The Wabash County Diversity Coalition’s Mission
By: Mackenzie Coulter-Kern
In recent years, Wabash County, like many rural areas, has experienced population decline, resulting in smaller schools and fewer businesses. However, research shows that rural areas embracing diversity can achieve growth and prosperity (Carr, Lichter, and Kefalas, 2012). In response, Wabash County’s comprehensive plan, Imagine One 85, emphasizes celebrating diversity and welcoming individuals from all backgrounds, aiming to foster a thriving community through inclusive practices.
The Wabash County Diversity Coalition
The Wabash County Diversity Coalition promotes the county as a growing, education-focused, and welcoming community. In July 2023, the Coalition applied for fiscal sponsorship from the Community Foundation of Wabash County, enabling them to pursue grants and receive donations. The Coalition’s leadership—co-chairs Sarah Delgadillo and Mindy Mayes, along with secretary Julie Garber—has been instrumental in these efforts.
Recent Initiatives
Last summer, Grow Wabash County hired Mackenzie Coulter-Kern to assess the county’s diversity needs. Coulter-Kern surveyed businesses, institutions, and residents, identifying opportunities to cultivate a welcoming culture and connect underserved individuals with essential resources. In January 2024, Coulter-Kern was contracted to direct the Coalition’s programs and events.
Coulter-Kern’s Vision
With a Master’s and PhD in Hispanic Linguistics from Indiana University and extensive international experience, she is well-equipped for this role. “Our goal is to make everyone feel welcome in Wabash County and to partner with local entities to provide support and resources,” she explains. The Coalition offers consulting and translation services to local organizations and meets with individuals to connect them with available resources.
Recent Successes
One recent success is the opening of La Morenita, a Hispanic grocery store and eatery on Main Street in North Manchester. In May, the Coalition partnered with the Purdue Extension Office to facilitate Multicultural Awareness training for local businesses and institutions, with attendees from various organizations.
Events and Activities
The Coalition also hosts a bilingual story hour at the North Manchester Public Library on the first Tuesday of each month. Additionally, they launched a Hispanic Heritage Festival in downtown North Manchester in the fall. Coulter-Kern expressed excitement about the festival, which featured Spanish music, a Latin dance class and performance, Nicaraguan folklore dance, Hispanic food vendors, and paper flower-making with folk artist Emily Guerrero. “We hope this festival continues to enhance our culture of welcome and provides educational opportunities for residents,” she says.
Invitation to Support
The Coalition appreciates the efforts of local institutions and organizations that align with its mission. They invite everyone to help create a welcoming environment for newcomers, talented individuals, and entrepreneurs.
About Mackenzie Coulter-Kern:
Mackenzie Coulter-Kern is a native of North Manchester and grew up in the community. She has always been passionate about its growth and development. She holds an M.A. and Ph.D. in Hispanic Linguistics from Indiana University and is currently the director of the Wabash County Diversity Coalition. Mackenzie is dedicated to fostering inclusivity and supporting diverse populations in the area, and she looks forward to furthering her work with the Coalition to build a welcoming community for all.
Email: diversitywabashcounty@gmail.com
Phone: 260.982.5393
