OCCF BOARD & STAFF
MISSION MISSION
The Owen County Community Foundation is committed to enhancing the quality of life for all citizens of Owen County, now and for generations to come.
VISION VISION
To be the trustworthy resource for philanthropy by building a permanent endowment, addressing needs through grantmaking, and providing leadership resources to serve our community
Chairperson’s Message
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu
Each of us is on a journey as we travel through life Along the way, we set milestones we hope to reach, gain wisdom from those who came before us, and create opportunities through our own ideas Most importantly, we learn that in order to truly move forward, we need one another, and our community
Philanthropy
Stewardship
Leadership Integrity Excellence Respect
Chairperson
Tom Wallace
Vice Chair
Ronda Stogsdill
Secretary
Amber Mullin
Treasurer
Carol Tucker
VALUES VALUES BOARD BOARD STAFF STAFF
Janet Rummel
Jonathan Balash
Jessica Brinson
Danielle Conner
Susan Elkins
Ashley Fleetwood
Grant Minnemeyer
Ed Staubach
Steve Withem
President & CEO ceo@owencountycf.org
Karah Bobeck
Director of Programs & Communications karah@owencountycforg
Connie Murphy
Director of Community Engagement & Administration operations@owencountycforg
In 1994, the eight founding partners of the Owen County Community Foundation took that first step. George Allison, Gordon Wells, Jack Simmerman, Joe King, John King, Julian Duling, John Rogers, and Mary Rice understood the importance of collaboration; of leaders, government agencies, nonprofits, churches, and community members all working together From that first step, incredible progress has been made: since 1994, OCCF has grown to host over $15 million in permanent assets, granted in excess of $125 million to charitable causes, and dedicated $32 million to education from early learning to adult education
At the end of 2025, my journey as OCCF Board Chair and Board Member will come to a close Yet, the miles ahead for the Foundation will continue I have witnessed firsthand the power of generosity through donations, the establishment of funds, community projects, and support for organizations improving the quality of life for all who call Owen County home, now and for generations to come
If your journey with OCCF has already begun, I encourage you to continue with passion and urgency If you have not yet taken that first step, I invite you to do so and experience the joy of serving others It is said that a purposeful life impacts the next three generations And when your journey of a thousand miles is complete, may it be remembered by these words:
“Take only memories, leave only footprints.” – Chief Seattle Godspeed
Tom Wallace
OCCF Chairperson
See list of eligible funds & donate at: bit.ly/OCCFcommunityfunds
Matchingdollarsarelimitedandareonlyavailableuntilmatchingfundsaredepleted
Director Spotlight: Ronda Stogsdill
Ronda Stogsdill, Vice Chair of the OCCF’s Board of Directors, is a lifelong Owen County resident who believes in the power of people and the importance of giving back She and her late husband, Kirby, devoted themselves to the well-being of their community Together with their children, she considers it an honor to continue his spirit of giving
At Indiana University, Ronda is Senior Manager of Executive Affairs in the Office of Enrollment Management She holds a communication studies degree from IU and is currently pursuing a master's degree Colleagues often call her the “Owen County Ambassador” because she never misses an opportunity to share the strengths of her hometown
Ronda joined the OCCF Scholarship Committee in 2019, currently serves as chair of that committee, became a Director in 2022, and will become the OCCF’s Board Chairperson in 2026. She takes pride in OCCF’s mission to obtain resources, address local needs, award scholarships, and provide grants that strengthen nonprofits and community organizations. Ronda also serves on the boards of Spencer Main Street, Riverside Cemetery, BB-P Water Corp., and is a member of the Spencer Exchange Club. She strives to share her vision of Owen County as a place where visitors of all ages can enjoy its small-town beauty while residents experience a high quality of life. She believes the OCCF is a catalyst for good and is proud to be part of it.
Grateful for the life built with her husband and for the chance to serve alongside friends and neighbors, she is blessed to call Sweet Owen County home She sees her service with OCCF as both a privilege and a joy, knowing the Foundation’s impact is felt across the community and beyond
Owen County Doughboy Revitalization Project
The Spirit of the American Doughboyis more than a statue it is a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring patriotism of Owen County Sculpted by Spencer native, Ernest Moore “E M” Viquesney, the bronze infantryman has stood on the northwest corner of our courthouse lawn for nearly a century, honoring the men and women of Owen County who served in World War I With his grenade raised high and his steady march across the imagined expanse of No Man’s Land, the Doughboy embodies the grit, determination, and bravery of those who left Owen County to fight for freedom.
For generations, the statue has served as a place of remembrance and reflection It has been the backdrop for Memorial Day services, parades, and quiet personal moments of gratitude Veterans, families, and visitors alike have paused in its shadow to consider the sacrifices made not only by those who fought in “the Great War,” but by all who have worn the uniform of our nation
But after decades of exposure to the elements, this treasured monument needs care. TheDoughboy Revitalization Projectwill restore the statue and transform its setting into a welcoming, accessible plaza where history, community, and remembrance come together
The design features:
A concrete plaza with seating for gatherings and ceremonies.
Thoughtful landscaping and lighting to enhance security and highlight the Doughboy at night.
Obelisk monuments honoring each branch of the U.S. military.
Attractive concrete benches that both invite reflection and protect the courthouse as a safety barrier.
This project is more than preservation it’s aboutcreating a place of honor, learning, and community pride Veterans, families, students, and visitors will have a safe, meaningful space to engage with the story of our county’s service members and to pass their legacy on to future generations.
Your support ensures that the Doughboy will stand proudly for the next century a lasting reminder of sacrifice, resilience, and the values that unite Owen County By contributing to this project, you are helping to preserve history, honor service, and invest in a stronger, more connected community
Join us in revitalizing this important landmark Together, we can ensure the Doughboy continues to inspire for generations to come
Want to Support the Doughboy Restoration Project?
You can donate three ways! Visit bit.ly/DoughboyFund, mail a check or cash with Doughboy in the memo to P.O. Box 503, Spencer, IN 47460, or scan the QR code!
MYPath Fall 2025 Update
Fall of 2024 was an exciting time for the MYPath trail. An 80-foot bridge had just been lowered into place over Elliston Creek, connecting two sections of newly paved trail. We held an official ribbon-cutting ceremony with our friends at the Department of Natural Resources a week later. Nearly 75 people participated in the first MYPath 5k run/walk event on the new trail the following month.
For the fall of 2025, the excitement and accomplishments continue as we celebrate the one-year anniversary of the paved MYPath Riverfront Trail. There is a lot to celebrate. New benches and a pavilion have been added to the trail. An increasing number of trail users have brought bicycles, skateboards, mobility aids, and other resources to enjoy the trail After a major flood completely covered the trail in April, MYPath proved its resilience by shaking off the sludge (with help from great volunteers) and continuing to attract users Our trail counters show that nearly 2,000 users each month are on the trail
Sculptures from a local artist have added a new dimension to a MYPath walk Groups from the Boys and Girls Club of Owen County, Spencer Pride Rainbow Birders, Area 10 Agency on Aging, and several classes from Indiana University, Master Naturalist Classes, and other groups have enjoyed MYPath as a gathering and learning amenity
We held an anniversary party in late September, and the second annual MYPath 5k took place on October 18 As we continue to celebrate the health, recreational, and economic benefits of the MYPath Trail, we can’t help but continue to dream about the next steps What will it take to connect MYPath to the DNR boat launch? Then what will it take to connect to McCormick’s Creek State Park? At the same time, a trail system from Monroe County is being planned to connect to Flatwoods Park, located directly across the county line. What will it take to join that trail network?
Fall of 2025 is a time to celebrate the support of the Foundation for this new trail. It has been an important new amenity for the community.
MYPath Brings a Return on Investment
The MYPath trail brings economic benefits to Owen County, and the more the trail expands, the greater those benefits will be. That was the finding of an intensive study by Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs graduate students and the IU Center for Rural Engagement.
The study estimated that local users of MYPath spend between $7.21 and $11.33 per daily visit. Non-local users spend between $13 and $70.50 per daytrip. Overnight visitors spend between $98 and $176 98 By expanding the trail, the economic impact will increase because more people will be attracted to MYPath for both day use and overnight visits
The final study is entitled MYPath, Our Community: The Future of Trail Systems in Owen County, Indiana If you want to see an executive summary, or the full study, contact Kyle Hannon at mypath@owencountycforg
2022 - 2026 Strategic Plan Priority Funding Areas
Each year, the OCCF’s Board of Directors review data, community feedback, and strategic goals to refine organizational priorities. Through this process, three key focus areas emerged for the 2022–2026 Strategic Plan and significant progress has been made in each.
Local News Matters
Access to timely, unbiased local information remains one of Owen County’s greatest needs Your OCCF began addressing this “news desert” by providing a $10,000 planning grant for the Owen News Project to establish a rural nonprofit news outlet Since then, OCCF has awarded additional grants that helped The Owen News hire staff and interns, print a widely circulated paper, and make it available online and at multiple pickup locations, all free to readers Residents can now also have the paper mailed directly to their homes for a modest fee OCCF remains committed to supporting quality journalism and ensuring access to trusted local news
Healthy Spaces, Stronger Communities
Parks, trails, and recreation centers strengthen physical, social, and mental health Along with fostering the MYPath Trail System since 2016, OCCF has supported other community projects such as the Cooper Commons Recreation Project, Gosport Town Park revitalization, and the student-led Patriots at the Park bridge restoration at McCormick’s Creek State Park, each promoting connection, wellness, and civic pride
Investing in Early Learning and Youth
Programming
High-quality early learning builds a foundation for lifelong success. OCCF played a key role in expanding PreK to all Spencer-Owen Community elementary schools and is one of ten counties in the Uplands region to receive a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to strengthen the quality and capacity of early childhood education programs For school-aged youth, OCCF supported the Boys & Girls Club of Owen County to expand after-school and summer programs that keep local kids learning, active, and engaged
Spencer High School Basketball Book
The second edition of Spencer Basketball is now available, chronicling Spencer High School and Junior High basketball and cheerleading from 1920 to 1970. Authored by John Dyar, Class of ’61, with help from his uncle, Dick Dyar, Class of ’46, and many others including Glenda Winders-Allen, Class of ’64, the book captures fifty years of local athletic pride
This updated edition includes corrected details from the original release, expanded season records, and a new account of a spirited hometown rivalry Original purchasers of the first edition can receive the additional pages by contacting John Dyar or visiting the OCCF office at 60 E Market Street in Spencer Limited copies of the second edition are available for $50 each, with checks payable to the OCCF, or by scanning the QR code
MEMORIALS
We received the following Memorial gifts from July 1 through September 30, 2025 The name of the person being memorialized or honored is in bold
MEMORIALS
Lt. Col. Dave Allen
Aaron & Sarah LaGrange
Barron Barnett
Richard & Lisa Norman
Lyle & Marion Brighton
Maryanne Brighton
Mearl & LaVerne Brown
Maryanne Brighton
Tony Brown
Kay Calvert
Gosport Baptist Church
Ken A. Kesler
Richard & Lisa Norman
Mary Ellen C Smith
Thomas Farms GP
Brenda Wampler
Kevin & Debbie Wampler
Sherry Brown
Tony Brown
Tristan Calvin
Richard & Koreenia Calvin
Landon & Amber Curtis
Shane & Connie Jennings
Aaron & Sarah LaGrange
Perfect Timing Race Management
Carrie & Tolman Roberts
Theresa G Skaggs
David & Karen Weaver
Delores Clouse
Mary Ellen C Smith
Gary Cooper
Shirley & Michael Burke
The Tommy Martin Family
Jack & Linda Simmerman
Susan Coulter
Susan Cernek
Sandra Featherston
Hickam & Lorenz, P.C.
Richard & Nancy Lorenz
Samuel Parker Fields
Richard & Myrna Fields
Tiffaney Foster
The Barnett Family
Julia Turnbaugh
John J. Fuhs
Anonymous
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Babbs Supermarket
Frank & Julie Coffin
Jim & Ginny Coppedge
Eden Lodge 99
The Fuhs Family
Candace Genda
Don & Marilyn Jackson
Richard & Nancy Lorenz
Janet Rummel
Jack & Linda Simmerman
Sons of American Legion - Post 285
Ronda Stogsdill
Damon & Susan Summerlot
Karen Wells
Wells & Colvin Family
Terry & Sally Wright
Cindy Hackworthy
Richard & Nancy Lorenz
Steve Hancock
Tom & Jennifer Abrell
Jack & Linda Simmerman
Tom & Becky Wallace
Ronnie & Shirley Heidrick
Kim & Dan McMains
Elizabeth R. Jones
Robert T Jones
Betty Jordan
Ellen Fagan
Dean Heinhold
Jacob Keller
The Keller Family
Evan Michael Kelley
Brandon & Christy Butcher
Randy & Karen Harmon
John King
John & Tina Stearley
Anne Kirchgraber-McKee
Frank & Julie Coffin
Michael Kite
Spencer High School Class of 1970
Elena Lewis
Babbs Supermarket
Rosalie Lucas
Richard & Nancy Lorenz
Jill McKay
Rob & Cassie Babbs
Jim & Ginny Coppedge
Kevin McKay
Brad, Summer, Zach & Kam Rubin
Michael Parks
Jack & Linda Simmerman
Pamela Sue Eaton Nash
Mary Ellen C Smith
Patty Sadler
Walter Sadler
Lester Schenck
Tom & Becky Wallace
Kirby Stogsdill
Ronda Stogsdill
Chad Sweatman
IES Kentucky LLC
Jake, Amanda, Elizabeth, & Claire
Kathy Sweatman
Samantha Sweatman Sweatman
James "Kevin" Thompson
Jeffery & Deborah Webb
Margie Tucker
Richard & Nancy Lorenz
Jack & Linda Simmerman
Zachary Tucker
Phyllis Tucker
Erika Wells
Robert & Cindy White
Cindy Withem Vic, Shirley, & Jason Kinney
PFC Brett Wood
Nancy L. Deal
Donna Woodruff
Jack & Linda Simmerman
Spencer Presbyterian Church
GRANTS
2024 Community Investment Grantee Updates
The intended purpose of Community Investment Grants is to supply broad, diverse, and responsive funds up to $5,000 to nonprofits serving Owen County To apply for a grant in 2026, visit bit ly/occfgrants
Owen County Public Library - $5,000
A 2024 OCCF grant is helping the local library transform its garden and park into a vibrant community space Funding added a raised garden bed and fencing to protect plants, leading to better harvests and hands-on learning for youth Last year’s strawberry crop was used in a cooking class, and this year’s vegetables supported a community veggie pizza lesson Extra produce is shared through the library’s free food programs
Grant dollars also upgraded the outdoor gathering area with new furniture, and soon, colorful instruments will be added Once complete, the space will offer more opportunities for reading, music, nature programs, and family visits, creating a welcoming place for learning, creativity, and connection
Spencer Main Street - $5,000
This summer, a grant from OCCF helped downtown Spencer reach full bloom. Funding supported the purchase of 14 additional self-watering planters, completing all 28 designated locations throughout the downtown area Larger pots now hold bigger, more vibrant flowers, creating a warm and colorful welcome for everyone passing through Main Street Grant funds also provided the equipment needed to assemble a watering cart, making it easier for volunteers from Spencer Main Street, Spencer Pride, and OCCF to care for the flowers all season long. With additional support from the Owen County Art Guild, this project has become a sustainable, communitydriven effort to keep downtown Spencer beautiful for years to come.
Spencer Pride, Inc - $5,000
The OCCF is helping Spencer Pride equip the community with vital tools and training. Two Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) have been installed in the community center for quick access during events The grant also supports training volunteers, ensuring people are prepared to respond to emergencies With these devices and volunteers ready, community members and event attendees now benefit from fast, life-saving care
Owen County Farmers’ Market - $1,000
A grant helped the Owen County Farmers’ Market host a Farm-to-Table Community Dinner featuring local produce, desserts, and beverages This support created a memorable community experience while strengthening the market’s role as a hub for local agriculture and engagement in Owen County.
2024 Community Investment Grantee Updates
Hoosier Trails Council - $4,200
An OCCF grant supported the Boys & Girls Club of Owen County’s aftercare STEM program, which was hosted in conjunction with Hoosier Trails Council, giving local students the chance to engage in fun,
hands-on learning during the 2024–2025 school year Coordinators shared that students consistently looked forward to the lessons, which combined STEM activities with positive character-building concepts drawn from the Scout Law, such as being trustworthy, loyal, and kind This program is helping youth build both practical skills and lifelong values, creating a meaningful and lasting impact in their development.
County Family YMCA - $5,000
With a boost from OCCF, the YMCA’s weight room is stronger than ever, literally. A recent grant helped to fund 16 new pieces of user-friendly strength equipment, attracting a more diverse range of members,
from seniors and women to first-time lifters. The upgraded machines are easier to adjust, safer to use, and have members reporting smoother workouts, greater strength, and higher satisfaction, contributing to the Y’s recent “above-average facility” rating from YUSA benchmarks This investment is building better health, stronger connections, and a more active community
2025 Community Investment Grantee Updates
Freedom Community Center -
$2,200
A 2025 OCCF grant is bringing a brand-new playground to the Freedom Community Center, replacing unsafe, outdated equipment This addition will give children a safe place to play while parents and neighbors gather for events, meetings, and celebrations The new playground will make visits more enjoyable for families, encouraging them to spend time together and strengthening the sense of community that the Center fosters The Freedom Community Center shared that, even with regular fundraisers, it would have taken years to afford this upgrade without OCCF’s support By funding the purchase and installation, this 2025 grant ensures the playground will be around for many years to come.
M & M Horse Rescue - $1,968.50
Two Rapid Response grants, from 2024 and 2025, helped M & M Horse Rescue launch a professional website to share their mission, connect with supporters, and promote adoptable horses. The site includes their story, ways to donate or volunteer, adoption information, and so much more! It also integrates with OCCF’s donation portal, links to social media, and is optimized for mobile devices to reach more people. This online presence makes it easier than ever for the community to learn about the rescue and get involved. This investment is helping the organization share its work more widely, attract new supporters, and ultimately save more horses in need. To learn more about their mission, visit wwwmandmhorserescueorg
GRANTS
Food Pantry Grants - Freeman Charitable Food Fund
The Freeman Charitable Food Fund was created from the estate of Joe “Big Joe” Freeman, whose wish was to “feed the poor of Owen County.” A generous and humble man, Joe lived simply but left a powerful legacy that continues to touch countless lives. Since 2006, his gift has provided more than $175,000 to local food pantries while preserving the fund for the future Today, the fund continues to provide critical support to food pantries across Owen County, ensuring that families facing hardship have access to nutritious food Thanks to Joe’s foresight and generosity, nearly $19,000 will be granted in 2026, offering a meaningful boost to food security across the county His story is a reminder of how one person’s vision can make a difference for generations, and OCCF is honored to help carry out his wish to care for his neighbors To support this fund and provide critical funding to local food pantries, please visit bit ly/FreemanCharitableFoodFund
2025 Food Pantry Grantees
Hoosier Hills Food Bank - $4,500
Indiana Health Centers - $1,000
La Campagne Ministries - $1,000
Lighthouse Fellowship Church - $2,000
Mark of Discipleship Inc - $8,11825
Pantry 279 - $2,000
2025 Fall Rapid Response Grants
The intended purpose of Rapid Response Grants is to provide immediate support of up to $1,000 for operations, emergency equipment purchases, and funds for completing a project From July 1 to September 30 , 10 Rapid Response Grants have been awarded to nonprofits serving Owen County st th
Crossroads Ranch, Inc - $850 - Classroom Projector
Cunot Food Pantry Inc. - $1,000 - Roof Repair
Friends of Olive Hill Cemetery, Inc - $1,000 - Nonprofit Startup & Fundraising Expenses
Gosport VFW Auxiliary Post 7850 - $1,000 - Wreaths Across America
La Campagne Ministries - $1,000 - Gutter Installation
Owen County Boys & Girls Club- $1,000 - Owen County Cooks for Kids
Owen County Fair Association - $89011 - 4-H Animal Processing to Feed Hungry
PEAK Animal Sanctuary - $1,000 - Purchase a Used UTV
Senior Friends of Owen County - $1,000 - Keeping Owen County Seniors Cool
Spencer Pride - $1,000 - Upgraded Fire Alarm Control Unit for New Elevator
GIVING BACK
Fund Spotlight: Aquatic Training Saves Lives
Established in 2021, the Aquatic Training Saves Lives Fund provides scholarships for swimming lessons, lifeguard training, and other water safety programs This endowed fund ensures that future generations have access to acquire the skills they need to stay safe in and around water
The fund’s roots trace back to when the Owen County Family YMCA became the recipient of a Lilly Endowment Inc grant, with the support of the OCCF “It was that grant, perseverance, donors of all ages, teamwork of dedicated volunteers throughout our community, along with Jim and Sally Vance’s generosity and vision of a state-of-the-art indoor pool for our community, that made the YMCA a reality.” For fund founder, Kathy Wisley, that milestone carried deep personal meaning
"Once the pool was built, my frequently recurring nightmare of a little girl drowning under a dock finally stopped It’s every parent’s worst nightmare to lose a child to drowning Recalling several tragic drownings, I realized the pool was built, but not everyone could afford to get the training needed to keep loved ones safe” Kathy then felt called to take the next step by creating a fund that would protect others through education and training “Water safety is one purpose where I feel God has called me to serve this community You too can make a difference Volunteer, donate any amount, and start saving lives today”
Want to Support this Project?
Visit bit ly/AquaticFund or mail a check or cash to PO Box 503, Spencer, IN 47460 with “Aquatic Training Saves Lives” in the memo
Nonprofit Spotlight: Servants At Work
Since 2003, Servants at Work (SAWs) has been on a mission to restore independence and dignity to individuals facing mobility challenges Founded by Rik Hagarty, the organization started small, relying on a few committed volunteers and simple aluminum ramp designs In those early days, it could take up to three days to complete a build Today, with refined processes and dedicated volunteers, a fully functional wooden ramp can be installed in as little as three hours This remarkable efficiency means more people can quickly regain the freedom to safely leave their homes, something many of us take for granted
SAWs is a faith-based organization, but their work is rooted in compassion, not religious affiliation. They serve anyone in need, with priority given to long-term disability and low-income households, specifically those earning less than $4,000 a month. The demand is great. Across Indiana’s 70 counties, more than 300 people are currently waiting for a ramp. All clients come to SAWs through referrals, ensuring resources are directed to those who need them most.
In Owen County and the surrounding region of Monroe, Brown, and Lawrence counties, a dedicated team of 22 local volunteers answers the call Their work is entirely hands-on, providing custom-built wooden ramps that transform lives in just a few hours While SAWs welcomes new volunteers across the state, the strength of this local team has made a lasting difference for neighbors in need In every build, SAWs demonstrates that mobility is more than just movement; it is a lifeline to independence, community, and hope
2025 & 2026 IMPORTANT DATES
November 26: The online application process begins for all OCCF scholarships For details, visit owencountycforg/students
December 2: Giving Tuesday, often stylized as #GivingTuesday for purposes of hashtag activism, refers to the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. It is a movement to create a national day of giving at the beginning of the Christmas and holiday season.
December 31: Last day to make year-end gifts for 2025 tax purposes. Start planning now!
January 1: The online application process opens for all 2026 OCCF grants Learn more and apply at bitly/occfgrants
January 16: The online application closes for all OCCF scholarships. For details, visit owencountycf.org/students.
February 1 - February 28: Celebrate the OCCF’s 32 Anniversary with a $1 for $1 match campaign for nonprofits with designated funds at the Foundation!
The Owen County Community Foundation would like to extend our sincere gratitude to World Arts for their partnership in printing for over 30 years!