White County Economic Development Organization, Inc.

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(574) 583-6557 The White County Economic Development Organization, Inc.

Why White County...

Whether you're thinking about moving your family or your company, White County extends a warm welcome and full community services to make your relocation a success. Our schools, our mild climate, our excellent transportation, our growing economy, and our proximity to a major metropolitan area all combine to make White County, Indiana a great place to visit, a great place to wo

rk, and a great place to live. is organized for the advancement and diffusion of knowledge and understanding of economics; matters of public concern; finance; education and training; housing; human relations; science and technology; economic planning and development; and other subjects related to the quality and quantity of economic growth, employment opportunities and education activities and neighborhood assistance.

After days of celebrating the people, businesses, educators, students, leaders, and partners who make our community extr...
05/30/2026

After days of celebrating the people, businesses, educators, students, leaders, and partners who make our community extraordinary, one thing has become abundantly clear:

White County’s greatest strength is its people.

It’s the entrepreneurs willing to invest in their dreams. It’s the educators shaping future generations. It’s the volunteers, community leaders, elected officials, and business owners who dedicate their time and talents to making this a better place to live, work, and raise a family. It’s the students whose ideas and ambitions remind us that our best days are still ahead.

Together, they are creating opportunity, building partnerships, preserving traditions, embracing innovation, and writing the next chapter of White County’s story.

Thank you for following along as we reflected on the accomplishments of the past year, celebrated remarkable milestones, and looked ahead to an even brighter future. The momentum is real, the possibilities are endless, and the future is being built right here at home.

So, why White County?

Because of the people. ❤️

What does Why White County mean to you?Jackson Dexter, Twin Lakes 25/26 SophomoreMy name is Jackson Dexter, and I’m prou...
05/30/2026

What does Why White County mean to you?
Jackson Dexter, Twin Lakes 25/26 Sophomore

My name is Jackson Dexter, and I’m proud to be here representing my school and, more importantly, White County.
When I think about “Why White County,” I don’t just think about a place on a map—I think about a community that feels like home. It’s the kind of place where people know each other, support each other, and show up when it matters. Whether it’s Friday night games, local events, or just everyday life, there’s a sense of pride here that you can feel.
I’m proud of White County because of the people. It’s the teachers who push students to do their best, the coaches who build character, and the families who work hard to create better opportunities for the next generation. That pride is something that doesn’t just stay in the present—it builds the future.
That’s why investment in our community is so important. When community leaders invest in White County—whether it’s through schools, local businesses, or public spaces—they’re investing in us as students and in what we can become. Those investments create opportunities, open doors, and show young people that staying here can lead to a successful and fulfilling life.
If we want to keep people in our community, especially young people, we have to continue building those opportunities. That means supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and making sure there are things for people to do and be a part of. It also means listening to younger voices, because we’re the ones who will decide whether to stay, leave, or come back someday.
And that leads to how the community can help students like me. The biggest thing is support—education support, in career opportunities, and in personal growth. Programs, internships, mentorships, and even just encouragement from community members can make a huge difference. When students feel supported, they feel motivated to give back.
At the end of the day, White County isn’t just where we live—it’s where we grow. It’s where we learn what it means to be part of something bigger than ourselves.
I’m proud to call White County my home, and I’m excited about what we can continue to build together.
Thank you.

What does Why White County mean to you?Evelyn Gretencord, Tri-County 25/26 JuniorHello everyone! My name is Evelyn Grete...
05/30/2026

What does Why White County mean to you?
Evelyn Gretencord, Tri-County 25/26 Junior

Hello everyone! My name is Evelyn Gretencord, and I’m a Junior at Tri-County High school. I’m currently involved in FFA, NHS, Spanish Club and Track, alongside many of my friends and peers. I'm here today to talk about why White County should be proud of its community and why it's crucial to continue investing in our people and our students.
After going to Tri-County my whole life, I’ve noticed a pattern within our student body. We yearn for new opportunities. Too often, teenagers get clumped together and classified as “lazy” or “unmotivated” when there are so many that strive to gain new experiences. Some of which could help them get into their preferred college, or obtain that dream job. To me, supporting our students means giving them the tools that they not only need for high school, but tools they can use in the future. As you probably know, employers look for experience, so this support could look like advocating for trade and agriculture classes in our schools or developing job shadow opportunities in local businesses. This investment is meaningful, and will give students unique experiences in a rural community.
Not only will hands-on job experience like this benefit students, it will also expose the range of opportunities this community has to offer. Coming from a small town, it can be hard to navigate the job market, and by presenting students with all we have to offer, their eyes may be opened to a new career path, one which stays in our community. Providing internships, allowing job shadowing, or even part-time employment can build trust between the students and local businesses, leading to students choosing to stay here in White County.
I am proud of our community for many reasons. First off, I would like to point out the farmers who put their lives into providing for our country and the support our community shows them every year. From planting in the spring to harvesting in the fall, farming is a year round job, and everyone in our community knows what it takes to continue delivering year after year. Next, I am proud of all of our students, not only at Tri-County, but in every school. There are countless students who go to school, play a sport, and hold a job, some in grocery stores, some in restaurants, all while completing homework and participating in clubs. I personally know many people who do all this and have all A’s, demonstrating the incredible work ethic in our students. Being a Junior in high school, I have begun to look forward to the future, and it looks bright. I have come to understand that being surrounded by an incredible community is very important and plays a big role in the future of not only this generation, but the generations to come.

What does Why White County mean to you?Alayna Williams, North White 25/26 SeniorWhen people think about White County, th...
05/30/2026

What does Why White County mean to you?
Alayna Williams, North White 25/26 Senior

When people think about White County, they may see a small rural community, but to those who call this county home, it is so much more. White County is a community built on hard work, kindness, and people who genuinely care about each other. We are a community where neighbors help one another, local businesses support our schools and organizations, and people come together during times of need. I believe it is important for White County to be proud of our community because the people here understand the value of helping others. I am personally proud to be a part of this community and so should you because I have seen the impact of seeing community members help others through being involved in the Youth Philanthropy Council.Thr ough this organization, grants are given to each of the four White County schools to help teachers provide resources and opportunities they may not otherwise have. Seeing the difference these grants make has shown me how important it is for communities to invest in their students and schools. I have also seen this being in 4-H. Everyone in the community plays a piece in the success of the fair. From helping each other out with livestock to volunteering to clean the fairgrounds we all come together for one common goal. I am proud of my community because of the amount of youth that want to make a difference and are involved in various activities throughout White County. Community leaders investing in the youth of White County is essential because it provides students such as myself with opportunities to better themselves and learn what it means to be a part of a tight knit community, and create future leaders. If we want people to stay in our community we need to continue to support one another. Providing good jobs, supporting our local businesses, and most importantly continuing connecting with each other and building stronger bonds that make others proud to call this home. The community can help students by investing in opportunities that help students grow and succeed. This can be school programs or extracurriculars that will prepare us for the future and help us make a difference in the community. At the end of the day, White County is more than just a place to live, it is a community filled with people who care about one another and want to see future generations succeed. By continuing to invest in students and encouraging young people to get involved, we are helping build a stronger future for our community. Thank you.

What does Why White County mean to you? Chase Pekny, Frontier 25/26 SeniorBeing proud of White County means more than ju...
05/30/2026

What does Why White County mean to you?
Chase Pekny, Frontier 25/26 Senior

Being proud of White County means more than just liking where we live—it’s about feeling deeply connected to the people and places that shape us. I feel truly at home here because of the way our community supports one another. On weekday nights, cheering at sporting events for TL, TC, Frontier, and NW, surrounded by friends and neighbors who feel like family. Our county backs local organizations through donations. We help neighbors in need by cleaning out their yards, shoveling snow, or any little things people need help with. We always find ways to lift each other up by supporting our high school athletes, supporting through means of scholarships and helpful advice to navigate the future beyond high school.

What makes me especially proud is how White County encourages young people to be involved and to lead. I’ve seen firsthand how organizations like the White Country Youth Philanthropic Organization and student groups such as HOSA and FCCLA bring students together to make a real difference. Being part of these groups has helped me grow, learn new skills, and give back to the place I call home.

Pride also means looking ahead. It’s important for our leaders to invest in schools, programs, and young people to show their support. When they support us, we’ll want to give back as we grow up. If we want people to stay, we need to keep them interested in our county. This could mean more activities, more places for families to gather, and more jobs so people like me can build a future here. When we feel supported and included, we don’t have to look elsewhere for success—we can find it here.

Our community can help students by believing in us. By coming to our events, encouraging us, and letting us lead, you help us become the next generation of teachers, business owners, farmers, leaders, and neighbors who will keep White County strong. Continued support of the Governor’s Work Ethic, providing opportunities for internship,work based learning experiences, and being good stewards of our land. White County has shaped who I am, and I believe that if we keep investing in our county, many more generations will grow up here too.

As our evening turned from celebrating a century of impact to imagining what comes next, our keynote speakers represente...
05/30/2026

As our evening turned from celebrating a century of impact to imagining what comes next, our keynote speakers represented the next generation of leaders.

One student from each of our four school corporations was invited to reflect on a simple but powerful question: “What does Why White County mean to you?”

Through short speeches written in their own words, these students shared their perspectives on community, opportunity, belonging, and the future they envision right here at home.

Their voices served as a meaningful reminder that the future of White County is already taking shape, and it’s in good hands.

Over the next few posts, we’re excited to share their inspiring messages with you.

Chase Pekny, Frontier 25/26 Senior
Alayna Williams, North White 25/26 Senior
Evelyn Gretencord, Tri-County 25/26 Junior
Jackson Dexter, Twin Lakes 25/26 Sophomore

The Future of White County Took the StageThis year, our White County Economic Development Annual Meeting looked ahead by...
05/30/2026

The Future of White County Took the Stage

This year, our White County Economic Development Annual Meeting looked ahead by turning to those who will shape tomorrow.

As part of our keynote program, one student from each of our four school corporations was invited to answer one simple but powerful question: “When you hear Why White County? … what comes to mind?”

Through their words, these students reminded us that White County is more than a place, it’s opportunity, community, connection, and a place where futures are built. Their perspectives challenged us to continue investing in our youth and creating a county they are proud to call home.

Thank you to our incredible student keynote speakers for sharing your voices and representing your schools so well:
• Alayna Williams – North White
• Evelyn Gretencord – Tri-County
• Chase Pekny – Frontier
• Jackson Dexter – Twin Lakes

Pictured with local and state leaders who continue supporting the future of our communities and workforce.

The future is bright, and it’s already right here in White County.

Rooted here. Growing together. Building tomorrow.

Building Tomorrow Through PartnershipOne of the highlights of this year’s White County Economic Development Annual Meeti...
05/30/2026

Building Tomorrow Through Partnership
One of the highlights of this year’s White County Economic Development Annual Meeting was the opportunity to bring together leaders from the local, regional, and state level, all united by a common goal: investing in people, strengthening our workforce, and creating opportunity right here in White County.

As we continue asking “Why White County?” the answer continues to come back to collaboration. When business leaders, community partners, educators, and elected officials work together, we create an environment where businesses grow, talent stays, and future generations thrive.

Thank you to those who joined us and continue championing workforce and economic development across Indiana and White County.

Pictured left to right: Randy Strasser, President of White County Economic Development; Tony Denhart, Executive Vice President of Workforce & Talent, IEDC; Mayor Aaron Sims, City of Monticello; State Senator Ed Charbonneau; Representative Kendell Culp; and Brady Markel, IEDC.

Rooted here. Growing together. Building tomorrow.

As part of this extraordinary milestone celebration, we were honored to welcome State Senator Ed Charbonneau and Represe...
05/30/2026

As part of this extraordinary milestone celebration, we were honored to welcome State Senator Ed Charbonneau and Representative Kendell Culp to help recognize this historic achievement. Together, they presented Indiana Beach owner Gene Staples with an official Indiana Senate Resolution commemorating 100 years of Indiana Beach and celebrating its lasting impact on White County and the State of Indiana.

This special recognition honored not only a century of memories and tradition, but also the continued dedication to preserving and growing one of Indiana’s most iconic destinations. Through the vision first established by the Spackman family and the ongoing leadership of Gene Staples, Indiana Beach continues to create experiences that bring generations together and contribute to the identity and success of our community.

100 YEARS OF BUSINESS IN WHITE COUNTYMilestones like 25 and 50 years are remarkable accomplishments, but our final recog...
05/30/2026

100 YEARS OF BUSINESS IN WHITE COUNTY
Milestones like 25 and 50 years are remarkable accomplishments, but our final recognition this evening represents something truly extraordinary.

For 100 years, one destination has welcomed generations of families, created lifelong memories, and become woven into the identity of White County itself.

Indiana Beach has long been a cherished destination along the shores of Lake Shafer, bringing generations together through laughter, connection, and unforgettable experiences.
As we celebrate this incredible achievement, we first recognize the Spackman family, whose vision and entrepreneurial spirit brought Indiana Beach to life and established a legacy that has stood the test of time.
We also proudly acknowledge Gene Staples, whose leadership and commitment have carried that legacy forward, preserving treasured traditions while ensuring Indiana Beach continues to thrive for future generations.

Please join me in celebrating 100 years of Indiana Beach, honoring its history, celebrating its impact, and looking ahead to the memories still to come.

Address

124 N Main Street, Ste A
Monticello, IN
47960

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4pm
Tuesday 8am - 4pm
Wednesday 8am - 4pm
Thursday 8am - 4pm
Friday 8am - 4pm

Telephone

+15745836557

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