Good news first, right? Cycle II Community Grants totaled $70,326.98. The bad news is that these dollars covered just over half of the requests. Our volunteer grants committee had to make some tough decisions but did so with honest debate and serious consideration. They are excellent stewards of your generosity.

Along with Cycle I grants and annual support for First5, together, in 2025 we’ve distributed $182,880.19 in unrestricted dollars to enhance life in Rush County – incredible!

We’re pleased to announce the current grantees:

• Gleaners Food Bank: $10,606.20 (an additional grant from the Ewing Fund covered their full request of $15,000)
  Gleaners will stock the school-based food pantries at RCHS and Milroy Elementary with fresh produce and shelf stable food.
  Why this grant matters: Food insecurity is on the rise, and 1,961 Rush County families rely on SNAP benefits, which are affected by the government shutdown. It’s hard to think of a need that’s more important right now.

• Mentors of Rush County Empowering Youth (M.o.R.E. For Kids): $3,371
  To support and empower at-risk kids ages 6-16, M.o.R.E. For Kids matches them with volunteer mentors. They will offer a cooking class for mentees so they can learn how to make a simple meal – eggs and pancakes. Each child will receive an electric griddle, measuring cup, and spatula to take home and cook for their families.
  Why this grant matters: Not only will kids acquire new skills but their self-confidence will improve, too. That’s a recipe for thriving youth.

• Rushville Regional Theatre: $1,155.04
  The mission of RRT is “Taking Community to the Next Stage.” They don’t just offer performances for the community. They encourage anyone who feels called to the stage or any step of production to get involved. Their grant will cover production rights for a June 2026 musical revue performance.
  Why this grant matters: Live performances lift spirits and encourage social engagement. Performers gain confidence and the ability to expand creative thinking, focus, and dedication while collaborating with others.

• Glenwood Volunteer Fire Department: $10,120.28
  The time recorder used by the department, which monitors communication and the department’s response times, is outdated. A new recorder will allow them to monitor and record multiple radio channels for the most accurate information and provide a valuable tool for training.
  Why this grant matters: Data from the timer is used to file reports for the State and insurance claims for the community they serve.

• Rush County Conservation Club: $3,500
  Established in 1938, the RCCC supports conservation efforts and encourages good sportsmanship. It provides safe, welcoming, and affordable facilities for outdoor sports, which are open to the public multiple days per month. They will add an archery range to their grounds.
  Why this grant matters: Archery increases strength while also improving coordination, focus, and confidence. It’s also a healthy way to manage stress. Providing a group setting gives the community the chance to learn or hone a skill and meet others with similar interests.

• RCHS Booster Club: $13,800
  Cheering for the Lions and Lady Lions teams is a tradition for Rush County residents. Games provide entertainment and create a sense of community pride. The Booster Club will purchase additional supplies to outfit all four concession stands, eliminating the need to move them from location to location and decreasing the risk of damage to this important source of revenue. Lion pride!
  Why this grant matters: Indiana high school athletic departments rely solely on ticket sales, donations, and fundraising. This will give the Lions a hand – or paw – up.

• Hope Center: $20,000
  The Hope Center supports families to ensure healthy pregnancies and infant development while helping them build stable environments. They provide diapers and essential supplies, some medical services, and life skills and parenting classes. Started in Fayette County, they are opening a Rush County location. Their grant will be used for the remodel of their building and to purchase supplies for both the program and clients.
  Why this grant matters: The first five years of life are crucial for healthy development. Supporting families with babies promotes emotional well-being for all. Receiving basic needs and parenting education helps reduce stress on everyone in the family.

• Carthage Police Department: $6,630.23 (also received an additional $1,144.23 grant from the Ercell Bever, Jr. Memorial Fund)
  Officer safety is a top priority for the department. Their grant will purchase new police radios and bullet proof vests.
  Why this grant matters: New radios will improve communication between officers and bullet proof vests reduce fatalities from shots to the torso by 75%. Both items support officers so they can serve their community effectively.

There’s always more work to be done, but your generosity is lifting up our community. With your support and the work of these organizations, Rush County residents are in good hands – thank you!