Shoals High School student Isaac Johnson’s experience at ROI’s free Soldering Camp led him to the realization that this precise, hands-on skill would help him if he wanted to work in engineering – or more specifically: On airplanes. “This camp changed the way I think about technology and future careers,” Johnson said. Johnson was one … Continue reading Igniting knowledge: High schoolers, parent reflect on soldering camp
This school year, career connections will continue to grow for students in the Indiana Uplands as Regional Opportunity Initiatives welcomes the newest cohort of the Career Coaching Fellowship. Twenty-one individuals serving across the Indiana Uplands as school counselors, career coaches, work-based and internship coordinators, and Preparing for College and Career teachers have stepped up to … Continue reading Twenty-one educators join ROI’s Career Coaching Fellowship
$600,000 in READI 2.0 allocations will leverage investments for Oak Street Village, which will feature 50 rental units and childcare facility. On Friday, July 18, Governor Mike Braun joined local and regional officials for a groundbreaking ceremony held for a new affordable multi-family housing community coming to the City of Loogootee in Martin County. Sullivan … Continue reading Developers break ground on new affordable housing community coming to Loogootee
Photo courtesy of Jason R Greene Photography. As Loogootee Mayor Brian Ader stood on a hot summer evening, looking out at the annual Summerfest, his attention was drawn to the new Downtown Park Pavilion filled with kids laughing and playing, adults dancing, and families gathered together enjoying this snapshot of summer. This is what the … Continue reading Vacant lot to vibrant hub: Loogootee celebrates new Downtown Pavilion
Eighth STEM Fellowship cohort launches with 19 educators and five mentors Regional Opportunity Initiatives (ROI) is proud to announce its eighth STEM Fellowship cohort and a new mentorship program. The 19 selected educators in Cohort 8 will begin their fellowship year in August 2025, bringing the total number to 149 Fellows working to grow high-quality … Continue reading ROI’s STEM Fellowship newest cohort announced, program expands with mentor program
Yesterday, ROI proudly celebrated a powerful milestone with the fourth cohort of its UpSkill Work & Learn program. Fifty-three high school students took a bold step toward their futures, committing to paid apprenticeships that blend hands-on experience, college coursework, and industry-recognized credentials.
When ROI completed the 2023 Indiana Uplands Housing Study Update, it emphasized a consistent need across all 11 counties for strategies to address infill and small-scale development, including home rehabilitation. To address this need, ROI launched a new housing initiative earlier this year in collaboration with the Incremental Development Alliance (IDA), a national nonprofit organization … Continue reading Incremental development program aims to increase housing, strengthen communities
In May, IU’s Center for Rural Engagement delivered a stellar two-day conference focused on the issues of greatest importance to Indiana’s rural communities.
April 30 marks National Apprenticeship Day 2025, a nationwide celebration of the role apprenticeships play in preparing workers for successful careers through real-world experiences.
Two professional development fellowship opportunities for Indiana Uplands educators are open through April 18 for the 2025-2026 school year. The STEM Fellowship is a 10-month professional development program to support elementary educators in developing innovative STEM teaching practices and leadership skills. The 2025-26 STEM Fellowship will be designed for upper elementary and middle school educators … Continue reading Nominations due Apr 18 for Career Coaching and STEM Fellowships
The future of business is here in the Indiana Uplands — and it’s student-run! More than 250 student entrepreneurs and educators from 12 schools gathered in Jasper on April 9 for ROI's 4th annual Uplands Made Conference. This event provides students opportunities learning, networking, presenting and showing off their products and skills.
With one final pour of concrete, READI 1.0-funded upgrades at West Baden Springs Community Park in Orange County will be complete — just in time for spring. READI 1.0 funded the improvements at the park, including multi-use trails, playground equipment, a concession stand, lighting, sidewalks, and flood mitigation.
Despite a snowy start, the Regional Opportunity Initiatives Annual Report to the Region warmed up the French Lick Resort Event Center on Feb. 18, bringing together leaders and changemakers from across the Indiana Uplands region to celebrate progress and innovation. Kicking off the day, ROI President and CEO Tina Peterson shared inspiring success stories, highlighting … Continue reading Photo Gallery: 2025 ROI Annual Report to the Region
Over the past five years, INvets has helped bring 150 new residents to the Indiana Uplands, with every county in the region welcoming new neighbors through these efforts. Their work in ensuring the post-service success and happiness of military vets and their families made them a great choice for this year’s Indiana Uplands Talent Innovation … Continue reading 2025 Indiana Uplands Talent Innovation Award: INvets
Students in Dubois County are quite literally reaching new heights thanks to a Southridge High School Aviation Program, making it a standout choice for this year’s Indiana Uplands STEM Innovation Award. Regional Opportunity Initiatives Vice President for Economic and Community Development Julie Halbig, ROI President and CEO Tina Peterson, ROI Board of Directors President Doug … Continue reading 2025 Indiana Uplands STEM Innovation Award: Southridge Aviation Program
