Want to gift your favorite hiking trail by making a difference? A student needing an activity after class? Just want to join a Volunteer group? Read about how our free activities can bring fulfilling fun in Columbus, Indiana. Everyone is welcome.
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- About Us
- Events
- Awards & Acheivements
- Resources
- Contact Us:
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*After signing up for events, please complete the waiver. You do not have to complete this more than once a year.
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Why Should I join?
We welcome individuals and families who are interested in supporting community wellness and positive connection. Joining Blazing Stars CISMAs means becoming part of a supportive network focused on growth, engagement, and empowerment. Whether you are looking to attend events, participate in activities, or simply stay connected, we invite you to join us and be part of our mission. To get involved, follow us on Facebook for event updates and announcements, or reach out to us directly to learn more about upcoming opportunities. Check out the button at the top and bottom of the page to volunteer or use the Google Calendar links for specific events.
About Us
While Blazing Stars possesses deep local roots and a strong mission centered on connecting people to nature, it currently faces a "visibility gap" in which its vital work and upcoming events are often hidden behind complex web links or outdated information. By establishing a dedicated digital presence, the organization aims to move out from the shadow of buried links to become a discoverable destination that revitalizes interest in local environmental initiatives and fosters a new generation of conservationists.
Our Vision
Celebrate the natural beauty of Bartholomew County through the community's inspiration and instill in its members a drive to improve their surrounding natural habitat. Offering a volunteer opportunity near you. It's can be easy work, hiking trails in Columbus, IN, and leaving it better than you found it.
Our Mission
To partner with and educate the community members to manage invasive species for the improvement of Bartholomew County's natural habitat.
Hello! My name is Jenny Whiteside. I am the President of Blazing Stars CISMA.
I was raised on a farm in Bartholomew County and learned early what it meant to be a steward of the land. I still hold those values on my own family’s forage and livestock farm. In 2013, I began working for the Bartholomew County Soil and Water Conservation District. Since then, I have learned so much about conservation and the global and local efforts that are taking place. Dawn Slack, whom I consider one of my mentors, inspired me several years ago with a talk on the negative impacts of invasive species on the economy, environment, and public health, and on what can be done. The Blazing Stars CISMA was created shortly after by a group of individuals with the same passion to help restore the natural habitat in Bartholomew County
Being a member of the Blazing Stars CISMA has been one of the most rewarding opportunities I have been a part of. From the beginning I have witnessed this group grow and overcome challenges more and more each year. There is such a cohesiveness within the group that really inspires me to push myself to be better for the benefit of the community. The many hours spent in the parks cutting and treating invasive species was once daunting but now the hard work and accomplishments have proven themselves. I love being a part of a group with so many faithful volunteers that continue to show up at each and every event with enthusiasm and grit. It is such a pleasure to partner with so many wonderful people and organizations to celebrate the natural beauty of Bartholomew County.
Events
Events Overview
At Blazing Stars CISMAs, our events are designed to support community wellness, connection, and personal growth. We host a variety of activities throughout the year that bring individuals, youth, and families together in safe, welcoming spaces. Our events vary by season and community needs, and details are shared regularly through our website and Facebook page.
Community Wellness Events
We host community wellness events that focus on promoting mental, emotional, and physical well‑being. These events are designed to create opportunities for connection, reflection, and support within our community. Through group activities, discussions, and shared experiences, we aim to encourage positive engagement and overall wellness for participants of all ages.
Youth & Family Engagement Activities
Our youth and family engagement activities are designed to bring families together through meaningful, age‑appropriate experiences. We focus on creating safe and inclusive environments where youth can build confidence, strengthen relationships, and develop life skills. These activities allow families to connect with one another while participating in programs that support growth, teamwork, and community involvement.
Educational & Awareness Events
We organize educational and awareness events to provide our community with information, tools, and resources related to wellness, personal development, and mental health awareness. These events may include workshops, guest speakers, or informational sessions that help participants gain knowledge they can apply in their everyday lives. Our goal is to empower individuals through education and open conversation
Seasonal & Special Events
Throughout the year, we host seasonal and special events that celebrate community, milestones, and meaningful moments. These events may align with holidays, community celebrations, or organizational initiatives. Seasonal events offer an opportunity for our community to come together in a fun and engaging way while reinforcing our mission and values. Event updates and details are shared primarily through our Facebook page.
Event Schedule
We share all of our upcoming events and activities through our Google Calendar. Scan the QR code to view event dates, times, and locations, and to stay up to date with what’s happening at Blazing Stars CISMAs.
The sign-up form and waiver are linked to events in the calendar. *Please note: Event details are subject to change due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. Any updates, cancellations, or changes will be reflected in our Google Calendar and shared on our Facebook page when possible.
Awards & Acheivements
Resources
Invasive Plant & Native Plant Identification
Contact Us:
Jennifer Whiteside President of Program Email: jennifer.whiteside@in.nacdnet.net
Will Yoder Social Media Representative Email: will-yoder@iaswcd.org
Representative Phone: (812) 378-1280
Address: 785 S Marr Road | Columbus, IN 47201 Blazing Stars
- Website: https://www.bartholomewinvasives.com/
- United Way: https://www.uwbarthco.org/
- Bartholomew Soil and Water: https://www.bartholomewswcd.org/
Credits:
Created with images by lovelyday12 - "hand children holding young plant with sunlight on green nature background.,concept eco earth day" • Katsiaryna - "Relationship with teamwork.,group of clinicians.,To work together.,Friendship Office."