Author Archives: Leanna

$5 Million Grant Paves the Way for Hawpatch Trail in Topeka

LAGRANGE — The LaGrange County Community Foundation has received a grant of $5 million from Lilly Endowment Inc. through the Community Leadership Implementation Grants component of the eighth phase of its Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VIII) initiative.

This is one of 30 implementation grants awarded through GIFT VIII, a statewide Lilly Endowment initiative designed to support the efforts of community foundations and their partners to strengthen the quality of life for the people in the towns, cities, counties and regions they serve.

The grant will support the first two phases of the Hawpatch Trail in Topeka. Managed by LaGrange County Trails, this funding will be instrumental in advancing the project, attracting additional resources, and turning the vision of a vibrant community bike trail into reality.

“This is truly a dream come true for LaGrange County,” said Octavia Yoder, Executive Director of the Foundation. “To begin a multimillion-dollar trail project with $5 million is beyond comprehension. This will be a game-changer for our community, providing a safer route for cyclists and walkers, and providing more outdoor recreational opportunities. Words cannot express our gratitude and excitement for this opportunity.”

The Hawpatch Trail is a transformative 17-mile, multi-use bike and pedestrian trail that will connect Noble County’s Fishing Line Trail with Elkhart County’s Strawberry Valley Trail. Following the former Wabash Railroad Corridor, this project represents a total investment of nearly $18 million and will be completed in five phases. The first two phases will span 9.25 miles in and around Topeka, serving as the foundation for the trail’s full development and bringing safe, active, and accessible outdoor recreation to the community.

Featured is a view of the former Wabash Railroad corridor south of Topeka where a scenic 17-mile multi-use trail is planned. Designed with safety in mind, the trail will connect communities and enhance outdoor recreation opportunities.

This project is the culmination of years of planning and community collaboration. Since 2019, LaGrange County Trails has championed the creation of biking and hiking trails to promote safe, active lifestyles. Recognizing the former railroad as a prime location, they identified it as a solution to address the safety concerns of cyclists traveling along 700 S into Topeka. Over the past five years, they have worked diligently to secure site control and build the momentum to make this vision a reality.

The Hawpatch Trail also reflects a community-driven vision outlined in the LaGrange County Together comprehensive plan, which prioritizes the development of trails to enhance connectivity, safety, and outdoor recreation for residents and visitors alike.

The next steps for Phases 1 and 2 of the Hawpatch Trail focus on laying the essential groundwork to bring this transformative project to life. Key activities include land acquisition, surveying, community engagement, trail design and planning, fundraising, and ultimately, construction. Land surveying is slated to begin in 2025, coinciding with efforts to secure the necessary trail corridor. These efforts will pave the way for the development of the initial 9.25 miles, marking a significant milestone in the realization of this visionary trail.

“This grant will significantly accelerate the construction timeline for Phase 1 of the Hawpatch Trail, allowing us to complete the project years ahead of schedule. Beyond expediting progress, the grant will also enhance fundraising efforts and, most importantly, improve safety for citizens engaging in recreational and commuting activities. We are incredibly grateful for the LaGrange County Community Foundation and their partnership, as well as Lilly Endowment for its pivotal role in helping turn the Hawpatch Trail into a reality. Our heartfelt thanks also go to our community—businesses and individuals—who have generously contributed or plan to contribute toward the $225,000 matching grant also offered to support this project. Donations are still needed to meet this match, and we encourage anyone who can to contribute through the Foundation,” said Jeff Wingstrom, President of LaGrange County Trails.

“Providing a safe, scenic route for walkers and cyclists in Topeka will be life-changing,” said Yoder. “We are beyond grateful for the opportunity to serve our rural community and make this dream a reality.”

The Foundation and LaGrange County Trails are thrilled to see the Hawpatch Trail come to fruition and are eager to witness the lasting impact it will have on LaGrange County and the region. This trail promises to enhance outdoor recreation, foster connectivity, and provide a safe, accessible space for generations to enjoy.

About LaGrange County Community Foundation

Established in 1991, the LaGrange County Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to enriching the quality of life in LaGrange County. Through grants, scholarships, and community resources, the Foundation fosters generosity, inspires leadership, and encourages service to create a stronger, more connected community.

Community Impact in Action: LaGrange County Community Foundation Awards $75,975 to Nonprofit Initiatives

The LaGrange County Community Foundation has awarded $75,975 in grants to eight nonprofit organizations as part of its 2024 Fall Community Impact Grants Cycle. These grants will support a diverse range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for LaGrange County residents, from health and human services to education, environmental stewardship, and arts & culture. 

One of the funded projects is an innovative rain garden initiative led by the Mongo Community Development Association. This community-led project will improve the natural landscape around the Mongo Post Office, and improve water management, helping to keep the sidewalk in a low-lying area dry and accessible. 

Alongside the rain garden project, The Farm Place was awarded $25,000 to help complete its Animal Companionship Center in LaGrange. The facility will offer families involved in foster care and court systems private meeting spaces where children can connect with case managers, mental health professionals, and participate in supervised visits. Additionally, animal companionship during these visits will provide emotional support, fostering a nurturing environment to help families through difficult times. 

Each of these organizations play a crucial role in meeting essential needs and enriching LaGrange County. We are proud to support these efforts and to be part of the positive change happening across LaGrange County, said Octavia Yoder, Excutive Director of the LaGrange County Community Foundation.

Phase two of the Animal Companionship Center will focus on outfitting the facility’s interior with furniture, kitchen essentials and office equipment to create a welcoming and functional space for families to heal and thrive. 

In addition to these projects, LaGrange Communities Youth Centers has been awarded $25,000 to support its expanding summer programs. Each year, its summer camps in art, conservation, drama, and music reach full capacity, offering valuable educational experiences for youth during the summer months. 

The LaGrange County Community Foundation remains committed to supporting organizations that make a meaningful impact on the lives of residents and is excited to see the difference these grants will make in the coming months. 

The 2024 Fall Community Impact Grant recipients are: 

  • Brightpoint: Covering Kids and Families of Brightpoint Health Insurance Navigation Services, $5,000 
  • Hope’s Harbor: Overnight Accommodations for LaGrange County Families, $5,000 
  • Kate’s Kart: Book Gifting Program at Parkview LaGrange Hospital, $2,500 
  • LaGrange Communities Youth Centers: 2025 Summer Camp Programs, $25,000 
  • Lima Township: Howe Town Park Bathroom Facilities, $10,000 
  • Mongo Community Development Association: Mongo Post Office Rain Garden, $1,475 
  • Science Central: Science4U Program, $2,000 
  • The Farm Place: Animal Companionship Center: Phase 2 Interior, $25,000 

Each year, the Community Foundation invites proposals for projects that support local nonprofits in their mission to serve the LaGrange County community. The Grants Advisory Committee evaluates applications and recommends funding to the Board of Directors for approval. 

The Community Impact Grants are made possible by the generosity of donors contributing to the Foundation’s Caring Community Fund, unrestricted funds, and field of interest funds. For more information about grant opportunities, visit Lccf.net/grants. 

The Outtakes – Merry Christmas!

When the office contains three people you try your very best to take that picture-perfect Christmas photo. Well, let’s just say we rotated spots, didn’t know what to do with our hands, and ended up in a different location…. enjoy our bloopers!

Community Foundation Awards $93,384 to area nonprofits

Community Foundation hosted a reception on Tuesday, Nov. 15, to recognize recipients of the $93,384 awarded from its Fall Community Impact Grants Cycle.

More than 25 nonprofit executives and representatives gathered along with Community Foundation board members, volunteers, and staff to celebrate.

The Community Foundation awarded grants to sixteen nonprofit organizations during the fall grant cycle. Each nonprofit organization shared a brief presentation about their upcoming project and the mission of their organization.

The Community Impact Grants are made possible by the generosity of donors who give to the unrestricted and field of interest funds at the Foundation.

For over 30 years, the Community Foundation has remained committed to its mission of “inspiring and sustaining generosity, leadership and service in LaGrange County.” The Community Impact Grant Program supports grants in six interest areas: arts and culture, health and human services, recreation, environment, community development and education.

Through our grantmaking program we are able to ensure a lasting legacy for our funders who have made a long-term commitment to support positive growth of our nonprofit community in LaGrange County. We are honored to support many deserving nonprofit organizations who are improving the quality of life in our community and helping meet critical and unmet community needs.

Octavia Yoder, Executive Director

The 2022 Fall Community Impact Grant recipients include:

  • Agape Child Care Ministry, Agape Professional Development and Cleaning Support, $10,000;
  • Agape Missions of LaGrange County, Agape House Ministry Recovery, $10,000;
  • Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana, Client Advocate and Client Services Program for LaGrange County, $3,500;
  • Clothes & Food Basket of LaGrange County, Hungry No More, $7,500;
  • Community Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Indiana Inc, LaGrange County Farm Wagon Mobile Pantry Program, $2,000;
  • Community Improvement League of South Milford Indiana, resurrecting/rebuilding the military memorial monument, $10,000;
  • Elijah Haven Crisis Intervention Center, Inc., Amish Domestic Violence/Sexual Abuse Education, $2,809;
  • Hoosiers Feeding the Hungry, “Meat” The Need, $2,000;
  • Junior Achievement of LaGrange County, Elementary Programs, $3,000;
  • LaGrange County Soil & Water Conservation District, SWCD Conservation Drone Program, $8,000;
  • LaGrange Night to Shine, Night to Shine, LaGrange County, $5,000;
  • Mad Anthonys Children’s Hope House, Overnight Accommodations for LaGrange Families $2,000;
  • Purdue Extension LaGrange 4-H Youth Development, Youth Programming with the Blender/Spin-Art Bike, $3,075.00;
  • Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northeast Indiana, Ronald McDonald House Programs for LaGrange County Families, $2,000;
  • Shore Church FBO Shipshewana Ministerial Association, Shipshewana Ministerial Association assistance fund, $2,500; and
  • The ARC of LaGrange County, Arc’s Summer Discovery Program, $20,000.

Each year, the Community Foundation seeks proposals for charitable projects and programs that help local nonprofit organizations provide services in LaGrange County. The Grants Advisory Committee reviews the submitted grant applications and makes recommendations to the Board of the Directors who approve the grant awards.

For more information on Community Impact Grants or to apply visit: Community Impact Grants Information.

Arts Revival

LaGrange County Arts ready to support, promote the local arts community

A new community group hopes to revive the arts in LaGrange County and establish a highly visible arts community.

LaGrange County Arts is a collective of local artists and art appreciators who believe in promoting, presenting, and supporting the literary, musical performance, visual and theatrical arts in LaGrange County.

Led by retired art teacher Mary Woodworth, the fledgling group held its first community event on July 2, an inaugural art show at the LaGrange County courthouse lawn. The event coincided with the unveiling of the Hometown Heroes banner presentation.

The art show featured photographers, painters, writers and performing artists. Bethi Lewis & The Electric Pineapple performed in the gazebo, followed by teen band Portmanteau.

LaGrange County Arts Inaugural Art Show on July 2, 2022 at the LaGrange County Courthouse.
LaGrange County Arts Inaugural Art Show on July 2, 2022 at the LaGrange County Courthouse.
Corn School Face Painting Booth

During the Corn School street festival in October, LaGrange County Arts hosted a children’s Creation Station at the Garage Community Center in LaGrange. During festival hours, children were encouraged to stop in to create works of art and enjoy cider and donuts.

LaGrange County Arts’ teen advisors also coordinated a face painting booth during Corn School and provided face painting for nearly 100 children.

As LaGrange County Arts continues to grow, the group plans on hosting more art shows and events with educational opportunities. Their goal is expand their events and increase awareness of the arts within LaGrange County.

LaGrange County Arts is fiscally sponsored by the LaGrange County Community Foundation. Donations to support the promotion of the arts in LaGrange County is tax-deductible. To donate to LaGrange County Arts, checks must be out to the LaGrange County Community Foundation, with “LaGrange County Arts” in the memo line.

For more information on LaGrange County Arts, visit the group’s Facebook page.

LaGrange County Arts showcases its parade float during the Corn School street festival in LaGrange.

Fall Community Impact Grants Now Available

The LaGrange County Community Foundation is now accepting applications to its Community Impact Grants program.

Community Impact Grants are available to nonprofit organizations serving LaGrange County. These grants are made possible through the generosity of donors who have supported the unrestricted and field of interest charitable funds at the Foundation.

Community Impact Grant applications will be due September 1. The Community Foundation seeks proposals for innovative or creative projects with significant impact in LaGrange County.

Nonprofit organizations serving LaGrange County are eligible to apply in six areas: arts & culture, recreation, health and human services, community development, education and environment. Previous Community Impact Grants have ranged from $5,000 to $25,000 per award.  

To submit an application visit >> lccf.net/community-impact-grants.

All applications are due September 1, 2022.

Please contact Leanna Martin at lmartin@lccf.net or call 260-463-4363 for questions or more information.

Community Foundation Awards $47,500 in Community Impact Grants

The LaGrange County Community Foundation awarded $47,500 to four nonprofit organizations during its 2022 Spring Community Impact Grants cycle.

The grants will address community needs in education and health and human services. One of the grants will support the development of the Community Health Clinic in Shipshewana. The Community Health Clinic is a nonprofit healthcare facility that focuses on research and specialized care for individuals with rare genetic conditions.

Pictures above left to right: Jared Beasley, Executive Director of the Community Health Clinic; Octavia Yoder, Executive Director of the LaGrange County Community Foundation; Dr. Zineb Ammous, Clinical Geneticist and Medical Director of the Community Health Clinic.

We are excited to support the Community Health Clinic’s new facility. The expanded clinic will help their organization provide better services to their patients and continue to serve the community with comprehensive medical genetics care. All of the nonprofits are providing important services and programs to the LaGrange County community. We are thrilled to support their efforts as they seek to improve the quality of life and help meet critical community needs.

Octavia Yoder, Executive Director of LaGrange County Community Foundation

The 2022 Spring Community Impact Grant recipients include:

  • Community Health Clinic, Community Health Clinic Building, $40,000.
  • RespectTeam, RespectTeam programming for LaGrange County, $3,000.
  • McMillen Health, Preventative Health Education for LaGrange County youth, $2,500.
  • LaGrange County Miracle Tree, Turn Up for Teens, $2,000.

Each year, the Community Foundation seeks proposals for charitable projects and programs that help local nonprofit organizations provide services in LaGrange County. The Grants Advisory Committee reviews the submitted grant applications and makes recommendations to the Board of Directors who approve the grant awards.

The Community Impact Grants are made possible by the generosity of donors who give to the unrestricted and field of interest funds at the Foundation.

Meet Chelsea Weaver our Summer Intern

Hello! I’m Chelsea Weaver, and I’ve been a resident of LaGrange County for twenty years. I graduated from Westview High School in 2020. I studied Elementary Education at Trine University for two semesters before transferring to Western Governors University. I anticipate graduating in November of 2022.

Since Western Governors University is an online school, I had the opportunity to work at Shipshewana Scott Elementary as an intervention assistant. There, I was able to see how my coursework plays out in a real setting. When I am not focusing on my studies or working, I enjoy walking my corgi, molding pottery on my pottery wheel, and hanging out with my friends and family.

I look forward to learning how LaGrange County Community Foundation works with organizations to impact the future of LaGrange County!

Community Foundation awards $99,500 to graduating seniors

We are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2022 Community Scholarship Program, which aims to support the educational aspirations of students in LaGrange County.

Through the program, the Community Foundation awarded $99,500 in scholarships to 23 graduating seniors.

The Community Scholarships are open to graduating high school seniors who are pursuing higher education at an accredited university, college, or trade school. The program has grown to 45 donor-created scholarship funds, each with its own unique criteria. Funds are created by individuals, families and businesses and are managed by the Community Foundation.

The scholarship funds support a variety of career paths such as education, agriculture, health, science, nursing, and more.    

Scholarship recipients, listed by schools, are as follows:

Lakeland High School scholarship recipients

  • Brooklynn Olinger – Allread Rife Family Scholarship; Bruce Brown Memorial Scholarship; Lakeland High School Scholarship and Mary McGawn Memorial Teaching Scholarship.
  • Cole Schiffli – Chase Scott Memorial Football Scholarship; and Joseph Willard Memorial Scholarship.
  • Isabella Rasler – Schlemmer Scholarship.
  • Jason McBride Jr. – Terry Schmidt Memorial Basketball Scholarship.
  • Keylee Fleeman – Brian Evans Memorial Scholarship and Craig & Ronda Neff Memorial Scholarship.
  • Lucile Cook – Mattea Holton Memorial Scholarship and The Bulldog Spirit Scholarship.
  • Madi Targgart – Judy Gage-Keenan Memorial Scholarship and Waddell Memorial Scholarship.
  • Pilar Canedo – Olivia Bay Lemings Memorial Basketball Scholarship and the Paul & Marian Krebs Memorial Scholarship.

Prairie Heights High School scholarship recipients

  • Alexandra German – Prairie Heights High School Scholarship.
  • Breanda Sutton – Prairie Heights High School Band Scholarship
  • Colton Penick – Prairie Heights High School Scholarship and the J. O. Mory Company Scholarship.
  • Jaden Soller – Prairie Heights High School Scholarship and the Mory Family Scholarship.
  • Katelyn Eash – The Craig & Ronda Neff Memorial Scholarship; Virgil & Florence Hardin Memorial Scholarship; The HOPE Nursing Scholarship; the Perkins Family Scholarship and the Ray & Ruth Culp Memorial Scholarship.
  • Kirsten Norton – The Beverly Todd Memorial Scholarship.
  • Samarah Orr – The Allread-Rife Family Scholarship, Amanda Crotts Memorial Scholarship and the Prairie Heights High School Scholarship.

Westview High School scholarship recipients

  • Allie Springer – Kerry Wilt-Spradlin Memorial Scholarship.
  • Bohdy Bontrager – Ellsworth Fanning Memorial Scholarship and the Rheinheimer Family Scholarship.
  • Brookelyn Lambright – The Rheinheimer Family Scholarship.
  • Isaac Rogers – Lambright Leadership Scholarship, the Mike Farmwald Scholarship and the George O. Witwer News-Sun Journalism Scholarship.
  • Jackson Minix – Lambright Leadership Scholarship, the Melvin & Marjorie Bricker Memorial Scholarship.
  • Kaylyn Gates – Lambright Leadership Scholarship, the Lyle Smith Scholarship.
  • Lillian Eash – Lambright Leadership Scholarship, Holly Petersen Memorial Science Scholarship, the James Kalb Memorial Scholarship, the Keith & Arline Davis Scholarship, the LIFE Scholarship, the Melvin & Marjorie Bricker Memorial Scholarship and the Ned Stump Memorial Scholarship.
  • Penelope Eash – The Morgan Hunter Memorial Scholarship.

Anyone can give to current scholarship funds. For more information check out the List of Scholarships or call us at 260-463-4363.

Give Now