Four local businesses and one non-profit organization participated in the 2021 Forge Competition. This was the fifth offering for the competition following seven weeks of classes with instructor Scott Hughes of Marion Technical College. “Part of the genesis of The Forge was that when we looked at some economic information, we learned that Marion was […]
Programs
ERN helps people succeed in Marion
The Marion Area Employer Resource Network (ERN) is a low-cost, shared resource to help improve employee retention and productivity. The local ERN Success Coach, Natalie Longmeier, provides on-site coaching to employees of participating businesses through this program of Marion Matters. “The program ultimately helps shape a positive culture that businesses care about their employees,” says […]
For the Children Building a World Free From Childhood Trauma
Forty local children who have experienced abuse or neglect and have been placed in foster or kinship care experienced a week of fun and royal treatment at the Royal Family Kids (RFK) Camp. Children enjoyed fishing, swimming, a talent show, and fireworks at the camp in July in Marion. “Royal Family Kids Camp is a […]
The Forge Enters Fifth Year of Sparking Small Businesses
What started as an idea to create more small businesses has paid huge dividends for our community. The Leadership Marion Class of 2017 started TheForge which includes free business classes and a “Shark Tank”-style competition. Participants have started or expanded a number of businesses, including Ability Vending, Attaboys, A Taste of Memphis, the Explore-It-Torium Children’s […]
DiverseMoves Brings Faith and Hip-Hop To Local Students
Quiana Revere’s DiverseMoves dance studio starts its 17thth year this September. Revere built her dance studio on her values of faith and diversity. “When I moved back to Marion 21 years ago, we wanted to bring the community together from all walks of life. I was used to living in a melting pot of people, food, and culture.” […]
MARCA Helps Local Adults with Disabilities Live Their Best Lives
For more than 50 years, MARCA Industries has supported local adults with developmental disabilities by empowering them to live their best, most productive lives. While they have decades of experience, this agency has undergone major changes in the last several years. Due to regulatory requirements, MARCA separated from the Marion County Board of Developmental Disabilities […]
