For years, one of HCCF’s philanthropic roles has been to serve as a funder for charitable causes in the community. We are humbled by this role and honored to play a small part in the important work carried out by our tireless nonprofit leaders.

Over the years, this role has evolved to include offering support services specific to nonprofit needs, such as networking events and workshops, an online resource page, and a monthly newsletter.

During HCCF’s year-long strategic planning work in 2016, the board of directors determined it was time for the foundation’s grantmaking approach to grow to include a dedicated focus on capacity-building.

Capacity-building work is different from traditional responsive grantmaking in that it allows HCCF as a funder to engage with grantees on a deeper level. Instead of solely funding programs, capital improvements, or “things” through a grant cycle, capacity-building funding invests in the organizational health of our grant partners.

This addition necessitated creating a brand to encompass all this work into a cohesive nonprofit support initiative. To capture our intent to come alongside our grant partners and grow together in our effort to build a stronger Hancock County, we chose the name Partners in Excellence.

Partners in Excellence will continue the work we have been doing – workshops, online resources, annual responsive grant cycles – and it will include two new programs: the LevelUp Grant Program and Excellence Academy.

We look forward to this next step and the challenge to provide even stronger support to the organizations that do the hard work every day.

Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) Grant Opportunities

Online Grant Portal

Annual Grant Cycle

This application is now closed and will re-open in February 2020.

Strategic Operating Support Funding

1. A grant to help nonprofits formulate and/or implement resource development efforts for a strategic purpose as it relates to their operations.
2. Examples of eligible Strategic Operating Support Funding proposals include but are not limited to:
   • Fundraising: Includes costs associated with developing a fundraising plan, executing an annual campaign, etc.
   • Marketing: Includes development of new marketing materials, website design, advertising, social media enhancement, etc.
   • Staff, Board, and Volunteers: Includes capacity-building efforts associated with staff training and development (ex. conference or workshop), internship program development and hiring, board training, volunteer recruitment and training, and strategic plan development. Staff salaries will only be considered with proof of program enhancement and must be accompanied by a written sustainability plan.
   • Technology: Includes information technology support, website maintenance, etc. Does not include purchase of equipment (see Capital Improvement).
3. Requests for cost of office space rent, utilities, travel expenses, and staff benefits will not be considered. These funds are not meant to sustain recurring operating costs from year to year.
4. Maximum request: $10,000
5. Minimum request: $1,000
6. If your organization received a Strategic Operating Support grant in 2018, you are not eligible to apply in this category in 2019.

Program & Project Support Funding

A grant to support or expand an existing charitable program/project or to create and launch a new charitable program/project.

1. Maximum request: $10,000
2. Minimum request: $1,000

Capital Improvement Funding

A grant to support capital purchases with an expected useful life of 12 months or more, such as building repairs or additions, purchase of new equipment, purchase of technology (hardware & software), vehicles, and furniture.

1. Maximum request: $10,000
2. Minimum request: $1,000

Endowment-Building Match Funding

A grant to seed a new agency endowment with HCCF that will provide perpetual operating support for the organization.

1. Request amount: $7,500
2. Award must be matched 1-to-1 in order to receive grant.
3. Organization must be in conversation with HCCF’s development team to apply for this grant.

White Family Foundation Grant Cycle

This application is now closed and will re-open in 2020.

The purpose of the White Family Foundation Fund, a fund of the Hancock County Community Foundation, is to assist local community development and support initiatives that enhance the desire to live, work and play in Shirley, Indiana and nearby surrounding communities.

Eligible projects may include, but are not limited to beautification projects, building façade improvements, recreational enhancements and accessibility, public safety and transportation. Eligible applicants must serve Shirley, Indiana and nearby surrounding communities which may include but are not limited to Wilkinson, Knightstown, Charlottesville, Kennard, Carthage, Willow Branch, Greensboro, and Grant City.

Mini Grant Requests

This grant cycle is now closed and will re-open in 2020.

1. Requests must be for $1,000 or less.
2. Requests for emergencies or immediate needs will be given priority.
3. Requests should be for a one-time expense. Mini Grants will not sustain operating or programming costs from year-to-year. Mini Grant requests to cover a portion of a new ongoing expense must explain the plan for future sustainability.
4. The implementation of Mini Grant requests should fall outside the Annual Grant Cycle timeframe. Mini Grant requests received during the Annual Grant Cycle application cycle must either be 1) an emergency request where funding is needed immediately or 2) a request for a small, one-time project under $1,000.
5. Organizations may only receive one (1) Mini Grant per calendar year.
6. Mini Grants are administered on a rolling cycle each calendar year. Applications are accepted and evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis until funds available for the calendar year are gone.

If you have a request that falls within these parameters, please contact Katie Ottinger at kottinger@givehcgrowhc.org to request an application.

Connecting Community Grants

This grant cycle is now closed for 2019.

The purpose of the Connecting Community Fund is to encourage residents to meet each other, socialize, and enjoy nature in public places.

Funding considerations may include but are not limited to:
• Entertainment opportunities like community concerts, art exhibitions, movies, outdoor public instruments
• Pop-up events like community arts and crafts activities, food tasting, garden parties
• Fellowship activities like community picnics, ice cream socials, walks, dances, game tournaments, outdoor public game boards
• Components of area festivals that build local relationships

Maximum request is $1,000 per organization. This is a rolling grant cycle that will remain open for the remainder of 2018. Funds will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until the fund balance is depleted and will open again in 2019.

If you believe your organization has a project or an idea that would meet the spirit of this fund, please contact Katie Ottinger, using the contact information below.

 Contact Information

Questions about grants should be directed to Katie Ottinger, Community Investment & Grants Officer, who can be reached at 317.462.8870 extension 233 or kottinger@giveHCgrowHC.org.

Martha Beckenholdt Youth Philanthropy Award

This award, named in honor of long-time Hancock County resident and philanthropist Martha Beckenholdt, recognizes a Hancock County high school junior who has contributed outstanding time, talent, and energy to philanthropic endeavors. These are the true attributes of the woman whom the award honors. The award recipient will select a Hancock County nonprofit organization or agency to receive a $1,000 grant in his or her name, donated by the Hancock County Community Foundation.
Applicants must be Hancock County high school juniors with a recommendation from a high school staff member or nonprofit organization leader located in Hancock County.

This application is now closed

The LevelUp Grant Program’s goal is to support leaders so they can more effectively advance the mission and vision of their nonprofit organizations. LevelUp is an expression of HCCF’s profound respect and support for the nonprofit leaders who are doing the hard work that is vital to improving the quality of life in Hancock County.

LevelUp starts with a simple question: Where does your organization want to go, and what support and resources does it need to get there? The program engages executive directors, senior staff, and board members to think strategically about their goals and the skills, infrastructure, and organizational systems needed to carry out their work.

Program Structure

PLANNING

• Complete an application
• Complete a capacity assessment
• Complete a pre-survey for baseline
• Identify greatest opportunity for growth
• Select a consultant

GRANT

• Up to $10,000 grant to hire a consultant
• Grantees contribute 10% of final project cost
• Complete post-survey as part of grant report

PEER LEARNING

• Bi-monthly roundtables with LevelUp grantees
• Discuss what is developing in organizations
• Share experience working with consultant

MENTOR

• Previous LevelUp grantees will attend roundtables
• Provide guidance and advice
• Serve as a sounding board

Focus Areas

The LevelUp Grant Program is designed to walk organizations through assessing their capacity in the following areas of organizational health, ultimately selecting one area to focus on taking to the next level under the guidance of a professional consultant.

• Mission & Strategy
• Board Development
• Financial Management
• Human Resources Management
• Fundraising & Donor Relations
• Program Outcome Measurement
• Governance & Administration
• Communications & Marketing
• Transition & Succession Planning
• Leadership & Organizational Culture

Eligibility

Participation in the LevelUp Grant Program is by invitation.

Eligible organizations must be public, tax-exempt organizations by Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code, who serve Hancock County and have received at least one previous grant from HCCF. LevelUp grantees will NOT be eligible for the Annual Grant Cycle for the year they are participating in the LevelUp Grant Program.

The Excellence Academy provides an in-depth curriculum and learning community for small and mid-size nonprofit organizations that serve Hancock County. Participants learn together about leadership, board engagement, resource development, and nonprofit management. Each session will cover questions such as:  

• What are the priorities, perspectives, and capabilities of successful nonprofit leaders?
• What are some great ways to recruit, prepare, and engage board members?
• What strategies and techniques can generate gifts and grants?
• What management practices lead to high performance across a nonprofit’s team?

Participation in the Excellence Academy Class of 2022 is by invitation.

Class of 2022 Portal (password protected)

Program Structure

• Three to five local nonprofit organizations (“Academy Owls”) will participate
• Half-day sessions quarterly in August, November, February, and May
• Classes led by Aspen Impact’s nonprofit consulting team
• In-depth curriculum and learning community
• $500 unrestricted grant each year throughout the three-year commitment
• Every three years, a cohort graduates and a new cohort begins

In each session, Academy Owls will discuss concepts together; ask challenging questions of each other; encourage each other; write and tell stories — real and imagined; and sketch diagrams about resources, processes, and possibilities.

Additional Details

There is no monetary cost to participate in the Excellence Academy. HCCF only asks for participants’ time and dedication to learning and growing. HCCF will make a $500 unrestricted grant to participating organizations each year throughout the three-year commitment.

Quarterly Hoot! Coming August, 2019

Subscribe to the Quarterly Hoot! to be part of our broader learning community.    

Questions

Contact Katie Ottinger, Community Investment & Grants Officer, who can be reached at 317.462.8870 extension 233 or kottinger@giveHCgrowHC.org.

What is a grant?

For the purpose of Hancock County Community Foundation grants, a grant is a monetary award to a nonprofit organization for a specific project or purpose. Organizations interested in receiving a grant from Hancock County Community Foundation should read below to learn about eligibility and requirements for HCCF’s grants.  Grants are generated from endowment funds administered by HCCF.  To learn more about our many types of funds including Nonprofit Operating Funds, please click here.

How To Apply

The Community Foundation establishes an annual grantmaking program that is available on a competitive basis to qualified nonprofit organizations serving Hancock County. Each grant opportunity has its own criteria used to evaluate applications.

We welcome and encourage contact from organizations that are considering applying for a grant and are happy to clarify and respond to questions concerning policies, guidelines, or application procedures.

We require that organizations use the Community Foundation’s application forms. Current HCCF grant opportunities can be found here.

HCCF Grantee Eligibility and Award Criteria

Due diligence is the process of review and assessment of an organization to determine grant eligibility. Grants will not be awarded from any fund type until HCCF staff completes due diligence to assure the below grantee eligibility and award criteria are followed. Each grant opportunity may have additional eligibility requirements and award criteria.

 Eligible Organizations:

• • A public, tax-exempt origination defined by Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code.* Government agencies, municipalities, and churches are eligible under this requirement.
  • 501(c)(3) status is in good standing with the IRS.**
  • Must serve Hancock County
  • Must be in good standing with HCCF, meaning evaluation reports on all previous grants have been filed.

*Exception – If you do not have a 501(c)(3) status, you may enter into an agreement with a qualified non-profit that will act as your fiscal sponsor.

**Nonprofit status confirmed through GuideStar Charity Check and completed by HCCF Staff.

Grant Award Criteria:

• • The grant award supports a charitable purpose.
  • The grant award does not benefit the fund advisor(s) or members of the HCCF Grant Committee and Board of Directors.
  • The grant award does not fulfill a pledge.
  • To use funds granted solely for the stated purpose.
  • To repay any portion of the amount granted which is not used for the purpose of the grant or expended prior to the termination of the grant period.
  • To return any unexpended funds if the grantee loses its exemption from federal income taxation as provided under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
  • To maintain program and financial records adequate to verify expenditures and activity related to the grant.
  • Submit a completed grant evaluation as outlined and described in the grant agreement.
  • To provide acknowledgement of Hancock County Community Foundation’s role in any publicity regarding the grant and to provide pictures of the project to HCCF.

Ineligible Organizations or Activities:

Applications for religious indoctrination or other religious activities, non-HCCF administered endowment building, deficit financing, fundraising, lobbying, electioneering, and activities of political nature will not be considered, nor will proposals for ads, sponsorships, and any proposals which discriminate as to race, gender, marital status, sexual preference, age, disability, creed or ethnicity.

Additionally, HCCF grants will not reimburse expenses committed for projects, programs, capital improvement, and/or equipment.

Exceptions:

In selected cases, projects undertaken by organizations that normally fall outside the above guidelines may be able to receive funding.  Examples include: religious organizations whose proposal impacts the broader community; or units of government whose proposal extends beyond the traditional governmental functions that impact the broader community.  No grants will be made solely to individuals, but can be made for the benefit of certain individuals for such purposes as scholarships and special programs through educational institutions and other sponsoring recipient organizations.

What does HCCF look for in a Grantee?

The Hancock County Community Foundation looks for grantees that align with our vision for Hancock County in which each person has the opportunity to pursue dreams, enjoy daily life, and invest in meaningful causes.

HCCF’s grant initiatives and opportunities change each year. We invite you to contact our office to learn about specific requirements and opportunities.

Grant Writing Tips

We strongly advise that you seek the assistance of the Hancock County Community Foundation staff if you have any questions or difficulties with the grant application process. We are here to help you with your grant application. Each grant opportunity may have additional grant writing tips for you to consider.

• • Include ALL required documentation with the Grant Proposal. Follow the instructions completely.
  • Keep a copy of your application for future reference.
  • Provide a reasonable, detailed budget of the project seeking funding. Grant committee members will recognize under-budgeted or padded requests.
  • Do your homework on costs. Provide price lists or written estimates as attachments. Include competing estimates or bids if the work/project is to be contracted.
  • Statistics are helpful to justify your proposals, but statistics specific to Hancock County will provide better justification for funding. How many Hancock County residents will be served by your program? What is the source and relevance of your statistics?
  • Avoid jargon, abbreviations and acronyms. Ask someone who is not familiar with the project to read and critique your application. Will they be able to understand and clearly explain what your project is, the costs, the results of what you hope to achieve?

 Contact Information

Questions about grants should be directed to Katie Ottinger, Community Investment & Grants Officer, who can be reached at 317.462.8870 extension 233 or kottinger@giveHCgrowHC.org.

Reporting

The grantee must complete and submit to HCCF a Grant Evaluation Report based on the time frame outlined in the grant agreement document. Most HCCF grants require that the grant evaluation be submitted as soon as funds are expended or by the date given in the grant agreement based on the grant award date, whichever comes first. Failure to complete and submit the Grant Evaluation Report will have a negative impact on any future funding opportunities.

2018 and previous Spring Cycle, Animal Welfare, and White Family grant reports
2018 and previous Mini Grant report
Overdue grant reports from 2015 and 2016
Big Impact and Community Impact grant reports 

Contact Information

Questions about grants should be directed to Katie Ottinger, Community Investment & Grants Officer, who can be reached at 317.462.8870 extension 233 or kottinger@giveHCgrowHC.org.

2019 Spring and Animal Welfare Grant Cycles

This spring, HCCF granted $128,585.54 to 36 organizations serving Hancock County!

The 2019 Spring Grant Cycle was open to any 501(c)3 organization serving Hancock County. The available grant categories were Strategic Operating Support, Program and Project Support, Capital Improvement, and Endowment-Building. The funds for this grant cycle came from a collection of HCCF’s unrestricted resources and field of interest funds.

For a complete list of grant recipients, click HERE.

2019 Women’s Fund of Hancock County Grant

In 2012, the Women’s Fund of Hancock County created a task force to consider women’s issues.  From that task force, the Women’s Resource Center was born and opened its doors in 2014.  After the 2018 Power of the Purse, the Women’s Fund Committee made the thoughtful decision to grant to the Women’s Resource Center for the next 3 years.  This decision is to ensure that the WRC continues to grow and be successful. 

The Women’s Fund of Hancock County was able to grant $20,278.46 to the Women’s Resource at the 2019 Power of the Philanthropic Purse event on Saturday, August 3, 2019.  We appreciate the work WRC is doing to help women get back on their feet and onto a life of self-sufficiency and economic empowerment.

2019 White Family Foundation Grants

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded nine grants from the White Family Foundation Fund, a component fund of HCCF, totaling $25,000.  The following organizations received funding:

The White Family Foundation Fund is a donor-advised fund of HCCF. Donor-advised funds allow donors to simplify and consolidate all their charitable giving and provides the family the opportunity to make grant recommendations from their fund to HCCF in order to address community needs. HCCF assures the charitable qualifications of recommended grantees and handles all the administration details. As a way to give back, the White Family supports initiatives that enhance the desire to live, work, and play in the communities where they have provided business services. They consider applicants through thoughtful conversation as a multi-generational family.

Stephanie White-Longworth and Keith White, previous owners of GasAmerica Services, Inc., lead the family’s philanthropic efforts. They now own Pride Investment Partners, LLC (formerly K&S Holdings, LLC), which is operating under a corporate brand reflecting the company’s growth in real estate and private equity investments. Since 2012, Pride Investment Partners has operated out of Greenfield with a variety of investments throughout Indiana and Ohio, including investments in retail – such as hotels, strip centers and retail stores – and in residential and commercial real estate.

2019 Connecting Community

HCCF issues grant for Winterfest

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded Fortville Action, Inc. a grant from the Connecting Community Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant will help fund Winterfest activities in the town of Fortville.  Winterfest will be December 7 from 12-7 p.m. This free event will offer family fun including a zipline, gaming truck, “human snow globe” photo opportunity and ice rink. There will also be a parade, caroling, carriage rides, Santa, street vendors and much more. You can find more information on the Fortville Action, Inc. Facebook page.

HCCF issues grant for Community Carnival

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded the Kenneth Butler Memorial Soup Kitchen a grant from the Connecting Community Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant will help fund a carnival on Oct. 12 from 1-5 p.m. to celebrate the soup kitchen’s 10^th Anniversary. This family-friendly, free event is open to all with the intention of increasing awareness and expressing their gratitude to the community for their support.  There will be tours, games, prizes, and food with a special emphasis on hugs and thank-yous. The carnival will be held in the Greenfield Christian Church’s lower parking lot and the alley to the west of the soup kitchen’s building. Food will be served inside the building. The public is encouraged to attend.

HCCF issues grant for “Digging in Their Heels”

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded The League of Women Voters of Hancock County a grant from the Connecting Community Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant will help fund a presentation of “Digging in Their Heels,” a one-woman show about women getting the vote that is packed with humor and history. The show was written by and stars Sally Perkins and will be performed Sept. 21 at 7 p.m. at the H.J. Ricks Centre for the Arts in Greenfield.

HCCF issues grant for 150^th Anniversary of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish Celebration

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church a grant from the Connecting Community Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant will help

fund a community celebration in the town of Fortville.  The celebration will take place Saturday, September 14.  Events will include mass with the Archbishop at 5 p.m., followed by dinner in a tent on the grounds, entertainment, games, and a family movie.  The festivities will conclude with a laser light show.  The entire community is invited to attend and celebrate the treasured past and exciting future of the Fortville community.

Through the Connecting Community Fund, HCCF supports public opportunities that encourage residents to enjoy community gathering spots and activities where people can play, eat, learn, and socialize.

HCCF issues grant for New Palestine Summer Concert Series

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded New Palestine Main Street a grant from the Connecting Community Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant will help pay for a series of concerts called Music on Depot.  These concerts kicked off on May 24 with Gordon Bonham Blues Band, and will continue July 26 with Boogie Knights, August 23 with Nick Harless Band and September 27 with Levi Driskell.

These concerts will take place in the alley at the intersection of U.S. 52 (Main Street) and Depot Street, next to the New Palestine Museum.  There will be live music for all ages, barbecue, beer and wine available to purchase.  Bring lawn chairs and/or blankets for enjoying the concert and coolers are welcome.  No outside alcohol is allowed. 

Through the Connecting Community Fund, HCCF supports public opportunities that encourage residents to enjoy community gathering spots and activities where people can play, eat, learn, and socialize.

HCCF issues grant for Get ‘Cycling event

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded Leadership Hancock County a grant from the Connecting Community Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant will help a project group host the Get ‘Cycling event on May 18 in the Courthouse Plaza and Annex parking lot in Greenfield.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and combines activities of a Bicycle Rodeo and Keep Greenfield Green. Children and families can participate in bicycle safety exercises, enjoy arts and crafts, listen to music and more. There will be education, demonstrations and giveaways from local businesses. Craft stations will teach art projects with recyclable materials. Roy Ballard, Purdue Extension, will demonstrate composting, Dani’s Dreams will provide an Eco Lesson and local waste management companies will be on hand to allow families to sign up for recycling programs. There will also be food, music and a bounce house. The event is free to the public.

HCCF issues grant from Connecting Community Fund

 The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded a grant from the Connecting Community Fund, a component fund of HCCF, to the Jane Ross Reeves Octagon House in Shirley.

On June 22, the Jane Ross Reeves Octagon House will be celebrating its 140^th birthday. The Wright Family will provide a free concert and there will be free tours of the house as well as refreshments. The grant will pay for a tent for the celebration. The public is invited to attend to enjoy the band, the house and the grounds.

HCCF issues grant from Connecting Community Fund

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded a $1,000 grant from the Connecting Community Fund, a component fund of HCCF, to Dani’s Dreams Innovation in Education Corporation.

Dani’s Dreams will partner with community organizations and fellow nonprofits to offer “pop-up” Eco Lessons at various locations during March, April and May. The goal is to help people celebrate the joy found in discovery and spread awareness of sustainability and environmental education throughout Hancock County.  Organizations interested in partnering with Dani’s Dreams are encouraged to visit its website to learn more about its programs at www.danisdreamscorp.org.

HCCF issues grants from Connecting Community Fund

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded $620 grants from the Connecting Community Fund, a component fund of HCCF, to four Hancock County organizations for 2019 activities. 

HCCF supports opportunities that encourage residents to enjoy community gathering spots and activities where people can play, eat, learn, and socialize.

New Palestine Main Street has plans to use the grant to help fund their upcoming Summerfest which will include a festival, 5k run, car show, free concert stage, entertainment, children’s play area, and fireworks on June 22, 2019. 

Fortville Action, Inc. will use their grant to help fund an ArtBattle and two other arts festivals this year, as well as a summer concert series at Landmark Park. 

Greenfield Main Street will use their grant to help fund the Shamrock the Block on March 15 and Boos and Brews on October 25 as well as expenses for a public Stellarbration Celebration later this year.

Shirley Community Visionaries will use their funds to help cover expenses for the Shirley Sounds of Summer Outdoor Concerts on the third Saturday of each month this summer. 

HCCF Issues Connecting Community Grant

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded the Hancock County Historical Society a grant from the Connecting Community Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant allowed the Historical Society to bring the Sammy Terry Show to the HJ Ricks Centre for the Performing Arts in Greenfield.

The event took place on Oct. 6, and the evening of listening to the Sammy Terry character reminisce about his TV run included a costume contest and a viewing of the 1968 classic, “Night of the Living Dead” movie.

Created by HCCF, the Connecting Community Fund is a fund that provides support to opportunities that encourage residents to meet each other, socialize, and enjoy nature in public places.

HCCF Partners with Fellow Funders to Bring Newest Mural to Greenfield

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently established the Hancock County Mural Fund as a vehicle to receive gifts to support murals and art projects throughout the community. HCCF’s $5,000 grant combined with gifts from fellow funders supported the first benefactor of the fund, Greenfield’s newest hand-painted mural. The mural captures the elements of the James Whitcomb Riley poem titled “A Barefoot Boy.” The internationally acclaimed artist, Andrew Heim, did his homework to bring the boy and his friends to life.

“I gravitated towards barefoot boy out of the rest (of the poems) because it resonated with me. I could relate with the boy because I was always a kid who didn’t have a care in the world, always the first to jump out of my Dad’s car, shoeless, to the park and beach. I loved jumping into the water and trying to swim for hours, getting lost and having my parents look frantically for me. I guess every boy could relate to this poem in some shape or form.”

While the mural committee asked that Heim incorporate more children into the mural to emphasize a sense of community, he shared, “I wanted the mural to showcase the boy. I wanted him to have the spotlight. I knew adding two other figures could take away from that spotlight, so the solution for me was to lower the lighting and change the hue so they weren’t fighting for attention. I wanted the first read of the mural to be strictly on the boy because he is the star of the poem. The other figures are just there to support the main character, not to distract from him. The background is inspired by the creek at Pennsy Trail. I wanted to stay true to the colors of the water and the color of the trees, but I wanted to push the stylization of the shapes and make them more playful.”

The mural, completed on September 19, is located on the west wall of 20 W. Main St., adjacent to the North Street Living Alley. HCCF awarded a $1,000 “Connecting Communities” grant to the City of Greenfield to support a pop-up event called “Rock Party” on September 21. People of all ages decorated and painted the creek bed rocks to adorn the base of the mural. Face painting, selfies, and refreshments complimented the fun. Mural visitors are invited to take a rock as a souvenir during Riley Days.

2018 Unified Signage

HCCF Celebrates County Schools with Uniform Signage Grants

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) awarded the Greenfield-Central Community School Corporation a grant of $15,000 to place identification signage at the school district boundaries. The school system completed the placement of 12 signs this fall with the help of the grant.

In 2017, Mt. Vernon Schools inspired this HCCF initiative when they partnered with the Towns of Fortville, McCordsville, and Cumberland to install signage across the school district. Both new and replacement signs were designed with the help of an HCCF grant. The signage celebrates the school and the communities it serves.

This spring, HCCF invited Eastern Hancock, Greenfield-Central, and Southern Hancock schools to do the same.

“All schools shared their appreciation for the design of the Mt. Vernon school signs and will use the same concept for the sake of uniformity,” says Mary Gibble, HCCF president. “To further the impact, an additional panel will be added proclaiming ‘A Proud Part of Hancock County.’”

HCCF has earmarked $30,000 in 2019 for Eastern Hancock and Southern Hancock schools to install uniform signage.

2019 Mini-Grants

HCCF issues grant for mulching project

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded Regreening Greenfield a grant to help with a project to mulch young trees along north and south State Street. Mulching is critical in preventing damage from mowing and trimming; it also improves aesthetics.

The grant was issued from the Clean and Green Fund, a component fund of HCCF. A member of HCCF’s Spirit of Community fund family, grants from this fund provide support for conserving and protecting Hancock County’s natural environment through recycling, clean energy, and green initiatives.

Regreening is a nonprofit organization, comprised of volunteers who cooperate with individuals, government and civic organizations to plan and implement street tree plantings and other landscaping and reforestation projects in the Greenfield area. Activities and projects are funded through donations, grants, and governmental partnerships. The mission of Regreening Greenfield is preserving and restoring Greenfield’s urban forest

HCCF issues grant for Special Olympics basketball uniforms

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded Special Olympics of Hancock County a grant from the Enrichment Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant will help the organization replace their aging basketball uniforms.

This grant was issued from a pool of money that is set aside each year to meet nonprofit organizations’ needs that arise outside of the major grant cycles. These mini grants can be made for up to $1,000 until the pool of money is exhausted.

Ringworm outbreak spurs HCCF grant to Hancock Co. Humane Society

The Hancock County Humane Society has experienced an outbreak of ringworm at their facility, leading to the need for emergency funding to treat the infected cats and disinfect the environment.  The Hancock County Community Foundation was able to issue a grant for $1,000 to help cover some of the cost of treatment. 

This grant was issued from a pool of money that is set aside each year to meet nonprofit organizations’ needs that arise outside of the major grant cycles. These mini grants can be made for up to $1,000 until the pool of money is exhausted.

HCCF issues grant for new computers

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded Life Choices Care Center a grant from the Enrichment Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant will help the organization upgrade their outdated technology.

This grant was issued from a pool of money that is set aside each year to meet nonprofit organizations’ needs that arise outside of the major grant cycles. These mini grants can be made for up to $1,000 until the pool of money is exhausted.

HCCF issues grant for chapel front door improvement

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded Hancock County Historical Society a grant from the Enrichment Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant will go toward installation of a new door sill and storm door for the Chapel in the Park. The leaking door has caused water to get into the furnace room and has created ongoing maintenance problems.

This grant was issued from a pool of money that is set aside each year to meet nonprofit organizations’ needs that arise outside of the major grant cycles. These mini grants can be made for up to $1,000 until the pool of money is exhausted.

HCCF issues grant for food pantry computer purchase

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded Hancock County Food Pantry a grant from the Enrichment Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant will go toward the purchase of a new computer to replace and upgrade the current aging machine. The computer will help the organization collect client information, track volunteer hours, and manage organization communications. The computer will also enhance capacity of newly-installed security cameras.

HCCF issues grant for WCMP website upgrade

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded the Weir Cook Memorial Project a grant from the Enrichment Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant will help the organization create a fresh website that will include a membership area and events page. 

This grant was issued from a pool of money that is set aside each year to meet nonprofit organizations’ needs that arise outside of the major grant cycles.  These mini grants can be made for up to $1,000 until the pool of money is exhausted.

HCCF issues grant for replacement of camp utility vehicle

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded Nameless Creek Camp a grant from the Enrichment Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant will go towards the replacement of the camp’s utility vehicle which has become unusable due to age and the cost of replacement parts. The vehicle helps the camp volunteers perform routine maintenance on the camp grounds.

This grant was issued from a pool of money that is set aside each year to meet nonprofit organizations’ needs that arise outside of the major grant cycles.  These mini grants can be made for up to $1,000 until the pool of money is exhausted.

HCCF issues grant for new music curriculum

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded the Hancock County Children’s Choir a grant from the Enrichment Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $993.70 grant will allow them to purchase new comprehensive music theory curriculum for their K-3rd grade choir.The Hancock County Children’s Choir is a choral performance and education program dedicated to creating musical opportunities for youth through the performance of a variety of musical literature including classical, cross-cultural, folk, patriotic, pop, sacred, and secular genres of music. Students in the choir are taught vocal production, diction, music theory, music history and appreciation, Solfege (sight singing), poise, stage presence, public speaking, and etiquette.

HCCF issues grant for street barricade beautification

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded the Greenfield Police Department a grant from the Enrichment Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $987.44 grant will allow the department to work with the Greenfield-Central High School Art Department to beautify the street barriers used for Riley Festival in order to create a more pleasing appearance at the festival entrance. The art students plan to design community-themed paintings and murals on the barricades. The grant will pay for the paint and supplies needed to create the art.

Riley Festival takes place in Greenfield each October in honor of James Whitcomb Riley, the “Hoosier Poet.” The barricades are expected to be in place to enjoy at the 2019 festival.

Created by HCCF, the Enrichment Fund addresses a broad range of needs. The Enrichment Fund helps support long-term solutions; respond quickly to emergencies; and meet changing social, cultural, educational, and environmental needs in our local community.

HCCF issues grant to Town of Wilkinson

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded the Town of Wilkinson a grant from the Hancock County Enrichment Fund, a component fund of HCCF. The $1,000 grant will help the town repair its tornado siren that was damaged by a lightning strike.

Created by HCCF, the Enrichment Fund is a comprehensive, unrestricted fund that addresses a broad range of needs, including future needs that often cannot be anticipated. It helps support long-term solutions, respond quickly to emergencies, and meet changing social, cultural, educational, and environmental needs in the community.

HCCF issues grants from Agricultural Heritage Fund

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded two grants from the Agricultural Heritage Fund, a component fund of HCCF.

The Greenfield Central School Foundation received a $1,000 grant for the Greenfield-Central High School FFA to use for crop production practices, management and merchandising.

The Mt. Vernon Education Foundation received a $1,000 grant to expand the Mt. Comfort Elementary learning garden project. Funding from this grant also came from the Hancock County Enrichment Funds.

A member of HCCF’s Spirit of Community fund family, Agricultural Heritage Fund grants sustain the spirit and rich history of our agricultural heritage by supporting activities associated with agriculture education, youth organizations, and other related agriculture programs in Hancock County.

The Hancock County Enrichment Fund, created by HCCF, is a comprehensive, unrestricted fund that addresses a broad range of needs–including future needs that often cannot be anticipated at the time your gift is made. The Enrichment Fund helps support long-term solutions; respond quickly to emergencies; and meet changing social, cultural, educational, and environmental needs in our local community.

2019 Education Foundation

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) recently awarded grants totaling $20,000 from the Hancock County Enrichment Fund to the four county public school education foundations:  Eastern Hancock Education Foundation, Greenfield Central School Foundation, Mt. Vernon Education Foundation, and Southern Hancock Education Foundation.

Greenfield Central School Foundation will use their funds specifically to provide equipment and promotional materials for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) activities at the intermediate, junior high and high schools. The remaining three foundations will use their funding toward teacher grants programs where classroom teachers can apply for funding from the school foundation for projects, supplies and professional development opportunities. 

Created by HCCF, the Enrichment Fund addresses a broad range of needs. The Enrichment Fund helps support long-term solutions; respond quickly to emergencies; and meet changing social, cultural, educational, and environmental needs in our local community.

Contact Information

Questions about grants should be directed to Katie Ottinger, Community Investment & Grants Officer, who can be reached at 317.462.8870 extension 233 or kottinger@giveHCgrowHC.org.

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Contact Information

Questions about accessing this page should be directed to Katie Ottinger, Community Investment & Grants Officer, who can be reached at 317.462.8870 extension 233 or kottinger@giveHCgrowHC.org.