Meet Melody
Melody Barber-Hence has spent her life doing the work most people only talk about.
She began her Indiana public service working alongside Congresswoman Julia Carson, helping constituents cut through red tape and get real answers from government. That experience taught her what leadership looks like when people are counting on you.
With the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s Making Connections Indianapolis, Melody helped bring real investment into neighborhoods—building programs with families, not around them, and strengthening communities that had been ignored for too long.
At The Hartford Insurance Group, she’s spent years helping people through crisis—when homes are damaged, livelihoods are disrupted, and families need someone steady in their corner.
Most recently she served at Center Township Trustee’s Office, where she helped launch new programs, strengthen homelessness services, and address communication gaps so residents knew where to turn for help. She’s seen firsthand how a Trustee’s office can change lives.
A resident of Pike Township for over 30 years, Melody is married to Ricky Hence and has one daughter Olivia who is a senior at Indiana University.
A Community-First Leader
Melody understands that Pike Township is diverse, growing, and full of
hardworking families. She believes:
● Township assistance should be fair, timely, and compassionate
● Public safety services must remain strong and well-supported
● Government should communicate clearly and openly with residents.
Her leadership approach is simple: listen first, act decisively, and report
back transparently.
Why She's Running
Melody is running because she believes Pike Township deserves leadership that shows up — leadership that listens, responds, and serves with care.
She is committed to building a Trustee’s Office that is accessible, efficient, and grounded in professionalism and respect. From modernizing assistance services to strengthening communication with residents, Melody believes every interaction should reflect dignity and fairness.
As Trustee, she will faithfully oversee the responsibilities entrusted to the office — including support services for families, the township’s Fire Department, and burial assistance provided during times of hardship and loss — ensuring they are carried out with compassion and excellence.
Melody believes local leadership shapes everyday life. She is ready to lead with steady hands, an open heart, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Pike Township.
Because when life happens, you should have someone you can lean on.
Join Team Melody
Pike Township deserves leadership that listens and delivers results.
This election will be won neighbor to neighbor. Your time, your voice, and your energy matter.
How You Can Help
● 📞 Make phone calls
● 🚪 Knock doors in your neighborhood
● 📲 Share campaign updates online
● 🎉 Help at community events
● 🏡 Host a small meet & greet
Even 1–2 hours makes a difference.