2023 Wayne County Foundation Annual Report

FOUNDATION WAYNE COUNTY

INVESTING IN COMMUNITY

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

WE ARE DELIGHTED TO PRESENT TO YOU OUR ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2023

Thank you for trusting the Foundation to support your charitable goals. As we reflect on the past year, we are filled with gratitude for the support from our community, partners, and stakeholders. We are proud to help steward these gifts that impact Wayne County.

Some of the highlights of the past year include the support of initiatives aimed at addressing quality of place, community needs, and nonprofit capacity building. In addition to our responsive grantmaking, we recognize the importance of investing in programs and initiatives that build strong foundations for the future. Whether through capacity-building grants for nonprofits or scholarships for aspiring students, we aim to empower individuals and organizations to thrive.

In 2023, the Foundation received $2.8 million in gifts, established 12 new funds, and granted more than $2 million to organizations supporting our community, including $350,000 in scholarship awards to rising or returning college students.

None of this would have been possible without our donors and the dedication of our board and committee members and staff. Your tireless efforts and generosity make an impact on the lives of individuals and families in our community.

We hope the stories on the following pages serve to illustrate the impact of the Foundation’s work throughout Wayne County and show what can be accomplished when people care enough to give generously to support their charitable interests and the community where they live. We are looking forward to the exciting opportunities ahead and your gifts will only strengthen them.

Brenda McLane Board Chair

Rebecca Gilliam Executive Director

2024 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars

Since the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program was first offered in 1998, 57 Wayne County students have received the scholarship. Recipients receive a 4-year, full tuition scholarship and book stipend to a public or private Indiana college or university of their choice.

Lorelei Guenther & Olivia Dudas

Lorelei Guenther is a senior at Centerville High School. By the end of her junior year, she had earned a 4.36 grade point average. She is involved in the CHS Drama Club, Model Legislature, and the Centerville chapter of Business Professionals of America, of which she was a founding member. Lorelei is also heavily involved in Centerville’s band, where she is the woodwind section leader.

She is attending Butler University to pursue a degree in education with a concentration in social studies. Her professional plans are to become a teacher.

Olivia Dudas is a senior at Richmond High School. By the end of her junior year, she had achieved a 4.27 grade point average. She serves as president of the RHS Student Council, section leader and captain for the band’s mellophone and high brass section, and secretary for the choir. Outside of school, Olivia started two philanthropic programs: the Traveling Bag of Kindness and the Love Bug campaign.

She plans to study music education at Butler University and aspires to become a band director.

Lorelei Guenther

Olivia Dudas

IMPACT OF GRANTMAKING AND SCHOLARSHIPS

The Wayne County Foundation offers organizations the ability to seek grants through three cycles per year. Mini grants, crisis, impact and nonprofit capacity building grants provide opportunities to a wider array of nonprofit organizations throughout the year.

Grantmaking is made possible through the generosity of donors have established funds at the Foundation.

In 2023, the Foundation granted $2,070,118 supporting 188 Nonprofit Organizations and $347,560 was awarded to local students to pursue higher education.

Thanks to our generous donors, the Wayne County Foundation administers nearly 150 scholarship funds and a variety of scholarships to area students seeking educational opportunities beyond high school. Eligibility requirements and selection criteria are determined by our donors. Each scholarship is unique and supports students with a variety of backgrounds, educational goals, and economic status. Awards are based on a competitive process which may consider academic achievement, extracurricular activities, personal aspirations, educational goals, and financial need.

THE POWER OF UNRESTRICTED FUNDS

Our donors often have specific interests like education, arts and culture, or human service needs. However, community needs can change unexpectedly and we must adapt to these shifts.

Unrestricted endowment funds are essential for our ability to respond effectively to evolving challenges and opportunities. These endowments provide flexibility, allowing us to address emerging needs, support innovative projects, and help nonprofits facing unforeseen challenges. Unrestricted giving contributes to a larger pool of funds that grow and support the community’s needs over time.

NEW FUNDS ESTABLISHED IN 2023

John and Geraldine Bullerdick Fund

Vicki Puterbaugh Clinton Scholarship Fund

Chad and Rebecca Gilliam Fund

David and Cheri Jetmore Donor Advised Fund

Father John Luerman Fund for St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church

Dudley and Rosemary Ramsey Memorial Fund

Red Devil Pride Athletic Boosters Fund

Tim Scales BOSS CEO Legacy Fund

George N. Schmid Unrestricted Fund

Rodgers/Stewart Charitable Community Fund

Vandor Employee Hope Fund

Vigran Family Donor Advised Fund who

In October 2023, Lilly Endowment announced the newest round of Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow community foundation initiative, Phase VIII (GIFT VIII). This initiative is based upon the Endowment’s longstanding belief that community foundations are uniquely positioned to play central roles in supporting and strengthening communities throughout Indiana.

Matching funds, up to $1.5 million, have been awarded to the Wayne County Foundation to enable our community to grow our unrestricted assets to implement projects and programs that address community needs. New gifts will TRIPLE in impact and contribute to Wayne County’s quality of life and place in areas such as arts and culture, community development, education, health and human services, and more.

Please visit waynecountyfoundation.org for a full list of 2023 scholarship recipients.

Photo courtsey of LifeStream Services Inc.

The Stidhams

Carla and Dave Stidham have a 30-year history as leaders in the Wayne County community. In 1994, their affiliation with the Wayne County Foundation started. They believed being local and supporting the community is “just good business.” The Stidhams established the David and Carla Stidham Fund in 2020 and utilized the matching grant offered through the Lilly GIFT (Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow) VII program to increase their ability to support the community.

“We were not philanthropists, we were a young family that cared about the community, our community.” Dave Stidham

Dave and Carla both graduated from Richmond Senior High School and received bachelor’s degrees from Ball State, Carla in education and Dave in business. In 1994, Dave took a job at US Bank as President in Wayne County and they made the decision to devote their time to serving the community. Understanding the importance of community, when asked about returning to Wayne County, Dave stated, “You only have one hometown.”

With their focus on the importance of supporting the community, Dave became highly active, serving on boards and committees. He served on the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, at one point as Interim President. He spent 12 years on the Richmond Community School Board and 11 years on the Ivy Tech Richmond Board of Trustees, along with the YMCA, and Reid Finance Committee. He served as a Trustee with Central United Methodist Church and currently serves on the Economic Growth Group Board of Directors.

Carla has stayed active in the community as a member and strong supporter of the Boys and Girls Club. Carla formed the musical group “The Sweet Sounds of Starr Valley” and taught adults and children how to play the dulcimer. She began the group in 2008 and they continue to play today. Carla was one of the first board members for Every Child Can Read, serving 10 years. Carla created the “Christmas Shop” for the Boys and Girls Club where members can earn Santa Bucks and redeem them for presents for their families at no cost.

The relationship between the Stidhams and Wayne County Foundation is something that will benefit our community for years to come.

Dave & Carla Stidham

Whitewater Valley Pro Bono Commission

AJ Sickmann-Vice President, Whitewater Valley Pro Bono

Felicia E. Carter- Office Administrator

Whitewater Valley Pro Bono Commission has been serving the civil legal needs of low-income residents of Wayne and surrounding counties since its establishment in 2002. Through a variety of programs, the commission provides valuable resources and education to the residents who might otherwise find such aid inaccessible.

Their most popular program, Ask a Lawyer, held in partnership with Morrisson-Reeves Library, is a monthly clinic that serves residents through brief, one-on-one consultations with volunteer attorneys. Participants come with civil legal questions or problems and, more often than not, leave with answers and a clearer understanding of their next steps. Over the past two years, the program has grown exponentially.

In 2023, wanting to build off the success of Ask a Lawyer, the Whitewater Valley Pro Bono Commission applied for a grant through the Wayne County Foundation. Having seen hundreds of participants come through the doors of the clinics, the staff and board of the Commission noticed a pattern. Most participants came with questions surrounding a small number of civil legal topics: family law, landlord-tenant disputes, healthcare and life planning, employment rights, government benefits and social security, and debtor/ creditor issues. Within that pattern was an opportunity to serve the public proactively by educating them on their legal rights before they encountered the issues that might bring them to an Ask a Lawyer clinic.

Wayne County Foundation awarded the Whitewater Valley Pro Bono Commission a grant to hold a six-part civil legal education series, completely free to the public. From June through November of 2023, the Commission held six 90-minute sessions where attorneys, nonprofit leaders, and government representatives spoke on these topics and answered questions from the audience. Four of the six sessions were filmed and are slated to be released to the Commission’s website in the first quarter of 2024, so that the valuable information shared can continue to serve the community for years to come.

“We are beyond grateful for the support of the Wayne County Foundation. Whitewater Valley Pro Bono Commission served a record-breaking number of residents in 2023, and we absolutely could not have done so without the support of the Foundation. We look forward to continuing our partnership and finding new and creative ways to serve the civil legal needs of Wayne and surrounding county residents.” John Maley, Whitewater Valley Pro Bono Commission Board President.

Unexpectedly, the series gave rise to an additional program for the Commission. In partnership once more with Wayne County Foundation, Whitewater Valley Pro Bono hosted a Make a Will Clinic at Morrisson-Reeves Library in August 2023. The Make a Will Clinic is an opportunity to highlight the importance of planning documents. Local residents were given the opportunity to sit with a volunteer attorney and complete a personalized will and power of attorney form. Each participant left not only with the notarized documents but with peace of mind.

The Wayne County Foundation believes that the program is necessary, and a great asset added to our community. Thank you to the Whitewater Valley Pro Bono Commission for their continued service in the community.

Legacy Society

Established in 1979, the Wayne County Foundation encourages individual, family, and corporate philanthropy in order to meet current and emerging community needs. Gifts to and through the Foundation create the resources needed to address critical issues throughout our county. We invite you to become a member of the Legacy Society that we may acknowledge your generosity now and celebrate your investment which will provide significant benefits to our community in the future.

Roxie Deer has committed herself to the betterment of Wayne County. Roxie is a lifelong member of the community and learned at an early age to take pride in where she is from. She is the Executive Director for Richmond Neighborhood Restoration and is a strong advocate for rebuilding and restoring local neighborhoods. As a young woman, raised by her mother with support from her grandparents, she knew that her community was important. Roxie has always been a champion for the underdog and women, going above and beyond to help them make a better life.

“Roxie is one of the most passionate champions for Richmond and Wayne County. Her dedication and commitment to the community is second to none and has been inspiring to me as well as many others.”

Tyler Stewart, Reid Health Foundation, Major Gifts Officer

The Deer Family Fund was established by Roxie Deer in 2021 to celebrate her mother’s and grandparents’ legacies. Her grandfather was a local business owner and her mother worked for Reid Health for over 25 years. The fund was created to support women battling cancer as well as other women-centered needs in Wayne County.

In 2018, Roxie started “Fight Like Jan” golf tournament for women, that raises money for the Deer Family Fund. The participants are encouraged to wear pink and enjoy a day on the course. Roxie inspires others with a passion for the community, understanding its needs.

The Foundation has given me an opportunity to continue to live out my family’s legacy and make an impact on the community that loved them and continues to love me. When I think about the “mark” I leave, I want the work that I care about to continue well past my life. I encourage other young professionals to think about their own legacy and the story they want to tell for generations to come.

Legacy Society Members

Tom and Sheryl Alberts

Jill and Steve Borchers

John and Elsa Catey

Roxie Deer

Michael Devine and Kathleen Lucid

Jack and Sandra Doyle

James and Penny Duke

Jon* and Judy Ford

Thomas and Lynne Glass

Barbara Gohn

Connie and Roger Green

Chris Hardie and Kelly Burk

Carol Hinshaw

Jon and Suzette Igelman

Patricia James

Victoria Johnson

Richard and Sherry Kirschner

Carolyn and Edward Lafever

Daryl and Terri Lane

Paul and Pat Lingle

Joan Martin

Ernie Mills*

Andrea Mosey

David Nixon

Shari Petersime

Sherry Petry

John and Bess Place

Joyce Roberts

Lowell and Kathleen Robinson

David A. Rodgers

George and Brenda Rohe

Miriam Rosar

Siri Shinn

David and Carla Stidham

Don and Heidi Thurston

Marty and Beth

Van Der Burgt

Pat Waskom

Darrell and Barbara Watt

Dana and Jean Weigle

David and Tammy Williamson

Carl and Connie N. Wooldridge

Janet Wortman

*Indicates those we remember

A special thank you to those Legacy Society members who wish to remain anonymous.

Roxie Deer

INVESTING IN COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP

Forward Wayne County spent much of 2023 in full planning mode, implementation, and helping to invest Wayne County Foundation funds, American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars, and other private funds into communities all over Wayne County. In addition, the Wayne County Foundation Board of Directors set strategic direction for Forward Wayne County to embark on community development, collaborative partnerships, and initiatives that will bring additional funding into the county that will have short- and long-term impact.

Impact Investing

The Wayne County Foundation Board of Directors voted, upon recommendation of the Local Impact Investing Committee, to commit $1 million into the Loop 601 project. This apartment complex will bring much needed housing; will spur business attraction and strengthen local businesses; and ultimately, enhance downtown Richmond. By investing locally, the Foundation will see a monetary return on its investment AND a community impact within five years.

Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program (HELP)

As part of the Core Committee, Forward Wayne County helped plan, fundraise, and direct nearly $7 million ARPA funds into communities all over Wayne County. This program will invest in downtown revitalization, Wi-Fi and broadband infrastructure, emergency communications, parks, housing, infrastructure, health and wellness, and other community identified projects. Everyone will see a different Wayne County in five years.

College and Community Collaboration

Forward Wayne County partnered with Earlham College on their Lilly Endowment College and Community Collaboration submission. We provided various compilations of data, known plans, summaries of our Main Street structural/feasibility study, and helped serve on the Core Committee. The result of Earlham College’s hard work and strategic focus? A $25 million award from Lilly Endowment into its Revitalize Richmond project. This is truly a catalytic award.

Lilly Endowment GIFT VIII

The Wayne County Foundation has received a $60,000 planning grant as part of the eighth phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s initiative, Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VIII). With the grant, the community foundation, through Forward Wayne County, will prioritize innovative ideas and strategic initiatives that will revitalize communities, neighborhoods, and downtowns; and that will produce results for improving the quality of life in Wayne County.

Employability Coalition

The Employability Coalition released the Teen Workforce Report after several months of data collection and aggregation. Members of the Employability Coalition spent time at all five public county high schools talking with 50 juniors about their relationship to work. Key themes that students shared are that work culture drives outcomes and that they are watching how employers treat employees as a determinant if they will work for them in the future, and if they will live in Wayne County. The Teen Workforce Chats were sponsored by Eastern Indiana Works and the Wayne County Foundation. The Employability Coalition employer representatives from Belden, IU East, Neighborhood Health Center, Primex Plastics, and Reid Health provided swag for the students.

Regional Leadership

Forward Wayne County became the committee chair for the East Central Indiana Talent Collaborative’s Regional Birth to Five Coalition’s Regional Activity Support. This committee is responsible for approving funding support to providers and organizations serving the 0-5 populations across East Central Indiana. The funding for this came from READI 1.0.

Forward Wayne County was asked to step in and represent the county on the Steering Committee for the regional READI 2.0 initiative. The region plans to apply for the full $75 million. More to come in 2024 on this endeavor.

Main Street

Coalition

We finalized the Main Street structural/feasibility study. We were able to assess 60 buildings across four Main Streets in Wayne County. This project led building owners to make needed repairs; for Wayne County Government to include funding for revitalization in the Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program’s Strategic Investment Plan (an OCRA program); for the City of Richmond to allocate American Rescue Plan Act funds to downtown revitalization; for the Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County to submit a Main Street bundle revitalization proposal for READI 2.0; and for the Wayne County Foundation to make its first impact investment.

FOUNDATION AWARDS

2023 Charles A. Rodefeld Award Sam Witherby

Sam has been a devoted community leader and a long-standing volunteer for the First Tee Summer Golf program. He was approached by Bo VanPelt and his late father Bob VanPelt to organize and instruct youth on the art of golf. Sam was instrumental in establishing the First Tee Golf program, where he has been continually teaching for more than 10 years.

“Sam is the epitome of a servant leader as he sees a need and steps up to volunteer his time and efforts to benefit youth. Sam has used his own funds to ensure that every child who wants to participate can. He never seeks accolades for himself and maintains an attitude of humility.” Vicki Demao, Educational Consultant for Centerville Abington Community Schools

He believes in First Tee’s Nine Core Values: respect, courtesy, responsibility, honesty, sportsmanship, confidence, judgment, perseverance, and integrity.

“I have seen Sam’s commitment to philanthropy, and it goes beyond traditional boundaries, as he demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the well-being of his friend, Bob VanPelt, and the youth of our community. His actions embody the true essence of philanthropy-the love of humanity- as he selflessly gives his life to improve the lives of those around him.” Chloe Brown, Turner Insurance

As a dedicated member of the Boys and Girls Club Board of Directors since 1988, he has served on multiple committees and in many different capacities resulting in thousands of unrestricted funds raised, and was named 1995 Boys and Girls Club Man of the Year. Sam and his wife are valued members of the community and have plans to continue serving for years to come.

The Charles A. Rodefeld Award for Leadership in Philanthropy and Community seeks to recognize Wayne County individuals and companies who have been there when organizations needed them most, served faithfully and well, and who have provided leadership and significant financial support over the years.

2023 Charles A. Rodefeld Award

Tom and Chris Hilkert

Tom and Chris Hilkert’s service to nonprofits in the community extends to organizations including the Boys and Girls Clubs of Wayne County, Junior Achievement, Purdue Polytechnic Richmond, Ivy Tech Community College, Reid Health Foundation, and many other nonprofits throughout the community. Chris and Tom were instrumental in the Capital Campaign to build the Richard E. Jeffers unit by contributing, hosting events, and encouraging others to invest in the project. Chris joined the Board of Directors of the Boys and Girls Club in 1996 and continues to be a leading advocate.

“The inspiration and motivation both Tom and Chris have shown when working to serve the needs of our community truly inspires and motivates us all to do our part to make Wayne County an even better place to live.” Alicia Painter, CEO Boys and Girls Clubs of Wayne County

They have offered countless hours of support for nonprofits and the community. Through their support they have offered hope, a sense of community and leadership. They are a continuous inspiration.

Tom’s dedication to the mission of Reid Health and as Governing Board Chair and Reid Foundation board member far reaches volunteerism. He serves on numerous committees and is actively engaged. He is supportive in every capacity.

“While writing I received a personal email from Tom encouraging my work during a challenging time. A kind, thoughtful act of support that lifted my spirits at the perfect moment. Many do not know the supportive ways Tom and Chris support, mentor and encourage those in the community. It’s for this reason they are the perfect couple to be recognized for the Charles A. Rodefeld Award.” Jason Troutwine, Vice President/ Foundation President Reid Health

The Ruth J. Wickemeyer Award is named for the first executive director of the Wayne County Foundation. The award seeks to honor nonprofit leaders, whether paid or volunteer, who personify exceptional service to others in the name of community progress.

2023 Ruth J. Wickemeyer Award

Jenie Lahmann

Jenie Lahmann has been a dedicated employee at Morrisson-Reeves Library for 41 years and serving as the liaison for the Friends of Morrisson-Reeves Board of Directors. She has served as champion for the library by assisting with keeping the library current through her marketing skills and online presence. She was instrumental in bringing together nonprofits for the Chili for Charity event which served as a fundraising event for participating nonprofits.

Jenie organized the “One World, One Plate” diversity event. The event showcased vibrant cultures in the community and gave participants the opportunity to share differences through storytelling, dance, food and displays. The event reached over 400 visitors learning and celebrating diversity.

“I believe recognizing her exceptional contributions will inspire others to follow in her footsteps and continue her legacy of service.”

Dena Little, Executive Director Morrisson-Reeves Library

Jenie served on the board of directors for the Civic Hall Performing Arts Center and currently sits as president. She has served as the Chairperson for the annual “Tools for Schools” supply drive. Through her dedication, hundreds of Richmond Wayne County students received needed supplies for school.

“Jenie embodies the spirit of exemplary nonprofit leadership. Her vision, dedication and impact have not only transformed Morrisson -Reeves Library but inspired others to join in the mission of making a meaningful difference in the lives of the Richmond/ Wayne County community.” Bridget Hazelbaker, Communications and Marketing Coordinator Richmond Community Schools

Jenie also serves the community as a valued member of the City of Richmond’s Redevelopment Commission, Richmond High School Alumni Association and is a valued member of our community.

2023 Ruth J. Wickemeyer

Award Tom Alberts

Tom Alberts has 30 years of service at the Richmond Art Museum. He assisted RAM in achieving a successful Capital Campaign in 2017 that allowed the museum to install necessary updates to display valuable art collections and other works of art to the Wayne County community. Along with RAM and Reid Health Foundation, he assisted IU East with meeting their Bicentennial campaign goals.

Tom has served on the Richmond Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors for 16 years. He provides invaluable oversight to finance, budget, investment, and endowment arms of the organization. He provides insight into current philanthropic trends and through his vison has assisted RSO in doubling their annual budget.

”Furthering its mission, this increased income has served to expand RSO’s mission of supporting a full and creative life for all by increasing its reach through free community events.”

Monica Koechlein, Richmond Symphony Orchestra Executive Director

Tom offers his services to many organizations in the Wayne County area and through his leadership he has provided his financial expertise, guiding them to be self-sustaining leaders in our nonprofit arena. He has also served on the boards of the following organizations: Richmond Symphony Orchestra, Reid Health Foundation, IU East, Wayne County Foundation, and the Wayne County Historical Museum. He provides invaluable advice in regard to finance and fund development, helped nonprofits build endowments and participated in successful capital campaigns. His understanding of the importance of philanthropy has made him an exemplary community leader.

“The Ruth J. Wickemeyer award honors an individual who personifies exceptional service to others in the name of community progress. I can think of no one more deserving than my mentor and friend.” Jason Troutwine, Vice President/ Foundation President Reid Health

FOUNDATION DONORS

3Rivers Federal Credit Union

Gary and Kathy Adamson

Kevin and Jennifer Ahaus

Rick and Debby Ahaus

Jeung and Kem Ahn

The Austin Memorial Foundation

B & F Plastics, Inc.

Ruth Birge

Tim and Christi Bohlander

Carl Boyles

Marinetta S. Bringle

Bob and Beth Brittenham

Gary and Lois Brown

Max Brown

Michelle Brown and Daniel Hostetler

Marlin Buckmaster

John and Geraldine

Bullerdick

Jeff R. Butler

Carroll Electric

Centerville-Abington Dollars for Scholars

Chenoweth Family Fund

Christian Connectors

City of Richmond

Don and Pat Clark

Verne and Ruth Ann

Clingenpeel

George and Vicki Clinton

Community of Faith

Gail and Jarrod Connerley

Robert and Janet DaPrato

Steve and Mary Deibel

Howard and Suzanne Deitsch

Ted and Kim Dickman Family

Eric and Becky Dimick

Eastman

Jack and Sandra Doyle

Amy and Andy Dudas

Eastern Indiana Human Resource Association

Economic Growth Group

Susan Elzemeyer

John and Pat Fallis

Susie and Bob Ferrell

Adam and Adrianne Forrest

Jerry and Kendra Geis

Chad and Rebecca Gilliam

Gary and Kathy Girten

Thomas and Lynne Glass

The Golden Family Fund

Vicki Grafflin

Cory and Ginger Gray

Connie and Roger Green

Brett and Shannon Guiley

Hagerstown High School Class of 1961

The Halsted Birkel Fund

Eldon and Sharon Harzman

Pat and Steve Heiny

Robin Henry

Tom and Mary Heyob

Tom and Chris Hilkert

Jim and Sharon Howell

Stephen and Carol Hunyadi

Jon and Suzette Igelman Integrity Metals

David and Cheri Jetmore

Jodi Johnson

Jim and Jill King

Francie Klinge

Monica Koechlein

Lake Insurance Agency Inc.

Howard and Patty Lamson

Lilly Endowment Inc.

Paul and Pat Lingle

Jerry and Terri Logan

Rick Lowes

Father John H. Luerman

Mayer Management, Inc. dba

KFC and Taco Bell

Linda K. McCaw

Jon McClain

Jim and Brenda McLane

Greg and Pam Merchanthouse

The Miami Foundation

Douglas and Brenda Miller

Mick and Barbara Miller

Rick and Karen Niersbach

David Nixon

Sharon and Ray Ontko

Scott Porter

Red Devil Pride Athletic Boosters

John and Kathleen Reddington

Reid Health

Drs. Dana Reihman and

Eileen Cravens

Richmond Friends School

Lowell and Kathleen Robinson

Gary and Annette Rodefeld

David A. Rodgers

David and Peggy Rokosz

Miriam Rosar

S.A.F.E. Financial Group

Tim Scales

Justin and Jodie Scheiben

Walt and Joyce Schrader

Seven Baskets Full Financial

Bryan and Valerie Shaffer

Jeff and Tricia Sheridan

John and Barbara Short

Dick and Margy Smith

Spectrum

Gary and Cynthia Stamper

Matt and Jennie Stegall

Avis and Aleasia Stewart

David and Carla Stidham

Shelton and Ann Stromquist

Jerry and Judi Studebaker

Daniel and Nicole Stults

Tanoos, Inc.

Thor Construction Company

Don and Heidi Thurston

Bill Toedebusch and Victoria Wilcox

Marty and Beth

Van Der Burgt

Vandor Corporation

Eric and Linda VanVleet

Ashton and Norma Veramallay

Shirley Wagers

Rod and Amy Waltz

Annette Warfel

Wayne Bank

Wetzel Auto Whisenhunt Construction, Inc

Whitewater Construction

Morris and Bobbi Whitlock

Paul and Kelly Witte

Janet Wortman

IN HONOR OF

In honor of Bill and Barbara Bunger

Giovanni Poletti

In honor of Len and Mary Jo Clark

Pat and Steve Heiny

In honor of Roxie Deer

Mary Ann Brooks

In honor of Carolyn and Barry MacDowell

Stephen and Katherine MacDowell

In honor of Ray Ontko

Lincoln and Barbara Blake

In honor of Toni Reinke

Craig and Leslie Boughton

In honor of Acacia St. John

Pat and Steve Heiny

In honor of Benjamin F. Young

Carolyn Christmon

IN MEMORY OF

In memory of Myyon Barnes

Frank and Pauline Pacheco

In memory of Tom Bivens

Jo Ellen Bivens

In memory of Denise Burkhart

Edwin Cy Burkhart

In memory of Sirena Cassady

Mike and Mary Catey

In memory of Christopher H. Coffman

Ellie Coffman

In memory of Phil Coffman

Ellie Coffman

In memory of Justin Cross

Ron and Melanie Cross

Michael and Lisa Elstro

Jon and Whitney Mires

In memory of Barry Culy

Neil and LuAnn Gettinger

David and Janice Schuette

In memory of Jan Deer

Keith and Ann Adams

The Barn at Helm

Barb Blanford

Blue Buffalo

Mary Ann Brooks

Jane Bumbalough

Chris and Angela Cline

Corner Café at the Leland

Claudia Edwards

Taunya Fallon

Pat and Steve Heiny

Ann Herrman

Becky Jewison

Amanda and Brad Jones

The Leland Legacy

Reid Health

Tracie Robinson Real Estate LLC

Daren and Ann Snider

Team Hillard Inc

In memory of Ron DeMao

Rich and Fran Tomassetti

In memory of David Demuth

Dick Amann

Walter and Gloria Wheeler

In memory of Tom H. and Annadell S. Ebbinghouse

Tom S. and Jennifer Ebbinghouse

In memory of Tami Goss

Don Goss

In memory of James and Joanne Grigsby

Ted Macy

In memory of James Grigsby

Sondra Atkinson

Scott and Cindy Bond

Rod and Karen Caldwell

Stephanie Cardini

Tim Cleland

Verne and Ruth Ann Clingenpeel

Caroll and Ruth Downing

Brian and Nancy Farrell

Mr. and Mrs. Don Fields

Linda Gilcrest

Carrigan Hayes

Tim and Lou Ann Hildebrand

Lynn and Janet Jackson

Jim and Jill King

Cheryl and Ron Miles

Patricia Painter

Janice Rose

Rusty and Trula Ross

Thomas and Linda Steveson

Barry and Judy Turner

Union Chapel

Steve and Julie Vance

Mark Yackley and

Laura Farrell-Yackley

Participants in Betsy Peckinpaugh’s Bible

Study Table:

Karen Blank, Melinda Hoack, Linda Gilcrest, and Becky Brandon

In memory of Karin R. Heflin

Mike and Mary Catey

In memory of Julia Henderson

Jim and Brenda McLane

In memory of Hilda Luerman

Dickman Herold

Barbara Dickman

Tom and Lou Dickman

Fred and Marilyn Haber

In memory of Robert Hooks

Ross Reller

In memory of John Houseman

Rob and Judy Houseman

In memory of Duane and Mary Carolyn Kinyon

Mary Kinyon Hoffmann

In memory of John Koechlein

April Holajtar

Josh and Megan Imhoff

In memory of Johnathan Lahmann

Bob and Pam Lipps

In memory of Kris Lopresti

Greg and Peggy LaRosa

JanEva Jones

In memory of Tim Love

Connie and Roger Green

In memory of Edna Johnston McNary Pickett

Mary Ann McCormick

In memory of Galen and June Miller

Ghlee and Becky Jewison

Mick and Barbara Miller

In memory of Jimmy Miller

Ahaus Tool and Engineering

Ghlee and Becky Jewison

Mick and Barbara Miller

Toni Reinke

Shelley Wambo and

Todd Wulfhorst

In memory of June Miller

Anonymous

Bob and Beth Brittenham

Kathy Cabigas

Robert and Erika Gilman

Larry and Linda Hays

Pat and Steve Heiny

Robin Henry

Greg and Kerry Jewison

Kyle and Amy McKee

Erica Pearson

David and Karen Ross

The Sciannamblo Family

Phil and Jackie Scott

Jason Troutwine

Gene and Jackie Webb

Judi Willett

In memory of Leon Morrison

Londa Crownover

In memory of Eli Neal

Chad and Meghan Neal and Family

In memory of Cooper Newton

Thomas Wenger

In memory of

Robert Edward Nocton

Mike and Mary Catey

In memory of

Daniel Patrick Oberle

Eleanor Oberle

In memory of William (Bill) Ott

Lois Bradway

McGowan Insurance Group

In memory of Pamela Passmore

Jan Passmore

In memory of Evelyn Petry

Jo Ellen Bivens

In memory of Dudley and Rosemary Ramsey

Larry and Jane Ann Burch

Tony Gillam

Edward and Romona McCrory

Bob and Michelle Ramsey

John and Diane Williams

In memory of Dudley Ramsey

Bob and Carol Broscheid

Mike and Mary Catey

Mike and Jan Markley

Mike and Kim Owens

Bob and Michelle Ramsey

Brandon Ramsey

Suzanne Raper

Gary and Annette Rodefeld

In memory of Deacon Frank Roberts

Joyce L. Roberts

In memory of Karl and Marjorie Sharp

Karen Pipes

In memory of Rachel Steele

Brian and Roxanne Steele

Helen True

In memory of Stanley Vigran

James R. Smarelli

In memory of Kimberly Docherty Vincent

Bruce Hunt and Kathryn Mehan

In memory of Helen Coble’s daughter, Anne Coble Voss

The Voss Family

In memory of Ruth J. Wickemeyer

Averil MacKenzie

In memory of Crystal Genise Young

Carolyn Christmon

The Wayne County Foundation and Forward Wayne County were saddened to learn of the passing of Jon Ford.

He served as interim executive director in 2005 and provided board leadership from 2006-2012. In 2009, he was awarded the Charles A. Rodefeld award for exceptional commitment to the community through selfless volunteer leadership and significant personal giving. Jon was lauded for his ‘just do it’ attitude about service to organizations across Wayne County.

Jon was a founding member of Forward Wayne County’s Steering Committee, guiding the development of the community leadership initiatives at the Foundation. His servant leadership, kind support, calm presence, and infectious humor will not be forgotten.

The Vigran Family Foundation

Established in 2001, the Vigran Family Foundation supports the charitable purposes of the Wayne County Foundation, and especially those advancing theater and the arts, higher education, healthcare, and Jewish causes. In 2023, the Vigran Family Foundation granted $86,000 to many worthy organizations.

2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS, STAFF AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Rebecca Gilliam Executive Director

Acacia St. John Forward Wayne County Program Director

Amy Waltz Chief Financial Officer

Kelley Cruse-Nicholson Nonprofit Relationship Manager

Lisa Bates Database Administrator

Seth Stegall Communications Coordinator

Theresa Scruggs Administrative Assistant

Foundation Committee Members

Joe Backmeyer, Kim Baughman, Tamara Brinkman, Ian Campbell, Katelyn Clark, Len Clark, Lee Elzemeyer, Courtney Evans, Mike Gaddis, Kathy Girten, Bill Glunt, Angel Gray, Nancy Green, Brett Guiley, Pat Heiny, Ron Holbrook, Rob Houseman, Cheri Jetmore, Craig Kinyon, Garry Kleer, Chris Knight, Chad Lieberman, Joe Lipps, Michelle Malott, Shari Markley, Eric Marsh, Jesse Merk, Terri Mitchell, Tara Nocton, Ray Ontko, Sarah Pennington, Jeff Plasterer, Matt Railsback, David Rodgers, Tim Scales, Jodie Scheiben, Valerie Shaffer, Dick Smith, Alan Spears, Matt Stegall, Christy Tollett, Jason Troutwine, Beth Van Der Burgt, Melissa Vance, Stasia Veramallay, Jerry Wilde, Paul Witte, John Zetzl

A special thank you to our outgoing board members for their dedication and service

Chris Knight

Eric Marsh

David Rodgers

Valerie Shaffer

Kathy Girten Chair

David Rodgers Past Chair

Cheri Jetmore

Jodie Scheiben

Avis Stewart Secretary

Brett Guiley

Eric Marsh

Paul Witte

Brenda McLane Vice Chair

Rob Houseman At-Large

Chris Knight

Valerie Shaffer

Dick Smith Treasurer

Ron Holbrook

Ray Ontko

The Wayne County Foundation awards grants to address needs in our community and support quality of life initiatives. Thank you for your trust and partnership in this endeavor.

33 South Seventh Street Richmond, Indiana 47374

(765) 962-1638 www.waynecountyfoundation.org

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