2021 May Unite

May 2021 Volume 31/ Number 5 • Find Digital Version @ www.unitenewsonline.org •

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UNITE.

Photo Gallery of

African American Graduating Seniors

Class Of 2021 Page 8

Building Empowering Connections

Memorial and Monument Dedication for Rhoda Ray Jones A woman of courage at the Battle of Wilson’s Creek May 23, 2 PM, Hazelwood Cemetery

Page 7

Hardinger is sworn in as new council member Page 5

Indya Green is Kickapoo’s all-time leading scorer Page 6

Meet the Missouri State University Black Alumni Council Page 5

‘Updated COVID-19 Community & Public Health Resource Directory See Information on PAGE 13

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We’re All Connected Whether you are looking for a job with a great company, or have a product or service to sell, City Utilities wants to get connected to you.

Get Connected to Us.

Call 417-863-9000 or go to cityutilities.net to learn ways we can work together.

Page 2 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

COVID-19 Community & Public Health Resource Directory: See PAGE 13

Tableof Contents Community

Hardinger is sworn in as new SGF city council member Page 5

History

Memorial and Monument dedication for Rhoda Ray Jones Page 7

Education

Meet the Missouri State University Black Alumni Council

Page 5

Sports

Indya Green is Kickapoo’s all-time leading scorer Page 6

Education

Photo Gallery of African American Graduating Seniors Page 8

Book Review

Finding financial wholeness: Get Good with Money by Tiffany Aliche

Page 12

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 3

The Unite News Publication is published by Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc.

Brentwood Chapel - University Chapel Crematory - Columbarium

UNITE. Volume 31, Number 5

MANAGEMENT MANAGING EDITOR & PRESIDENT Samuel G. Knox ASSOCIATE EDITOR Tyra K Knox

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Licensed Funeral Directors of Distinction W. Bruce Howell · Robert J. Lohmeyer · Don R. Lohmeyer · Heather K. Howell · Clint W. Mease Angela N. Collins · Harley R. Williams · Andy D. Vowell · Dulcinea M. Lane Nichole E. Bauer · Barbara A. Hinds · Angie Howell Larsen

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CONTENT CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Melesha Bailey CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Sativa B-Sloan CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Gwen Marshall CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Kathleen O'Dell CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Daniel Ogunyemi CREATIVE TEAM PHOTOGRAPHY, Erin Gamble FESTIVAL GRAPHIC DESIGN, Bradley Knox COMMUNITY ADVISORY GROUP COMMUNITY ADVISORY MEMBER, Christopher Palma COMMUNITY ADVISORY MEMBER, Jasmine Bailey COMMUNITY ADVISORY MEMBER, Diana Vargas

Sunday 10:30 am Go to: deliverancetemple.org for more content

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Are you inspired to create a better future for yourself and others?

If so, Missouri State has a place for you.

With a campus community filled with diverse perspectives, voices and opinions, Missouri State is fulfilling its commitment to address the needs of a changing society.

Missouri State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Minority/Female/Veterans/Disability/Sexual Orientation/ Gender Identity Employer and Institution. Employment will require a criminal background check at university expense.

ARE YOU READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE? APPLY TODAY AND

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Page 4 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

The Unite. publication is a monthly newspaper published by Unite of Southwest Missouri, Inc. a 501(c)(3) non-profit community organization. Our mission is to promote a broader understanding and appreciation of the ethnically diverse talent, community resources and opportunities available in the Springfield/Greene County area. Distribution of Unite. is by free circulation at various locations. However, request for home delivery by mail may be directed to Unite. P. O. Box 1745, Springfield, Missouri 65801 and accompanied by $25. for one year’s postage and handling.

Those wishing to make a contribution or become a monthly sponsor should direct correspondence to the same address. Reader’s comments and questions are welcomed. The opinions expressed in these pages do not necessarily reflect the views of Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc. “The Unite Publication in accepting advertising in this publication, makes no independent investigation concerning the services of products advertised and neither endorses nor recommends the same and assumes no liability therefore.”

For further information, you can contact us at (417) 864-7444.

Email: unitepublication@yahoo.com

Make A Contribution Today!

If you would like to make a contribution to the Unite News Publication and it’s mission, please mail your gift to Unite, P.O. Box 1745, Springfield, MO 65801 or contact our office at (417) 864-7444.

“Let’s build a stronger community together.”

- Samuel Knox

Managing Editor

Community: News, People & Events Hardinger is sworn in as new SGF city council member Springfield, MO—Springfield’s city clerk swore in two new members of the city council, and two returning members. Angela Romine and Heather Hardinger won in the election on April 6, and on Monday, April 19, both were sworn into their first terms.

Romine will represent Zone 1 while Hardinger will serve in the General Council Seat A. The two councilwomen are replacing Phyllis Ferguson and Jan Fisk.

City Clerk Anita Cotter also swore in Mayor Ken McClure, and Councilman Craig Hosmer.

Both were re-elected in April election.

Heather Hardinger

Meet the Missouri State University Black Alumni Council

MSU Black Alumni Council members Springfield, MO—Missouri State University’s Black Alumni Council is a diverse, dynamic group of alumni and friends of Missouri State University. Thousands of Black students have attended or graduated from Missouri State and are potential MSUBAC members.

The Black Alumni Council Network helps Black Alumni stay connected to their alma mater through a variety of events. They aspire to serve their members by offering everything from social and professional events to educational opportunities and outings, helping to expand network of

contacts and continue the Missouri State University experience.

From Bears watch parties to happy hours at local restaurants to MarooNation events across the country, the Black Alumni Council is working to offer activities of interest. Have an idea for a function or a venue? Get involved, and get in touch!

The Black Alumni Council (BAC) is dedicated to giving voice to the interests and support the ideals of Black alumni of Missouri State University. “We also seek to strengthen our relationships with current students, faculty, staff and friends of the Council.” remarked council member.

The council is committed to: • Promoting the cause of higher education for Black students at Missouri State University; • Fostering a spirit of diversity and a celebration of cultures through organized events, such as participation on the African American History and Homecoming Committees; • Increasing membership and participation of Black alumni within the Council and all levels of leadership with the Alumni Association.

To find out more information or how to join: go to the MSU website and search for Black Alumni Council Volunteer Interest Form.

Library Spring Book Sale at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds April 28-May 2 The Library jumps into spring with a lineup too big for this column, so here’s a sample. See more of what’s happening at thelibrary.org/programs.

Take a virtual tour of historic Schoolhouses of the Ozarks from 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, May 18 with David Burton, of the Greene County MU Extension Office. A PDF map will be provided for your own driving tour. Register at thelibrary. org/programs; a link will be shared with you. Or visit any library branch for a tour brochure.

••• Explore America’s National Parks virtually at noon Wednesday, May 19, on the Library’s YouTube channel, youtube.com/SpringfieldGreene.

Pat McCormick and her husband share their 18-day, 4,000-mile road trip in July 2020 to seven national parks.

••• Is anyone in your family looking for a summer or permanent job? Consider The Library! Adults of all ages and experiences are needed to join the staff. Job openings are posted at https://thelibrary.org/libjob/libjobs.cfm.

••• June 1 marks the beginning of the ever-popular Summer Reading Program for kids from birthage 18, and adults. It’s a fun and rewarding way to dive into books you’ve been saving for summer. Pre-readers benefit from being read to even if they can’t read – it builds pre-reading skills.

Beginning June 1, get a game board at any library branch or Mobile Library, or log on to thelibrary.org/summerreading and follow the links to register. Log minutes and complete the activities to earn great prizes.

••• Tots through teens can earn a free book and a passport offering treats from area restaurants Continued on page 11

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 5

Indya Green is Kickapoo’s all-time leading scorer Springfield, MO— The Kickapoo girls are a known commodity on the basketball court.

For some reason, senior center Indya Green is a little less known. She’s been named to all-state teams the past two years, but she said she has not been recruited much by colleges.

That may have to change soon.

Green was the dominant force on the court for Kickapoo, a team that includes ESPN’s No. 12 junior prospect Ysabella Fontleroy. Green has overwhelming strength when boxing out, which pairs well with the soft touch her shot has from close range.

For head coach Jim Pendergrass, he feels Green is the best rebounder he’s seen in his career, which includes a stint as an assistant coach in Michigan’s women’s program.

“Green’s been awesome all year, and she’s been awesome in her career,” Pendergrass said.

“She does a lot out there — makes a lot of plays.

There was not a more dominant post presence in the area than Indya Green, who was the 2021 She’s the best rebounder I’ve ever had, both at the high school and college level.”

KY3 All O-Zone Girls Basketball Player of the Fontleroy echoed Pendergrass’s Year. Green, the Class 6 Player of praise. “She’s probably the hardthe Year, averaged a double-double est worker on the team — myself with 19.6 points and 12.1 rebounds included,” Fontleroy said. “She’s the per game. If she got the ball on first person in, last person out.” the block, it was basically game For Green, it is a matter of perover as she shot 60% from the field. sonal pride to get as many boards She was also a defensive force as possible. “Every game, my goal averaging 2.2 steals per game. She is to go out there and get at least 10 finished her career as Kickapoo’s (rebounds),” Green said. “I think all-time leading scorer that can really be a game-changer with 1,764 career points.

Indya Green for us.”

It is reported that the basketball scoring record Despite the all-state honors and high point totals, Green said her recruitment was halted by had been in place since the 1970’s. She is a threeCOVID-19. “I’ve had a couple come and talk to time all-state selection. Congratulations Indya me, but since COVID it’s been slow,” Green said.

Green!

Local NAACP Prepares for 2021 Juneteenth Celebration Springfield, MO— The Springfield NAACP will hold their annual Juneteenth celebration Saturday, June 19, 2021 at Silver Springs Park from noon to 4:00 pm. This year’s event will showcase community organizations and children activities. The NAACP will be collecting feminine hygiene

products and socks, sleeping bags, sunscreen, and tarps for the unsheltered. Different entertainment will be presented on the Park Board’s show stage throughout the afternoon. For booth information contact the Springfield NAACP at info@ naacpspringfieldmo.org.

A Girl Like Me Network, May events Springfield, MO— Amby Lewis is the founder of “A Girl Like Me Network.” Her mission is to provide a safe haven for girls and women. To be an empowering system that mends what once was broken, with integrity, experience, guidance, self evaluation and a solid support system. Here are some of their upcoming events: • May 1st, A Girl Like Me Network Page 6 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

Mentorship Graduation 10 am 1925 East Bennett St. Suite J • May 8th, Movie Night • May 16th, AGLMN Sundae-Guest Speaker, Jokima Hiller 5-7pm, 1925 East Bennett Ste. J For more information about the AGLM Network, go to their website: aglmn.org or their facebook page or call: (833) 227-2456.

Memorial and Monument Dedication for Rhoda Ray Jones

Rhoda Ray Jones

Springfield, MO—The community is invited to attend a memorial and monument dedication for Rhoda Ray Jones titled “Emancipated.”

The event will take place on May 23, 2021 at 2:00 pm at the Hazelwood Cemetery, 1642 E Seminole, Springfield MO. Mary Whitney Phelps Tent No. 22 Daughters of Union Veterans (DUV)of the Civil War, 1861-1865 and Pitts Chapel UMC honors a woman of courage at the Battle of Wilson’s Creek.

Rhoda was born into slavery around 1839 in Georgia. She eventually became the property of William and Roxanna Steele in Warren County, Georgia. Young Rhoda traveled with the Steeles to Missouri in about 1840 and settled with their family on Wilson Creek.

William Steele died in 1848, and Roxanna married a neighbor, widower John Ray. Thus, Rhoda, along with Roxanna Steele and her four children, joined John Ray and his daughter in 1849. Together, they would add five more children to their blended family.

Aunt Rhoda, as she was referred to by the Ray’s 10 children, raised her four daughters, Mahala, Hannah, Millie, and Hettie,

while toiling on the family farm.

During the Battle of Wilson’s Creek, Roxanna and Rhoda took all 14 children to the cellar for safety. When the battle ended, the Ray’s home became a field hospital, and Rhoda went to work carrying water and supplies to the wounded and dying. Surgery was performed on many wounded soldiers in the Ray’s yard, and the women assisted the doctors with water, towels, bandages, and whatever else they could provide.

Rhoda was freed in 1865. She married John Jones, a quarryman,

on July 10, 1868, and moved to Springfield, Missouri, where she earned her living as a laundress.

According to an 1897 Springfield newspaper, “Rhoda, aged 58, died this morning at the corner of Robberson Avenue and Olive Street.”

Buried in Hazelwood Cemetery in an unmarked grave, this marker serves to honor Rhoda Ray Jones, her place in history at the Battle of Wilson’s Creek, and to acknowledge her final resting place.

DUV Tent No. 22 hoped to be able to locate living descendants of Rhoda who could attend this

memorial. However, after much effort, they were unable to locate any living descendants. The following discoveries were made and adds to her story: Rhoda’s daughter, Hannah, married Robert Ritter in 1878.

Hannah died in 1904.

Her daughter, Millie, married Marshall Campbell, and they had one son, Paul.

Lastly, her daughter, Hettie, married John Price, and they had a daughter, Frances, and a son, Clarence.

SAVE THE DATE

Rhoda

May 23, 2021

2:00 p.m.

Hazelwood Cemetery

*Born in Georgia *Died in Missouri

Mother … to five children Nurse … to wounded soldiers Laundress …to citizens of Springfield

Rhoda Ray Jones You are invited to attend a memorial and monument dedication for Rhoda Ray Jones on May 23, 2021, 2:00 p.m.,

Hazelwood Cemetery, 1642 E. Seminole, Springfield, Missouri Mary Whitney Phelps Tent No. 22, Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861-1865 and Pitts Chapel UMC honors a woman of courage at the Battle of Wilson’s Creek

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 7

Congratulations Senior Class of 2021 Always remember “the road to success begins with you.”

Central High School

Souljer A Holloway

Makaiya Brooks

Almasi Charles

Kyleigh Jackson

Kaiya Joe

Yese Lambert

Lorica Winston

Noe Winston

Eurasia Young

Jade Cook

Christopher Dutton

Joseph Dye

Tekaira Finley

Eriannah Jackson

Jaiden Latimer

Tameya Neal

Nicki Ntizala

Treavone Robinson

Cia Taylor

Gwen Marshall

Springfield, MO— On behalf of Springfield Public Schools, the Office of Equity and Diversity and the Community of Springfield we would like to congratulate all of the 2021 graduates on your well-deserved success. It has been a difficult year due to Covid-19 and virtual learning and you deserve our deepest respect for persevering during this pandemic and accomplishing your goal. Earning a degree during this time shows your tenacious character and determination. As you graduate from high school, we wish you a successful future and remember “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

– Nelson Mandela

Glendale High School

Anthony Broughton

Shivell Crosby

Christopher Frieson

Keith Goings

Isaac Hill

Alexsys Armstrong Breanna Bright Leigha Craig Stephen Evans Franklin Gainer Lazaria Hampton Anthony Hachett Diante Hebert

Traven Johnson Traven Mathis Malachi Patterson Jeff Penny Shemarr Rogers Kiara Seats Marius Shaw Micah Strickland

Jayden Johnson

Hillcrest High School

Sabastian M Amman

Marcus James

Markeese D Ball

Christian S Clark

Marie P Cosey

Taneisha L Davis

Anjeraea D Evans

Jena M Goodman

Zaniyn T Davis-King Greene, Tatyana Marie Carnisha B Heard Taylianna S Heard Marrion D Hill Darian T Jett Shamori D Jones Ebony T Kalea Kiara D Moss Crishawn Haggard

Lakeysia E Johnson

Page 8 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

Marissa K Kendrick

Kionna Poindexter

Anthony J Taylor

Dominicc Thomas

Trevor J Goodman

Jaylon L Nash Arrianna R Palazzo Tahleah L Pelliccio Hakeem J Ricketts Jalen M Washington Jovan T Williams Malik D Winn Tyler J Worthley John L Wright

Kickapoo High School

Agnes Bagaluha

Trevon Brazile

Anton Brookshire

RacQuel Gains

Piper Gardner

Isaac Gonzalas

Joshua Larry

Cameron Liggins

Levee Mbugua

Sahr Musa

Sevon Nelson

Darrius Rickman

Kevin Wright

Indya Green

Angel Scantlin

Landon Howard

Harrison Soppo

Stephon Johnson

LeTrell King

Tyren Taylor

Jayda Thomas

Parkview High School

Isaac Alford

Brandon Allen

Kiah Jones

James Katz

Justarius Scott

Kaley Swanigan

Trendyn Downey

Yese Lambert

Tyemaine Townsend

Kaliel Easler

Kendrick Edwards

Anthony Green

Damien Harris

Lakidrea Hawkins

Jaylen Jackson

Janae Johnson

JaVon Marshall

Maddox McClain

Nicki Ntizala

Shalia Njoroge

Kamari Ouck

Myah Paige

Cia Taylor

Ja’mall Wallace

Hanna Walton

Mikaela Whalen

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 9

Health & Wellness News Plant-Based Eating For Better Health Springfield, MO—If you are Hispanic adults (44.8%), White adults (42.2%), and Asian adults like me, you LOVE food. We (17.4%). Black women have the love everything about it, highest rates in Amerthe taste, texture, smell, ica, with 55% percent and the pleasant memoof Black women being ries from certain foods obese. These numbers that we enjoy. Unfortuhave been steadily innately, food can also be creasing despite the efthe cause of obesity and fort to bring awareness chronic health issues. to healthy living. These In the African American statistics are alarming community, obesity is and cause many other at epidemic levels. It’s Melesha Bailey related chronic illnesses. lowering our life expectancy Many foods contribute to these and causing havoc from chronic high rates. We are consuming diseases that are associated with fried, trans fats, sugar, fast foods, being obese. and processed foods. These foods According to the CDC: Black are less expensive and overly availadults (49.6%) had the highest able. If we don’t change our diets, age-adjusted prevalence of obesity.

Targeting Communities of Color for COVID-19 Assistance Springfield, MO—Unite of Southwest Missouri, Inc has partnered with CPO Caring Communities, Springfield NAACP and Prosper Springfield to launch a COVID-19 resources and services outreach campaign. A grant was provided by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund.

The grant is being used to contact targeted community members to obtain names and mailing addresses of residents needing vital COVID-19 health information. African American families or individuals can sign-up for a free six month Unite News subscription now through May 2021, please contact (417) 864-7444 or email your: • Name • Mailing Address to unitepublication@yahoo.com Predomanant African American Churches or Organizations, you can get assistance with: • masks, Funding provided by • gloves, and or • hand sanitizer Please contact: Brooke Ash, CPO at 417-888-2020.

I’m afraid the statics will continue to get worse.

Have you considered incorporating a plant-based diet into your daily life? The physical benefits of embracing a plant-based diet are endless, with the added benefit of helping to lower your weight. Some of the transformational health benefits are: Lower Blood Pressure The higher intake of Potassium when following a plant-based diet can help lower blood pressure.

This mineral releases tension in the walls of blood vessels and helps the body process excess sodium released through urine.

Lower Cholesterol Most people aren’t aware that plants contain literally NO cholesterol, even saturated sources like coconut and cacao!

Eating plant foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, and seeds can reduce and reverse the effects of heart disease.

Better Blood Sugar The number one way to fight

Continued on page 11

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Page 10 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

high blood sugar is to eat more fiber. Fiber slows down the absorption of sugars in the bloodstream and can improve how hungry you are all day long - not to mention balance your cortisol levels that cause stress!

According to science (even though we’re often told), lean animal proteins will help prevent and treat diabetes; science says this is not true. The National Institute of Health and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in the US advises the consumption of whole grains, beans, legumes, leafy greens, and lots of vegetables to replace animal proteins, especially when it comes to preventing and treating Type 2 diabetes.

Almost all whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and all fruits and vegetables contain high amounts of Potassium and Vitamin B6 (which also helps lower blood pressure). Meat and other animal products contain very little Potassium, contributing to higher blood

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Plant-Based Eating

Continued from page 10 pressure and cholesterol.

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Incorporating more plants into your daily life is a great place to start.

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is a great tool to get you started on addressing your biggest health concerns. Check it out and contact me for a conversation regarding your health. https://www.love4lifewellness.com/hair-tissue-mineral-analysis

Library

Continued from page 5 and attractions. Upon completing the program, they also get a Fresh Start Fine Waiver Card. Pick up activity kits at the libraries and Mobile Library, and enjoy virtual programs all summer!

Adults can register at thelibrary.

org/summerreading, or get a form at any library or Mobile Library, to log books to earn prizes in the Aug. 9 drawings.

••• Curious about your pet’s behavior? Join us for Decoding Your Pet: Understanding the Behavior of Cats and Dogs, a virtual event at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 9, for grade 6-adults. Dr. Lacy D. Sukovaty, with MSU’s Animal Science studies and veterinarian, is guest speaker. Register starting May 26 at thelibrary. org/programs for a link to the virtual event.

Kathleen O’Dell is community relations director of the Springfield-Greene County Library District. She can be reached at kathleeno@thelibrary.org.

ARE YOU WORRIED ABOUT PAYING RENT OR UTILITIES DUE TO COVID-19?

If you are struggling to pay your rent or utilities due to COVID-19 and live in Greene County, contact the number below to see if you qualify for assistance.

Community Partnership of the Ozarks 417-888-2020

THIS PROJECT IS BEING SUPPORTED, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, BY FEDERAL AWARD NUMBER ERA0293 TO COUNTY OF GREENE BY THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY.

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 11

Finding Financial Wholeness: Get Good with Money by Tiffany Aliche

Tiffany Aliche has done almost everything imaginable with her money. By 26, she had saved $40,000, more than her annual salary as a teacher. At another point, she accumulated $87,000 in debt. After losing everything in the Great Recession, she took on the scary task of essentially rebuilding her finances from scratch.

For Aliche, the goal was never to become rich. She just wanted to get

what it takes to become financially This is the culmination of my life’s her finances in order. When people fierce. work because all this time, I’ve saw Aliche taking control of her “Money is largely emotional been trying to crack the code to money, they asked for help achievand mental, and I was filled with money. ing the same thing. Before she shame. To overcome that, I had to People work and get paid, but knew it, she was coaching women tell someone other than that, what’s next? What worldwide on how to save money, about my finando you tell someone who doesn’t buy a home and other topics in her cial crisis. That know what to do with their money?

Live Richer Challenge, a series of person was my That’s the question Get Good With popular online courses. That’s when best friend, Money answers. It’s a step-by-step she became “The Budgetnista,” a Linda. After guide to master the fundamentals popular podcaster and social media hiding the of personal finance, including personality. situation from budgeting, saving, debt, credit and Now that she’s flourishing friends and learning how to earn. Then it helps financially, Aliche is expanding her family, I just you build the rest of your financial mission. In her new book, Get Good cried and told house—investing, insurance, net With Money: Ten Simple Steps to her everything. Her response was, worth, your money team and estate Becoming Financially Whole, Aliche “That’s it? Everyone has struggled planning. reveals the key to understanding Unite notisthat bad. You Financial wholeness and mastering personal finance—no • 1/8financially. page for 1 It’s month $215.00 1/8 HORT — 4 3/4” x 3 1/2” is for everysomeone’s puppy.” one.

Even if you matter where you are in life.

• 1/4didn’t page steal for 1 month is $325.00 1/4 VERT — 4 3/4” x 5never 1/2” become a The more I talked about my millionaire, you can still get good To learn more about her journey, finances, the more empowered I with your money.” we asked Aliche what inspired her became. I realized that I know how to write Get Good With Money and

Class details & enrollment at http://extension.missouri.edu

diverse career opportunities serve your community Make an impact!

Call: 864-1607 /CityofSGF

City of Springfield, Missouri

@CityofSGFjobs

@CityofSGF

Page 12 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

•

Neighboring 101 (free-monthly-Zoom)

•

Vegetable Gardening in the Ozarks

•

Neighborhood Leadership Academy

•

Mizzou Community Leadership Network

Learn from special guests about the power of neighboring on you and your community.

Funding by donors and:

Variety of topics all summer. Classes only cost $5 and can be registered for at Eventbrite.com.

Registration opens soon. Scholarships available.

Free lunch meetings feature Mizzou grads leading locally.

Save the Date: National Good Neighbor Day Sept. 28

Greene County MU Extension

2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. | (417) 881-8909 Email burtond@missouri.edu

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) COMMUNITY & PUBLIC HEALTH RESOURCE DIRECTORY PUBLIC HEALTH RESOURCES Help Ozarks

Help Ozarks is the City of Springfield’s main website to share official directions to slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). This website provides direct links to information on the latest Springfield-Greene County health updates, resources for job seekers and employers, and a pledge citizens, businesses and institutions can voluntarily take to show commitment to slowing the spread of the Coronavirus during Recovery orders. For more information visit: https://www.springfieldmo.gov/5107/Help-Ozarks

Springfield-Greene County Health Department | COVID-19 Resources

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department’s website has guidelines for good hand and respiratory hygiene habits, tips for at-risk groups that may be more affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and guidance for travel and isolation/quarantine timelines. The health department’s website also shows testing sites—Cox Virtual Health Visits and MyMercy—available in Springfield. For more information visit: https://www.springfieldmo.gov/5068/ Coronavirus or call 417-874-1211.

Cox Health Visits

Cox Healthcare System is providing free virtual visits to screen patients for COVID-19 and provide more guidance about the appropriate actions to take if they are sick with the Coronavirus. Virtual visits are online appointments that are available for people ages two years and older and include a COVID-19 Risk Assessment and if needed, a prescription referral to a pharmacy. For more information visit: https://www.coxhealth.com/services/virtualvisits/ or call 417-269-3000.

Mercy Health

Mercy Health provides virtual care options to seek medical treatment without exposing others to illness. MyMercy is a free, easy-to-use application to manage your whole family’s health online. This app allows users to access information about their health and care team 24 hours a day. For more information visit: https://www.mercy.net/patients/mymercy/ or call 417-820-2000.

Missouri Food Stamp

Pandemic Food Stamp/Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (P-SNAP) provided all households currently eligible for SNAP to receive the maximum amount for their house size for March through June 2020 to prevent Food Stamp benefits from ending during the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting July 1, 2020, Missourians are required to complete a periodic recertification process to verify the household still qualifies for Food Stamp/SNAP benefits.

For more information visit https://mydss.mo.gov/covid-food-stamp-info.

Food Resources in Springfield and Greene County

Food resources in Springfield that are available to the general public, children and older adults who are 60 years and above during COVID-19 Stay-atHome and Recovery orders can be found at the following Google Spreadsheet. The list is updated with new resources when they become available and contains the location, hours, type of food service, ways to access food services and who can access services: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1v3UBVz5i68INI3agcZLM7ULys-O3jHOKm6zwJXWqJB0/edit#gid=0

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 13

EDUCATION PRE-K TO 12TH GRADE & BEYOND HIGH SCHOOL Springfield Public Schools (SPS)

Springfield Public Schools (SPS) has an online resource center to help adjust to schooling from home to create an environment for your student to learn well at home. Resources include tips to schedule a routine for homeschooling children at each grade level, special education and English Language Learner (ELL) resources. For more information visit https://www.sps.org/Domain/57 or contact your child’s school.

Kahn Academy

Kahn Academy is offering free resources to parents, teachers, schools and districts to keep everyone learning. Their website offers resources such as daily schedules, weekly learning plans for students in remote learning environments. For more information visit https://keeplearning.khanacademy.org/.

Fast Track Program

Fast Track is a financial aid program from the Missouri Department of Higher Education that helps adults obtain an industry-recognized credential in high need job areas. Students who receive the Fast Track grant have any remaining college tuition and fees covered after using other state and federal aid programs. Individuals 25 years or older or who have not been enrolled in school within the last two years and are seeking to earn a bachelor’s degree are eligible to apple. Participants must earn under $40,000 per year or $80,000 filing jointly.

For more information visit https://dhewd.mo.gov/initiatives/fast_track.php.

Ozarks Technical Community College

OTC is a community college in Springfield, Missouri. Students can earn a one-year certificate, two-year Associate of Applied Science degree or Associate of Arts degree. They also have a variety of apprenticeship programs. For more information visit https://www.otc.edu/ or call 417-447-7500.

Missouri State University

MSU is a public, comprehensive university system with a mission in public affairs. Their purpose is to develop fully educated persons with a focus on ethical leadership, cultural competence and community engagement. For more information visit https://www.missouristate.edu/ or call 417-836-5000.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES Community Health Advocates | Springfield-Greene County Health Department

Community Health Advocates help individuals navigate Springfield resources and work with individuals to determine their needs and provide personalized referrals to employee assistance, affordable housing, healthcare, pregnancy and parenting services, education, disability services and childcare assistance. To make a referral visit: https://www.springfieldmo.gov/CHAreferral or call 417-874-2477.

U.S. Census 2020

The U.S. 2020 Census invitations began arriving at households March 12. For the first time, nearly everyone will be invited to respond online, by phone, or by mail. Along with the invitation, households will receive a census overview, description of language assistance in English and 12 additional languages, and a census ID number. More information about when most people will receive their invitations can be found at 2020census.gov. https://2020census.gov/en.html?utm_campaign=20200312msprts1ccpupnl&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Tax Filing New Due Date

TThe 2019 tax filing deadline was extended to July 15, 2020 due to COVID-19. For individuals with simple returns to file, Community Partnership of the Ozarks is hosting Tax Clinics through September 30, 2020. If individuals have access to a computer, they can also use the following website suggested

by Community Partnership of the Ozarks: www.myfreetaxes.com. For more information visit https://www.cpozarks.org/financial-literacy/ or call 417-720-2000.

Prosper Springfield Website: “Get Help & Get Informed”

This website has information on current resources and services available in the Springfield/Greene County area. Click “Get Help” to find information related to almost any area of need related to education, health, housing, job/financial assistance and transportation.

Please visit: www.prosperspringfield.org.

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PUBLIC HEALTH RESOURCES WIC

Effective March 18, 2020, all satellite WIC locations were closed until further notice. All appointments are handled over the phone. The WIC program is housed at Jordan Valley Community Health Center and provides free services for qualifying participants such as health screenings, nutrition education and additional food packages, breastfeeding support, referrals to health care providers or social services agencies. For more information visit: https:// www.jordanvalley.org/services or call 417-864-1540.

Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS)

Most DSS offices are still closed to the public at this time, but some offices are taking in person visits by appointment only. Please visit the DSS website to see how the Family Support Division, Child Care Subsidy, MO HealthNet (Medicaid), Children’s Division and Division of Youth Services will conduct business during this time period if assistance is needed at https://dss.mo.gov/covid-19/

MO HealthNet (Medicaid)

Telehealth is available to MO HealthNet participants. There will be no copays for COVID-19 testing for MO HealthNet participants. Coverage will be extended to Missourians ages 19 to 64 who test positive for COVID-19. Requirements for prescriptions refills will make sure participants have access to essential medications. For more information visit: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/ or call 573-751-3425.

JOB SEEKERS AND EMPLOYERS Missouri Job Center

The Missouri Job Center has reopened to the public and offers a variety of job options and job training programs during Recovery Orders to make sure individuals can get back to work stronger than ever before with events and opportunities such as: Aspire (youth program), MO Works Together, Green for Greene, Career Services, America’s Promise, SkillUP and Franklin Apprenticeship & Dislocated Worker programs. The north location job center has relocated from the Cox building to the N. W. Project, located in the on Fairbanks. For more information visit https://www.springfieldmo.gov/1007/Workforce-Development or call 417-887-4343.

Prime, Inc.

Prime, Inc. is a logistics company with a Driver Training Program that allows individuals to earn their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) while getting paid. CDL training classes start each week and gives driver’s real-world experience to prepare for any situation they may encounter on the road. Prime also offers in-house job opportunities to ensure the safety, success and reliability of operations. For more information visit https://www.primeinc.com/ or call 1-877-774-6356.

SRC Holdings

SRC Holdings is a manufacturing company that remanufactures products for major industries that allows individuals to gain real-world experience, pursue an education and avoid student debt through apprenticeship, internship and tuition reimbursement programs. Participants receive one-on-one mentorship, earn wage increases at work milestones and learn cutting edge technology practices from Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC). For more information on how to apply, students may contact their high school counselor or OTC’s Career Center. All others can visit https://www.srcholdings.com/ career-development or contact them at 417-862-4510.

File for Unemployment | Missouri Department of Labor

The Missouri Department of Labor’s website provides information on how to file or manage an unemployment claim or claim benefit eligibility. The website also features information on worker’s compensation and discrimination complaints for businesses and workers. Businesses can file unemployment for groups of employees they may have to lay off due to COVID-19. For more information visit: https://labor.mo.gov/coronavirus.

More resources listed online at: unitenewsonline.org

EDUCATION PRE-K TO 12TH GRADE AND BEYOND HIGH SCHOOL • RENT OR MORTGAGE ASSISTANCE • CHILD CARE & TUTORING

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 15

#DanceLikeaDad #DanceLikeaDad YOUR HEADLINE HERE Instructions: Click on text box and hold down Ctrl+E to adjust size and text formatting (bold, italics, underline) YOUR MESSAGE HERE Instructions: Click on text box and hold down Ctrl+E to adjust size and text formatting (bold, italics, underline)

Becoming more involved in your child’s life can take a lot of different forms. At every stage your children can benefit from your involvement. Read with young children. Join the elementary school parent teacher organization. Chaperone a school event. Volunteer as a coach, or ask your child’s coach in what way she/he could use your help. Take a rainy Saturday and turn it into a family movie night.

Take time to be a positive and supporting part of your child’s life. The resources and links here are a great starting place to learn more.

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YOUR MESSAGE HERE Instructions: Click on text box and hold down Ctrl+E to adjust size and text formatting