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Meet the 98.7 WNNS Circle of Friends – your connection to the heartbeat of the Springfield area!
The Circle of Friends is your best variety for inside scoops, volunteer engagement, and issues that matter most to our vibrant community.
Join the conversation and let’s celebrate the best of Springfield, together!
Meet Our Latest Friend
The Morning Routine with Rocki & Lacey lit up with a visit from Ethan Mathis‑Posey, Director of Community Relations for the City of Springfield. The conversation spotlighted powerful local initiatives making a real impact, including the Minority Business Institute, the BUILD Springfield program, and an upcoming community resource fair and Touch‑A‑Truck event at Bunn Field on East Division. The discussion also highlighted the vital work being done through the City’s Community Relations office—from landlord‑tenant support to homelessness outreach and continuum of care efforts.
- Dispute Resolution: Assisting residents with neighbor disputes and landlord-tenant issues to maintain peaceful community relations.
- Employment Discrimination Assistance: Investigating complaints related to employment discrimination to ensure fair treatment in the workplace.
- Fair Housing Advocacy: Addressing issues related to housing discrimination and promoting equal housing opportunities for all residents.
- Community Outreach Initiatives: Engaging in programs such as Neighborhood Watch to enhance community safety and cohesion.
- Resource Provision: Offering publications and resources on topics like disability-related services and consumer protection to educate and empower residents.
- Support for the Homeless: Providing information on housing support and meal services for homeless individuals to improve their quality of life.
- ADA Compliance: Ensuring accessibility through ADA transition plans, interpreter lists, and grievance procedures to support individuals with disabilities.
Ethan shared his inspiring journey from working as a mental health professional in Baton Rouge to putting down roots in Springfield, where he served as a FACE liaison for District 186 before joining Mayor Misty Buscher’s team. His passion for people and community has shaped his work every step of the way.
Just launching now, the Minority Business Institute’s nine‑week program is empowering minority entrepreneurs with hands‑on tools, education, and connections—partnering with Public Works, OPED, Innovate Springfield, the Urban League, and UIS to help turn business dreams into reality.
BUILD Springfield takes a bold, holistic approach to neighborhood revitalization, using innovative strategies to improve quality of life in areas that need it most. It’s a proactive vision from Mayor Buscher and the City of Springfield—bringing residents, organizations, and local government together to build stronger neighborhoods and a brighter future for the city.
You can find out all of the programs Ethan helps with here!
Previous Circle of Friends Interviews
