sessions, the Future Plans team met with Waterford High School administrators to review assessment and coaching data. This collaborative discussion focused on identifying future pathways for students, exploring additional resources, and strengthening the ongoing partnership to best support student success. The conversations reflected a shared commitment to helping Waterford students plan confidently for their futures.
GRIT Collaboration Strengthens Regional Partnerships
On January 13th, partners from Washington, Monroe, Morgan, and Noble counties came together for our GRIT Collaboration meeting. This regional partnership is focused on removing barriers, strengthening connections, and working collectively to better support individuals and families across our communities.
By collaborating across county lines, we continue to move forward with shared goals and coordinated efforts to create stronger pathways and brighter futures throughout our region.
Our next GRIT Collaboration meeting will take place on April 13th at 10:00 a.m. We look forward to continuing this important work together.
Leadership Training Series Builds Stronger Community Partnerships
As the Community Outreach Partner, I had the opportunity to attend Part One of the Leadership Training Series: Building Relationships That Get Results, held January 22 at Washington State College of Ohio in Marietta. This series launched in partnership with Future Plans, The GRIT Project, and D. Byers & Associates to support nonprofit and community leaders serving Appalachian Ohio.
The training focuses on strengthening relationships, enhancing collaboration, and building strategies that help organizations better serve their communities. Part Two of the series will take place February 25, continuing the work of equipping leaders with tools that foster meaningful partnerships and lasting impact.
Dragonfly Village has officially launched its 90‑Day Community Activation Series, opening its campus to the public through a dynamic season of events, programs, and community gatherings.
Over the next few months, visitors can experience a variety of activities including wellness and workforce programs, open houses, and pop‑up events hosted by Dragonfly Village and mission‑aligned partners. This series offers a first look at what’s possible on the evolving Dragonfly Village campus while welcoming new ideas and community participation. Organizations interested in bringing programs to life or exploring future space on campus—such as workforce training initiatives, wellness or recovery‑focused services, community organizations, or licensed childcare operators—are encouraged to submit a Request for Information (RFI) to begin the conversation. Learn more here: https://dragonflyvillageoh.org/
Spotlight: Supporting Senate Bill 328 at The Ohio Statehouse
On March 3, 2026, Felicia Johnson was joined at the Ohio Statehouse by GRIT Partners from across the region, who also attended to testify and show their support for SB 328, underscoring a shared commitment to expanding early career coaching and exploration at the middle school level.
Felicia’s testimony reflects insights informed by The GRIT Project focused on building practical, community-centered capacity across the state. Together with our partners, we are advocating for solutions that strengthen long-term workforce planning, resilience, and student outcomes for Ohio’s communities, starting earlier and with intention.
We are deeply grateful for the collaboration of these like-minded organizations and leaders who share our vision of bringing meaningful career coaching to students before critical decisions are made. This collective effort demonstrates what is possible when communities align around early exposure, strengths-based planning, and opportunity for all learners.
🔗 Read our testimony:
https://lnkd.in/guauYmdf
🎥 Watch Felicia’s testimony:
https://lnkd.in/gJMVUgv9 (beginning at the 2:28 mark)
