(Ripley County, IN) – The Ripley County Community Foundation (RCCF) celebrated another successful Day of Giving, raising more than $350,000 to support local charitable organizations, community projects, and the long-term vitality of Ripley County.
Day of Giving featured a special incentive that increased the value of donations made during the event through a 50 percent matching opportunity. While the Day of Giving has concluded, donors
still have an opportunity to maximize their impact.
Thanks to the generosity of Lilly Endowment, Inc. through the Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT) Phase IX initiative, donations made to community granting funds are eligible for a $2 match for every $1 donated. Matching dollars are available on a first-come, first-served basis while funds remain available.
“Each year, I am impressed how the Day of Giving demonstrates the incredible generosity and community spirit that exists throughout Ripley County,” said Ben Peetz, RCCF Board President. “We are always grateful to everyone who contributes to the Foundation, and our Day of Giving really highlights the lasting impact that can be made for local nonprofits and the people they serve.”
Through Lilly Endowment Inc.’s GIFT IX initiative, local donations can also attract additional matching dollars from outside the community, which multiplies the impact of local generosity.
“We are very appreciative of the Lilly Endowment’s GIFT IX program, as this provides a fantastic opportunity for local individuals and business to maximize their gifts by leveraging the 2-to-1 match by Lilly for every local dollar that is donated,” Peetz added.
The Ripley County Community Foundation Board of Directors showed their appreciation for local nonprofits by awarding $50,000 in grants into the community supporting projects that align
with the community foundation’s focus areas of Arts and Culture, Education and Workforce Development, Heath and Well-Being, and Environment and Natural Resources.
Recipients of the second round of the Sally Morris Community Impact Grant program are:
- Englishton Park – Supporting summer camp programming and outdoor experiences for local youth. ($5,000)
- Gibson Theatre, Batesville – Funding new front doors to preserve and upgrade this historic community theater. ($5,000)
- New Marion Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. – Outfitting first responders with essential battery-powered ventilation equipment. ($5,000)
- So Loved Closet – Funding their Closet Fill-Up Project to provide essential clothing and supplies to local families in need. ($1,000)
- Social Health Association of Indiana – Expanding health and wellness education programs for students at Milan Middle School. ($2,500)
- St. Louis Catholic School – Funding renovations to update and modernize their historic gymnasium. ($8,750)
- St. Paul Lutheran Church (Crossroads) – Installing a new septic system to upgrade and maintain church facilities. ($8,750)
- The Greatest Need Foundation – Providing financial assistance to local residents fighting cancer. ($2,500)
- Versailles Lions Club – Replacing and renovating their clubhouse roof to preserve a key community gathering space. ($5,000)
- Veterans of Foreign War Post #6234 – Funding critical accessibility upgrades to their parking area to better serve local community. ($6,500)
“Thanks to the generosity of donors across Ripley County and beyond, the Ripley County Community Foundation continues to invest in opportunities that strengthen neighborhoods, support local organizations, and improve the quality of life for residents,” Peetz said.
To learn how you can invest in the future of Ripley County, or to leave your legacy, contact the Ripley County Community Foundation at (812) 933-1098, stop by 13 E. George Street in Batesville., or visit www.rccfonline.org.
