2023 Impact Update: Postcard #2

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“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

 

We can be happy today and still want a better tomorrow, right? As someone invested in Rush County’s present and future, you know this is true. With two matching opportunities too good to pass up, there’s never been a better time to make a bigger impact. Or to believe.

 

All gifts made to unrestricted Community Grants Funds are matched 2:1 by Lilly Endowment Inc.’s GIFT VIII initiative. These are the most flexible grant dollars available, supporting everything from public safety to community art. A gift today TRIPLES your impact for tomorrow.

 

The REC Center is taking shape. Construction costs are funded, but its future needs are not. When donations total $225,000 to the Schroeder Fund (started by Wilma Jo Kile to provide for its sustainability), a match of $750,000 will turn this into $1 million! The combined generosity local donors ia making this possible. And of course, you are, too – thank you! Give today to fuel these dreams.

GRANTS

We’re thrilled to share that your generosity created the largest Community Grants cycle yet with $94,293 in awards this fall! Read more about these grants that connect your generosity to projects and programs supporting those struggling with basic needs, ensuring public safety, and encouraging fitness and social skills development in youth.

2023 CYCLE II: $94,293

  • $  3,490: Rushville Public Library will provide free income tax preparation for seniors and low-income individuals and families.
  • $  5,000: Firefly Children & Family Alliance purchased diapers for From the Bottom Up Diaper Pantry.
  • $15,000: Gleaners Food Bank will provide 120,000 pounds of shelf-stable food and 50,000 pounds of fresh produce to Rush County residents experiencing food insecurity.
  • $  7,083: Rush County Community Assistance Food Pantry will be able to continue providing milk to those they serve.
  • $28,725: Glenwood Volunteer Fire Department purchased a set of TNT extrication tools to equip the Engine Truck.
  • $24,995: Boys & Girls Club purchased the iWall exergame.

2023 FIELD OF INTEREST FUNDS

  • Rush County Education Fund: $4,443
    • Benjamin Rush Middle School administrators received $1,470 for their Positive Referrals program.
    • Benjamin Rush Middle School purchased 3 cameras for students working on the yearbook with their $1,200 grant.
    • Milroy Elementary received $1,772 to purchase math manipulatives – physical tools like special blocks, coins, puzzles, etc.
  • Rita Yager Memorial Ag Grant Fund: $1,700
    • Rushville Parks & Recreation  received a $1,200 grant to purchase supplies such as binoculars, field guides, and books.
    • Benjamin Rush Middle School received $500 to provide transportation for all 8th grade students during a Career & Ag Day. cost of transportation.
  • Music for Rush County Fund: $2,425
    • Rushville Elementary School 3rd and 4th graders learned to play the recorder and received their own instrument because of a $750 grant.
    • Rush County Chorale received a grant of $1,675 to help cover expenses such as fees for guest soloists/instrumentalists and performance venues, sheet music, printing, and publicity.
  • Alex Workman Memorial Fund: $2,823
    • Rushville Consolidated High School received $225 for Life Skills Class supplies.
    • Milroy Elementary School received $510 for Resource Room & Sensory Room Materials.
    • Rushville Elementary School received $2,088 for Bubble Lamps for classrooms.

 

REC CENTER GROUNDBREAKING

Shortly before the REC Center groundbreaking ceremony began on September 7, an uninvited guest, the rain, tried to crash the party. Not a chance. As Rushville Mayor, Mike Pavey, said, “This will be one of the most significant days in our community as people look back.” READ MORE

 

LILLY ENDOWMENT COMMUNITY SCHOLAR

Congratulations to Gabrielle Pavey, the 2024 Rush County Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship recipient! Gabby receives full-tuition to the Indiana school of her choice, plus $900/year for books and required supplies. She is a resident of Posey Township and is the daughter of Jason and Jamey Pavey. She plans to major in Political Science and Environmental Studies, with the future goal of becoming an Environmental Lawyer. READ MORE

NEW FUNDS

For years, Gary Alexander has been watching the impact created by the Courtney Anne Huskins Memorial Scholarship, which his sister, Sarah Huskins, began in memory of her daughter and his niece. To continue honoring his family, including his grandparents, parents, and each of his siblings and their spouses, he started the Alexander Farms Scholarship Fund. This scholarship supports a Rush County resident who will attend an accredited college or university to study a medical-related field.

The Jean Matlock Scholarship for Young Women assists female college students with a generous annual scholarship that is renewable for up to four years. The award is based on academic merit, financial need, and community involvement.

 

Jean was a trailblazing, career-oriented woman who worked in management at a time when few women worked outside the home. She lived in many places, but she never forgot her home in Rushville. She even returned after retiring. This scholarship was established by her son, Blair Hull and the Hull Family Foundation. “My mother spoke of discrimination in terms of race and gender and fought against that,” he said. “She was able to break the glass ceiling. I hope other women in Rush County will follow in her footsteps.” For a wonderful and charming look at teenage life in Rushville during the late 1920’s, we highly recommend reading Jean’s senior thesis.

 

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