Photo Credit: Jonathan Balash
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
VALUES VALUES
Philanthropy
Stewardship Leadership Integrity Excellence Respect
BOARD BOARD
Chairperson
Ronda Stogsdill
Vice Chair
Danielle Conner
Secretary
Amber Mullin
Treasurer
Carol Tucker
Jonathan Balash
Jessica Brinson
Susan Elkins
Ashley Fleetwood
Shelley Harriman (NEW)
Grant Minnemeyer
Emily Pavich (NEW)
Marcus Robinson (NEW)
Ed Staubach
Steve Withem
STAFF STAFF
Janet Rummel
President & CEO
ceo@owencountycforg
Karah Bobeck
Director of Programs & Communications karah@owencountycforg
Connie Murphy
Director of Community Engagement & Administration
operations@owencountycf.org
Kyle Hannon
Director of MYPath & Nonprofit Alliance
Mypath@owencountycforg
Chairperson’s Message
It is an honor to serve with the Owen County Community Foundation and witness firsthand the power of connection Time and again, I have seen people turn to OCCF with ideas, dreams, and opportunities to improve our county, knowing they will find a trusted partner willing to listen, collaborate, and assist in bringing those visions to life.
The OCCF serves as a catalyst for good, bringing together people and possibility to create meaningful change. Through the generosity of donors, the dedication of volunteers, and the vision of our citizens, we amplify the power of giving, support important initiatives, encourage growth, and help strengthen our county. The results can be seen every day in stronger organizations, greater access to resources, and lives enriched through collaboration and shared purpose. Whether through support for food assistance programs, family support services, health and wellness initiatives, lifelong learning and student success, animal welfare, historic preservation, or spaces for recreation and belonging, OCCF helps align generosity with purpose and transform good ideas into lasting results
As you read through this newsletter, I hope you will see the heart behind the work Every story represents neighbors helping neighbors, individuals sharing their time, donors choosing to invest, and an exceptional OCCF staff Their passion for serving our community, combined with the support of many others, is what turns possibility into progress I am continually inspired by the compassion, kindness, and dedication that unite all who contribute to OCCF's mission Together, we are preserving what makes Owen County special, creating new possibilities for the future, and building a legacy of good that will endure well beyond our own time
Sweet Owen is a beautiful place, but what makes it truly special is the spirit of those who call it home Their willingness to invest in one another, support meaningful causes, and create opportunities for the future strengthens the very fabric of the place we call home. Thank you for the difference you make, not only today, but for generations to come.
Ronda Stogsdill
OCCF
Chairperson
Front Cover Photo : The Rainbow Birders discover colorful birds along MYPath
Photo Credit: Jonathan Balash
New Director Spotlight - Shelley, Emily, & Marcus
Shelley Harriman was raised in Owen County, attended The Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Humanities before studying business, history and political science at Indiana University She owns and operates Harriman Farms Greenhouse with help from her husband, Evan McKalip Together they have two kids, Emma and Grant She serves on the Owen County Farm Bureau Board, is the Spencer Tri Kappa chapter secretary and scholarship chair, and serves on the Foundation’s Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Committee One of her favorite community projects is growing the hanging baskets for downtown Spencer
One thing she appreciates about the OCCF is the ability to focus on specific needs; not only through the grants program, but also through the diversity of funds that exist. And if the fund doesn't yet exist? The Foundation is here to help a don can be done to support specific projects and purposes.
Emily Pavich grew up in Owen County, attended Patricksburg Elementary, Owen Valley Middle and High School before earning her Doctor of Pharmacy from Purdue University
She and her husband, Joe, spent time in Atlanta, GA and Bloomington before returning to her family's farm to raise their three children: Charlotte, Margaret, and Thomas Emily works in emergency department pharmacy at IU Health, teaches at Purdue's College of Pharmacy, and volunteers at Gerard Chapel Food Pantry
Emily was introduced to the OCCF through the Lilly Endowment Scholarship program as a student She has served on the Foundation’s Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Committee since 2024, enjoying the opportunity to learn about the positive impact local students make in their community. Her favorite OCCF project is MYPath, and as a runner, she is excited about its future expansion.
Summer
Marcus Robinson, originally from Chicago, moved to Owen County in 2012 and has proudly called the community home for the past 14 years. He is married to his wife, Kirsten, and works as a Financial Advisor at Edward Jones. He has served on several local boards and organizations, including the Soil and Water Conservation Board, YMCA Board, Owen County Economic Development, and the Owen County Chamber of Commerce He is also involved with Spencer Lodge No 95 F&AM, the Scottish Rite, Spencer Lions Club, and the Exchange Club
His favorite OCCF event is the Jim Fulford Golf Open, which combines his love of golf with supporting the community He also appreciates the Foundation’s Lilly Gift IX Match Program for the lasting impact it creates by helping donors maximize their giving and strengthen the community he is proud to call home
Interns
Thanks to grants from Lilly Endowment Inc., the OCCF welcomed back two interns this summer!
Skylar, a junior at Purdue University, helps support the OCCF’s community presence through outreach, communications, and marketing projects
Katelyn, a junior at Indiana University, is working with The Owen News Project, and is assisting with financial operations, coordinating advertisements, and helping with day-to-day
COMMUNITY PROJECTS
The Owen News: Awards and Office Space
The Owen News attended the Indiana Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists’ annual awards program on April 17, celebrating some of the best journalism produced across the state in 2025 Competing alongside professional journalists and news organizations from throughout Indiana, The Owen News earned four awards recognizing excellence in local reporting and storytelling.
The publication received first place in Features Writing, along with three second place awards in the categories of Coverage of Government or Politics, Criminal Justice Reporting, and Coverage of Children’s Issues. The honors reflect The Owen News’ continued commitment to in-depth, community-centered journalism and meaningful coverage of issues impacting Owen County residents.
In addition to its award-winning reporting, The Owen News is also entering an exciting new chapter with the expansion of its workspace. After previously hosting office hours at the OCCF and The Exchange, the organization is moving into its own dedicated space on the courthouse square. The new location will provide a permanent home base for reporting, collaboration, and connecting with community members.
Renovations on the space are currently underway, with plans to officially open to the public later this year.
Owen County Joins America’s 250th Celebration
A committee of local volunteers, including the OCCF, Spencer Main Street, Indiana Cast Stone, Spencer Pride, Town of Spencer, Friends of MYPath, and Shelia Reeves, helped lead Owen County’s participation in the nationwide America 250 commemoration honoring the United States’ semiquincentennial in 2026
As part of the statewide celebration, Owen County welcomed a commemorative lantern relay during a Memorial Day program held at Lutheran Cemetery in Patricksburg Inspired by the signal lanterns of the Revolutionary War era, the relay connects communities across Indiana in anticipation of America’s 250th anniversary The lantern continued traveling through several counties before returning to Indianapolis, where it was displayed at the Indiana War Memorial as part of the statewide commemoration
In addition to participating in the lantern relay, Owen County was awarded a grant through the Indiana Semiquincentennial Commission to support anniversary celebrations locally Spencer Main Street and VFW Post 1405 hosted live music and more in front of the Tivoli Theatre for a community celebration honoring America’s 250 birthday on July 4 Three “Liberty” trees were purchased using the grant funds and have been planted in Cooper Commons Stone signage highlighting the trees’ unique role in the 250 anniversary of our country coming soon thanks to Indiana Cast Stone th th th
Lastly, VFW Post 1405 commissioned a patriotic mural honoring local veterans as part of Owen County’s semiquincentennial celebrations The mural will serve as a lasting tribute for years to come.
Owen County Chamber Chicken Chuck
On Saturday, June 13, the Owen County Chamber of Commerce hosted its second annual Chester Chicken Chuck, bringing together community members, local organizations, and plenty of chicken-themed fun on the Courthouse Square
Six nonprofit organizations participated in this year’s event, each receiving a $50 mini-grant from the OCCF in recognition of their involvement and community spirit Participating nonprofits included Area 10 Agency on Aging, VFW Post 1405, Owen County Humane Society, Owen County Boys & Girls Club, Friends of MYPath Trail System, Inc , and Pantry 279
One of the highlights of the event was the costume contest, where participants showcased their creativity and enthusiasm. The Owen County Humane Society earned an additional $50 mini-grant after winning the audience-voted competition through a round of enthusiastic applause.
The festivities also included the popular Chicken Window Painting contest, which added a colorful touch to downtown storefronts The OCCF joined in the fun by creating its own chicken-themed window display Spencer Pride was named the winner, and the award was accepted by a Pride volunteer, Connie Murphy
Owen County Nonprofits Coming Together
The OCCF recently launched the Owen County Nonprofit Alliance, a program designed to bring nonprofit organizations together to learn, collaborate, and strengthen their impact across Owen County. The Alliance was created to help local nonprofits become more effective in their work while building stronger connections within the nonprofit community.
Through monthly meetings, participants have the opportunity to hear from experienced leaders, discuss common challenges, share ideas, and discover new resources Topics covered so far have included finance and budgeting, grant writing, volunteer recruitment and management, and nonprofit networking Upcoming sessions will focus on areas such as fundraising, donor development, and strategic planning
The Owen County Nonprofit Alliance is open to any nonprofit organization serving Owen County, whether they are looking for assistance, seeking new partnerships, or hoping to share their own knowledge By bringing organizations together in one place, the Alliance encourages collaboration and helps nonprofits learn from one another while working toward their unique missions
Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of the month. Nonprofits interested in attending or learning more about future meetings are encouraged to contact Kyle Hannon at Mypath@owencountycf.org for additional information.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Your OCCF proudly presented 69 scholarship awards to high school seniors and postsecondary students during the April 26 Scholarship Awards Program This year, the OCCF awarded $157,425 in scholarships: $117,275 to 32 Owen Valley, Cloverdale, Edgewood, and Tabernacle Christian, graduating high school seniors; and $44,000 to 17 postsecondary students who currently attend college and technical education institutions
th While the scholarships all have different eligibility requirements, one goal remains the same to make higher education more accessible and affordable for Owen County students. The 2026 scholarship awards & recipients are listed below.
2026 Angela Dawn Smith Memorial Scholarship (NEW)
Elliza Gentry
2026 Babbs Supermarket Scholarship
Nolan Gonser
Sadie Neff - in memory of Charlie Hamilton
2026 Bennie J. and Joan R. Woodruff
Scholarship
Sadie Neff
2026 Burns Family Scholarship
Alexys Ingram
2026 Charles T. Cooper Scholarship
Hailey Rubottom
2026 Charles W. Edwards Scholarship
Jenna Harris
2026 Clinton & Louise Abrell Scholarship
Rain Newman
2026 Coal City Alumni/Jefferson Township Scholarship
Hannah Bixler
2026 Coyne Family Scholarship
Madison Kay
2026 Dick (Mr. Dyar) & Sue Dyar Scholarship
Elliza Gentry
Savannah Leighton
Reagan Martin
2026 Elliott Hickam Memorial Scholarship
Dillon Bell
2026-2029 EPIC Scholarship
Victoria Simmerman
2026 Freedom Alumni Scholarship
John Truax
2026 Gary McCarter Scholarship
Serenity Ferguson
2026 George & Nancy Thurston Scholarship
Rain Newman
2026 Gosport Alumni Scholarship
Serenity Ferguson
2026 Gosport Lions Club Scholarship
Serenity Ferguson
2026 Ione W. Fulk Scholarship
Madison Kay
2026 James P. Root Scholarship
John Truax
2026 Jeffrey Wayne Johnson Scholarship
Kaylynn Paris
2026 Jim & Wilma Fulford Scholarship
Kayleigh Patton
2026 Jim, Leota, & Kevin Fulk Scholarship
Amelia Norris
2026 Joe Carmichael & Gary W. Boruff Sons of American Legion Scholarship
Sadie Neff
Rain Newman
2026 John & Sylvia Dyar Academic Award (NEW) Phuc (Kai) Tran
Kaitlynn Padgett
2026 Josephine Brown Owens Scholarship
Emily Lanning
2026 Judy Hamilton Education Scholarship
Mollie Wainscott
2026 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship
Dustin Jackson
2026 Lloyd H. & Rosalie E. Lucas AgriScience FFA Scholarship
Bryson Cooper
2026 Lloyd H. & Rosalie E. Lucas AgriScience 4-H Scholarship
Madilynn Amick
2026 Loretta Heidrick Memorial Scholarship
Kinleigh Salyers
2026 Lyle & Marion Brighton Scholarship
Lilli Hoy
2026 MacMorran Family Scholarship
Mollie Wainscott
Madyson Whicker
2026 Margaret Marley Pinkston Scholarship
Elliza Gentry
2026 Mearl & LaVerne Brown Scholarship
Serenity Ferguson
2026 Melvin & Margaret Hall Nursing Scholarship
Hannah Walden
2026 Michael D. Magner Scholarship
Lucas Hendershot
2026 Michael Job Vocational Scholarship
Allyson Heidrich
2026 Mildred Harbison Scholarship
Cambria King
2026 Monroe, Long, & Butts
Vocational Scholarship
Mallory Tamplin
2026 Morgan L. Drescher Family Scholarship
Sean Goss
2026 Our Community Bank Scholarship
Boston Chambers
2026 Owen County Farm Bureau Scholarship
Madilynn Amick
Bryson Cooper
Kailee Cooper
Maggie Feltner
Haley Lehr
Brooklyn Terrell
2026 Owen County IU Varsity Club Scholarship
Claire Paquette
2026 Owen Valley FFA Scholarship
Allison Anderson
2026 Patricksburg Alumni Scholarship
Hannah Bixler
2026 PFC Brett Wood Memorial Scholarship
Dillon Bell
2026 Quincy Alumni Scholarship
John Truax
2026 R.E. Dillingham and C.L. Patterson Dillingham Scholarship
Isabella Harris
2026 Robert & Barbara Bonness Scholarship
Haley Lehr
2026 Robert & Barbara Stanley
Bonness Future Elementary Educator
Scholarship Victoria Simmerman
2026 Roma Wilson Scholarship
Katelin Henson
Madyson Whicker
2026 Spencer Alumni Scholarship
Levi Gray
2026 Tri Kappa Cochrane-Royer Scholarship
Rebecca York
2026 Tri Kappa Continuing Education Scholarship
- in honor of Marge Neumeyer
Jenna Harris
2026 Tri Kappa Lillian Dyar Music Scholarship
Rain Newman
2026 Tristan Calvin Memorial Scholarship
Emily Lanning
2026 West & Parrish & Pedigo Funeral Home Scholarship
Mallory Tamplin
2026 William Truax Family Scholarship
Mason Paauwe
Dustin Jackson, 2026 Owen County Lilly Endowment Community Scholar
The Owen County Community Foundation is proud to recognize Dustin Jackson as the 2026 Owen County Lilly Endowment Community Scholar. A 2026 graduate of Owen Valley High School, Dustin plans to attend Purdue University this fall to study Computer Science. Throughout high school, he was involved in Air Force JROTC, Robotics Club, OV Band, and Patriot Platoon, while also gaining valuable hands-on experience through IT internships with Spencer-Owen Community Schools and Ivy Tech Community College
Dustin’s passion for technology, leadership, and mentoring others has shaped both his academic and career goals. Through the Robotics Club, he served as programming leader and enjoyed teaching younger students coding and problemrned the CompTIA A+ certification through Regional Opportunity Initiatives’ Upskill everal honors, including the JROTC American Legion Scholastic Award, the Military rt Award, and a Certificate of Excellence in Principles of Computer Science.
bout receiving the 2026 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship, “ The Lilly Scholarship erfect opportunity to pursue my dreams I am grateful to be granted this opportunity undation and I promise I will not take it for granted Not only will this make college more affordable for me, but it will also make it easier for me to give back to the community I’ve grown up in”
The 2027 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship application for Owen County will be available July 1, 2026 - August 31, 2026. TheLegacy Summer2026 7
MEMORIALS & TRIBUTES
We received the following Memorial & Tribute gifts from January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026 The name of the person being memorialized or honored is in bold
MEMORIALS
Mary Ackerman
Michael C Ackerman
George Allison
Bill & Rebecca Applegate
Charles & Kay Cochran
Marilyn A. Hart OCCF Board & Staff
Ally Diane Richards
Pat & Ray Baldwin
Melvin Lestock
Dick & Sue Dyar
Tatum Dyar
John Hackworthy
Judy Jenkins
Jack & Marilyn DeFord
John Hackworthy
Judi Epp
Anonymous Donors
Fred & Kathy Balash
Patricia Cowin
Sherry D Dick
John J. Fuhs
Owen County Garden Club
Jim & Wilma Fulford
John Hackworthy
John & Meme Gillaspy
Anonymous
John Hackworthy
Bill Gilliam
Owen County Family YMCA
Chad Glasscock
Jodi Threatt
Mary Margaret Goldstein
Kenneth Goldstein
Rod Hall
Leslie Ann Sinnot
Pat Hayes
Rebecca Hayes
Jason Hinkle
Martha Jean Buis
Nathan, Randy, & Ray Buis
Jennifer Buis
S. Kay Burrus
Anonymous
Shea Finnegan
Fishers Pride
Jacqueline Hall
Rex Hinkle
Houston Family Foundation
Becky Long Keesling
Richard & Myrna Fields
Danny Hoyt
Anonymous Bernadene Kay
CV1/CV2
Karen Crosby
Tristan Calvin
Richard & Koreenia Calvin
Shane & Connie Jennings
Misty Chapman
David Friedel & Ann Mahrdt
Alexander ClarkAnonymous
Sam Edward Combs
Leslie Ann Sinnott
Charles T. Cooper
John Hackworthy
Jon Deal
Claudia Starr Chastain
Travis Deal
Claudia Starr Chastain
Whitney Deal
Nancy Deal
Shawn Hochstetler
Russell & Louise Duling
Susan Vaughn
Kathy Kessler
Mike Mader
Marissa Mallo
James Marshall
Lucie Mathieu
Amanda Nixon & Debbie Messer
Monica Morris
CJay & Connie Murphy
Martha Nally
Phillip & Jameson O’Neal
Alvaro & Leslie Nieves
Ellyn Barham-Pruitt
Casey Shively
Damon Spivey
Ed & Joani Staubach
Annie Stewart
Terry Urban
Kaye Erney
Anonymous Donors
Daniel & Raquel Browning
Stephen & Kathleen Harriman
Shelley Harriman & Evan McKalip
OCCF Board & Staff
Jeff & Rhonda Phillips
Mark & Nancy Snapp
Matt & Mandy Wall
Tom & Becky Wallace
Tom & Becky Wallace
Irene & Arthur Kelley
Darin & Carol Tucker
Thomas King
Jeff & Hope Huston
Roger Kinney
John & Sylvia Dyar
Ed & Nancy White
Anne Kirchgraber-McKee
Owen County Public Library
Geri Warner
Jack Maegerlein
Anonymous
Gary McCarter
Bill & Michelle McCarter
Leonard & Joan Wray
Jill McKay
Marilyn Clark
The Pavich Family
Carol Miller
Ryan & Susan Crist
Christina Miller
Bruce & Rhea Pickett
Kenny Mize
Leslie Ann Sinnott
Barb Myers
Robin Hines and Family
Drew O’Connor
Gail O’Connor
Janet Hubbard O’Neill
SHS Alumni Class of 1959
Betty Lillian Orr
William Goehrig Orr
Dale & Josephine Owens
Wayne & Emily Mobley
Frank Parrish
Tom & Karen Fulk
Flona Everly Query
Anonymous
Deonna Shane Bemish
Larry Harris
Susie Snapp Huffman
Nancy Job
Patricia Newforth
Jeffrey Tim Query
Jon & Lisa Stantz
Miles Straly
Damon & Susan Summerlot
Sandra Truex
Vandalia Community Preservation Association Inc
Reapp Nursing Home
Beth Guerrettaz
David L. Risk, Sr.
Friends of Kristi Risk, Candidate State
Senate 39
Patty Sadler
Walter Sadler
Roger “Slick” Sandburn
John & Sylvia Dyar
Kip Seidenstucker
Mary Ellen C. Smith
Angela Dawn Smith
Jerry & Mary Ann Smith
Mike & Barbara Spinks
John Hackworthy
Dirk & Sherry Tucker
Kirby Stogsdill
Michael & Judith Boyd
Ronda Stogsdill
Laura & Ivan Strand
Brian Strand
Marvin Taylor
Gosport VFW Auxilary Post 7850
Ronnie Thatcher
Fred & Mary Jo Thatcher and Family
Gerald Wells
Jason Thompson
Gosport VFW Auxiliary Post 7850
David A. Tinsley
Anonymous
Walter Charles "Bud" Tinsley
Katie & the Peeps
Gib Tucker
Dirk & Sherry Tucker
Margie Tucker
Vera Hughes
Zach Tucker
John Hackworthy
Dirk & Sherry Tucker
Phyllis Tucker
Barb Tuttle
Braysville Homemakers Association
Jim & Sally Vance
John Hackworthy
Carroll & Gregory Walker
Stanley & Linda Harris
Jon Walker
Stanley & Nancy Griffith
Carroll & Cindy Walters
Marilyn Walters
John Wardlaw
Ed & Joani Staubach
Erika Wells
Martha & Jerry Kaehr
Roma Wilson
John Hackworthy
PFC Brett Wood Nancy L Deal
Donna Woodruff
Spencer Presbyterian Church
Lavoran Wright
Dixie Richardson
Wilbur & Frances Young
Brenda Young
TRIBUTES
Rob & Cassie Babbs
John Hackworthy
John & Sylvia Dyar
John Hackworthy
John Hackworthy
Michelle Boyd
Austin & Lucas Minor
Mary Minor
Victoria Neff
Anton Karl Neff
Patricia Newforth
Anonymous
Elvis Pickle
The Esteemed
Dot Staley
James M McCammack
Joani Staubach
Anonymous
Gordon & Diane Wells
John Hackworthy
Martha & Jerry Kaehr
Andy & Stacy Wood
Darin & Carol Tucker
Tom & Becky Wallace
GRANTS
2026 Community Investment Grants
This spring, the OCCF awarded $62,325 in Community Investment Grants to 13 local organizations working to meet community needs and enhance quality of life across Owen County These flexible, strategic grants reflect OCCF’s mission to create lasting, locally led impact, now and for future generations
Area 10 Council on Aging Rural Transit
$5000 grant for a door-to-door public transit service serving the entire county for all
Boys & Girls Club of Owen County Summer Field Trips
$4,995 grant will help provide summer field trip opportunities for Owen County Boys & Girls Club members, covering staffing, transportation, admission fees, and snacks. Roughly 150 children between the ages of 5 to 18 attend full-day summer programming at the Club and will benefit from this program
Crossroad Teen Leade
$4,830 grant w pp , y g p y , using horses, guest speakers, and off-site activities to build confidence, goal-setting, and life skills for teens This will help support teens who volunteer regularly and help with younger kids, empowering them to help other youth in the future
Friends of McCormick’s Creek State Park New Face for Trail 3
$5,000 grant for a new stone surface and treated wooden staircase repair on Trail 3 from the Inn down to the falls overlook at McCormick’s Creek State Park These upgrades will allow the trail to be more accessible to those with mobility challenges and inviting to all visitors of the park
Gosport Lions Club Park Benches & Trash Receptacles
$5,000 grant to purchase and install four new black metal park benches with four matching trash receptacles in the Gosport Town Park as part of the master development plan Currently there is one trash receptacle for the entire park and no benches in the development area
Owen County Fair Association Internet on the Fairgrounds
$2,500 grant to bring reliable internet access to the fairgrounds, improving connectivity for events, operations, vendors, and guests. The internet would be available to individuals or businesses who utilize the Community/4-H Exhibit Hall for family events, 4-H trainings, business meetings, and banquets.
Owen County Family YMCA YMCA Pool Filter Upgrades
$5,000 grant to replace aging pool filters to maintain safe, clean water. Updated filtration will protect the county’s only year-round indoor pool and ensure continued health and safety for the community. After completion, the YMCA will maintain 100% compliance with local and state health standards.
Owen County Preservations, Inc. Projecting Better Days Fundraiser
$5,000 grant to replace the Tivoli’s aging projector system so the historic theatre can continue offering movies and diverse programs that provide relaxation and shared experiences for residents of all ages and backgrounds As Owen County’s only indoor movie theatre, the Tivoli provides entertainment for a broad section of the community
Owen Valley Middle School Athletics Wrestling Mats
$5,000 grant will fund the replacement of wrestling mats that have been in use for more than 20 years, enhancing safety for 245 athletes in grades Pre-K–12 during daily use through the wrestling season The middle school houses both middle school and elementary practices, duals, and tournaments
GRANTS
Pantry 279 Second Van
$5,000 grant to increase Pantry 279's transportation capacity by purchasing a second van. They utilize their current van to transport food, donations, and supplies, but it does not meet their current needs. Pantry 279 currently serves more than 2,000 unique individuals from Owen County.
South Central Community Action Program
Owen County Cool 2026
$5,000 grant to provide relief from health and quality-of-life harms directly reported by clients last year, with increased risk reduction materials and obtaining or replacing window a/c prioritized over fans Their focus populations include clients with elderly and/or disabled heads of household or working families with children
T10 Sports
Project Safe Access
$5,000 grant to establish and maintain the area’s only 24-hour access sports and fitness facility. This project will allow them to grant, monitor, and restrict access remotely at any given time. Tier 10 currently offers 24 hours access to the building for patrons, but is not able to properly monitor traffic in and out.
2026 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 As of June 30th, 7 Rapid Response Grants have been awarded to nonprofits serving Owen County
Braysville Homemakers Association - $800 - Books for Owen County Kindergartners
M & M Horse Rescue Inc - $1,000 - Barn/Arena
Owen County Art Guild - $1,000 - Flood Damage Repair from Spring 2025
Owen County Chamber of Commerce & EDC - $500 - Office Chairs
Owen County Health Department - $1,000 - Beach Bash Expo
Owen Valley High School - $1,000 - Governor’s Work Ethic Certificate Billboard
Sobremesa Foundation, Inc. - $1,000 - Locally Grown Food for Pantry 279
Nonprofits with an immediate funding need are encouraged to apply for a Rapid Response Grant
MYPATH TRAIL SYSTEM
MYPath Extended
With the recent acquisition of property along the White River, MYPath was extended another 2,000 feet toward its ultimate goal of connecting with McCormick’s Creek State Park.
The OCCF and the Soil and Water Conservation District secured the property at 1375 River Road, which will connect MYPath to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources boat ramp on River Road. A hiking trail will be improved along the river side of the road Keep in mind, the new trail is more like a state park trail, not an ADA paved trail Friends of MYPath hope to have the moderately rugged trail complete by the end of the summer
The new trail features a scenic path along the river, a walk along a limestone path, and a grass trail through new property Though White River floods cover the rocky path at the river’s edge, most of the time it is a scenic feature that is used for fishing and hiking
Once completed, the new trail will end within a mile and a half of the McCormick’s Creek State Park gatehouse. The Foundation, which had been the driving force for creating this trail from its beginning, is considering options to reach the park
Birders Flocking to MYPath
Is it the curve in the river? The natural setting? Whatever the reason, MYPath attracts a lot of different types of birds, which means it attracts a lot of people who enjoy seeing and recording the birds. Birders have been uploading their findings to the “eBird” website, which now reports 163 species that have been seen on our trail.
It is not uncommon to see someone walking on MYPath, carrying a camera with an enormous lens to get a close-up photograph of a particular bird Rainbow Birders from Spencer Pride host regular group outings at MYPath Even non-birders enjoy seeing the variety of birds along the trail, especially when the bald eagle flies over
Trail Users Keep Increasing
According to the trail counters along MYPath, we are happy to report that an increasing number of people have been enjoying the trail. This is important information for grant applications, recreation data, and economic development information These counts are from the Trailhead counter, which is near the beginning of the trail
MYPath 5K: September 12th
Runners and walkers will enjoy the scenic MYPath 5k route on Saturday, September 12, 8:30 am. The event starts and finishes at the Owen County Fairgrounds. The route goes through Cooper Commons and covers both paved and unpaved sections of MYPath. The proceeds from this event have been helpful in maintaining and expanding the trail.
This is our third year hosting this fun event. We hope to see you there.
GIVING BACK Fund Spotlights
Last October, Lilly Endowment Inc. announced GIFT IX, an initiative designed to provide community foundations across Indiana with resources to strengthen the quality of life in their communities. Through GIFT IX, every $1 donated to a new or existing Community Impact Fund, also known as an Unrestricted Fund, will be matched with $2 through June 30, 2028. This means each donation has the potential to triple its impact on Owen County's future.
Community Impact Funds offer flexibility, allowing the OCCF to respond to emerging needs and opportunities as they arise At the same time, these funds help grow the Foundation’s endowment, ensuring support for future generations
The combination of the Lilly Endowment’s GIFT IX match and the lasting impact of Community Impact Funds has inspired many local residents to establish new funds that will benefit Owen County for years to come While each donor has a unique reason for giving, many are motivated by the opportunity to maximize their impact through the GIFT IX initiative
One such donor is Ed Staubach, who created the Joani Staubach I Love the OC Fund as an anniversary gift for his wife, Joani Reflecting on the decision, Ed shared: “At a certain age, one stops accumulating ‘things’ So celebrating more than three decades of marriage with an Unrestricted Fund through the OCCF for the county in which we retired many years ago and the wonderful friends my wife has made was the perfect anniversary gift - especially since Lilly was offering a $2 for $1 match”
Another donor inspired by the opportunity to create a lasting impact was Aaron LaGrange, who established the LaGrange Family Fund. Aaron’s decision was rooted in his family’s commitment to education and community service, particularly the example set by his grandfather, a longtime educator in Perry County. Aaron shared, “Growing up seeing that example and being in a family heavily involved in education and community programs are the inspirations to carry on that legacy with this fund”
Another family motivated by the opportunity to make a lasting impact is the Neff family, who established the Neff Family Fund to support the future of Owen County Fund creator Tony Neff shared, “Owen County has been the Neff family home for fortynine years The OCCF has been an asset in enhancing the quality of life in Owen County and therefore making it a great place to live We would like to pay it forward by supporting the mission of the OCCF for years to come”
Stories like those of the Staubach, LaGrange, and Neff families demonstrate the many ways Community Impact Funds can help shape Owen County’s future While their generosity has helped the Foundation make significant progress, an additional $279,600 must be raised to unlock the full $750,000 available through Lilly Endowment’s GIFT IX initiative Every gift made to a Community Impact Fund through June 30, 2028, will be matched with $2, creating a unique opportunity to maximize your impact and help ensure lasting support for Owen County for generations to come.
Nonprofit Spotlight - Dottie’s Refuge
A nonprofit is taking shape in Owen County with a mission centered on hope, recovery, and second chances. Dottie’s Refuge is a Christ-centered nonprofit dedicated to helping women who are transitioning out of jail or prison, particularly those struggling with addiction or facing housing insecurity. The organization provides support, guidance, and stability as women work toward building healthy, independent lives.
The ministry was inspired by the story of a woman named Dottie, whom the organization’s original founder, Naomi, met while serving in jail ministry Dottie had nowhere to go after her release, and her story highlighted a need for support systems for women leaving incarceration. That experience ultimately led to the creation of Dottie’s Refuge in 2011. Dottie’s temporarily closed in 2024 but is being reopened and rejuvenated.
While the organization is still developing its programming, they are working to create a curriculum that addresses both recovery and life skills Plans include recovery-focused programming as well as bible studies, classes on budgeting, healthy relationships, fitness, and nutrition Organizers expect the program to evolve over time, to ensure they are meeting the unique needs of the women they serve
Participants will be required to attend recovery meetings and counseling as part of the program Counseling options will include both local community services and faith-based resources Dottie’s Refuge is beginning on a smaller scale but has plans to grow as community support increases Volunteers are encouraged to reach out to see where their gifts and skills can best serve the women
Beyond providing direct services, Dottie’s Refuge hopes to help reduce the stigma surrounding addiction and incarceration. By connecting women with resources, support, and opportunities, the organization seeks to bridge gaps in the community and create a path toward lasting recovery and independence.
To learn more about Dottie’s Refuge, including volunteer opportunities and ways to support its mission, contact Lindsey Sarnecki at 812-318-5288 or Dottiesrefugespencer@gmailcom
See list of eligible funds & donate at:
bit.ly/OCCFcommunityfunds
2026 IMPORTANT DATES
July 1: 2027 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship goes live, apply at bit ly/OCCFscholarship
August 5: August Nonprofit Alliance Meeting at IGA Building
August 31: Deadline to submit 2027 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Application, apply at bit ly/OCCFscholarship
September 17: Annual Jim Fulford Golf Open at Rolling Meadows Golf Course Sign up now at bit ly/2026OCCFJFO
October 5: Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Interviews
November 27: The online application process begins for all OCCF scholarships. For details, visit owencountycf.org/students
December 1: 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 2026 tax purposes. Start planning now!
The Owen County Community Foundation would like to extend our sincere gratitude to World Arts for their partnership in printing for over 30 years!