April 26, 2025

New Leadership at Combined Community Services Amid Rising Demand

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News Summary

Kiira Churchill has taken on the role of executive director at Combined Community Services (CCS) beginning in March. With an extensive background, she aims to lead the organization amid increasing demand for assistance in the community. CCS serves about 700 households monthly, up from pre-COVID levels of 300-400. Kiira emphasizes a mission of self-sufficiency and resilience, while also spearheading a fundraising initiative for the organization’s 40th anniversary.

Kiira Churchill Takes the Helm at Combined Community Services

In an exciting new chapter for Combined Community Services (CCS), Kiira Churchill has stepped into her role as the executive director starting in early March. This transformation comes at a crucial time when the need in the community has surged significantly.

Community Welcomes Their New Leader

Kiira was formally introduced to the community during a lively open house at CCS, where she shared her vision and passion for the organization. She has an impressive background, having previously served as the director of development for CCS and even holding a brief stint as the director of communications, marketing, and grants for Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation. This mix of experience has equipped her with the tools necessary to navigate the challenges ahead.

Rising Need for Assistance

CCS has seen a dramatic uptick in its services, currently assisting around 700 households each month. This is a notable jump from the pre-COVID figures of 300 to 400 households. Even during the challenging COVID years, the organization managed to serve about 600 households monthly. Kiira highlighted that the current economic challenges have exacerbated the situation, with many community members facing increasing utility bills and grocery costs.

Helping Hands at CCS

Amidst the growing demand for services, CCS has skillfully maintained its operational levels thanks to the generosity of individual and organizational donors. The organization prides itself on a mission that focuses on providing a “hand up, not a hand out”, fostering self-sufficiency and resilience in their clients.

Their self-sufficiency program, which employs case management, aims to support clients over a period of time ranging from several months to five years. Unfortunately, there is currently a waiting list for their self-sufficiency programs, but plans are in place to add a new case manager as soon as the budget allows.

The Team at Work

In terms of staffing, CCS is currently operating with a lean team of four full-time and two part-time employees, a significant decrease from their peak of 11 team members. However, they are not alone in their mission. Over 30 dedicated volunteers assist with a variety of roles, ensuring that CCS can continue to provide essential services to those in need. These volunteers contribute time in food pantry services, tutoring, and various administrative roles, playing a vital part in the operation of the organization.

Building Community Ties

CCS has a strong network, partnering with nine different community agencies that provide face-to-face services right at the CCS location. This network strengthens their offerings and enables them to tackle the diverse needs of the community more effectively.

As they settle into the new era of leadership, Kiira envisions CCS as a beacon of hope in the community, committed to empowering individuals and families through a combination of services. In fact, CCS celebrated a significant milestone recently, marking their 40th anniversary. To honor this achievement, they have launched an initiative to raise $40,000 in 40 days to support community efforts.

Join the Mission

Community members looking to support CCS’s vital mission can contribute financially or lend a helping hand through volunteer work. Donations can be made in various ways, including online, in-person, or even through ApplePay, with every dollar being crucial for sustaining the organization’s operations.

As CCS moves forward under Kiira Churchill’s leadership, the community is invited to join in creating a supportive environment that encourages resilience and self-improvement. Together, they can make a difference in the lives of many, fulfilling the mission of offering that vital “hand up” to those in need.