In this episode of the Inspiring Good Podcast, hosts Marshall King and Kevin Deary engage in an insightful conversation with Chris Kingsley, the President and CEO of ADEC Inc., an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The discussion navigates through Chris's leadership journey, the mission and evolution of ADEC, and the impactful ways in which the organization serves its community in Northern Indiana.

Key Discussion Points

• Chris Kingsley's Background: Chris shares his transition from La Casa, Inc. to ADEC, noting his deep-rooted connection with the organization through his father's long career at ADEC.
• The Egg Challenge: A humorous anecdote Chris shares about a fundraiser event involving eggs, highlighting the importance of fun in organizational culture.
• ADEC's Mission and Services: Chris explains ADEC's mission to support individuals with disabilities and details programs involving residential services, employment opportunities, and day programs.
• Leadership Insights: Chris discusses his leadership style, emphasizing the importance of relationships, humility, and effective communication.
• Community Engagement and Challenges: The conversation addresses the broad spectrum of individuals ADEC serves, funding challenges, and the importance of securing local support and grants.
• Optimism for the Future: Reflections on the future landscape of disability services, focusing on technology's role in enhancing independence and societal integration.
• Personal Reflections and Hope: Chris shares lessons he's learned from the clients ADEC serves and expresses what gives him hope for the future, both personally and professionally.

Guest Bio

Chris Kingsley is the President and CEO of ADEC Inc., where he has been leading since early 2023. Chris has a storied history with ADEC; his father dedicated his career to the organization, fostering Chris's connection from a young age. Before joining ADEC, Chris spent 12 years at La Casa, Inc. His leadership style is characterized by a focus on building relationships and fostering a culture of humility and learning within his team.

Memorable Quotes

• "I always tell people in organizations that I lead that I believe in fun, but I'm not the most fun person in the world." - Chris Kingsley
• "Learn to love that place before you try and change that place." - Chris Kingsley
• "There's a lot of good in our community and that gives me hope." - Chris Kingsley

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This show is a production of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County. It is powered by equipment from Sweetwater and recorded in The Riverbend building in Elkhart's River District. Editing is done by the award-winning communication students at Goshen College, home of one of the best college radio stations in the nation. Listen to Globe Radio at 91.1 FM. Learn more about the Community Foundation of Elkhart County at inspiringgood.org You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Music is provided by Sensational Sounds. Thanks for listening. We hope you are inspired and inspire good and your community.