Wayne County, IN — The Wayne County Foundation is pleased to announce that seven local organizations have been awarded $274,490 through Grant Cycle I. Grants administered through the Foundation’s Grant Cycles are designed to support local programs or projects that enhance the spirit of community and improve the quality of life across Wayne County.
“We made some changes to our grant program this year going from three annual cycles to two but increasing the amount organizations could apply for,” said Director of Nonprofit Engagement Brian Schleeper. “This was done to increase the impact our nonprofit partners could have on the community. We received a large number of quality proposals. It was a very competitive process and we’re excited about the projects we were able to fund and look forward to seeing their successful completion.”
The following grants were awarded using a combination of unrestricted and field of interest funds. These were given by donors who place no restrictions on their gifts and allow the Foundation Board to allocate resources where they are needed most in Wayne County.
- A Better Way Services ($40,979) to make improvements and renovations to their facility in Richmond to enhance safety and security for clients.
- Animal Care Alliance ($50,000) to recruit an associate veterinarian to increase appointment availability, improve patient care and achieve financial sustainability.
- Boys and Girls Club of Wayne County ($40,961) for the revitalization of Camp Guy to enhance the experience for campers, improve storage and protection of camp supplies, and create a space that is more accommodating for outdoor functions beyond the summer camp season.
- Every Child Can Read ($10,000) to support the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program in Wayne County.
- Ivy Tech Foundation ($50,000) to purchase a virtual welding machine to increase the number of students served at the Richmond campus.
- Morrisson-Reeves Library ($50,000) to purchase a Mobile Book Truck to serve rural and underserved areas in Wayne County.
- Williamsburg Area Community Center ($32,550) to update the electrical system and painting of the facility.
One additional organization was awarded a Rapid Response grant through the Foundation. These are designed to serve smaller projects, short-term programs, or unplanned opportunities that require immediate funding:
- Safety Village of Wayne County ($5,000) to replace the building roof.
Grant Cycle I is one of two cycles in 2025; the second cycle opens on August 1. Applicants can find more information on the Foundation’s grant program here.
Since 1979, the Wayne County Foundation has existed to foster and encourage private philanthropic giving, to enhance the spirit of community, and to improve the quality of life in the Wayne County, Indiana, area now and for future generations.
