As a part of the new series reviewing the Rush County Community Foundation’s “designated endowment” funds, we’ll be taking a weekly look at the Rush County nonprofit organizations that have funds that support their mission and work held at RCCF.  This week’s installment focuses on the Milroy Economic Development Corporation.

The heart of the southern outskirts of Rush County is the community of Milroy.  A quiet town with a lot of energy, Milroy is home to several vital Rush County businesses, an elementary school, and two main thoroughfares.  Milroy’s bustling activity and progressive edge has been shaped, in part, by the Milroy Economic Development Corporation.

Milroy Economic Development Corporation is a non-profit group that has been an active leader in economic stimulus within the Milroy area since 2007.  Comprised of local residents and entrepreneurs, the group originated years before 2007 to invoke new life into the small community through creative and innovative ideas, partnerships, and strategic thinking.

The Milroy Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) recognized an opportunity to partner with the Rush County Community Foundation in 2004 when efforts were underway to improve the downtown area of Milroy.  Several years later, as the State of Indiana made repairs to Main Street (SR 244); the community saw updated sidewalks, curbs, and streetlights.  The vision of partnership with the Rush County Community Foundation became a reality as MEDC diligently raised funds to enhance the streetlights and curb appeal of their downtown.

Milroy Economic Development Corporation applied for and received a transportation enhancement grant to purchase the new street lights, then recruited funds from current and former residents and local businesses to support the ongoing maintenance and utility costs.  In a years’ time, enough funds were raised to create a permanent endowment fund at the Rush County Community Foundation to forever support these expenses.

Today, as you drive through the Town of Milroy as the sun begins to set, you’ll notice the attractive street lights illuminating Main Street.  The Milroy Street Light Fund, a permanent endowment fund at the Rush County Community Foundation, makes it possible for those lights to shine.  Each month the fund pays the bills, and as needed, supports ongoing insurance expenses and necessary maintenance.  The Main Street of Milroy will forever be illuminated by the disbursements from the Milroy Street Light Fund.

The Rush County Community Foundation is honored to be a partner with the Milroy Economic Development Corporation.  The heart of southern Rush County has been enhanced by our joint efforts and will forever be maintained because of the endowment created.  If you are interested in learning more about the Milroy Street Light Fund, the Milroy Economic Development Corporation, or making an impact in your own sub-community, contact us!  For more information, visit our website www.rushcountyfoundation.org, our office at 117 N Main St., Rushville, or call (765) 938-1177.