KOSCIUSKO COUNTY, Ind. -- Kosciusko County residents are being encouraged to share their ideas for community development as part of the Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program (HELP). Options for feedback consist of an online survey and participation at a number of upcoming events.

Kosciusko County was one of three communities selected by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs for participation in the program.

Lasting for 12 months, the program’s goal is to develop rural communities with efforts focused on four areas:

• advancing e-connectivity
• enhancing quality of place
• promoting community wellness
• strengthening local economies

Participating towns include Etna Green, Mentone, Milford and Pierceton.

After gathering feedback, the HELP program would utilize the $1.28 billion provided by the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funds through the American Rescue Plan Act.

An online survey for submitting feedback is available at this link. The survey consists of three questions and asks which of the above areas the community should focus on.

The deadline to complete this survey is June 7 by 5 p.m.

There are also two events for community members to attend in-person. Hosted by the Indiana Arts Commission, these Art-infused events are free to the public and open to all ages.

The events are held on:

• June 7 from 5 to 6 p.m. at Grace College’s Westminster East Banquet Hall
• June 11 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Remembrance Park in Etna Green (106 S. Walnut St.)
• June 17 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Milford Community Building parking lot (111 S. Main St.)

More information on the HELP program can be found on the Kosciusko County government website.