Ripley County Community Foundation to Celebrate a Year of Giving — and You’re Invited

The foundation’s Annual Dinner on June 23 will spotlight 59 scholarships, a brand-new community grant program, and nearly three decades of local impact — and it’s open to the public.

(Batesville, IN) — For nearly 30 years, the Ripley County Community Foundation has quietly done what community foundations do best: pool local generosity and send it right back into the neighborhoods, classrooms, and organizations that need it most. On June 23, the foundation throws open its doors and invites anyone who wants a front-row seat to see exactly how that works.

The Annual Dinner runs from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at The Hall in Batesville and is free and open to the public — no prior connection to the foundation required. RSVPs are requested by June 16 at rccfonline.org.

“Whether you are a longtime supporter or someone looking to learn more about our mission, we extend a warm invitation to join us for an evening of community spirit.”

— Ripley County Community Foundation

59 Scholarships. 37 Students. One Big Night.

The headline number heading into the evening: 59 scholarships awarded to 37 students from area high schools across Ripley County. Scholarship recognition has long been an emotional centerpiece of the dinner, and this year’s class is no exception. Each award represents a donor-created fund — a gift from someone in the community that keeps on giving long after the original contribution was made.

The evening will also mark the debut announcement of the Sally Morris Community Impact Grants, a new first-round grant program named in honor of a community philanthropist and designed to invest directly in local initiatives. Details on grant recipients will be revealed at the dinner.

Board Members Honored for Years of Service

The dinner will also serve as a send-off for three retiring board members whose collective dedication has helped shape the foundation’s direction. Andy Jaisle, Shayla Sattler, and Doug Rump will each be recognized for their contributions and commitment to the Foundation’s mission of connecting people who care with causes that matter.

A Foundation Built on Community Trust

Founded in 1997 as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the Ripley County Community Foundation manages $22 million in assets on behalf of donors, nonprofits, and community members throughout Ripley County, Indiana. The foundation’s work spans arts and culture, education, health and well-being, business and entrepreneurship, and environmental stewardship — funding areas that reflect the priorities of local donors who choose to give through the foundation.

The foundation holds accreditation through the Community Foundations National Standards (CFNS), a mark that signals accountability, transparency, and sound fiscal management to donors and the broader public.

For those who have long supported the foundation — or are simply curious about how community philanthropy works — the Annual Dinner offers a rare chance to see the dollars, the decisions, and the people behind them all in one room.