Grow Clinton Podcast

06/19/2026

High-quality childcare is one of the most important, and often overlooked, drivers of economic development in any community.

In Episode 244 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we sit down with Lee and Hannah of the Goose Lake Learning Center to talk about how their work is making a meaningful impact in Goose Lake and across the Greater Clinton Region.

The Goose Lake Learning Center is more than a childcare provider. It is a critical community asset that supports working families, strengthens workforce participation, and helps ensure that local employers can attract and retain talent. By offering dependable, high-quality care, Lee and Hannah are helping remove one of the biggest barriers facing today’s workforce.

During the conversation, Lee and Hannah share their journey, the challenges and rewards of operating a childcare center, and their vision for continued growth. Their passion for early childhood development and commitment to creating a safe, engaging environment for children is evident throughout the episode.

Access to childcare is a key piece of the economic development puzzle. When families have reliable options, businesses benefit, communities grow, and young people get the strong start they deserve. The Goose Lake Learning Center plays a vital role in making that happen in our region.

Grow Clinton is proud to partner with and support organizations like the Goose Lake Learning Center that are investing directly in our community’s future. Their continued commitment to quality childcare helps strengthen the foundation of our regional economy.

To learn more about the Goose Lake Learning Center or to inquire about childcare availability, contact them directly at 563-577-2499.

Do you have an idea for a certain topic or special guest to feature on the Grow Clinton Podcast? Email [email protected].

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06/15/2026

In episode 242 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we’re proud to spotlight an organization that embodies the very best of community, inclusion, and long-term impact in the Greater Clinton Region: The Arch.

We sit down with Lynne Hilgendorf and Devin Land to explore the mission, growth, and future of The Arch, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) through intentional community living and meaningful relationships.

Building Community Through Inclusion

The Arch is part of the international L’Arche network, founded on the belief that people with and without disabilities can live, work, and grow together in shared community. In Clinton, that mission comes to life through residential homes, day programs, and opportunities for individuals with I/DD to build independence, purpose, and connection.

What makes The Arch unique is its emphasis on mutual relationships. It is not simply a service provider; it is a community where everyone contributes, belongs, and is valued. This model has created a deeply rooted culture of inclusion that continues to shape lives across the region.

Growth and Expansion in Clinton

Over the years, The Arch has steadily expanded its presence and impact in Clinton. From its early beginnings to its current programming, the organization has grown to meet increasing needs while staying grounded in its core mission.

Lynne and Devin share how The Arch has evolved, expanding services, strengthening partnerships, and increasing awareness of the importance of inclusive living environments. Their work reflects a broader trend in community development: recognizing that quality of life and accessibility are essential components of a thriving region.

Investing in the Future: A New Accessible Home

A key focus of this episode is The Arch’s capital campaign to construct a modern, fully accessible home for community members with I/DD. This project represents a major step forward in ensuring that residents have safe, comfortable, and adaptable living spaces that meet today’s standards and tomorrow’s needs.

The new home is more than a building; it is an investment in dignity, independence, and long-term sustainability. It also highlights how infrastructure projects in the human services sector contribute to broader economic and community development goals, from job creation to improved quality of life.

A Valued Community Partner

The Arch has long been a strong supporter of community and economic development efforts throughout the Greater Clinton Region. Their commitment to collaboration, advocacy, and inclusive growth aligns closely with the mission of Grow Clinton and many of our regional partners.

We are grateful for their continued leadership and the role they play in making Clinton a more welcoming and equitable place for all.

For more information, visit The Arch online athttps://larcheclinton.org/.

Do you have an idea for a certain topic or special guest to feature on the Grow Clinton Podcast? Email [email protected].

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06/11/2026

Grow Clinton is proud to highlight the people and businesses driving our local economy forward, and Episode 241 of the Grow Clinton Podcast does exactly that.

In this episode, we sit down with Darrick Bickford, owner of Bickford’s Hometown Store in Clinton, Iowa, to talk about small business ownership, community investment, and what makes a hometown hardware and supply store so essential.

Located in Clinton, Iowa, Bickford’s Hometown Store has become a trusted destination for residents and contractors alike. Under Darrick Bickford’s leadership, the store offers a wide-ranging inventory designed to meet the everyday needs of homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals.

Customers can find a comprehensive selection of hardware, tools, home improvement supplies, lawn and garden products, and seasonal items. In addition to its product selection, Bickford’s Hometown Store emphasizes competitive pricing and regular sales that help customers get the most value for their money.

Customers can learn more about current inventory, promotions, and store hours by visiting https://www.bickfordshometownstore.com/index.html.

Do you have an idea for a certain topic or special guest to feature on the Grow Clinton Podcast? Email [email protected].

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06/10/2026

At Grow Clinton, we are proud to celebrate the people and organizations that help shape our region’s success. Episode 240 of the Grow Clinton Podcast does exactly that, featuring a special conversation with Ryan Birney, President of Clinton Engineering Company (CEC), as they mark an incredible milestone—100 years in business!

For a century, Clinton Engineering Company has played a vital role in building and strengthening communities across the region. From infrastructure design to innovative engineering solutions, CEC has consistently delivered the expertise and reliability that projects and communities depend on. Reaching 100 years in operation is no small feat, and it speaks volumes about the company’s leadership, adaptability, and commitment to excellence.

For more information, visit CEC online at https://clinton-engineering.com.

In this episode, Ryan Birney shares insight into CEC’s rich history, how the company has evolved over the decades, and what continues to drive their success today. The conversation also explores the future of the construction industry, workforce development, and the role firms like CEC play in supporting sustainable community and economic growth.

As an organization focused on advancing economic development, Grow Clinton is especially grateful for partners like Clinton Engineering Company. Their ongoing support of our mission and their direct contributions to community development projects make a meaningful and lasting impact.

Do you have a show topic or special guest you'd like to request? Please email [email protected].

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05/28/2026

Episode 237 of the Grow Clinton Podcast shines a spotlight on Cancer Support Community Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club and the vital, no-cost support they provide to people impacted by cancer in our region.

Who Cancer Support Community Iowa & NW Illinois Serves

Cancer Support Community Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club provides free emotional, social, and educational support to anyone impacted by cancer, including patients, survivors, family members, caregivers, and those who have lost a loved one. Their mission is to uplift and strengthen people impacted by cancer by fostering compassionate community and breaking down barriers to care.

All programs are offered at no cost, ensuring that financial challenges never stand between a family and the support they need. Each year, the organization serves hundreds of individuals across Iowa and Northwest Illinois, including rural communities where access to psychosocial support can be limited.

Programs and Services Highlighted in the Episode

Cancer Support Community Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club offers a robust menu of programming designed to address the physical, psychological, and emotional challenges of cancer. Key services include:

- Support groups for adults, children, teens, caregivers, and those who are bereaved.
- Educational workshops that help participants understand treatment options, side effects, survivorship, and caregiving resources.
- Healthy lifestyle activities such as yoga, art, and other wellness programs that promote coping skills and resilience.
- Social events that build community and reduce isolation throughout every stage of the cancer journey.
- Resources and referrals connecting participants with clinical, financial, and community-based support.

Research shows that access to these types of support services is linked to shorter, fewer hospital stays, reduced prescription dependence, reduced work absenteeism, and lower insurance claims, underscoring the real-world impact of their work on families and the broader economy.
Locations, Reach, and Contact Information

Cancer Support Community Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club is based in Davenport and extends support across the region, including into the Clinton area. Many programs are available in person and virtually, making it easier for individuals throughout Iowa and Northwest Illinois to participate.

Their team also coordinates monthly cancer support groups and outreach in communities like Clinton through local partners, including churches, hospitals, and community centers.

General Contact Information
https://www.csciowaillinois.org
(563) 326-7504
[email protected] or [email protected]
1351 W Central Park Ave, Suite 200, Davenport, IA 52804

How to Donate

Because every program is offered at no cost to participants, financial contributions from individuals, businesses, and community partners are critical to sustaining this work. Donors help ensure that support groups, workshops, and outreach in communities like Clinton remain accessible to anyone who needs them, regardless of their ability to pay.

Ways to give include:

- Make an online gift through their website’s donation portal at
csciowaillinois.org
- Sponsor programs or events as a business or organization, aligning your brand with a mission-driven regional partner.
- Include Cancer Support Community Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club in memorials or planned giving to honor loved ones impacted by cancer.

How to Volunteer

Volunteers play a meaningful role in extending the organization’s reach and deepening the sense of community that defines Gilda’s Club. While specific opportunities vary over time, common volunteer roles include:

- Event support for fundraisers, awareness activities, and community outreach.
- Hospitality and front-desk support to help welcome participants and create a warm, inclusive environment.
- Skilled volunteering, such as leading healthy lifestyle programs, creative arts activities, or educational sessions, when appropriate and needed.

Their long-standing presence in the Quad Cities and outreach into communities like Clinton exemplify the kind of collaborative, people-focused work that drives resilient regional growth.

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05/27/2026

Episode 236 of the Grow Clinton Podcast shines a spotlight on one of Clinton’s most beloved community assets, the Clinton LumberKings.

In this episode, we sit down with Nate Vander Bleek to discuss the team's enduring impact, both on and off the field, and why baseball continues to play such an important role in our region.

Want more information? Visit https://www.LumberKings.com.

For generations, the Clinton LumberKings have been more than just a baseball team; they are a cornerstone of community identity. The ballpark serves as a gathering place where families, friends, and visitors come together to share experiences that define what it means to live in Clinton.

The LumberKings are also a key driver of local economic activity. Home games bring visitors into the community, supporting nearby restaurants, retail shops, and service providers. From gameday spending to extended stays, the team contributes to a steady flow of economic energy that benefits Clinton’s small businesses and reinforces downtown vitality

In a time when entertainment costs continue to rise, the LumberKings provide an accessible and affordable option for families. A night at the ballpark offers high-quality entertainment without the high price tag!

The LumberKings are also a launching pad for aspiring athletes. The team provides young players with the opportunity to develop their skills, pursue their dreams, and potentially advance to higher levels of the sport. For fans, it is a unique chance to watch future stars in an intimate and engaging setting.

Clinton stands out as a place where baseball truly matters. The passion of the fans, the history of the franchise, and the strong local support create an atmosphere that is both welcoming and electric. It is this combination that makes Clinton a special baseball town.

Grow Clinton extends its sincere appreciation to the Clinton LumberKings organization for their ongoing commitment to community and economic development. Their investment in Clinton goes far beyond the field, helping to create opportunities, support local businesses, and enhance the quality of life across the region.

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04/13/2026

Introducing the Grow Clinton Podcast as a newly minted AWARD WINNING PODCAST! Thank you to The Salvation Army 360 Life Center of Clinton, Iowa, for the recognition. Very cool!

Honored and grateful! Thank you to the Salvation Army 360 Life Center for recognizing the Grow Clinton Podcast with the Media Partner Award! We’re proud to support your mission and share the impactful stories that strengthen our community.