News Releases

Cherrie Farmer 4/1/25 Cherrie Farmer 4/1/25

Boys & Beyond Summer Camp Applications Now Available

Pace Community Action Agency is accepting applications for their Boys and Beyond

weeklong Summer Camp. The program runs from June 9 through June 13, 2025, beginning

at 8:00 a.m. and ending at noon with lunch included.

The Boys & Beyond programming has provided opportunities for over 90 boys since 2015.

This innovative and interactive program for young boys consists of positive male role models

teaching skills such as focused team building, life-skills training, relationships skills, and

leadership development. Topics such as financial literacy, technology, health and wellness,

and social skills are taught during the duration of the program with incentives being provided

to complement the lessons. This program is supported by our annual golf scramble being

held on May 9th at Country Oaks golf course.

Applications are currently being accepted for boys in the 4th and 5th grade living in Daviess,

Greene, Knox, and Sullivan County. Applications are due by May 28th. There is no cost for

participation and no income requirements. The camp will be offered at our main offices,

located at 525 N. 4th Street in Vincennes. Transportation is not provided, but mileage

reimbursement may be offered.

Tai Blythe, Pace CEO, stated, “Boys and Beyond is a great program for the entire

community. By using volunteers, we are able to ensure the boys are exposed to wide variety

of activities. Often the boys are a little timid on the first day and by the end of the week they

are asking when they can come back and volunteer.” Applications can be downloaded from

the Pace website at www.pacecaa.org.

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All services are provided without regard to race, age, color, religion, sex, disability, national origin, ancestry, familial status, or

status as a veteran.

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Cherrie Farmer 3/18/25 Cherrie Farmer 3/18/25

Breaking Barriers to Healthcare: Health Connection Offers Confidential and Affordable Reproductive Services

Health Connection staff are dedicated to providing comprehensive sexual reproductive health care (SRH) and contraception services to all reproductive-age individuals, regardless of income or insurance status. Special efforts are made to reach uninsured, underinsured, high-risk, and low-income individuals. Anyone can receive services regardless of age, sex, marital status, religion, race, ethnicity, color, creed, handicap, or childbearing history. With a strong commitment to privacy and confidentiality, adolescent services are offered without requiring parental or guardian consent, ensuring that young individuals can access the health care they need.

Health Connection operates on a sliding scale fee based on household income level and household size, making essential healthcare accessible to everyone. We offer a welcoming, respectful environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging and safety.

All services are confidential and voluntary. Health Connection provides a wide range of services:

· Family Planning Services for individuals of reproductive age seeking to manage their reproductive health

· Adolescent services, education, and counseling

· Physical assessments

· Breast and cervical screenings and other health issues

· Medically approved family planning methods, including hormonal and non-hormonal options

· Pregnancy testing and counseling

· Basic infertility and preconception services

· PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) assessment

· Screening, diagnosis, and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV

· Condom distribution

· Individual and group education

Family planning methods available include:

· Natural Family Planning Methods

· Male and female condoms

· Diaphragms

· Emergency contraception

· Hormonal injections

· Long-acting reversible contraceptive methods (LARCs) such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and hormonal implants

· Oral contraceptives, patches, and vaginal rings

· Spermicides, including sponges and vaginal films

We are committed to improving the health and well-being of our community by providing accessible, affordable, and evidence-based care. To learn more about our services, meet our providers, or find the nearest clinic, please visit www.pacecaa.org/health-connection or watch our short video https://youtu.be/JVXln38dnHk.

For more details or to schedule an educational session or outreach event, please contact us. We look forward to working together to enhance healthcare access and improve lives in our local communities.

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Pace Community Action Agency, Inc. is a private not-for-profit Community Action Agency established to provide support services to improve the community and encourage self-reliance. Services are provided without regard to race, age, color, religion, sex, disability, national origin, ancestry, familial status, or status as a veteran.

This was supported by the by Indiana Family Health Council, Inc. (IFHC), as part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), U.S. DHHS, PHS Title X Family Planning Project, and ISDH/MCH Family Planning grants as part of a financial assistance award totaling approximately $950,000 with 90% funded by IFHC and approximately $110,000 amount and 10% funded by nongovernment source(s). The contents are those of the author (s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by IFHC/OASH/HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit Health Connection’s website.

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Cherrie Farmer 3/17/25 Cherrie Farmer 3/17/25

Proctor Inducted into National Community Action Hall of Fame

Pace’s retired CEO, Dr. Bertha Proctor, was inducted into the National Community Action Hall of Fame last week in Washington, DC. Bertha championed Community Action for 27 years, leading Pace with innovation, direction, and a willingness to disrupt the status quo. This prestigious honor is awarded to those who have strengthened and inspired the Community Action movement by making lasting change.

Current Pace CEO, Tai Blythe, said, “When looking at the legacy someone leaves, Bertha crushed it. She transformed the corporate culture of Pace. She invested in individuals by helping them, challenging them, and holding them accountable. Her impacts did not leave when she left. Bertha prepared the agency and staff to continue her tradition of excellence.”

Pace created a social enterprise in 2008 long before others were realizing the benefits of using this model. Finding creative ways to utilize technology, Pace increased program efficiency and strengthened compliance. On a national level, Bertha served as the chair of the CAPLAW board. With Pace’s C-corp, WiseCAP Training and Consulting, Bertha and Tai trained thousands of CAA leaders, staff, and board members in 28 states and provided keynote addresses at several national conferences.

Under Bertha’s leadership, in 2012 Pace won the Protégé of the Year from the National Community Action Partnership. Bertha was named the Chamber of Commerce 2015 Woman in Business Award Winner. 2023 saw Pace winning the state’s Red Carpet Award.

During COVID, food insecurity was an issue AND local restaurants were struggling. To address these problems, Bertha created a Family Meals Program that partnered with local restaurants to provide already prepared hot meals to families in need. She also created and implemented the popular Boys and Beyond program Pace holds for boys in the 4th and 5th grade.

We are thrilled to celebrate Bertha by continuing what we have done for 60 years… provide quality services to improve the community and encourage self-reliance. For more information about Pace and its ongoing initiatives, please visit www.pacecaa.org.

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Cherrie Farmer 2/6/25 Cherrie Farmer 2/6/25

Pace Recognizes Marc McNeece for 20 Years of Service on Board of Directors

Pace Community Action Agency, an organization committed to providing support services that improve the community and encourage self-reliance, proudly recognizes the remarkable contributions of Marc McNeece for over 20 years of service on the Board of Directors! As he steps down from his role, the organization celebrates Marc’s unwavering dedication, leadership, and impact on our mission.

Since joining the board in 2004, Marc has played a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission. He has served as former Board Chair and Secretary. Throughout his time on the board, Marc was called on frequently to talk to funding sources during reviews, serve as a master of ceremonies at events, help with fundraising, attend trainings, and promote Pace within the community. During his time on the board, Pace has achieved significant milestones, including expanding services, creating a successful social enterprise, and winning multiple state and federal awards.

“Marc has been an invaluable part of our board. His guidance helped Pace to grow into the innovative agency we are today. By spreading our message, he has helped others to see how impactful we are to the entire community,” said Tai Blythe, Pace CEO. Knox County Commissioners appointed Lesley Hofmann, Social Worker at Good Samaritan and former Head Start parent, to fill Marc’s position on the board. For more information about Pace and its ongoing initiatives, please visit www.pacecaa.org.

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Cherrie Farmer 2/6/25 Cherrie Farmer 2/6/25

Go Red for Heart Health: Pace Joins the Fight Against Heart Disease!

National Wear Red Day is observed annually on the first Friday of February and it is a pivotal event dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death among women in the United States. This initiative underscores the critical importance of understanding cardiovascular health and implementing preventive measures.

Heart disease claims the lives of approximately 647,000 Americans each year. However, many of these deaths are preventable through proactive health management. Key preventive strategies include:

Monitoring Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels: Regular check-ups to keep these metrics within recommended ranges.
Engaging in Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
Smoking Cessation: Eliminating tobacco to significantly reduce risk of heart disease.

Preventive recommendations vary by age group:

· 20s: Establish consistent physical activity routines, schedule regular wellness exams, and avoid smoking.

· 30s: Adopt heart-healthy habits, become informed about your family’s medical history, and manage stress effectively.

· 40s: Maintain regular exercise, monitor blood sugar levels, and address sleep disturbances such as snoring, which can be indicative of sleep apnea.

· 50s: Consume a balanced diet rich in nutrients, familiarize yourself with the warning signs of heart disease, and adhere to any prescribed treatment plans.

· 60s and Beyond: Educate yourself about Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), continue regular physical activity, and recognize the symptoms of heart attacks and strokes.

Pace encourages individuals to prioritize their cardiovascular health by scheduling a wellness visit in 2025. These visits may be available without co-pays, deductibles, or out-of-pocket expenses. To schedule an appointment or to talk to a healthcare provider, call the Health Connection clinic closest to you, Bedford (812) 675-0247, Sullivan (812) 638-2998, Terre Haute (812) 234-0707, Vincennes (812) 882-6069, and/or Washington (812) 254-6936.

For more information about our services and initiatives, please visit our website at https://www.pacecaa.org/health-connection.

By participating in National Wear Red Day and embracing these preventive measures, we can collectively work towards reducing the impact of heart disease among women and the broader community.

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Cherrie Farmer 2/1/25 Cherrie Farmer 2/1/25

Pace Scholarships for Former Head Start Students

Pace Community Action Agency announces the 2025 Judith K. Bobe Scholarship opportunity. The scholarship is named in honor of Pace’s former Head Start Director who worked within the program for over 40 years. Scholarships are for graduating seniors who attended Head Start in Daviess, Greene, Knox, or Sullivan Counties.

According to Tai Blythe, CEO, “Early childhood education is so important to future success. Education is an important component in each of our programs and is essential to meeting our mission.” In the past 16 years we have awarded over 40 scholarships. Our annual golf scramble helps to fund these scholarships.

Applications are available through all local high school counselors and through our website at https://www.pacecaa.org/college-scholarships. Applications are due by April 3rd. For more information about any Pace Community Action Agency programs or services, call (812) 882-7927 or visit us at http://www.pacecaa.org.

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Cherrie Farmer 1/21/25 Cherrie Farmer 1/21/25

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: Take Action for Your Health

January marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, established by the U.S. Congress in 2009 to emphasize the importance of cervical health education, preventative screenings, and vaccinations. We are offering free Pap/HPV testing in January to help you make this important step. Pace Health Connection encourages individuals to prioritize their well-being by learning about cervical health and taking proactive steps to improve overall health outcomes. Cervical cancer may be prevented by early detection and vaccination. Regular screenings can identify cervical changes before they develop into cancer or detect the disease in its early stages. Additionally, the HPV vaccine, approved by the FDA in 2006, provides a safe and effective way to bolster the immune system against the human papillomavirus, a leading cause of cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine gives the body a safe way to build immune system awareness.

Each year there are approximately 11,500 new cases of cervical cancer diagnosed, resulting in nearly 4,000 deaths. To help reduce these numbers, individuals should follow age-specific cervical cancer screening recommendations:

Under age 21: A pap test is not required.
Age 21-29: A pap test is recommended to be completed every 3 years.
Age 30-65: A pap test and HPV test (co-testing) are recommended every 5 years, or a pap test alone every 3 years and an HPV test every 5 years.
65 years and older: Routine screening is not required if you have had normal results in the past 10 years or if your doctor gives you different recommendations.
Added screening may be necessary depending on the outcome of the pap and HPV test results.

Make your health a priority in 2025 by scheduling a well-woman visit with Health Connection. There may be no co-pay, deductible, or out-of-pocket cost. To schedule an appointment or speak to a healthcare provider, call the Health Connection clinic nearest you, Bedford (812) 675- 0247, Sullivan (812) 638-2998, Terre Haute (812) 234-0707, Vincennes (812) 882-6069, and/or Washington (812) 254-6936. Please visit our website at https://www.pacecaa.org/health-connection for more information about our services. Don’t wait—call today to schedule your Pap/HPV testing and take an important step toward protecting your health.

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Cherrie Farmer 12/3/24 Cherrie Farmer 12/3/24

Health Connection Thanks Donors for Supporting Pad and Tampon Drive

Health Connection of Pace Community Action Agency, Inc. extends its heartfelt gratitude to the generous donors who contributed to our recent pad and tampon drive. Thanks to your support, we were able to collect and distribute 25,692 pads and tampons to individuals in need, promoting health, dignity, and well-being in our community.

The overwhelming response to this drive highlights the strength of our shared commitment to health equity and advocacy for those in need. Access to hygiene products is critical for individuals to feel confident and participate fully in daily activities, yet it remains a challenge for many in our community.

We would like to extend a special thank you to the incredible individuals and organizations who made this drive a success. Your contributions have made a tangible impact on the lives of those we serve. Your kindness and commitment to supporting health and dignity in our community inspire us every day. Together, we are making a difference! We are grateful to:

· Barbara Fish

· Bethany House, Terre Haute

· Connie Wanke

· Daviess Community Hospital, Women's Health Department

· Dawdi Haus

· Dollar General, Sullivan

· First Christian Church, Sullivan

· First Farmer’s Bank and Trust, Sullivan

· First Savings Bank, Odon

· Heather Dupree

· Hoosier Insurance & Financial Services/Acri-Sure, Washington

· Lawrence County Health Department

· Mr. and Mrs. Shane Matthews

· NASCO, Washington

· Odon Family Dentistry

· Odon Locker

· Odon Sawmill

· Pam Smith

· Parkview Village, Odon

· Recovery Café, Sullivan

· Rhonda Horns

· Ruth Hart

· Sharon Speth

· Studio One-Eleven, Odon

· Tara's Salon, Washington, Plainville

· The Insurance Shop, Odon

· The Sanctuary Apostolic of Terre Haute Ladies Group

· Tri-Kappa, Vincennes

· True Scripts, Washington

· Wal-Mart, Sullivan

· Wal-Mart, Washington

· and others who generously supported this initiative.

Health Connection looks forward to continuing our mission to empower communities through health and wellness initiatives. Thank you for standing with us in creating positive change.

For more information about our programs and how you can get involved, please contact Dr. Michelle Pitcher APRN, FNP-BC, NP-C at mpitcher@pacecaa.org or visit www.pacecaa.org.

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Cherrie Farmer 8/12/24 Cherrie Farmer 8/12/24

Health Connection Launches Pad and Tampon Drive to Support Menstrual Hygiene

Health Connection of Pace Community Action Agency, Inc. is excited to announce the launch of its 4th Annual Pad and Tampon Drive, a two month-long initiative dedicated to supporting menstrual health and wellness in our community. Throughout August and September, we will be collecting menstrual products (pads, tampons, etc.) to ensure that no student must go without the necessary supplies for their menstrual cycle. Our goal is to shed light on the often-overlooked issue of menstrual hygiene and collect essential menstrual products to support individuals in our local schools.

Menstrual hygiene is a fundamental aspect of health, yet it remains a challenge for many individuals due to financial constraints. Health Connection recognizes the importance of ensuring that every student has access to the necessary supplies to manage their menstrual cycle. The Pad and Tampon Drive is a significant step towards raising awareness and addressing need.

Michelle Pitcher, Clinical Services Director stated, "Menstrual poverty often leads to absenteeism from school. In the United States, nearly 1 in 5 girls have missed school due to lack of access to menstrual products. Menstrual poverty is a multifaceted issue that affects education, health, and equality. By raising awareness and providing access to menstrual products, we can work towards a world where menstrual health is a right, not a privilege.”

We invite you to participate by donating products or contributing financially. Contributions will go directly towards creating menstrual hygiene kits that will be distributed to local schools serving vulnerable populations. We will be collaborating with local community partners to maximize the impact of the Pad and Tampon Drive.

Donations of new and unopened packages of sanitary pads, tampons, panty liners, menstrual cups, and other menstrual hygiene products can be donated the following ways:

· You can drop off your donated items at the Health Connection clinic in your local area. You may visit https://www.pacecaa.org/health-connection to find the location nearest you.

· Contact the clinic nearest you for a staff member to arrange pick-up.

· An Amazon Wish List has been developed.

o Knox County: https://a.co/bb28zUT

o Lawrence County: https://a.co/9pNkChQ

o Vigo: https://a.co/3vaNul3

o Daviess County: https://a.co/5VeJ4qJ

o Sullivan County: https://a.co/ecVfWZn

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of individuals facing menstrual hygiene challenges and contribute to a healthier, more empowered community.

For more information contact Dr. Michelle Pitcher APRN, FNP-BC, NP-C at mpitcher@pacecaa.org

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Cherrie Farmer 5/14/24 Cherrie Farmer 5/14/24

Pace Community Action Agency Announces Judith K. Bobe Scholarship Winners

The Judith K. Bobe Scholarship program is named in honor of Pace’s former Head Start Director who worked within the program for over 40 years. Annually since 2010, Pace has allotted funds to provide at least two scholarships for graduating high school seniors that were previously in our Head Start program. Pace congratulates the 2024 Judith K. Bobe Scholarship recipients; Trinity Bradford and Blayr Foster.

· Trinity Bradford from Sullivan High School plans to pursue her studies in Computer Science with a career in Cybersecurity and Programing while attending Saint-Mary-of-the-Woods.

· Blayr Foster from Washington High School plans to attend the University of Indianapolis, while pursuing her degree in Elementary Education.

Applicants were required to submit a typed essay about how Head Start impacted their school readiness and academic performance. Recipients each received a $500 scholarship to help with their educational expenses. Pace’s Executive Director, Tai Blythe states, “Our Head Start Program not only prepares students for kindergarten but prepares families for college. We plan to continue offering these scholarships provided through our fundraising efforts.”

Former Head Start students from Daviess, Greene, Knox and Sullivan Counties are encouraged to apply for scholarships next year. For more information about Pace programs and services, call (812) 882-7927 or visit us at www.pacecaa.org.

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Cherrie Farmer 4/15/24 Cherrie Farmer 4/15/24

Pace Raises Awareness for Sexually Transmitted Infections with Free Testing in April

Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Awareness Month is recognized annually in April. Pace Community Action Agency is making public health a priority, and to help spread awareness, Health Connection is offering free STI testing all month long.

According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 5 individuals have a STI. This is 20% of our American population. Health Connection encourages you to talk to your provider, get STI tested, and get treatment if needed.

Health Connection staff are focused on helping individuals and the community to take control of their sexual health. Rebecca Skiver, Health Connection Supervisor and Physician Assistant, stated, “Sexually Transmitted Infection rates are at an all-time high. Often, STIs present without symptoms or are not recognized, so it is very important to get screened regularly. Knowing your STI status allows you to take care of yourself and your sexual partners and receive treatment if you need it.”

Most STIs are treatable! The only true way to be sure if you or your partner are STI-free is by getting tested. STI testing is quick, easy, and accessible.

5 Reasons Early Testing is Vital

- STIs are common. The CDC reports 20 million new cases every year.

- STIs often have no signs or symptoms.

- Untreated STIs can create complications that have long-term effects, potentially leading to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), scarring, inability to get pregnant, and cancer.

- Early testing can help reduce the risk of transmitting STIs to others by being diagnosed and treated.

- Most STIs are curable or treatable. Catching the issues early improves your health and well-being.

Our experts listen and speak to their patients, which can help counteract stigma and provide testing in a non-judgmental and compassionate environment. To schedule an appointment or talk to a healthcare provider, contact the Health Connection clinic closest to you, Bedford (812) 675-0247, Sullivan (812) 638-2998, Vincennes (812) 882-6069, Washington (812) 254-6936 and Terre Haute (812) 234-0707. To learn more about Pace, please visit our website at www.pacecaa.org/health-connection.

For more information about STI testing, contact Dr. Michelle Pitcher APRN, FNP-BC, NP-C at mpitcher@pacecaa.org

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Cherrie Farmer 1/29/24 Cherrie Farmer 1/29/24

Pace Scholarships for Former Head Start Students

Pace Community Action Agency announces the 2024 Judith K. Bobe Scholarship opportunity. The scholarship is named in honor of Pace’s former Head Start Director who worked within the program over 40 years. Scholarships are specifically for former Head Start students that attended in Daviess, Greene, Knox, or Sullivan Counties.

According to Tai Blythe, Executive Director, “At Pace Head Start, we not only prepare children for kindergarten, but we are also preparing students for college. Education is an important component of each of our programs and is essential to meeting our mission. Pace annually hosts a golf scramble to help fund these scholarships.”

Pace has traditionally provided two $500 scholarships to assist graduating high school seniors with their college expenses.

Applications are available through all local high school counselors and through our website at https://www.pacecaa.org/college-scholarships. The application requires a copy of your transcripts, a typed essay about Head Start’s impact, etc. Applications are due by April 4th. For more information about any Pace Community Action Agency programs or services, call (812) 882-7927 or visit us at http://www.pacecaa.org.

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Cherrie Farmer 1/17/24 Cherrie Farmer 1/17/24

Pace Expands Access to Contraception in Local Communities

Pace announces a new program to help increase access to reproductive health services across our service area. The pilot program, Obtaining Reproductive Services (ORS), will focus on providing comprehensive reproductive health education, improving access to a range of contraceptive methods, and promoting awareness of family planning options.

By expanding our services, Pace plans to hire five additional nurses across the counties we serve (Knox, Daviess, Lawrence, Sullivan, and Vigo), as well as a Health Educator based out of our Vincennes Health Connection office. Pace Executive Director, Tai Blythe, said, “Pace is thrilled to receive additional funding to expand our services. We strive to break down barriers’ individuals might have in accessing vital health services.”

The main goals for the ORS Project are:

Provide community outreach to share reproductive health services
Increase access to reproductive health in various community locations
Provide health information regarding insurance, substance use, tobacco cessation, etc.
Improve health and access to inclusive and equitable services

Dr. Pitcher stated, “Our goal is to focus on providing comprehensive reproductive health education, improving access to a range of contraceptive methods, and promoting awareness of family planning options. Services will be provided in various locations. Our hope is that those using this service will feel valued, supported, and motivated to make their health a priority.” Pace endeavors to help our patients feel empowered and educated.

For more information on the ORS Project, contact Dr. Michelle Pitcher APRN, FNP-BC, NP-C at mpitcher@pacecaa.org

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Cherrie Farmer 12/18/23 Cherrie Farmer 12/18/23

Pace Community Action Agency, INC. Pace Holiday Closing Notice

Pace Community Action Agency, Inc. will be closed on Monday, December 25th and Tuesday, December 26th in observance of Christmas. Offices will resume normal operating hours on Wednesday, December 27th.

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Cherrie Farmer 11/16/23 Cherrie Farmer 11/16/23

Pace Community Action Agency, INC. Pace Holiday Closing Notice

Pace Community Action Agency, Inc. will be closed on Thursday, November 23rd and Friday, November 24th in observance of Thanksgiving. Offices will resume normal operating hours on Monday, November 27th.

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Cherrie Farmer 11/3/23 Cherrie Farmer 11/3/23

Pace Community Action Agency, INC. Pace Holiday Closing Notice

Pace Community Action Agency, Inc. will be closed on Friday, November 10th in observance of Veterans Day. Offices will resume normal operating hours on Monday, November 13th.

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Cherrie Farmer 10/31/23 Cherrie Farmer 10/31/23

Pace Community Action Agency, INC. Pace Holiday Closing Notice

Pace Community Action Agency, Inc. will be closed on Tuesday, November 7th in observance of Election Day. Offices will resume normal operating hours on Wednesday, November 8th.

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Cherrie Farmer 10/2/23 Cherrie Farmer 10/2/23

Pace Community Action Agency, INC. Pace Holiday Closing Notice

Pace Community Action Agency, Inc. will be closed on Monday, October 9th in observance of Indigenous People’s Day (formerly known as Columbus Day). Offices will resume normal operating hours on Tuesday, October 10th.

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Cherrie Farmer 9/27/23 Cherrie Farmer 9/27/23

Pace CEO Retiring and New Executive Director Named

After working for 26 years for Pace, with 19 years as the agency’s Executive Director and CEO, Dr. Bertha Proctor has announced her retirement. During her tenure, Bertha has transformed the agency into a national leader throughout the Community Action network. She has increased agency funding, expanded the service footprint, and created an organizational culture that will carry the agency successfully into the future.

On Friday, October 27th Pace will hold a retirement party to celebrate Dr. Proctor which will also be a time for the public to meet the next Executive Director. The event will be held at Highland Woods Community Center in Vincennes with doors opening at 6:00pm, a program at 6:30, and dancing from 7:00-10:00pm. All are invited, and RSVPs are requested to allow for a more accurate count for hors d’oeuvres.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/B8XKJXP

On September 21st - Pace’s Board of Directors voted to hire Tai Blythe as the agency’s new Executive Director, effective November 1, 2023. Ms. Blythe and Dr. Proctor will co-lead through January 5, 2024.

A native of southern Indiana, Tai has been with Pace since 2006 and has served as Chief Operating Officer for over three years. In 2015 she became a Certified Community Action Professional (CCAP) which is part of the nationally recognized certification program among Community Action Agencies.

Ms. Blythe holds a master’s degree in Leadership Development and a bachelor's degree in Psychology. She is certified in Human Resources through SHRM and a Cultural Intelligence (CQ) Certified Facilitator. In her COO role she currently handles agency communications while working within the Head Start and Energy Programs. Tai has also served the Community Action network providing training and consultation to other Community Action agency staff throughout the country.

Dr. Proctor stated that “Tai and I have worked closely together over the past 16 years, and I am ready to pass the baton to her and excited for Pace! I am confident that Tai, as Pace’s next Executive Director, will lead the organization to even greater heights in serving our communities.” We look ahead with continued commitment to our mission in providing support services that improve the community and encourage self-reliance.

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Cherrie Farmer 9/19/23 Cherrie Farmer 9/19/23

Energy Assistance Season Nears

Beginning October 2, 2023, Energy Assistance Program applications for the 2023-2024 season will be available. Our program provides income-qualified households in Daviess, Greene, Knox and Sullivan Counties with a one-time benefit toward their home’s primary heat source. Household income limits are available on our website https://www.pacecaa.org/energy-assistance.

Last season, approximately 3,800 households in our service area received assistance totaling over $2,230,000. Additionally, approximately $45,000 from the Duke Share the Light Program was awarded and $248,000 was awarded to households for water assistance. Funds for water assistance are not available this season.

Clients from the 2022-2023 heating season will receive an application in the mail. New clients will find applications online, in our drop boxes (525 N. 4th St. Vincennes; 2103 Cosby Road Washington; 53 SE 1st St., Linton; 1130 Section St., Sullivan), or at all of these county’s libraries except the Knox County Public Library. Clients may also apply on-line from our website https://www.pacecaa.org/energy-assistance.

The following items are required in order for us to process applications and for customers to receive a benefit: (1) a completed application, (2) social security cards for all household members, (3) photo ID for the individual completing the application, (4) proof of income for all adults or children receiving social security, and (5) current full electric and heating bills.

The amount of assistance a household receives is based on a point system and not on the amount of the utility bill. One-time benefits can range from approximately $250 to $950. Additional funds are available for those in crisis disconnect situations. Households that have a disconnect notice, whose utility has been shut off or is low in fuel must submit a complete application. It can take up to 10 days to process applications in crisis.

Lisa Ritterskamp, Client Services Manager, said, “Households who find themselves struggling to pay electric or heating costs should apply for assistance. Many times, financially challenged families must choose between food, rent, medical needs, or keeping their utilities running. Our program helps households by not only providing a financial benefit but, educating and providing some items to help individuals save energy in their home.”

To support individuals that need additional assistance completing an application, Pace will host an “Application Assistance Event” in all 4 counties and each month at designated libraries. Review our website for additional information. www.pacecaa.org

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