To enhance the quality of life for all citizens of Owen
now and for generations to
To be the trustworthy resource for philanthropy by building permanent endowment, addressing needs through grantmaking, and providing leadership resources to serve our community.
In 2024, the Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) celebrated 30 years of unwavering commitment, dynamic leadership, and transformative impact for good. Since our founding in 1994, OCCF has been powered by passion, vision, innovation, and, above all, a deep and lasting dedication to the Owen County community.
For over thirty years, OCCF has been a powerful catalyst for individual, family, and corporate philanthropy, transforming our community’s collective goodwill into meaningful, lasting change.
As we reflect on the highlights of our 30 years, none stands out more thank the extraordinary impact we have made with the donors who have chosen us as their philanthropic partner. With over $12.6 million in cumulative granting, we have touched countless lives and helped shape a brighter future in Owen County and beyond.
In the following pages, you’ll find highlights and achievements from 2024, financial results over our 30 years, insights into emerging initiatives, and significant moments in our journey. We hope these stories inspire you as much as they have inspired us.
The centerpiece of our anniversary celebration is the collective spirit of generosity that defines the Owen County community. It is our greatest joy and honor to serve as Owen County’s community foundation, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you for the next 30 years and beyond.
With gratitude and anticipation,
Janet Rummel President & CEO
The
of
The Owen County Community Foundation has worked to serve you - individuals, families, businesses, and organizations - by helping you achieve your philanthropic goals and amplify your impact in our Owen County communities. It is thanks to your willingness to improve the qualify of life in our communities that we’ve spent the past three decades working together to grow the Foundation.
Since our formation, we have proudly assisted thousands of donors ranging from individuals to multi-generational families and small businesses to large corporations. No matter when, how, or why you choose to give, know that your gift continues to make a difference in the lives of Owen County residents. Thank you for making the most of your charitable giving by selecting the Owen County Community Foundation to serve as your partner in philanthropy. We look forward to working with you over the next three decades and beyond!
In February 2024, OCCF marked its 30th Anniversary with a $1 for $1 Match Campaign, raising over $198,000 in endowed donations to strengthen designated endowment funds for local nonprofits. Thirteen organizations established new endowments, creating sustainable, long-term revenue sources to support their missions. Combined with the OCCF match—60% endowed and 40% spendable—these funds grew even further, allowing nonprofits to address immediate needs while investing in their future. New funds included the Boys & Girls Club of Owen County Fund, Spencer Main Street Fund, Freedom Community Center Fund, and YMCA Legacy Fund, among others.
For many participants, the campaign was transformational. Connie Murphy of the Freedom Community Center shared how the funds helped install a much-needed HVAC system, ensuring warmth during a harsh winter. Elisabeth Solchik of Spencer Pride, Inc. highlighted how growing their endowment enabled both future sustainability and critical rehabilitation of their community center.
“This strengthens our organization, keeping us sustainable and giving us longevity.” - Julie Coffin, President of Spencer Main Street, Inc.
The success of the campaign is a testament to the power of collaboration between OCCF, local nonprofits, and the community. These new endowments will provide lasting support for nonprofits across Owen County, ensuring they can continue their vital work for generations to come.
$1,176,829 Total Revenues $5,910,398 $3,346,450
The Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) is a 501(c)(3) public charity (Tax ID #35-1934464). Note: The 2023 information is an excerpt of audited financial statements prepared by Blue & Co., LLC. The 2024 information is currently under audit and is subject to change. Complete financial statements are available for inspection in our office at 60 E. Market St., Spencer, IN. OCCF also files an IRS Form 990 each year. A copy of our Form 990 is available on our website or by contacting the OCCF office or visiting guidestar.org.
Our goal is to invest assets for growth while protecting charitable capital for the greatest impact over time.
A balanced, diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and alternative investments ensures that philanthropic capital is maximized through all market cycles.
OCCF diligently stewards the charitable assets entrusted to our care through a robust investment process guided by our experienced Finance Committee and independent investment advisor Capital Cities LLC.
OCCF manages investments to maximize earnings over time while minimizing downstide risk. A diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and alternative investments managed with astute and proactive attention, protects the long-term value of the charitable assets in our care.
As a result of OCCF’s diligent investment management, the funds under our care increase through investment earnings over time, amplifying the ability of our donors to support the causes they care about most. Over 30 years, a staggering $9.6 million has been added to the assets under our stewardship through investment returns. That’s what we call growing the good!
$9.6 Million IN CUMULATIVE INVESTMENT EARNINGS
The Owen County Community Foundation’s pool of unrestricted and field of interest funds is the engine that drives our competitive grant processes. These grants assist Owen County nonprofit organizations in improving the lives of Owen County citizens. We are pleased to recognize the following funds, each of which have assets of over $100,000 and have a combined value of more than $2,950,000. Total grants from these funds are listed under each.
Bob Babbs Community Fund
$15,554
DeCoursey Family Fund
$21,908
D M J Community Fund
$23,657
Hackworthy Family Community Fund
$53,710
Ella Ingram & Jim Luzar Fund (Est. in 2024)
$0
Morgan L. Drescher Family Fund
$39,915.39
Nancy McKay and Richard Wayne Lorenz Family Fund
$24,675.92
OCCF Community Fund
$1,276,712
Paul & Ione Fulk Community Fund
$99,814
Wells Family Fund
$70,369
$488,699
Our Competitive Grants Process is Made Possible Thanks to The Following
Bob Babbs Community Fund
D M J Community Fund
DeCoursey Family Fund
Ella Ingram & Jim Luzar Fund
Eugene S. Bowen and Robert D. Bowen Fund for Owen County
Friedel – Mahrdt Community Fund
Glenn T. Burns Fund
Hackworthy Family Community Fund
Harold & Lois Patterson Fund
Harry C. & D. Gladys Miller Fund
Jack Simmerman Community Fund
John T. Gillaspy Memorial Fund
Misty Chapman Memorial Fund
Morgan L. Drescher Family Fund
Nancy McKay and Richard Wayne Lorenz Family Fund
OCCF Community Fund
Ooley Family Fund
Paul & Ione Fulk Community Fund
Rogers – Pennington Fund
SCI REMC RoundUp Fund
Scully Family Fund
Smithville Telephone Company Community Fund
Tom & Becky Wallace –We Believe in the OC Fund
Tucker Family Fund
Wells Family Fund
“The [Foundation’s] support has been a tremendous help, providing another avenue for people to donate and connect with those we couldn’t have reached on our own. Thanks to the Foundation, the fund is also secured for the future, ensuring we have resources in place for years to come.” - Darrell Bault, Director of Mark of Discipleship Food Pantry
Barbara Spinks Memorial Fund
Boston Scientific Childcare Fund
Cancer Support Fund of Owen County
Cataract – Jennings Township Fund
Child Abuse Prevention Fund
Coal City – Jefferson Township Fund
Community Medical Fund
Doug Dalton Memorial Fund
Fire & Emergency Fund
Freedom – Franklin Township Community Fund
Freeman Charitable Food Fund
Gosport Fund
John King Fund for Owen County
Law Enforcement Fund of Owen County
Mini Avocados Fund
OCCF Support Our Schools Fund
Owen County Academic Competition Support Fund
Owen County Community Mental Health Fund
Owen County Education Fund
SCI REMC Disability Fund
Smithville Charitable Foundation Fund
In 2024, the Dolly Parton Imagination Library made its debut in Owen County with the help of United Way of South Central Indiana. The Dolly Parton Imagination Library provides books for children from birth to age five, with the goal to increase kindergarten readiness in the long-term. United Way of South Central Indiana received a $5000 Community Investment Grant from the Owen County Community Foundation and paired it with fundraising that United Way of South Central Indiana established and funding by the state Dolly Parton Imagination Library to finance this project for the youth of Owen County.
The United Way of South Central Indiana is very grateful for the support of the Owen County Community Foundation, saying “We could not have started in Owen County without the initial funding from the community foundation.” The DPIL has provided books for 344 children in Owen County. The program has also celebrated 38 ‘graduates’. The Dolly Parton Imagination Library distributes books to children through mail after their parents register them online. While the program is free to use, community members and businesses can also sponsor books for the program to help cover the costs. You can register a child at www.unitedwaysci.org/dolly or donate to the Owen County DPIL Fund at bit.ly/DPILOwenCounty.
Community Grant & Field of Interest Funds: $488,699
Cancer Support Grants
Family Support
$2,000
CARE Program
Program Expenses
$617
Clay Township Owen County Fire Company, Inc
Heart & Lungs Project
$1,000
Crossroads Ranch Inc
TeamThrive
$5,000
Disaster Recovery Grants
Tree Removal & Roof Repairs
$39,715
Freedom Community Center
New HVAC System
$5,000
Friends of Lake Hollybrook
Inaugural Roadside Cleanup
$930
Friends of McCormick’s Creek State Park
2024 Eclipse Event Expenses
$321
Friends of Riverside Lawn Mower
$1,850
Garrard Chapel Food Pantry Food Purchases
$6,428
Gosport Town Park
Town Park & Restroom Project
$6,491
King Court at Gosport Town Park
$1,000
Gosport VFW Auxiliary Post 7850
Wreaths Across America Project
$1,000
Hoosier Hills Food Bank
Food Purchases
$3,403
Hoosier Trails Council, BSA
STEM Afterschool Program
$4,200
Indiana Health Centers
Food Purchases
$4,916
Indiana Immunization Coalition
Owen County Mobile Vaccine Clinic
$1,000
La Campagne Ministries
Building Improvements for Boys & Girls
Club of Owen County
$29,460
Food Purchases
$756
M & M Horse Rescue Inc
Nonprofit Startup Costs
$1,070
Mark of Discipleship Inc
Box Truck Repair
$5,465
Food Purchases
$3,403
MYPath Trail System
Trail Development
$60,349
Old Cataract Schoolhouse, Inc
Third Grade Pilot Program
$5,000
Owen County Adult Education & Life
Long Learning Center
Workforce Employment Initiative
$3,800
Owen County Chamber of Commerce & EDC
2024 Eclipse in the Sweet OC
$1,000
Owen County Fair Association
Water Line Revival
$5,000
Owen County Family YMCA
Strength Equipment Upgrades
$5,000
Owen County Farmers’ Market
Farm-to-Table Community Dinner
$1,000
Owen County Garden Club
Nonprofit Startup Costs
$307
Owen County Public Library
Read & Feed Patio & Community Garden
$5,000
Owen County S.O.U.N.D.S.
Spring Recital & Indiana Arts Festival
$1,000
Owen County Soil & Water Conservation District
Owen County SWCD Annual Meeting
$1,000
Owen News Project Inc
Printing the Owen News
$30,000
Owen Valley Choir Boosters
Grill for Fundraising Events
$1,000
Owen Valley Fire Territory
2024 Fireworks Display
$500
Purdue Extension Owen County Parents Forever Program
$374
Riverside Cemetery Association
Gare & Fence Restoration
$2,500
South Central Community Action Program (SCCAP)
Cooling Fan Program
$2,500
Spencer Main Street
Beautification of Historic Courthouse Square
$5,066
Sustainable Hanging Planters for Downtown Spencer
$1,000
Spencer Pride, Inc.
AEDs for Spencer Pride Festival & commUnity center
$5,000
Spencer-Owen Community Schools
Academic Competition Support
$1,151
Governor’s Work Ethic Program Billboard
$1,000
OVTV Studios Fiber Installation
$4,715
Teacher Mini-Grants
$6,548
Sweet Owen Firefighters, Inc.
Nonprofit Startup Costs
$1,000
T10 Sports Inc.
Nonprofit Startup Costs
$694
Tiny Town Learning Academy
Early Care & Learning Center
$150,170
Town of Spencer
Mental Health Care for First Responders
$5,000
Park Improvements
$53,500
United Way of South Central Indiana
Dolly Parton Imagination Library
$5,000
Donor-Advised, Designated, and Agency Funds: $192,680
Allison Family Fund
Boys & Girls Club of Owen County Fund
$1,700
Mark of Discipleship Fund
$500
Area 10 Agency on Aging Fund
Area 10 Agency on Aging
$1,999
Bennie J & Joan R Woodruff Methodist Church Fund
Spencer United Methodist Church
$1,849
Bonness Family Fund
OCCF Operations
$3,091
Carolina Cemetery Fund
New Union Carolina Church & Cemetery
$745
David Friedel - Ann Mahrdt Donor Advised Fund
Alzheimer’s Disease Research
$200
Franklin Township VFD
$500
Freedom Community Center Fund
$250
IU Foundation / WFIU
$100
Misty Chapman Memorial Fund
$50
National Park Foundation
$50
National Parks Conservation Association
$50
Owen County Humane Society Inc
$200
Spencer Main Street
$200
Spencer Main Street Fund
$200
Spencer Pride Fund
$400
Tivoli Theatre
$750
Tom & Becky Wallace - We Believe in the OC Fund
$100
Economic Development Fund
Owen County Chamber of Commerce & EDC
$6,594
Flona Everly Query Memorial Fund
Vandalia Community Preservation Association Inc
$1,891
Freedom Community Center Fund
Freedom Community Center
$1,678
Gosport History Museum Fund
Gosport History Museum
$4,715
Irene & Arthur Kelley Beech Cemetery Fund
Beech Cemetery Association
$932
Jack R. & Marilyn K. DeFord Library Fund
Owen County Public Library
$1,598
Jim Vance Owen County YMCA Fund
Owen County Family YMCA
$20,651
Joani & Ed Staubach Donor Advised Fund
Boys & Girls Club of Owen County Fund
$500
Community Chritmas Fund
$500
Dave Allen Memorial Fund
$200
IU Foundation / WFIU
$250
IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center
$200
Operating Fund
$300
Our Lil’ Bit of Heaven Animal Rescue & Sanctuary
$500
Owen County Humane Society Fund
$1,000
Owen County Humane Society Inc
$1,000
Owen County S.O.U.N.D.S. Fund
$500
Owen Valley Band Boosters Fund
$100
Palmer’s Pawsitively Powerful Animals of Owen County Fund
$250
Park Tudor Trust
$200
Spencer Main Street Fund
$250
Spencer Pride Fund
$500
The Owen News Fund
$400
Vandalia Community Preservation Association Inc
$100
Wabash Valley Community Foundation
$250
WTIU / IU Foundation
$250
YMCA Legacy Fund
$600
John Heckman Athletic Fund
Owen Valley High School
$1,672
John R. & Elizabeth Rogers Fund
MYPath Fund
$2,006
Lloyd H & Rosalie E Lucas 4-H & FFA Fund
Owen County 4-H Council
$448
Owen Valley FFA
$448
Mark of Discipleship Fund
Mark of Discipleship Inc
$4,750
McCormick’s Creek State Park Fund
McCormick’s Creek State Park
$22,568
O’Connor Family Fund
Aperion Care Summerfield
$1,250
Owen County 4-H Council Fund
Owen County 4-H Council
$3,259
Owen County CASA Office Endowment Fund
Owen County CASA
$336
Owen County Humane Society Fund
Owen County Humane Society Inc
$12,962
Owen County S.O.U.N.D.S. Fund
Owen County S.O.U.N.D.S.
$1,457
Owen County Youth Livestock Project Fund
Owen County Fair Association
$530
Owen Valley Jr ROTC Fund
Owen Valley Jr. Air Force ROTC
$1,415
REALTOR Fund
Crisis Pregnancy Center New Beginnings Inc.
$500
Owen Valley High School
$500
Riverside Cemetery Fund
Riverside Cemetery Association
$3,663
Senior Friends of Owen County Fund
Senior Friends of Owen County
$244
Spencer Main Street Fund
Spencer Main Street
$6,009
Spencer Pride Fund
Spencer Pride, Inc.
$13,041
St. Jude Catholic Church Fund
St. Jude Catholic Church
$888
The Owen News Endowment Fund
Owen News Project Inc
$1,250
Tivoli Theater Endowment
Tivoli Theatre
$1,721
Visionary Fund
OCCF Operations
$52,370
Willie & Pat White Fund
Owen County Family YMCA
$500
In 2024, the Owen County Community Foundation introduced a new grant program that empowers each member of the OCCF Board of Directors to select a nonprofit organization of their choice to receive a $1,000 grant.
Transportation for Needy
Nominated by Ashley Fleetwood
$1,000
Disaster Recovery Grants
Tree Removal & Roof Repair
Nominated by Danielle Conner
$792
Friends of the Library in Owen County
The Library of Things
Nominated by Michelle DeFord
$1,000
M & M Horse Rescue Inc
Rescue Maintenance & Horse Care
Nominated by Tamra Ranard
$1,000
Mark of Discipleship Inc
Food Pantry Purchases
Nominated by Tom Wallace
$1,000
McCormick’s Creek Elementary School
Special Education Classrooms
Nominated by Amber Mullin
$1,000
OCCF’s Bright Eyes Initiative
Free Vision Testing & Glasses for S-OCS Students
Nominated by Ronda Stogsdill & Mike Sudol
$2,000
Owen County Mental Health Fund Endowment Support
Nominated by Jessica Brinson
$1,000
Owen County S.O.U.N.D.S. Program Support
Nominated by Ed Staubach
$1,000
Owen News Project Inc
Printing the Owen News
Nominated by Kaye Erney
$1,000
Servants at Work
Two Wheelchair Ramp Installations for Disabled Owen County Residents
Nominated by Danielle Conner & Grant Minnemeyer
$1,208
Sweet Owen Industries Arc
Program Support
Nominated by Carol Tucker
$1,000
United Way of South Central Indiana
Dolly Parton Imagination Library of Owen County
Nominated by Susan Elkins
$1,000
The Owen News’ Executive Editor, Nicole DeCriscio, describes the impact of the OCCF’s support, saying the “OCCF’s support and mentorship has been crucial as a fledgling nonprofit. In the nonprofit journalism world, this level of support from a rural community foundation is unheard of.”
The Owen News made history in 2024 by being the first local non-profit newspaper in the state of Indiana. Established in the Fall 2022 to provide unbiased local news to residents of Owen County, they successfully printed and distributed the first monthly issue in April 2024. The OCCF has supported the Owen News Project since the beginning, with a $10,000 planning grant in 2022 followed by both a $30,000 grant to begin printing and a pledge of $300,000 over three years to fund two full-time staff members.
Thanks to the help of the OCCF and their own fundraising efforts, the Owen News have established a mailing list to provide a newspaper right to your door in exchange for a small monthly donation. Along with a mailing list, The Owen News has partnered with several local businesses to have pickup locations all over the county, as well as having an e-edition on their website at www.theowennews.org.
The Owen County Community Foundation is dedicated to making Owen County a better place to live, and the Owen News is one of the many programs that has an undeniable positive impact on our community. To donate online, visit bit.ly/owennews2024. You can also mail a check to the OCCF with “The Owen News” in the memo.
The OCCF has grants ranging from $300 - $30,000 available to 501©3 organizations that serve Owen County.
Grant Type: Awards up to:
To learn more about the different types of grants that the OCCF offers, or to apply, please visit the Nonprofits page on our website owencountycf.org/nonprofits.
Total Awarded = $137,200
Babbs Supermarket Scholarship
Taylor York
Babbs Supermarket ScholarshipIn Memory of Charlie Hamilton
Kaden Hamilton
Bennie J. & Joan R. Woodruff Scholarship
Sierra Kelley
Burns Family Scholarship
Holly Comte
Charles T. Cooper Scholarship
Jaylan Kay
Charles W. Edwards Scholarship
Jenna Harris
Clinton & Louise Abrell Scholarship
Kaitlyn Cooper
Coyne Family Scholarship
Catherine Simpson
David Campbell Gray Scholarship
Michael Hensley
Dick (Mr. Dyar) & Sue Dyar Scholarship
Norah Beeman
Emily Bray
Kaitlyn Cooper
Julianna Hartman
Reagan Martin
Cloe Sharpee
Elliott Hickam Scholarship
Lilyanna Smith
Freedom Alumni Scholarship
Kaden Hamilton
Gary McCarter Scholarship
Tyler Gatliff
George & Nancy Thurston Artistic Scholarship
Ava Wheeler
Geraldine & Wilma Bucklew
Educational Scholarship
Breanna Davis
Gosport Alumni Scholarship
Katelyn Shelley
Gosport Lions Club Scholarship
Abigail McDonald
Ione W. Fulk Scholarship
Kayla Kyle
James P. Root Scholarship
Hannah Pendleton
Jefferson Township / Coal City Alumni Scholarship
Skylar Giffel
Jeffrey Wayne Johnson Scholarship
Kayla Kyle
Jim & Wilma Fulford Scholarship
Kinleigh Salyers
Jim, Leota, & Kevin Fulk
Scholarship
Michael Hensley
Josephine Brown Owens Scholarship
Skylar Giffel
Judy Hamilton Education
Scholarship
Cloe Sharpee
Lloyd H. & Rosalie E. Lucas
Agri-Science Scholarship - FFA
Trinity Calvin
Katelyn Shelley
Loretta Heidrick Memorial Scholarship
Madison Kay
Lyle & Marion Brighton Scholarship
Ava Wheeler
MacMorran Family Scholarship
Lucas Hendershot
Mason Elkins
Margaret Marley Pinkston Scholarship
Grace Pendleton
Mearl & LaVerne Brown Scholarship
Tryniti Deckard
Melvin R. & Margaret A. Hall Nursing Scholarship
Holly Comte
Michael D. Magner
Scholarship
Alexa Stine-Walker
Michael Job Vocational Scholarship
Veronica Clark
Mildred E. Harbison Scholarship
Skylar Giffel
Monroe, Long, & Butts Vocational Scholarship
Jaidyn Hays
Morgan L. Drescher Family Scholarship
Savannah Hubble
Our Community Bank Scholarship
Chloe Meek
Our Community Farm Bureau Scholarship
Kailee Cooper
Lucas Hendershot
Cynthia Slough
Victoria Worland
Owen County IU Varsity Club Scholarship
Jaylan Kay
Owen Valley FFA Scholarship
Nova Mobley
Patricksburg Alumni Scholarship
Skylar Giffel
PFC Brett Wood Memorial Scholarship
Taylor Monroe
Quincy Alumni Scholarship
Layton Allen
Kaden Hamilton
R ebecca and William Applegate Scholarship
Michael Hensley
Robert & Barbara Stanley Bonness Scholarship
Kailee Cooper
Mason Elkins
Lucas Hendershot
Victoria Worland
Roma Wilson Scholarship
Marissa Taylor
Ronald E. & Carol L. Patterson
Dillingham Scholarship
Taylor Bernard
Trinity Calvin
Sons of American Legion
Joe Carmichael & Gary Boruff Memorial Scholarship
Jaidyn Hays
Jaylan Kay
Spencer Alumni Scholarship
Jaylan Kay
Tri Kappa Cochrane-Royer Scholarship
Taylor Monroe
Tri Kappa Continuing Education Scholarship
Lucy Elkins
Tri Kappa Lillian Dyar Music Scholarship
Skylar Giffel
Tri Kappa Vocational ScholarshipIn Memory of Cindy Hackworthy, Peggy Hines, & June Thompson
Michael Hensley
Tristan Calvin Memorial Scholarship
Caden Gonser
Vada Baker Scholarship
No Scholarship Awarded
West & Parrish & Pedigo Scholarship
Tryniti Deckard
William Truax Family Scholarship
Alexis Stine-Walker
Woody & Barry Franklin Scholarship
Jack Bandy
Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program
First offered in 1998 by Lilly Endowment Inc., the purpose of the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program is to help raise the level of educational attainment in Indiana and to further leverage the ability of Indiana’s community foundations to enhance the quality of life for the state’s residents.
2024 Recipient for Owen County Noah Bridges
Full Tuition at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology + $900 annual stipend
2024 OCCF Scholarship Stats
• 94 Applications
• 44 Recipients
• 76 Scholarships Awarded
• 1 in 2 applicants received at least one scholarship
The MYPath Riverfront Trail was established with a lawnmower. Many people enjoyed walking through the grass and weeds along the White River. To mow the trail on the other side of Elliston Creek, we had to drive the mower down River Road until we found a safe spot to pull into the New Meadow and continue mowing the trail. To walk from one side of Elliston Creek to the other, you had to climb down a muddy bank and climb up another one.
It seems so long ago, but it was not. We received a crucial Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Next Level Trails grant in the spring of 2022. Our official groundbreaking for an upgraded trail was not until December of 2023. The official ribbon cutting was just a few months ago, September 27, 2024.
The addition of a new bridge, spanning Elliston Creek, didn’t happen until September 18. Then, All-American construction had to complete trail access to the bridge, as well as other improvements. They worked long hours to get the project completed in time for the ribbon cutting.
What was the result of all this work? According to our trail counters, the average daily use of the trail in October 2024, the first month of full completion, was 58 on the trailhead side of the creek and 48 on the other side. In October 2023, before any construction had begun, daily use was 24 on the trailhead side and 8 on the other side.
New types of users have been enjoying MYPath. The ADA-compliant trail has been used by people with wheeled walkers and wheelchairs. People pushing strollers are also a regular site. We have witnessed people teaching children to ride bicycles. Skateboarders and roller bladers have been experiencing the trail, not to mention bicyclists.
An additional grant from the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) has brought a new pavilion and picnic tables to the trail. In the near future, benches and a fire ring will be placed along the path. The OCRA grant targets loneliness by encouraging gathering activities and facilities. With the new gathering spots, we plan to see more people using the trail in 2025.
The DNR and OCRA grants have brought exciting changes to the MYPath Riverfront Trail. This project was once merely a dream of the Owen County Community Foundation. Now, it is a key amenity for the community, the first multi-use trail in Owen County. As we continue to enjoy MYPath, we know the next step is to one day continue the trail and connect with McCormick’s Creek State Park. We are proud of this accomplishment and look forward to the next one.
As the plants start to flourish this spring, we will be able to see wildflowers and other greenery that make MYPath special. But as the trees start to leaf out, we will lose something … our ability to see the bald eagles’ nest across the White River.
Bald eagles’ nests are huge. The nest across from MYPath, near the Owen County Fairgrounds, is probably average size: 5 feet across and weighing one ton. Eagles re-use their nests and continue adding to their size.
Fortunately, bald eagles continue to visit MYPath, whether we can see their nest or not. If you don’t experience one soaring overhead, look for an eagle perched high in the trees along the White River.
The Indiana DNR reintroduced bald eagles to the state from 1985 - 1989 and their population has grown to over 350 reported nesting pairs in 2020. The recovery of the bald eagle is one of the greatest conservation success stories for Indiana and the MYPath Trail System is proud to play a part in these efforts.
“I love our MYPath trail almost as much as my corgi Leo does. It’s been exciting to witness the progression from cool idea to the newly paved trail with a beautiful bridge and all the stages in between. I can’t wait to trek from the entrance of McCormick’s Creek park and down along our beautiful river back out to our incredible YMCA on the completed MYPath trail. This amazing resource will be here for our future generations to enjoy while being affordable, accessible and beautiful.” - Shawn Williams, MYPath Champion
Join this friendly group for their weekly Wednesday Walk - every Wednesday, rain or shine, at 10:00 in the morning.
Walks begin at the Owen County Soil & Water Conservation District building located at 788 Pottersville Road in Spencer.
Kyle Hannon MYPath Project Manager
mypathtrail
mypath@owencountycf.org
Race You to the River: 5K on MYPath
The inaugural MYPath 5k last October saw runners and walkers experience the new MYPath trail upgrade. Nearly 100 people registered for the event, which is considered outstanding for the first year of an event like this. Registration and sponsorships help Friends of MYPath promote and support MYPath.
Please stay tuned for registration and sponsorship opportunities for the next MYPath 5k, October 18, 2025.
Your OCCF thanks our 889 donors, and sends a special welcome to the 305 new donors who gave in 2024.
AAbrell Family Farms
Tom & Jennifer Abrell
Mike Ackerman
Anonymous Donors
Crystie Albright
Carole Alford
Rudy & Joanne Allee
The Allen Family
George Allison
American Legion Auxiliary
American Legion Post 285
Jeri Anderson
Karen Schroer Anderson
Kenneth Anderson
William & Kathy Anderson
Robert & Jamie Andree
Catina Angrick
Bill & Rebecca Applegate
Mark Armantrout
Gary & Judy Armstrong
Madi Arnett
William & Patsy Arnold
Kenny Ray & Amber Augustus
B
Babbs Supermarket
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Fred & Kathy Balash
Jonathan & Jacob Balash
Brandon Barger
Charles & Carole Barker
Dr. & Mrs. Edward Barnett
Vicki & Cem Basman
Bill Bates
William H. Bates
Jerry Baysinger
BBP Water Corporation
Joe & Jamie Beck
Lisa Beem
Debbie Blackwell
Jerry & Colleen Blair
Bloomington Board of Realtors
Karah Bobeck & Winston Fulton
Steve & Dora Bobeck
Cory & Inger Boggess
Robert & Aleta Boltinghouse
Barbara Bonness
Boston Scientific Corp.
Roger & Barbara Bowen
Sarah Bowling
Gina Boyd
Michael & Judith Boyd
The Brewer Family
Annie Bright
Craig & Margo Brighton
Ken & Maryanne Brighton
Dave & Barbara Brinson
George & Jessica Brinson
Dr. John & Carol Brown
Dean & Marcia Bruce
The Buck Family
Kris & Anna Bucklew
Byron Buker
Mike & Shirley Burke
Sandra Butts
CLana Callaway
Ann Calvin
Richard & Koreenia Calvin
Capital Cities, LLC.
Jeff & Sally Carlson
Jeff Carpenter
Penny Carpenter
The Carson Family
Cataract Volunteer Fire Department Inc.
Jean Catron
Cheri Cavilear
Susan Cernek
Chandler Funeral Homes
Duane & Elaine Cheney
Marian Chesney
Civilian Brewing Corps
Nola Clark
Andy & Beth Cline
The Cline Family
Dr. Charles & Kay Cochran
Frank & Julie Coffin
Coffman Proactive CPA Services
Committee to Elect Bob Heaton
Community Natural Gas Co., Inc.
Conner Rentals
Chris & Danielle Conner
Cook Medical
Fredrick & Laraine Cooksey
John Cooksey
Barbara Cooper
Jim & Ginny Coppedge
The Corder Family
Brad & Christina Corder
Estate of Susan Coulter
Thomas Coyne
Steve & Peggy Cradick
New Beginnings Pregnancy Resource Center
Chad & Karen Crosby
Thomas & Michelle Crowe
Matthew Crum
Paul & Dana Cummings
Curry & Associates, Inc.
Brenda Curry
Travis & Jill Curry
DBob & Dianne Dayhuff
Nancy Deal
Verl & Debbie Keith
Trent & Kyla Cox Deckard
Jim & Brenda DeCoursey
Nicole DeCriscio
Darby DeFord
Michelle DeFord
Wally & Kathy DeFord
Corey & Dee DeLong
Norma DeLong
Kristina Denning
Cassie Derck
Ron & Carol Dillingham
Vicki Dittemore
Michael & Julie Donham
Linda Downey
Doug Dreher
Drescher Auction & Real Estate
Fred & Martha Ann Drescher
Joe Drescher
Judy Drescher
Travis Drescher
Paul & Suzie Dubois
Tim & MaryAnn Dunfee
Doris Dunigan
Bonnie J. Dyar
John & Sylvia Dyar
Patty Sue Dyer
Steve & Pamela Dyer
E
Bret & Beth Eaton
Edge Materials, LLC
Edwards Excavating
Elite Electric, LLC
Susan Elkins
Ann Ellen Elmendorf
Sally & Jace Elmore
Emily & Wayne Mobley
John & Jill Emmons
Lucie Mathieu & Judi Epp
Tom & Kaye Erney
Brett & Karen Evans
F
Darla Fiedeldey
Richard & Myrna Fields
Mitchell & Ashley Fleetwood
William A. Francis
Irma Jean Franklin
Kent & Linda Franklin
LJ Frazier Lennon
Kim McCollum-Frazier and Family
Freedom Community Center
Freedom United Methodist Church
Samuel Stephen Freeman
David Friedel & Ann Mahrdt
Friends of McCormick’s Creek State Park
Fuhs Attorney at Law
John & Nancy Fuhs
Tom & Karen Fulk
G
Alissa Gardenswartz
Peggy D. Garver
Randy & Melvinda Gates
Leroy Gentry
Michael & Laura Gentry
Brian & Niki Gessler
John & Lisa Gillaspy and Family
Tom & Valarie Gillaspy
Kirk & Debbie Gillette
Kathy & Kevin Giziewski
Steve & Barbara Goddard
Ken & Margaret Goldstein
Dawn Goodman
Gosport Apartments LLC
Gosport Business Association
Gosport Community Building
Gosport Dental
Gosport Lions Club
Gosport Manufacturing Co., Inc.
Gosport VFW Post 7850
Louis Goss
Mike Goss
Tamra Grandi
Becky & Rolf Gratz
Green Dental of Owen County
Cindy & Doug Greenwell
Stanley & Nancy Griffith
Kristen A. Gronbjerg
Jeff & Robin (Harbert) Grothaus
Beth Ruble Guerrettaz
Duane & Linda Gustrowsky
H
Amber Holsapple
John Hackworthy
Jason & Kim Hale
Bobby & Mary Jo Hall
Pete Halstead
Brandi Hamilton
Patricia Hamilton
Don & Evelyn Hamilton
Sarah M. Hamilton
Bruce & Mary Hamlin
Hammond’s Florist
Todd Handy & Sarah Dubbels
Kelsey Hanlon & Justin Roddye
Kyle & Shawn Hannon
Jacqueline Harding
Angie & Ted Harmeyer
Randy & Karen Harmon
Larry Harris
Stanley & Linda Harris
Sandra Jae Harris
Harrison Homemakers Club
The Hart Family
Marilyn A. Hart
Michael Hartson
Diana Harvey
Brad Hawkins
Tina Hayden
Jim & Jane Heckman
John & Deanna Heckman
Connie & Jeffrey Helderman
Kelly Helms
David & Ann Henk
Stanley Henson
Doris A. Herring
Cindy & Roger Herrington
Scott & Heather Herrington
Dr. R.E. Hickam
Highfield’s Farrier Service
David, Peggy & Christian Hines
Ed Hines
Robin Hines and Family
Dale & Amanda Hinthorn
Mary Frances Hochstetler
Janet Hoffman
The Hohman Family
Loren & Linda Hollis
Lana Halfhill Honn
Hoosier Hills Credit Union
Gail & Jerry Horn
Edward Howard
Randy & Mary Anne Howe
Rob & Lisa Howe
Patricia Huber
Tina Huff
Betty & Jack Huffman
Evan Humphrey
Lee & Karen Huss
Hope Huston
IIndiana Hardwood Specialists
Indiana Lions Foundation
Indiana Parks Alliance
Insurance Pros - Brinson Agency
Insurance Services, Inc.
Interstate All Battery Center
J
The Jackson Family
Don & Marilyn Jackson
Jeff Huston, Financial Advisor
Shane & Connie Jennings
The Jensen Family
Michael & Kathleen Jensen
Jennifer Jessup
Estate of Joanne D. Caudill
Buck & Nan Johnson
JMarc & Brandy Johnson
Jolly Homemakers
Robert T. Jones
Les & Deb Jordan
K
Jerry & Martha Kaehr
Kappa Kappa Kappa, Inc. - Alpha Delta
Chapter
Kappa
Kappa Sigma
Kay’s Lawn Service & Irrigation
Anne Keeler
John S. Keeler
Steven & Elizabeth Keeney
Becky Long Keesling
Alesia Keller
Robert & Lisa Kelley
Kathy Kessler
Natalie Killeen
Brad & Cara King
Brad & Robin King
Dr. Michel King
Joe & Brenda King
Kevin & Julia King
Marce King
Vic & Shirley Kinney
Maureen Kipp
Heidi, Macy & Caleb Kleine-McCadden
Sherri & Bobby Knieriem
Jeff & Ginger Kohr
L
Aaron & Sarah LaGrange
Larry & Virginia LaGrange
Chris & Shawna Lake
Barbara LaMere-Heck
John & Julie LaMere
Jamie & Keith Landry
Jack & Cathy Lanham
Law Office of Richard Norman
Harriett Ann Lawson
Lois & Michael Leeberg
Nick Lenning
Lifeway Baptist Church
Jennifer Light-Holets
Heather Light
Konrad M. Lind
Westin & Cassie Linville
Sandy Hanna Liston
David Livingston
Christel Long
Janet Long
Richard & Nancy Lorenz
Estate of Lloyd Lucas
Sharon & David Lutz
Jim Luzar & Ella Ingram
Doug & Joy Lynch
M
Joyce Mackey
Terrie & Frances MacMorran
Mike Mader
Steve & Lynn Mader
Rodney L. & Terri Lynn Madison
William Maegerlein
Elizabeth Mahrdt
Stephania Major
Lori & Danny Majors
Rick Malad
Amber Malinak and Family
Bill & Cheryl Maners
Jerry Maners
Mark & Pennie Rogers
The Mark of Discipleship, Inc.
Jeff & Christine Marks
David Marley
Mr. & Mrs. William Marley
Chris Martens
Robert Mason
Linda Matthias
Jeff & Renny Mauder
Heather Maxwell
Robert & Alice McAuley
Bill & Michelle McCarter
Darby McCarty
Rachel Peden McCarty
TJ & Leslie McClure
Jane McCollum
Terry & Debby McDaniel
McDonald’s of Spencer
Joseph T. McGee
Evan McKalip & Shelley Harriman
Don Meek
Jane Mellenthin
Vicky Meretsky
Phil & Jackie Merk
Ann Michael
Grant & Colleen Minnemeyer
Mark Minton
Marsha Minton
Missionary Evangelist
Emily & Wayne Mobley
Craig & Julie Money
Sian Mooney & Shawn Novak
Bruce & Anita Morgan
Karen Morgan
Nancy & Steve Moriarty
Kyle & Tracy Motes
Joe & Anne Mueller
Mullin Equipment
Charlie & Amber Mullin
Donna Murdock
Jay & Connie Murphy
Chris Myers
John Myers N
Beth Nairn
Larry & Jo Ann Neal
Anton & Shannon Neff
Tony & Victoria Neff
Bobby & Linda Neibel
Ella & Ronald Neibel
Ron Neibel
Connie Neihart
Charles & Marge Neumeyer
Ronald Neumeyer
Al & Leslie Nieves
Patricia (Query) Newforth
Dick Norris
Larry & Brenda Norton
O
Ed O’Brien
Gail O’Connor
Maria O’Connor
Regan O’Connor
Savannah Oliver
Owen County 4-H Council
Owen County Chamber of Commerce & EDC
Owen County Family YMCA
Owen County Garden Club
Owen County Home Company
Owen County Humane Society
Owen County Preservations, Inc.
Owen County Public Library
Owen County S.O.U.N.D.S., Inc.
Owen County State Bank
Owen Valley High School Class of 2024
Owen Valley High School Class of 1971
Owen Valley Winery
P
The Parker Family
Alex & Emily Paul
Steve & Alice Parrish
Patricksburg Community Church
Peace Builds - App Development
Steve & Becky Pedigo
Perfect Timing Race Management
Personal Financial Services LLC
Vernon Petri
Connie Shields Phelan
Calvin & Sherryl Pherigo
Pile CPAs
James & Amy Portteus
Price, Long & Ruble Reunion
QDonald & Peggy Query
Tim Query
Gary, Lori & Jordan Quillen
R
Tamra Ranard
Miranda Redman
John & Sheila Reeves
REMAX Select Associates
Emily Reuter
Carol Reynolds
David Rezits
Mary Rice
Tom & Alyssa Rice
Dixie Richardson
Max & Karen Richey
Ridgeline Veterinary Services
Riverside Cemetery Association
Rita Roberts
Kenneth & Brenda Robertson
Marcus Robinson
Judy, Shaley & Nick Rogers
Mark & Pennie Rogers
Tammy Rogers
David, James & Mary Rogstad
Rolling Meadows Golf Course
James Rooney
Kurt & Jill Rosenberger
Karen Rowe
Richard Rubeck
Brenda Ruble
Richard & Marlene Ruble
Elizabeth Ruh
Janet Rummel
Laura Rummel & Logan Crouch
Jo Ellen Rust
S
Walter Sadler
Karen Salyers
Ronald Sample
John & Rebecca Schrock
SCI REMC
David & Doris Scully
Roy & Karen Seibert
Ben Shaw
Kim Shelton-Allen
Kristin S. Shorter
Mark Showecker
Susan Siena
Jack & Linda Simmerman
Kosali Simon
Randal Sipkema
Terri Smetana
Lisa Smith
Jane Smith
Sue Smithley
Mark & Nancy Snapp
Vicki Snodgrass
Elisabeth Solchik
Elizabeth Solis
Sons of American Legion Post 285
Spencer Exchange Club
Spencer Fraternal Order of Police
Spencer High School Class of 1959
Spencer High School Class of 1961
Spencer High School Class of 1968
Spencer High School Class of 1970
Spencer Main Street
Spencer Presbyterian Church
Spencer Pride, Inc.
Spencer Save-A-Lot
Spencer-Owen Community Schools Staff
Teri Spillman
Kathy Spinks
Michael Spinks
St. John Associates
Jon & Lisa Stantz
Ed & Joan Staubach
John & Tina Stearley
Patricia Steele
Mark & Eleanor Steiner
Amy & Brian Stephenson
Angela Stevens
Jacqueline R. Stigall
Donna Sue Stipp
The Stogsdill Family
Strunk Forestry Mulching LLC
Bernard Stuckey
Jeremiah Stwalley
Denise Sudol
Mike Sudol
Damon & Suzi Summerlot
Donna Summers
Roy Summers
Summitt Towing & Recovery LLC
Mike & Kim Swafford
Sweet Owen Convention & Visitors Bureau
T
Taylor Siefker Williams Design Group
The Taylor Family
June Taylor
Sarah Taylor
Taz Express, LLC
Curt & Benita Thacker
Charles & Mary Jo Thatcher
The Ladies Birthday Club
Bill & Darla Thomas
Linda Thomas
Sharon Tinsley
Al & Bonnie Tinsley
Tracy Tinsley
MSgt Nate Todd
Kirk & Jan Torgerson
Town of Gosport
Don & Gloria Townsend
Bradley & Dani Trimble
Robert F. Truesdel
Sandra L. Truex
Al & Joan Tucker
Darin & Carol Tucker
Dirk & Sherry Tucker
TDoug & Judy Tucker
Kim Tucker
Phyllis Tucker
U
Unraveled Quilt Store
Terry Urban
V
Valley Optical
Estate of Sally Vance
VanDerMoere & Co. Family Farms
VentFest - The International
Ventriloquism & Arts Festival
Susan Vaughn
Sherri Vest
Tim & Susan Vest
VFW Auxiliary Post 1405
Norma Vickrey
Angela K. Voelker
Don & Jeanne Von Tress
Sonja Vovos W
Andrew & Jennifer Walker
Sarah Wall
Alissa Wallace
Tom & Becky Wallace
The Walsh Family
Carl Walters
Walton Funeral Services, Inc.
Todd & Cindy Walton
Kevin & Debra Wampler
Wasatch Lake
Emily Webb
Gerald Wells
Gordon & Diane Wells
Stefan Welsh
Bobby & Hope Whaley
Curt White
Dale White
Darrell & Loretta White
Ed & Nancy White
Jack & Deanna White
Mariann Snyder White
Bob & Cindy White
Rob & Andrea White
Tiffani Williams & Garrett Fromm
Tad Wilson
Steve & Cynthia Withem
Peggy L. Wolfe
Jacci Wood
Julie Wood
Jack & Catherine Woodruff
Gary & Nancy Woodsmall
Fred Wooley
Dan & Cathy Wyatt
Judy Wycoff Y
The Yang Family
Landon Yoder
Brenda Young Z
Donna Zamber
Todd & Deborah Zellers
The Zigler Family
Nikos Zirogiannis
Penny Zufall
Every effort is made to ensure your name is written as you wish. If your name is incorrect, or you wish to be listed differently, please contact the OCCF.
Roma Wilson, born in June 1907, was a remarkable woman ahead of her time. One of the few women in her era to attend college, she went on to marry and raise five children. Though her husband eventually left her, Roma showed her resilience. She pinched pennies, survived, and raised her children. She lived a long and fulfilling life and passed away at the age of 96 in 2004. She was deeply admired for her kindness and generosity, especially her active involvement with the Spencer United Methodist Church.
Two of Roma’s children, Tad Wilson and Alice Parrish, sought to honor their mother’s enduring strength and spirit by starting a scholarship in her name. The Roma Wilson Scholarship is designed for women in Owen County who are continuing or returning to education. Unlike other scholarships that focus mainly on academic achievement, Tad and Alice aimed to help women who faced significant challenges. They wanted to make a difference in the lives of women who had been dealt a tough hand, just as Roma had been.
Inspired by how education transformed Roma’s life, her children established an endowed scholarship fund. Endowed funds are unique because they are supported by the interest generated from the original donation, ensuring that the fund continues to grow and provide financial aid for generations to come. This scholarship fund, rooted in Roma’s values and experience, was created to empower young women, particularly those who are single mothers or face financial hardships, to pursue higher education.
Despite the rise of female college students in recent years, a 2021 survey showed that women without a bachelor’s degree are more likely than men to cite the affordability of higher education as their barrier to entry. Tad and Alice are determined to change this, hoping to bridge the financial gap and provide more opportunities for women in need. The fund is not limited to four-year college programs—it also supports two-year programs, technical schools, vocational training, and HSE preparation courses, recognizing that education comes in many forms.
One of the recipients of the scholarship, Marissa Taylor, shares her story of how the Roma Wilson Scholarship impacted her. “The Roma Wilson Scholarship has helped me strive for opportunities in my educational journey, including the opportunity to study abroad with fellow university students and research my interests.” In an interview with Tina Hall, the highest grossing Roma Wilson Scholarship recipient, she described how this scholarship helped her, remarking, “Having so much community support boosted my confidence and motivation. By recognizing my potential and hard work, the OCCF scholarships encouraged me at an extremely challenging period of my life.” She has gone on to complete her master’s degree due to the support of the OCCF and the Roma Wilson Scholarship.
These ladies are just a couple of the many young women whose lives have been touched by the Roma Wilson Scholarship. As the fund continues to grow, it will undoubtedly help even more women achieve their educational goals and build brighter futures. The legacy of Roma Wilson lives on in each woman this scholarship supports, ensuring her spirit of resilience, kindness, and determination continues to inspire generations to come.
Mary Ackerman
Mike Ackerman
Lt. Colonel Carl “Dave” Allen
Julie Allen
George Allison
Anonymous Donors
Dave & Barbara Brinson
Jean Catron
Coffman Proactive CPA Services, LLC
Jim & Ginny Coppedge
Darby DeFord
Wally & Kathy DeFord
Corey & Dee DeLong
Norma DeLong
Kristina Denning
Linda Downey
John & Sylvia Dyar
Brett & Karen Evans
Frankfort High School Class of 1980
David Friedel & Ann Mahrdt
John & Nancy Fuhs
Kevin & Kathy Giziewski
Steve & Barbara Goddard
Cindy & Doug Greenwell
Kelsey Hanlon and Justin Roddye
Shelley Harriman & Evan McKalip
Marilyn A. Hart
Tina Hayden
Kelly Helms
Robin Hines and Family
Insurance Services, Inc.
Michael & Kathleen Jensen
Steven & Elizabeth Keeney
Heidi, Macy, & Caleb KleineMcCadden
Sherri & Bobby Knieriem
Aaron & Sarah LaGrange
Rodney & Terri Lynn Madison
Amber Malinak and Family
Jeff & Renny Mauder
Bruce & Anita Morgan
Beth Nairn
OCCF Board & Staff
Owen County Family YMCA
Steve & Becky Pedigo
Gary, Lori, & Jordan Quillen
Max & Karen Richey
Mark & Pennie Rogers
David, James, & Mary Rogstad
Janet Rummel
Roy & Karen Seibert
Ed & Joani Staubach
Donna Stipp
Ronda, Mackenzie, & Hunter Stogsdill
Darin & Carol Tucker
Kim Tucker
VFW Auxiliary Post 1405
Tom & Becky Wallace
Jack & Deanna White
Tad Wilson
Max & Jackie Anderson
James & Amy Portteus
Rex E. Anderson
Roy Summers
Anneta
Sonja Vovos
Leland Arnold
William & Patsy Arnold
Bob Babbs
Spencer Save-A-Lot
Bud & Jeanette Bacon
Gary & Nancy Woodsmall
David Baker
Michelle DeFord
The Virginia Blair Family
Jerry & Colleen Blair
Gary & Gretchen Bloom
Lisa Smith
Teri Spillman
Eugene S. & Robert D. Bowen
Roger & Barbara Bowen
James Otis Brewer
Brothers & Sisters
Maxine Burks
Spencer High School Class of 1970
Tristan Calvin
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Charles Barker
Robert & Aleta Boltinghouse
Ann Calvin
Richard & Koreenia Calvin
Shane & Connie Jennings
Savannah Oliver
Owen Valley High School Class of 2024
Patricksburg Community Church
Spencer Save-A-Lot
Emily Webb
Pamela Campbell
Jerry & Teresa Maners
Stafford & Grace Carpenter
Jeff Carpenter
Misty Chapman
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Fred Coley
Al & Joan Tucker
Ida Cooley
Gary & Nancy Woodsmall
Martha Cooley-Kinser
Gary & Nancy Woodsmall
Charles T. Cooper
John Hackworthy
Barney Corder
Spencer High School Class of 1968
Susan Coulter
Susan Cernek
Rev. Louis Crouch
Dave & Barbara Brinson
Laura Culler
Diedre & Jami Jones
Lyndall Matherly
Terri & Jack Schaunwecker
Tom & Becky Wallace
Jack & Cathy Woodruff
Robert & Ruth Curry
Travis & Jill Curry
Jack & Marilyn DeFord
John Hackworthy
Heather Donovan
Chris Myers
Terry Downey
Linda Downey
David Drescher
Judy Drescher
Russell & Louise Duling
Susan Vaughn
Dick Dyar
Stanley & Nancy Griffith
Dick & Sue Dyar
John & Sylvia Dyar
Harold & Mary Dyar
John & Sylvia Dyar
Maria Lynne Feldkamp
Sharon & David Lutz
Richard & Waneta Felton
Gary & Nancy Woodsmall
Nathan Finney
Michelle DeFord
Elzia Fiscus
Curt & Benita Thacker
David Flater
Anonymous
John & Sylvia Dyar
George & Nancy White
Mary L. Fox
Anonymous
Tom & Becky Wallace
Marsha Franklin
Dave & Barbara Brinson
Owen County Family YMCA
Karen Sheese Freeman
Spencer High School Class of 1970
Vicki Freeman
Karen Salyers
Jim Fulford
Rob & Cassie Babbs
John Hackworthy
Dave Fulk
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Don & Thelma Genda
John & Jill Emmons
John T. Gillaspy
John Hackworthy
Colin Glass
Steve & Alice Parrish
Albert “Abe” Goss
Michael Goss
Cynthia “Cindy” Hackworthy
George Allison
Anonymous
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Dave & Barbara Brinson
The Carson Family
Charles & Kay Cochran
Jim & Ginny Coppedge
Michelle DeFord
John & Sylvia Dyar
John & Nancy Fuhs
Tom & Valarie Gillaspy
John Hackworthy
Marilyn A. Hart
John & Deanna Heckman
Dr. R.E. Hickam
Insurance Services, Inc.
Don & Marilyn Jackson
Marc & Brandy Johnson
Les & Deb Jordan
The Ladies Birthday Club
Jamie & Keith Landry
Bob & Carolyn Livingston
Robert & Alice McAuley
Jane McCollum
Jane Mellenthin
Maria O’Connor
Owen County Family YMCA
Steve & Alice Parrish
Alex & Emily Paul
Steve & Becky Pedigo
Vernon Petri
Mary Jean Rice
Kathy Spinks
Mike Spinks
Amy & Brian Stephenson
Ronda L. Stogsdill
Linda Esakson Thomas
Phyllis Tucker
Tom & Becky Wallace
Gordon & Diane Wells
Tad Wilson
Mike Haltom
Spencer High School Class of 1970
Charles “Charlie” Hamilton
Patricia Hamilton
Todd Handy
Maurice “Mo” & Janice Harbert
Jeff & Robin (Harbert) Grothaus
Dora (Burkett) Harden
Lana Halfhill Honn
Kevin Harder
Michelle DeFord
Noah & Ruth Harris
Andrew & Jennifer Walker
Mike Harvey
Don & Marilyn Jackson
Robert T. Jones
Steve & Becky Pedigo
Terry Heck
John & Julie LaMere
Norma Herrington
Tom & Becky Wallace
Elliott Hickam
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Peggy Hines
Anonymous
Gary & Judy Armstrong
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Dean & Marcia Bruce
The Cline Family
Chris & Danielle Conner
Jim & Ginny Coppedge
Tom & Michelle Crowe
Nancy Deal
Michelle DeFord
John & Sylvia Dyar
Becky & Rolf Gratz
Marilyn A. Hart
Brad Hawkins
Robert Herrington
David, Peggy, & Christian Hines
Randy & Mary Anne Howe
Rob & Lisa Howe
Betty & Jack Huffman
Chris & Shawna Lake
Jack & Cathy Lanham
Nancy & Steve Moriarty
Maria O’Connor
Owen County State Bank
Steve & Becky Pedigo
Terri Smetana
Ronda L. Stogsdill
The Taylor Family
Phyllis Tucker
Tim & Susan Vest
Tiffani Williams & Garrett Fromm
Jeffrey Wayne Johnson
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Buck & Nan Johnson
Elizabeth R. Jones
Robert T. Jones
Elmer & Mae Jones
James & Amy Portteus
Betty T. Jordan
Michael & Shirley Burke
Alissa Gardenswartz
Harrison Homemakers Club
Kappa Kappa Sigma
Heather Maxwell
Larry & Brenda Norton
Kim Shelton-Allen
Adell Keith
Dave & Barbara Brinson
Patricia Huber
Dave & Doris Scully
Al & Joan Tucker
Evan Kelley
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Randy & Karen Harmon
John King
Cassie Derck
Brad & Robin King
John & Tina Stearley
Tom King
Hope Huston
Deanna Summers Lambert
John & Sylvia Dyar
Dr. Mark Lambert
John & Sylvia Dyar
Joseph Murl Lannan
Sharon & David Lutz
John Lennon
Celtic Glen Heritage Livestock
Gary McCarter
TJ & Leslie McClure
Phyllis Malicoat
Linda Downey
Helen Mauder
Donald & Peggy Query
Kenneth R. McCollum
Jane McCollum
Mark McCollum and Family
Lisa McCollum Bassett and Family
Kim McCollum Frazier and Family
Jack & Althea Money
John & Sylvia Dyar
Coach Johnny Moore
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Dorothy Coyne Moore
Tom Coyne
Barry Nickless
Curt & Benita Thacker
Jeff Nickless
Spencer High School Class of 1970
Andrew “Drew” O’Connor
Gail O’Connor
Rev. Sonny Ooley
Ronda L. Stogsdill
Michelle DeFord
Roger Papadakos
Dr. R.E. Hickam
Spencer High School Class of 1970
Janet Wray Powell
Spencer High School Class of 1959
Amanda & Marshall Price (Long)
Sherryl & Calvin Pherigo
Flona Everly Query
Peggy D. Garver
Patricia Query Newforth
Glenda Johnson Query
John & Sylvia Dyar
John & Lisa Gillaspy and Family
Buck & Nan Johnson
Marc & Brandy Johnson
Patricia Query Newforth
Floyd & Cynthia Richards
John & Sylvia Dyar
Wesley Roberts
Steve & Becky Pedigo
Tereasa Ridgway Robertson
Owen Valley High School Class of 1971
Julie (Thacker) Romas
Spencer High School Class of 1970
David Ruble
Brenda Ruble
Jim & June Ruble
Ben Shaw
Winfield & Dorothy Ruble
Anonymous
Angela K. Voelker
Don Rudzinski
Rob & Cassie Babbs
John & Sylvia Dyar
Patty Sadler
Walter Sadler
Louanne Salyers
Karen Salyers
Mike Schrougham
John & Nancy Fuhs
Rhonda Sheese
Spencer High School Class of 1968
Stuart “Stu” Sherfick
Dave & Barbara Brinson
Curt & Benita Thacker
Tom & Becky Wallace
Walton Funeral Services, Inc.
Ned & Rosemary Smith
Jane & Sherman Smith
Willard Jesse Smith
Jennifer Jessup
Larry Snodgrass
Anonymous
Larry & Peggy Snodgrass
Chandler Funeral Homes
Truman Snyder
Roy Summers
Olivia Jo Spinelli
Joseph T. McGee
Barbara Spinks
John & Sylvia Dyar
Mike Spinks
Dirk & Sherry Tucker
Judy Wood Stahl
Maryanne Newsom-Brighton
The Jack & Cela Stanley Family
Jerry & Colleen Blair
Emory Rene Stierwalt
Jerry & Gail Horn
Kirby Stogsdill
Mike & Judy Boyd
The Hohman Family
Nick Lenning
Ronda, Mackenzie, & Hunter Stogsdill
Chad Sweatman
Jeri Anderson
Anonymous
Kirsten A. Gronbjerg
Chris Martens
Vicky Meretsky
Sian Mooney & Shawn Novak
Miranda Redman
Susan Siena
Kosali Simon
The Walsh Family
Landon Yoder
Nikos Zirogiannis
Carl Terrell
Dave & Barbara Brinson
Richard Allen Thacker
Curt & Benita Thacker
Richard W. Thacker
Curt & Benita Thacker
Tim Thacker
Curt & Benita Thacker
Wilma Thacker
Curt & Benita Thacker
David Thatcher
John & Sylvia Dyar
James Alexander Thom
Dixie Richardson
David A. Tinsley
Al & Bonnie Tinsley
Eugene & Marjorie Truax
Travis & Jill Curry
Gib Tucker
Darin & Carol Tucker
Dirk & Sherry Tucker
Phyllis Tucker
Zach Tucker
Darin & Carol Tucker
Dirk & Sherry Tucker
Phyllis Tucker
Jim & Sally Vance
John Hackworthy
Sally Vance
George Allison
Anonymous
Dave & Barbara Brinson
Charles & Kay Cochran
Marilyn A. Hart
Don & Marilyn Jackson
Sherri Knieriem
Bob & Alice McAuley
Owen County Family YMCA
Steve & Becky Pedigo
Pile CPAs
Mary Jean Rice
Mark & Pennie Rogers
John Vaughn
Susan Vaughn
Stephan Vaughn
Susan Vaughn
Jim Vest
Sherri Vest
The Descendants of Fred & Flo Walbring
Sandra Hanna Liston
Harry & Martha Wall
Harriet Figg
Kenny Wallace & Barbara Harris Wallace
Stan & Linda Harris
Erika Wells
Jerry & Martha Kaehr
Bob & Cindy White
Nelda K. Wells
Bill & Darla Thomas
John Westley
Brothers & Sisters
June & Joe Whitaker
Jan M. Torgerson
Ruth Anna (Thacker) White
Dave & Barbara Brinson
Curt & Benita Thacker
Ashley Wilson
Anonymous
Roma Wilson
Stanley & Nancy Griffith
John Hackworthy
Shirley Wilson
John & Sylvia Dyar
Loren Wood
Mark & Nancy Snapp
Ruth (Fulk) Worthington
Patricksburg High School Class of 1966
Colonel Carl “David” Allen, a cherished husband, father, and community leader, passed away on June 1, 2024 at age 62, after a courageous five-year battle with cancer. Born in Frankfort, Indiana, he graduated from Frankfort High School in 1980 before earning his degree from Ball State University. Dave went on to serve in the United States Air Force, where he built a distinguished 21-year career. It was during his service that he met his wife of 36 years, and together they started a family, raising children and later doting on their beloved granddaughter.
A devoted family man, Dave’s legacy extended far beyond his military career. Tom Wallace, the OCCF’s Chairperson and close friend to Dave for nearly 19 years, shared, “Dave was devoted to enhancing the quality of life for all citizens of Owen County with the foresight and understanding that decisions made today will impact generations to come.” Dave Allen was known for the impact he made and the positive changes he made! During his 21 years in the Air Force, he earned the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal and the Air Force Humanitarian Service Medal. After he retired in 2005, he initiated the Air Force Junior ROTC program at Owen Valley High School, earning the Sagamore of the Wabash award for community service. He was also heavily involved with Owen County Community Foundation, serving on the Scholarship Committee and Board of Directors. In 2024, he earned the OC Chamber of Commerce & EDC’s Heart of the Community Award. Dave’s legacy of service, love for his family, and dedication to his community will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. In Dave’s loving memory, his family has established the Dave Allen Memorial Fund at the Owen County Community Foundation.
All Who Have Served
Mike Sudol
George Allison
Dave & Barbara Brinson
The Donham Family
Kenny Ray & Amber Augustus
George Allison and Family
John & Sylvia Dyar
Rob & Cassie Babbs
John & Sylvia Dyar
Kate Babbs-Manning
Rob & Cassie Babbs
The Barnett Family
Judy, Shaley, & Nick Rogers
Annie Bright
Al & Leslie Nieves
Craig Brighton
Jim Luzar
Keith Bucklew
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Lt. Colonel Russell Callaway
Lana Callaway
Penny Carpenter and Family
John & Sylvia Dyar
The Cheeseburger Guys at the Sons of American Legion Post # 285
John & Sylvia Dyar
CHI Chapter
Kappa Kappa Sigma
The Childress Family
Paul & Suzie Dubois
The Cooksey Family
Fredrick & Laraine Cooksey
Robert & Brenda Curry
Travis & Jill Curry
Wally & Kathy DeFord
John & Sylvia Dyar
Kingsley Derck
Cassie Derck
The Dewar Family
Doug & Joy Lynch
The Dubois Family
Paul & Suzie Dubois
John Dyar
Stanley & Nancy Griffith
Craig D. Money
Connie Shields Phelan
Rick & Kathy Dyar and Family
John & Sylvia Dyar
Tammy Ewbank
John & Sylvia Dyar
Sandy Featherston
Rob & Cassie Babbs
David Friedel & Ann Mahrdt
John & Sylvia Dyar
Elizabeth Mahrdt
Gosport Dental Clinic
Gosport Business Association
John Hackworthy
Amy Stephenson
John Hackworthy and Family
John & Sylvia Dyar
John & Laura Hanlon
Kelsey Hanlon & Justin Roddye
Dr. Eric & Megan Holzman
Mike & Shirley Burke
Judy Dyar Jenkins
John & Sylvia Dyar
Buck & Nan Johnson
John & Sylvia Dyar
The Jones Family
Fredrick & Laraine Cooksey
Joe King
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Rev. David & Nancy Lee
John & Sylvia Dyar
The Lynch Family
Doug & Joy Lynch
Ann Mahrdt
Inger & Cory Boggess
Linda Kay (Ruble) May
Patricia Query Newforth
Jack & Karen Newsom
John & Sylvia Dyar
Jack & Karen Noel
John & Sylvia Dyar
OCCF Board & Staff
John & Sylvia Dyar
OCCF Staff
Ronda L. Stogsdill
Maria O’Connor
Susan Summerlot
Mitchell O’Connor
Maria O’Connor
Regan O’Connor
Maria O’Connor
Alice Parrish
Penny Carpenter
Shawn Parrish
Steve & Alice Parrish
Steve Parrish
Alice Parrish
Steve & Alice Parrish
Dave & Barbara Brinson
Steve & Alice Parrish and Family
John & Sylvia Dyar
Dominik Coel Patchan
Steve & Alice Parrish
Joe Peden
Rachel Peden McCarty
Steve & Becky Pedigo
John & Sylvia Dyar
Steve Redenbaugh & Melva Cooper
John & Sylvia Dyar
Andy & Darlene Richards
John & Sylvia Dyar
Lori Rudzinski and Family
John & Sylvia Dyar
Janet Rummel
Dale White
Dr. Tom & Cindy Ryan
Mike & Shirley Burke
Lew Scholl
John & Sylvia Dyar
Mark & Nancy Snapp
Dave & Barbara Brinson
Patricia Query Newforth
Spencer Main Street Board of Directors
John & Sylvia Dyar
Mike Spinks
John & Sylvia Dyar
Ronda L. Stogsdill
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Janet Rummel
Rev. Ron & Sue Strohe
John & Sylvia Dyar
Margie Tucker
Rob & Cassie Babbs
The Tucker Family
John Hackworthy
U.S. Veterans
Gosport VFW Post 7850
VentFest
Steve Withem
Tom & Becky Wallace
Anonymous
Dave & Barbara Brinson
John & Sylvia Dyar
Darla Fiedeldey
David Friedel & Ann Mahrdt
Tom & Karen Fulk
Bobby & Mary Jo Hall
Don & Evelyn Hamilton
Bruce & Mary Hamlin
Roger & Cindy Herrington
Dale & Amanda Hinthorn
Hoosier Hills Credit Union
Grant & Colleen Minnemeyer
Missionary Evangelist
Owen County Chamber of Commerce & EDC
Steve & Becky Pedigo
The Postell Homestead
Kenneth & Brenda Robertson
The Sherfick-Franklin Family
Randal L. Sipkema
Ed & Joani Staubach
Alissa Wallace
Walton Funeral Services, Inc.
An individual, family, business, or charitable organization makes a taxdeductible gift of cash, securities, real estate, or other property.
Your gift adds to a charitable fund to benefit causes now or in the long term. Human/ animal welfare, education, human services, the environment, church of your choice, or any cause of your choosing.
Funds are invested prudently for long term growth and overseen by an investment committee of local professionals.
The support your fund provides to nonprofit projects, organizations, and student scholarships strengthens our community whle creating your lasting legacy of giving.
Dr. Diane Wells
Ann Ellen Elmendorf
Bob & Cindy White
Gordon & Diane Wells
Dave & Barbara Brinson
John & Sylvia Dyar
The Wells Family
Paul & Suzie Dubois
Tad Wilson
Rob & Cassie Babbs
John & Sylvia Dyar
Stanley & Nancy Griffith
Steve Withem
John & Sylvia Dyar
Gifts such as cash, securities, real assets, retirement funds, insurance, and bequests. No gift is too small!
Meet with donors to find a fund right for them. We help with giving gifts, growing funds, offer expertise on community needs, preserve donors wishes in perpetuity, and provide regular statements on funds.
Exciting news for families across the Indiana Uplands! Thanks to a $7,834,000 grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County (CFBMC) will strengthen early childhood education across 10 counties: Brown, Crawford, Daviess, Dubois, Greene, Lawrence, Martin, Monroe, Orange, and Owen.
A Regional Collaboration for Impact: In partnership with local community foundations and early care coalitions, CFBMC will deploy Smart Start coordinators to provide targeted funding and support. These efforts will align with strategic early education plans developed in 2024.
Strategic Investments in Early Education Grant funding will:
• Expand childcare capacity.
• Improve efficiency through shared services.
• Enhance educational quality before kindergarten.
• Foster employer-childcare provider partnerships via a new Employer Resource Network.
Building Stronger Communities
The Smart Start team will provide leadership, connect initiatives with experts, and build a sustainable early education system that benefits children, families, and employers.
The OCCF is eager to collaborate with Smart Start leaders, childcare providers, employers, and families to:
• Expand childcare capacity.
• Improve quality through professional development.
• Raise awareness about early childhood education.
• Support workforce development.
• Develop funding and infrastructure.
This initiative will lay the foundation for a brighter future for our youngest learners, their families, and our communities. Stay tuned for updates!
Kaye Erney’s dedicated service as Treasurer on the Owen County Community Foundation Board of Directors has left a lasting impact. Since joining the Board in 2018, Kaye has played a vital role in ensuring OCCF’s financial stability, guiding the Foundation through growth that directly benefited our community. In addition to serving as Treasurer, Kaye contributed on the Scholarship and Finance Committees, helping deserving students pursue higher education and strengthening OCCF’s financial health. Her involvement with the Owen County Farmers’ Market, Farm Bureau, and her creation of the Owen County Academic Competition Support Fund further demonstrate her deep commitment to our community. Kaye’s kindness, professionalism, and collaborative spirit empowered OCCF’s initiatives and partners to thrive. We are incredibly grateful for her hard work and dedication — thank you, Kaye!
Executive Committee
Tom Wallace, Chair
Ronda Stogsdill, Vice-Chair
Kaye Erney, Treasurer
Amber Mullin, Secretery
Myrna Fields, Past Chair
Danielle Conner, At Large
Finance Committee
Danielle Conner
Kaye Erney
David Friedel
Mike Sudol
Carol Tucker
Governance Committee
Danielle Conner
Amber Mullin
Ed Staubach
Ronda Stogsdill
Human Resources Committee
Michelle DeFord
David Friedel
Bowie Johnson
Amber Mullin
Tom Wallace
Janet Rummel President & CEO
Grants Committee
Cassie Abrell
Jessica Brinson
Ashley Fleetwood
Sarah Glass
Anton Neff
Leslie Nieves
Sonya Seymour
Brittany VanHook
Tom Wallace
Scholarship Committee
Dave Allen
Jonathan Balash
Bailee DeFord
Susan Elkins
Kaye Erney
Audra Hopf
Sherri Knieriem
Amy Morgan
Tamra Ranard
Pennie Rogers
Ed Staubach
Ronda Stogsdill
Tim Vest
Kylene Williams
Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Committee
Jonathan Balash
Susan Elkins
Shelley Harriman
Audra Hopf
Amber Mullin
Emily Pavich
Justin Roddye
Susan Smith
Jeanna Srinivasan
Ronda Stogsdill
Sustainability Committee
Kaye Erney
Myrna Fields
David Friedel
Nancy Lorenz
Tom Wallace
MYPath Advisory Committee
Grant Minnemeyer
Owen County COAD Committee
Susan Elkins
Bobeck Director of Programs & Communications
Craig Director of Community Engagement & Administration
Helping 44 students pursue their dreams
