Lauren Schwentker

1 week ago | wrtv.com | Lauren Schwentker

INDIANAPOLIS — Basketball wasn’t the only focus for fans at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Saturday. Supporters gathered outside the arena for a powerful cause: packing the plaza with diapers for families in need. The diaper drive, organized in partnership with Kroger and the Indiana Diaper Bank helped collect more than 1,500 diapers. The initiative targeted diaper insecurity. "One in two families in Indiana struggle with diaper need," said Ashley Burns, CEO of the Indiana Diaper Bank.

2 weeks ago | wrtv.com | Lauren Schwentker

INDIANAPOLIS — The Hospital-based Violence Intervention Program (HVIP) at Methodist Hospital is marking it's one-year anniversary. We talked to Larissa Smith who serves as a powerful reminder of why this work matters. In Sep. of 2024 Larissa was at a family gathering when an argument broke out. “I got caught in the crossfire and the bullet hit me in the stomach," said Smith. She stayed in the hospital when a social worker from HVIP came to tell her about the program.

2 weeks ago | wrtv.com | Lauren Schwentker

LAWRENCE, Ind. — In response to growing public concern over police conduct and community safety, the City of Lawrence is rolling out a new initiative aimed at building trust between law enforcement and residents. The Critical Response Team will bring together police officials and local neighborhood leaders in a collaborative effort to foster accountability and transparency. On Monday night, members of the Lawrence Police Department joined city officials and community representatives began planning.

2 weeks ago | wrtv.com | Lauren Schwentker

ARCADIA— Just outside Arcadia a new farm is doing more than raising animals. Woolly Yak Ranch and Winery is giving people with special needs, including the owners’ son, a chance to work, learn and build a future. Chris and Cathy Lammer started the farm in 2022 with their twin sons, Jacob and Zachary. Jacob is on the autism spectrum, and the family wanted to create something that would give him purpose and stability. “Jacob is a really active kid,” Chris said.

2 weeks ago | wrtv.com | Lauren Schwentker

INDIANAPOLIS — Hoosiers from across the state are rolling up their sleeves Saturday to pack 15,000 meals for those facing food insecurity. The meal-packing event is the centerpiece service project of the Indiana State Rotary District Conference, bringing together Rotarians from every corner of the state to serve the community. “It’s incredible what a small amount of work can do for an army of people,” said one volunteer.