On June 21, 2024, Board President of PCA of Jefferson County Dr. Linda Zapp, along with other state and local leaders, joined Governor Holcomb to discuss how communities can benefit from state resources.

“INDIANAPOLIS – On Friday June 21, 2024 Governor Eric J. Holcomb hosted the Hoosier Huddle, a collaborative panel discussion focused on the Hoosier Playbook. Gov. Holcomb was joined by state and local officials throughout the state to discuss local community benefits.

The Hoosier Playbook includes a diverse range of resources aimed at enhancing education, improving health, boosting workforce development, strengthening infrastructure, fostering community development and ensuring public safety. Hoosiers from across Indiana gathered at Hinkle Fieldhouse for a fireside chat with Gov. Holcomb and Vanessa Green Sinders, President and CEO of the Indiana Chamber. They were also joined by partners from across the state for breakout sessions.”

Madison’s Mayor, Bob Courtney, Governor Holcomb, and Dr. Linda Zapp

”I attended a session outlining “Health First” which is a program that increases state funding for County Health Departments to develop new or expand current initiatives that support local public health needs. During this session several counties were highlighted for the initiatives they have developed and/or implemented in the first year.” Zapp goes on to share, “ Another session I attended was on mental health and substance use services which outlines efforts to combat mental and substance use disorders. This session covered the state’s mental health care resources, development of a recovery-friendly workforce, and enhancements in crisis response and prevention programs.”

“Dr. Lindsay Weaver, the Indiana Department of Health Commissioner, led a discussion with community health leaders to demonstrate how the Health First Indiana initiative is reshaping public health in its inaugural year. Through local partnerships and data-driven solutions, the panel spoke on how counties can utilize the full benefits as the program to improve the overall health of Hoosiers.

A key item of the Governor’s Next Level Agenda since day one has been to ensure Hoosier students are prepared for the careers of tomorrow and to build a robust talent pipeline. Members of the Governor’s cabinet engaged in discussion on statewide efforts to prepare Hoosier students for postsecondary success and workforce readiness.
Indiana’s innovative READI program fosters community vibrancy, enhances economic development and supports successful public-private partnerships. Panelists provided insights into READI’s achievements, future directions and its role in initiatives like blight reduction and arts enhancement with the generous support of the Lilly Endowment.”

“One of our current projects is a Tool Kit that will provide our communities better information in terms of the available services in our county, exactly what those services are, if they accept private or state insurance, among other sources of information. It’s a huge undertaking, and isn’t something that currently exists in Jefferson county. I’m very excited about it, and the opportunity to gain insight at this year’s Hoosier Huddle.” Zapp

https://events.in.gov/event/gov-holcomb-hosts-hoosier-huddle-a-resource-program-to-promote-the-hoosier-playbook