(Ripley County, IN) – Eleven local nonprofit organizations will share $50,000 through the first round of the Ripley County Community Foundation’s 2026 Sally Morris Community Impact Grant program.
The grants will support projects involving public safety, transportation, education, food assistance, historic preservation, technology and other community needs across Ripley County.
The program honors retired foundation executive director Sally Morris, whose 17 years of leadership helped promote philanthropy, collaboration and community involvement throughout the county.
Funding is provided through Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow initiative.
“Sally Morris dedicated her career to helping our community dream bigger and accomplish more together,” foundation Executive Director Amy Streator said. “This grant program honors her legacy by empowering organizations to pursue projects that strengthen Ripley County and create opportunities for generations to come.”
Streator said the investments demonstrate what can be accomplished when local leaders, donors and nonprofit organizations work toward a common goal.
Grant recipients
- Batesville Fire and Rescue: $10,000 for renovations to its training room.
- Lifetime Resources: $8,000 in matching funds for an additional grant that will help purchase a new Catch-A-Ride vehicle.
- Milan CARES: $8,000 to support the Milan CARES 2026 Summer Camp.
- National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association: $5,000 for renovations to the historic Rand House.
- Safe Passage: $5,000 to install a new universal door-access system.
- Batesville United Methodist Church: $3,500 for the Luke 4:18 free meal program.
- Tyson Library: $2,500 to purchase new computers for public use.
- Versailles American Legion: $2,500 to install a new electronic sign.
- Batesville American Legion: $2,500 for renovations to the Legion Hall.
- People Assisting Animals In Need: $1,500 to purchase new cat enclosures.
- St. Nicholas Catholic Church: $1,500 to purchase a new security system for the school.
The grant program supports the foundation’s four community-impact areas: arts and culture, education and workforce development, health and well-being, and environment and natural resources.
Foundation officials said the program is intended not only to meet immediate needs but also to encourage nonprofit groups to develop ambitious projects that can produce lasting improvements.
Second application round opens
The foundation is accepting applications for a second round of Sally Morris Community Impact Grants.
Eligible nonprofit organizations may apply for grants of up to $10,000 for programs or projects benefiting Ripley County. The application deadline is August 7.
The foundation also said donors may be able to triple their contributions to unrestricted endowment funds through a Lilly Endowment GIFT IX two-for-one matching opportunity.
Those endowments support future community grants, scholarships, sponsorships and responses to emerging local needs.
Additional information is available at rccfonline.org, by calling (812) 933-1098 or by visiting the foundation office at 13 E. George Street, Suite B, in Batesville.
