Anyone who has watched a child head off to school knows the mix of excitement and nerves that comes with a new year. A backpack filled with fresh supplies isn’t just practical—it’s a sign of readiness, confidence, and belonging. This summer, organizations, churches, and volunteers across Whitley County are working together to help students begin the school year with exactly that.
The Whitley County Resource Fair will take place on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Indian Springs Middle School, offering a onestop opportunity for families throughout the county. The Fair will feature resources related to school, wellness, safety, employment, families, and seniors, ensuring there is something for everyone. Lunch will be provided for the first 500 attendees through the door.
Families attending the Fair will have access to school supplies, haircuts, sports physicals, dental care, vision screenings, vouchers for new shoes, and assistance with school registration—services that help remove barriers and ease the stress many families face as the school year approaches.
This effort is made possible through collaboration among many community partners, including Whitley County United Way and local churches. Columbia City United Methodist Church (CCUMC) is working alongside United Way Director Kacey Anderson to coordinate the school supply drive in preparation for the Fair, gathering and organizing materials to support students in all three Whitley County school corporations.
For CCUMC, this work is deeply rooted in faith. Jesus teaches his followers to love as he has loved—so that love might be seen and experienced in the world (John 13:34–35). This kind of love is more than good intentions or kind words. It is love that serves, sacrifices, and seeks the wellbeing of others, just as Jesus did. It is love that helps children and families grow into who God created them to be—and makes room for everyone to take part. We believe this love has the power to strengthen and transform our community, including helping students start the school year strong. And, when this kind of love motivates communities to come together around children and families, everyone benefits.
Community members are invited to support this effort by donating school supplies throughout the summer at local donation sites such as Culver’s, Dairy Queen, the YMCA, Amanda Adamson State Farm, Columbia City UMC, and Churubusco Family Dentistry. Because of the growing generosity of our community partners, use this QR code for the most current list of donation sites.
The school supply drive and the Whitley County Resource Fair are simple but meaningful ways God’s love can and will show up in our community—in practical, hopeful, and lifegiving ways.
For more information about attending or getting involved, residents are encouraged to connect with Whitley County United Way, Columbia City UMC, and other participating community partners.
Rev. Christi Murray
Columbia City United Methodist Church