April 26, 2025

Kiira Churchill Named Executive Director of Combined Community Services

Community Resource Consultants Inc. (CRCI)

Community Resource Consultants Inc. (CRCI) is a Michigan-based organization specializing in trauma rehabilitation medical case management. With over 34 years of experience, CRCI is dedicated to empowering survivors of catastrophic auto accidents to regain control of their lives and achieve both physical and emotional well-being. Their team of Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSWs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) are experts in navigating the complexities of today’s healthcare system, ensuring that survivors receive the necessary services for their recovery and rehabilitation. CRCI’s core values include advocacy, people, knowledge, and dependability, reflecting their commitment to being leading advocates and facilitators of long-term collaborative care.

News Summary

Kiira Churchill has taken on the role of executive director at Combined Community Services (CCS) amidst a surge in demand for community assistance. With her extensive background in community service, she aims to address the rising number of families seeking support. Despite a smaller team, CCS continues to thrive thanks to community donations and volunteer efforts, and plans are in place for expansion to further assist those in need.

Kiira Churchill Takes the Helm at Combined Community Services as Demand Soars

In a wave of excitement and hope, Kiira Churchill has officially stepped into her new role as the executive director of Combined Community Services (CCS) as of early March. This transition comes at a time when the need for community assistance has escalated significantly, making her leadership all the more crucial. The recent open house at CCS provided a perfect opportunity for the community to meet this dynamic leader and learn about her vision for the organization.

A Proven Track Record

Before taking on this important role, Churchill served as the director of development at CCS and had a brief stint as the director of communications, marketing, and grants for the Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation. With her strong background in community service, she’s no stranger to the challenges that come with such a vital position. She is genuinely passionate about the mission of CCS, which is all about providing a “hand up, not a hand out” to individuals and families in need.

Rising Need for Services

The demand for CCS’s services has reached staggering levels, with around 700 households seeking assistance every month. This is a sharp jump from the pre-COVID numbers of 300-400 households. Even during the turbulent COVID years, CCS maintained a service level of roughly 600 households each month. Given the current economic climate, it is not surprising that more people are seeking help with essential living expenses like utility bills and groceries.

Support from the Community

Despite the surge in requests for help, CCS has managed to maintain its service level, largely due to generous donations from individuals and organizations within the community. This community support is vital for keeping the doors of CCS open and its programs running. The organization not only provides immediate assistance but also has a robust self-sufficiency program that allows clients to receive case management services over varying durations, from just a few months to up to five years.

A Smaller Team, but Big Heart

Currently, CCS operates with a much smaller team, featuring just four full-time employees and two part-time staff members, down from a high of 11. However, the backbone of CCS is its incredible community of volunteers—over 30 dedicated individuals freely giving their time to help with everything from food pantry services to tutoring and administrative duties. Their contributions are essential to the daily operations and ongoing support CCS provides to the community.

Plans for Expansion

One noteworthy challenge is that CCS is currently facing a waiting list for its self-sufficiency programs. Kiira Churchill has made it clear that as soon as finances allow, the organization plans to hire a new case manager to help address this increasing need. This proactive approach signals a bright future for CCS, as it aims to continue offering hope and encouragement to individuals and families.

Community Partnerships and Funding Goals

CCS doesn’t work alone; it partners with nine different community agencies that provide face-to-face services right at the CCS location. Furthermore, to mark its impressive 40th anniversary celebrated in December, CCS is on a mission to raise $40,000 in 40 days to bolster its community support initiatives. The community is invited to get involved, either through financial contributions or by volunteering.

How to Help

Community engagement is crucial to CCS’s continued success. Donations can be made online, in-person, or even through ApplePay, allowing for a variety of ways to contribute to this worthwhile cause. Every contribution, no matter how small, plays a significant role in sustaining CCS’s operations and enabling it to keep making a positive impact in the community.

With Kiira Churchill at the helm and a passionate community behind it, Combined Community Services is poised to navigate these challenging times while staying true to its mission of uplifting those in need. Join in and be a part of this incredible journey!