Our story

It began out of frustration and determination.

A holiday program for local kids lost its funding. Someone needed to step up, and that decision turned into something bigger.

It’s the Little Things of Howard County really began out of a combination of frustration and determination to make a difference.

Cops 4 Kidz, a long-standing program serving local children during the holidays, lost its previous source of funding. At that point, there were two choices: either someone needed to step up, take charge, and find a different way to keep the program going, or we were going to risk losing it entirely.

I chose to do something.

That challenge became the motivation behind creating It’s the Little Things of Howard County. Initially, one of the biggest goals was making sure Cops 4 Kidz could continue, but I also saw an opportunity to build something that could do more: an organization that could respond to other needs affecting children and families right here in Howard County.

The way we were helping may have changed, but the purpose behind it did not: make a difference in our own community.

What the name means

“Sometimes the little things really do make the biggest difference.”

Making a difference doesn’t always require one enormous gesture. Sometimes it’s a meal, a Christmas gift for a child, help for a family going through a difficult time, or simply having people willing to step up when there is a need.

Today, Cops 4 Kidz remains a very important part of what we do, but it is not our sole purpose. We also support families facing challenges, youth initiatives, and other community needs as they arise.

JoAnna Rodriguez, founder

Who we are

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Kokomo, Indiana.

Our mission is simple: to support children and families in need right here in Howard County.

Families in our community face real challenges, from financial stress to lack of resources. It’s the Little Things exists to make sure no child is overlooked and no family feels alone.

Our guiding principleEvery dollar raised stays local.

Formerly Shop with a Cop

Cops 4 Kidz

Bringing holiday joy to local children.

About Cops 4 Kidz

Year-round

Family Support Programs

Filling critical gaps for families facing challenges.

Year-round

Youth Initiatives

Building connections and resources that empower kids year-round.

Leadership

Board of Directors

    Be part of it

    Together, we can make a BIG difference through the little things.