(Ripley County, IN) – The Ripley County Community Foundation (RCCF) has established the Ripley County Filmmakers Fund.
It fund was inspired by the success of the annual Ripley County Film Fest, which showcases the talent of local filmmakers.
The Ripley County Filmmakers Fund will support local filmmakers by creating opportunities for them to learn the art of filmmaking, practice their craft, and share their work with the public.
“Filmmaking has the power to inspire, connect, and give people a meaningful way to tell their stories,” said Daniel Fayette, the fund originator. “Growing up, there were not many opportunities locally to pursue that passion, which is why helping create those opportunities now feels so important. I’ve been encouraged by the Ripley County Community Foundation’s commitment to building momentum for filmmakers through its creative initiatives, and I hope this fund, along with the support of others who care about filmmaking, can help more people in our community experience the joy and art of storytelling through film.”
Filmmaking in the Modern Era
Advances in technology have put the power of filmmaking into the hands of the masses. With smartphones, affordable editing software, and accessible digital platforms, anyone with a story to tell can now create and share films. This shift has made filmmaking one of the fastest-growing art forms, and organizers say it deserves attention and support. By investing in local filmmakers, RCCF says it’s investing in creativity, innovation, and the cultural vitality of Ripley County.
Filmmaking and Ripley County
Ripley County is home to two historic single-screen movie theaters – the Damm Theatre in Osgood and the Gibson Theatre in Batesville; both of which have served as cultural landmarks for over 100 years. Having these theatres in our communities makes supporting aspiring filmmakers a natural addition to local art offerings. These theaters are more than entertainment venues; they are gathering places that foster community connections and preserve the charm of small-town life.
By supporting filmmakers, RCCF also supports these beloved movie theaters, ensuring that local stories have a place to be shared and celebrated.
“This fund is unlike anything we’ve done before, and that’s what makes it so exciting,” said RCCF Executive Director Amy Streator. “It will give local filmmakers the resources they need to share their stories, and those stories will strengthen the cultural fabric of our community.”
Why the Arts Matter
The arts are vital to a thriving community. They inspire creativity, strengthen cultural identity, and promote economic growth. Investing in the arts ensures that Ripley County remains a vibrant
and engaging place to live and visit.
“Supporting and sharing the arts with the community is an investment in the future of Ripley County,” Streator added. “Local artists contribute to our community's economic growth and
overall well-being. We are deeply thankful for the partnership the community foundation has with the local filmmaking community, and we hope this fund will inspire even more creative
projects.”
2026 Ripley County Film Fest
The public is invited to the 2026 Ripley County Film Fest, which will be held June 2-6 at the Damm Theatre in Osgood and the Gibson Theatrer in Batesville, with nightly Q and A panels with the filmmakers. Visit https://rccfonline.org/impact/initiatives/film-fest/ to learn more.
How You Can Help
You can make a lasting impact on Ripley County by making a gift to the Ripley County Filmmakers Fund or any of the 265 endowment funds managed by RCCF by visiting https://rccfonline.org/.
Contact the Ripley County Community Foundation in person at 13 E. George Street, Suite B, in Batesville; call (812) 933-1098, or email office@rccfonline.org.
