Posted on December 7, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
More than $50,000 was donated to the Starke County Community Foundation as a result of this week’s Giving Tuesday event!
Giving Tuesday, the global generosity movement that was first launched in 2012, helps provide local people and organizations with the power to transform their communities. It was started with the simple idea of creating a day that encourages people to do good.
Many of the contributions that were provided on Giving Tuesday were specifically donated to Community Funds, which are eligible for the Lilly Endowment Inc. Matching Opportunity. That opportunity matches $2 to every $1 donated, with a total of $250,000 of matching funds available.
Throughout the span of this opportunity $246,000 of the matching money has been utilized, with only $4,000 remaining following the Giving Tuesday event.
SCCF Community Funds allow the organization to provide grants to various community resources. This year alone, more than $55,000 grant dollars have been funneled into the community for a variety of reasons.
Those funding opportunities range from larger amounts such as the $10,100 that was provided to Community Services of Starke County for a transportation van to smaller, but still impactful ones, such as the $600 grant that was awarded to Starke County WIC for a lactation station.
In addition to collecting donations and providing community members with an opportunity to gather in their North Judson office on Giving Tuesday, the Community Foundation also recognized the Constellation of Starke Executive Committee as the winners of the 2019 James R. Hardesty Leadership in Philanthropy Award.
The award honors of the achievements of an outstanding individual philanthropist or an effective and worthwhile organization that makes an impact on the community. The COS Exec Committee was selected for the work they’ve done to unify the region this year.
It was established to honor James “Jim” Hardesty’s legacy of giving back to the community. A resident of Hamlet who genuinely loved Starke County, Hardesty stated his philosophy of giving simply and poignantly, he would say “If you can’t do a lot, do what you can do.”
To learn more about a number of different ways you can play a role in assisting the community, visit nicf.org and click on the Starke County tab.
Showing posts with label Starke Co. Community Foundation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Starke Co. Community Foundation. Show all posts
Monday, December 9, 2019
Tuesday, December 3, 2019
Starke County Community Foundation to Host Giving Tuesday Event
Posted on December 3, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The Starke County Community Foundation is celebrating Giving Tuesday with an open house at their office in North Judson today!
Giving Tuesday is a global initiative intended to inspire people to give back locally. Each year, it is recognized the first week after Thanksgiving and the popular shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday as a way to kick off the charitable season.
The SCCF’s event will run from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and it is an opportunity for the organization to highlight this year’s impact and celebrate giving back to the community.
Free food and refreshments from local businesses will be offered throughout the day. To start off, coffee and hot chocolate from Grand Central Perk and doughnuts from Fingerhut Bakery will be available. Then around noon, Leg Shakers BBQ will provide lunch.
In addition to hosting this event, the Community Foundation is also highlighting a few different opportunities that will allow donors to maximize their charitable contributions.
Thanks to a matching opportunity offered through the private philanthropic foundation Lilly Endowment Inc, all gifts to the Community Funds will be matched $2 for every $1 donated. That means a $100 gift would garner a $200 match and result in total contribution of $300.
For all other funds, gifts will be matched $1 for $1, up to $500 per fund, while matching dollars last. Donations can either be dropped off at the Community Foundation office or made online at nicf.org.
The Starke County Community Foundation is located at 300 Keller Avenue in North Judson. If you have any questions about the event or ways you can assist the community call 574-772-3665.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The Starke County Community Foundation is celebrating Giving Tuesday with an open house at their office in North Judson today!
Giving Tuesday is a global initiative intended to inspire people to give back locally. Each year, it is recognized the first week after Thanksgiving and the popular shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday as a way to kick off the charitable season.
The SCCF’s event will run from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and it is an opportunity for the organization to highlight this year’s impact and celebrate giving back to the community.
Free food and refreshments from local businesses will be offered throughout the day. To start off, coffee and hot chocolate from Grand Central Perk and doughnuts from Fingerhut Bakery will be available. Then around noon, Leg Shakers BBQ will provide lunch.
In addition to hosting this event, the Community Foundation is also highlighting a few different opportunities that will allow donors to maximize their charitable contributions.
Thanks to a matching opportunity offered through the private philanthropic foundation Lilly Endowment Inc, all gifts to the Community Funds will be matched $2 for every $1 donated. That means a $100 gift would garner a $200 match and result in total contribution of $300.
For all other funds, gifts will be matched $1 for $1, up to $500 per fund, while matching dollars last. Donations can either be dropped off at the Community Foundation office or made online at nicf.org.
The Starke County Community Foundation is located at 300 Keller Avenue in North Judson. If you have any questions about the event or ways you can assist the community call 574-772-3665.
Monday, November 11, 2019
Community Assistance For Emergencies Fund Established Through SCCF
Posted on November 9, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The Starke County Community Organizations Active in Disasters (COAD) group has been working in conjunction with the County’s Emergency Management Agency (EMA) to establish a fund intended to provide assistance during emergencies.
Over the last several months, EMA Director J. Nier and COAD members have been coordinating about the idea of providing food and beverages, such as water or coffee, to first responders when they’re on a scene for an extended amount of time.
Since the EMA Director is generally notified when emergencies occur, she has the ability to hear directly from first responders about when the assistance would be needed. While there were some small successes with providing sandwiches and coffee on a few occasions, there was desire to make the program more sustainable.
The group worked with the Starke County Community Foundation to establish the Community Assistance for Emergencies (C.A.F.E) Designated Endowment Fund.
Through a generous donation of $5,000 from the Hardesty Memorial Fund, the fund already has some dollars invested and will now start gathering interest.
Others can make contributions to the C.A.F.E Fund by clicking the Donate button located on nicf.org and then selecting Community Assistance For Emergencies Fund when prompted to designate the gift. Individuals can choose whether they want to make the donation once, on a monthly basis, or annually.
The COAD group also intends to hold in-person fundraisers in the future.
While Community Foundation funds can not be accessed at any time, a check with a portion of the funds raised will be presented each year and the remainder will continue to be invested.
In order to have money available to purchase items right away, a separate bank account is being created for the C.A.F.E Fund where those checks will eventually be deposited and donations designated for immediate use will be placed.
Representatives felt that establishing the endowment through SCCF not only helps legitimize the effort but it also ensures that there will be money for this purpose for years to come.
The first priority of the account is to assist first responders, however, there are plans to build upon that in the future. Once the group starts to see a return on their investment and more funds are available to spend, some additional guidelines will be established to expand on the assistance provided.
Ultimately, the hope is that the C.A.F.E Fund will also be able to help community members who have been affected by emergency situations such as a fire, flood, or even a furnace going out in the wintertime.
If you are a restaurant owner, first-responder, or curious citizen interested in learning more, contact Director Nier at 574-772-9182 or send a message through the Starke County COAD Facebook Page.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The Starke County Community Organizations Active in Disasters (COAD) group has been working in conjunction with the County’s Emergency Management Agency (EMA) to establish a fund intended to provide assistance during emergencies.
Over the last several months, EMA Director J. Nier and COAD members have been coordinating about the idea of providing food and beverages, such as water or coffee, to first responders when they’re on a scene for an extended amount of time.
Since the EMA Director is generally notified when emergencies occur, she has the ability to hear directly from first responders about when the assistance would be needed. While there were some small successes with providing sandwiches and coffee on a few occasions, there was desire to make the program more sustainable.
The group worked with the Starke County Community Foundation to establish the Community Assistance for Emergencies (C.A.F.E) Designated Endowment Fund.
Through a generous donation of $5,000 from the Hardesty Memorial Fund, the fund already has some dollars invested and will now start gathering interest.
Others can make contributions to the C.A.F.E Fund by clicking the Donate button located on nicf.org and then selecting Community Assistance For Emergencies Fund when prompted to designate the gift. Individuals can choose whether they want to make the donation once, on a monthly basis, or annually.
The COAD group also intends to hold in-person fundraisers in the future.
While Community Foundation funds can not be accessed at any time, a check with a portion of the funds raised will be presented each year and the remainder will continue to be invested.
In order to have money available to purchase items right away, a separate bank account is being created for the C.A.F.E Fund where those checks will eventually be deposited and donations designated for immediate use will be placed.
Representatives felt that establishing the endowment through SCCF not only helps legitimize the effort but it also ensures that there will be money for this purpose for years to come.
The first priority of the account is to assist first responders, however, there are plans to build upon that in the future. Once the group starts to see a return on their investment and more funds are available to spend, some additional guidelines will be established to expand on the assistance provided.
Ultimately, the hope is that the C.A.F.E Fund will also be able to help community members who have been affected by emergency situations such as a fire, flood, or even a furnace going out in the wintertime.
If you are a restaurant owner, first-responder, or curious citizen interested in learning more, contact Director Nier at 574-772-9182 or send a message through the Starke County COAD Facebook Page.
Monday, October 7, 2019
Constellation of Starke Exec Committee Selected as Recipient of Leadership in Philanthropy Award
Posted on October 5, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
For the work they’ve done to unify the region behind the common goal of being designated a Stellar Community, the Constellation of Starke Executive Committee has been selected by the Starke County Community Foundation as the recipient of the 2019 James R. Hardesty Leadership in Philanthropy Award.
According to SCCF officials, the award was established to honor James “Jim” Hardesty’s legacy of giving back to the community. Jim lived in Hamlet and genuinely loved Starke County. He stated his philosophy of giving simply and poignantly, he would say “If you can’t do a lot, do what you can do.”
Hardesty passed away in May of 2014 at 92-years-old. His contributions to the SCCF make up the largest gift to-date from a single donor in any of the three counties served by the Northern Indiana Community Foundation.
The Leadership in Philanthropy Award honors of the achievements of an outstanding individual philanthropist or an effective and worthwhile organization that makes an impact on the community.
In past years, recipients have been Marilyn and Mathew Swanson, Tri Kappa, Cherry Gumz, and Barbara McLaughlin.
The Constellation of Starke Executive Committee members will be honored during the Community Foundation’s Giving Tuesday Open House event on December 3rd. The award also comes with $500 that can be donated to any Foundation fund that the Stellar group chooses.
Click the following link to view Constellation of Starke’s Regional Development Plan that the committee submitted to Stellar Program officials for consideration back in September.
In addition to highlighting various projects, programs, and plans for the future, it includes details about each member of the COS Executive Committee.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
For the work they’ve done to unify the region behind the common goal of being designated a Stellar Community, the Constellation of Starke Executive Committee has been selected by the Starke County Community Foundation as the recipient of the 2019 James R. Hardesty Leadership in Philanthropy Award.
According to SCCF officials, the award was established to honor James “Jim” Hardesty’s legacy of giving back to the community. Jim lived in Hamlet and genuinely loved Starke County. He stated his philosophy of giving simply and poignantly, he would say “If you can’t do a lot, do what you can do.”
Hardesty passed away in May of 2014 at 92-years-old. His contributions to the SCCF make up the largest gift to-date from a single donor in any of the three counties served by the Northern Indiana Community Foundation.
The Leadership in Philanthropy Award honors of the achievements of an outstanding individual philanthropist or an effective and worthwhile organization that makes an impact on the community.
In past years, recipients have been Marilyn and Mathew Swanson, Tri Kappa, Cherry Gumz, and Barbara McLaughlin.
The Constellation of Starke Executive Committee members will be honored during the Community Foundation’s Giving Tuesday Open House event on December 3rd. The award also comes with $500 that can be donated to any Foundation fund that the Stellar group chooses.
Click the following link to view Constellation of Starke’s Regional Development Plan that the committee submitted to Stellar Program officials for consideration back in September.
In addition to highlighting various projects, programs, and plans for the future, it includes details about each member of the COS Executive Committee.
Friday, September 27, 2019
NJ-SP Superintendent Highlights Programs in Place Thanks to Verhagen Family
Posted on September 27, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
North Judson-San Pierre Superintendent Dr. Annette Zupin provided board members with an update about some new programs that are being offered to students.
Dr. Zupin reminded members that the Verhagen Family has provided some funding to help children who may need some additional educational assistance outside of the classroom.
She explained, “We already have something implemented that they’re assisting with, tutoring at both buildings. At the Jr./Sr. High, it’s as needed which doesn’t surprise us, but at the Elementary, the interest was so high that we needed to have two teachers.”
She mentioned that the tutoring focuses on two different subjects and consistently takes place a couple of times a week.
Zupin shared, “We have two teachers who have 14 students regularly, so 7 a piece, after school, two nights a week they have them grouped by grade level and then one night it’s reading skills and one night it’s math skills and so far I think it’s working great.”
In addition to the tutoring services, a robotics program is being offered to NJ-SP middle school students with the Verhagens’ financial assistance. Dr. Zupin stated that a call-out was scheduled for this month and that she’ll have more details about that at the next meeting.
So far, these programs have been funded through the Verhagen Family Fund.
The Verhagens also created the Our Kids Excel fund to allow citizens to invest in the community’s future by providing North Judson-San Pierre students with new opportunities.
If you’d like to help fund programs that assist NJ-SP students, you can provide a monetary contribution by visiting nicf.org, clicking the donate button, and then selecting the Our Kids Excel Fund option when you’re asked to “Designate Your Gift”.
You can also mail and make checks out to the Northern Indiana Community Foundation (NICF) at PO Box 807, Rochester, IN 46975. Be sure to include ‘Our Kids Excel’ in the memo line of the check.
If you have any questions, give the Starke County Community Foundation a call at 574-772-3665.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
North Judson-San Pierre Superintendent Dr. Annette Zupin provided board members with an update about some new programs that are being offered to students.
Dr. Zupin reminded members that the Verhagen Family has provided some funding to help children who may need some additional educational assistance outside of the classroom.
She explained, “We already have something implemented that they’re assisting with, tutoring at both buildings. At the Jr./Sr. High, it’s as needed which doesn’t surprise us, but at the Elementary, the interest was so high that we needed to have two teachers.”
She mentioned that the tutoring focuses on two different subjects and consistently takes place a couple of times a week.
Zupin shared, “We have two teachers who have 14 students regularly, so 7 a piece, after school, two nights a week they have them grouped by grade level and then one night it’s reading skills and one night it’s math skills and so far I think it’s working great.”
In addition to the tutoring services, a robotics program is being offered to NJ-SP middle school students with the Verhagens’ financial assistance. Dr. Zupin stated that a call-out was scheduled for this month and that she’ll have more details about that at the next meeting.
So far, these programs have been funded through the Verhagen Family Fund.
The Verhagens also created the Our Kids Excel fund to allow citizens to invest in the community’s future by providing North Judson-San Pierre students with new opportunities.
If you’d like to help fund programs that assist NJ-SP students, you can provide a monetary contribution by visiting nicf.org, clicking the donate button, and then selecting the Our Kids Excel Fund option when you’re asked to “Designate Your Gift”.
You can also mail and make checks out to the Northern Indiana Community Foundation (NICF) at PO Box 807, Rochester, IN 46975. Be sure to include ‘Our Kids Excel’ in the memo line of the check.
If you have any questions, give the Starke County Community Foundation a call at 574-772-3665.
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
Verhagen Family Helps Bring Robotics Program and Tutoring to NJ-SP Schools
Posted on August 28, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
North Judson-San Pierre School board members were recently informed that a robotics program and tutoring will be available to students this year thanks to support from the Verhagen Family Fund through the Starke County Community Foundation.
Superintendent Dr. Annette Zupin said that two tutors are already prepared to start helping students at the Elementary School and a schedule has been set up for those who have expressed interest. She added that while no interest has been shown at the higher grade levels yet, a tutor will be ready when those requests start coming in.
In addition to funding those tutoring positions, Zupin said the Verhagens have provided financial assistance to start a robotics program for middle school students.
She told members, “Part of the Verhagen money was going to be used to sponsor a robotics team to help foster science and mathematics excitement and interest. That grant pays for the kit, it’s about $300 worth of robotics equipment and supplies. It also allows us to compete in a competition at the state level.”
Zupin added that High School Math Teacher Bob Eberhardt will be the sponsor for this program and will hold a call-out in September.
In a previous meeting, it was revealed that the Verhagen Family Fund that was created in memory of Dr. Roger C. Verhagen by his children Kirt, Chris, and Amy.
They also established the ‘Our Kids Excel Fund’ as a way to give residents a chance to invest in the community’s future through NJ-SP students.
If you would like to help make it possible to give grants to programs that assist NJ-SP students, you can provide a monetary contribution by visiting nicf.org, clicking the donate button, and then selecting the Our Kids Excel Fund option when you’re asked to “Designate Your Gift”.
You can also mail and make checks out to the Northern Indiana Community Foundation (NICF) at PO Box 807, Rochester, IN 46975. Be sure to include ‘Our Kids Excel’ in the memo line of the check.
If you have any questions, give the Starke County Community Foundation a call at 574-772-3665.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
North Judson-San Pierre School board members were recently informed that a robotics program and tutoring will be available to students this year thanks to support from the Verhagen Family Fund through the Starke County Community Foundation.
Superintendent Dr. Annette Zupin said that two tutors are already prepared to start helping students at the Elementary School and a schedule has been set up for those who have expressed interest. She added that while no interest has been shown at the higher grade levels yet, a tutor will be ready when those requests start coming in.
In addition to funding those tutoring positions, Zupin said the Verhagens have provided financial assistance to start a robotics program for middle school students.
She told members, “Part of the Verhagen money was going to be used to sponsor a robotics team to help foster science and mathematics excitement and interest. That grant pays for the kit, it’s about $300 worth of robotics equipment and supplies. It also allows us to compete in a competition at the state level.”
Zupin added that High School Math Teacher Bob Eberhardt will be the sponsor for this program and will hold a call-out in September.
In a previous meeting, it was revealed that the Verhagen Family Fund that was created in memory of Dr. Roger C. Verhagen by his children Kirt, Chris, and Amy.
They also established the ‘Our Kids Excel Fund’ as a way to give residents a chance to invest in the community’s future through NJ-SP students.
If you would like to help make it possible to give grants to programs that assist NJ-SP students, you can provide a monetary contribution by visiting nicf.org, clicking the donate button, and then selecting the Our Kids Excel Fund option when you’re asked to “Designate Your Gift”.
You can also mail and make checks out to the Northern Indiana Community Foundation (NICF) at PO Box 807, Rochester, IN 46975. Be sure to include ‘Our Kids Excel’ in the memo line of the check.
If you have any questions, give the Starke County Community Foundation a call at 574-772-3665.
Tuesday, July 2, 2019
Starke County EMS Director to Get Updated Vehicle
Posted on July 2, 2019
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
A newer vehicle will be a part of the Starke County EMS fleet as a non-ALS transport vehicle.
EMS Director Travis Clary said the newer vehicle would be able to handle all of the equipment needed with more ease.
Clary presented the commissioners with a quote Monday night for a 2013 Ford Explorer with 80,000 miles and all-wheel drive at a purchase price of $11,000. A $3,000 trade-in value was quoted for the current 2011 Dodge Charger used as the non-ALS transport vehicle.
The vehicle would come from Chicago Motors, a company that sells pre-owned government discounted vehicles and that has been used by other county officials to purchase vehicles.
Clary said the best part of the deal is that enough grant money has been obtained for the purchase of the vehicle with no additional funding needed. Grant funds were obtained through Starke United and the Starke County Community Foundation from the Hardesty Memorial for this purchase.
Auditor Rachel Oesterreich asked about the IT vehicle and Emergency Management Agency vehicle, both of which are in much more worse condition than Clary’s vehicle he’s trading in. With the trade-in value, they could trade-in the IT vehicle or Emergency Management Agency vehicle and the commissioners would pay the difference. The IT or Emergency Management Agency department would then use the 2011 Dodge Charger.
Commissioner Bryan Cavendar made a motion to approve the purchase of the EMS vehicle with the grant money and then pay the difference of the trade-in value of the IT or Emergency Management Agency vehicle out of the Cumulative Capital Development Fund.
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
A newer vehicle will be a part of the Starke County EMS fleet as a non-ALS transport vehicle.
EMS Director Travis Clary said the newer vehicle would be able to handle all of the equipment needed with more ease.
Clary presented the commissioners with a quote Monday night for a 2013 Ford Explorer with 80,000 miles and all-wheel drive at a purchase price of $11,000. A $3,000 trade-in value was quoted for the current 2011 Dodge Charger used as the non-ALS transport vehicle.
The vehicle would come from Chicago Motors, a company that sells pre-owned government discounted vehicles and that has been used by other county officials to purchase vehicles.
Clary said the best part of the deal is that enough grant money has been obtained for the purchase of the vehicle with no additional funding needed. Grant funds were obtained through Starke United and the Starke County Community Foundation from the Hardesty Memorial for this purchase.
Auditor Rachel Oesterreich asked about the IT vehicle and Emergency Management Agency vehicle, both of which are in much more worse condition than Clary’s vehicle he’s trading in. With the trade-in value, they could trade-in the IT vehicle or Emergency Management Agency vehicle and the commissioners would pay the difference. The IT or Emergency Management Agency department would then use the 2011 Dodge Charger.
Commissioner Bryan Cavendar made a motion to approve the purchase of the EMS vehicle with the grant money and then pay the difference of the trade-in value of the IT or Emergency Management Agency vehicle out of the Cumulative Capital Development Fund.
Friday, June 28, 2019
Verhagen Family Discusses ‘Our Kids Excel’ Fund With NJ-SP School Board
Posted on June 28, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
A local family interested providing assistance to North Judson-San Pierre students is collaborating with the Starke County Community Foundation and school officials to make it happen.
North Judson natives and NJ-SP graduates Kirt and Chris Verhagen and their sister Amy Mosher came before the school board during their June meeting to discuss their mission to level the playing field for local students.
Amy shared, “Many of you know that most small schools in rural areas do not receive the funding for programs that the larger schools can offer. These are much needed programs to benefit kids to help them be on the same page as kids from larger schools”
Kirt spoke next, naming some of the potential programs they’re interested in starting at NJ-SP.
He said after collaborating with Superintendent Dr. Annette Zupin they came up with a few priorities which included a robotics program and tutoring sessions.
They also discussed the possibility of getting a shuttle in place that would bus current students and recent graduates from North Judson to the Ivy Tech in Valpo to help improve access to post-secondary opportunities.
A few other areas where they’d like to see funding utilized in the future included assisting the band and choir programs and offering civic-related and cultural field trips.
Kirt added that they’re also eager to hear from the board, school officials and community members about ideas that they have for potential programs that could be funded.
In addition to providing more opportunities for local students, Kirt noted that adding these programs to the curriculum may be a differentiator for NJ-SP that would entice families to pick North Judson as a place to live.
To help make these dreams a reality, the family has started two separate funds through the Starke County Community Foundation.
One fund has been created in memory of their father Dr. Roger C. Verhagen and it is simply called the ‘Verhagen Family Fund’. They also created the ‘Our Kids Excel!’ fund as a way to give residents a chance to invest in the community’s future through NJ-SP students.
Community Foundation Director of Development Jessica Martinović explained that while the Verhagen family has the freedom to contribute to any charitable causes with their family fund, including the NJ-SP programs they discussed, the Our Kids Excel Fund will operate a little differently.
She noted, “The ‘Our Kids Excel Fund’ it’s a field of interest fund so we’re going to promote for the community to give to that fund. People will put their contributions in there and the school will apply for grants and then the Community Foundation will review the grants.”
Martinović mentioned that Amy will be a member of the grants’ committee so the family will still have a voice in the process though it will ultimately be a collective decision. She said they set up the two funds as a way to assure donors that the Our Kids Excel funds will specifically go to benefit NJ-SP students.
Kirt added that they also have an interest in using some of the family funds as match money for community challenges.
If you’re interested in donating to the cause, you can do so online at nicf.org by clicking Donate and selecting ‘Our Kids Excel’ when designating your gift.
Checks can also be sent to the Northern Indiana Community Foundation at PO Box 807, Rochester, IN, 46975. Be sure to put ‘Our Kids Excel’ in the memo line so your contribution benefits NJ-SP students.
If you have any questions, contact the Starke County Community Foundation at 574-772-3665.
Audio from the presentation that the Verhagen family provided during the NJ-SP School Board meeting can be found in the WKVI article:
https://wkvi.com/2019/06/verhagen-family-discusses-our-kids-excel-fund-with-nj-sp-school-board/
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
A local family interested providing assistance to North Judson-San Pierre students is collaborating with the Starke County Community Foundation and school officials to make it happen.
North Judson natives and NJ-SP graduates Kirt and Chris Verhagen and their sister Amy Mosher came before the school board during their June meeting to discuss their mission to level the playing field for local students.
Amy shared, “Many of you know that most small schools in rural areas do not receive the funding for programs that the larger schools can offer. These are much needed programs to benefit kids to help them be on the same page as kids from larger schools”
Kirt spoke next, naming some of the potential programs they’re interested in starting at NJ-SP.
He said after collaborating with Superintendent Dr. Annette Zupin they came up with a few priorities which included a robotics program and tutoring sessions.
They also discussed the possibility of getting a shuttle in place that would bus current students and recent graduates from North Judson to the Ivy Tech in Valpo to help improve access to post-secondary opportunities.
A few other areas where they’d like to see funding utilized in the future included assisting the band and choir programs and offering civic-related and cultural field trips.
Kirt added that they’re also eager to hear from the board, school officials and community members about ideas that they have for potential programs that could be funded.
In addition to providing more opportunities for local students, Kirt noted that adding these programs to the curriculum may be a differentiator for NJ-SP that would entice families to pick North Judson as a place to live.
To help make these dreams a reality, the family has started two separate funds through the Starke County Community Foundation.
One fund has been created in memory of their father Dr. Roger C. Verhagen and it is simply called the ‘Verhagen Family Fund’. They also created the ‘Our Kids Excel!’ fund as a way to give residents a chance to invest in the community’s future through NJ-SP students.
Community Foundation Director of Development Jessica Martinović explained that while the Verhagen family has the freedom to contribute to any charitable causes with their family fund, including the NJ-SP programs they discussed, the Our Kids Excel Fund will operate a little differently.
She noted, “The ‘Our Kids Excel Fund’ it’s a field of interest fund so we’re going to promote for the community to give to that fund. People will put their contributions in there and the school will apply for grants and then the Community Foundation will review the grants.”
Martinović mentioned that Amy will be a member of the grants’ committee so the family will still have a voice in the process though it will ultimately be a collective decision. She said they set up the two funds as a way to assure donors that the Our Kids Excel funds will specifically go to benefit NJ-SP students.
Kirt added that they also have an interest in using some of the family funds as match money for community challenges.
If you’re interested in donating to the cause, you can do so online at nicf.org by clicking Donate and selecting ‘Our Kids Excel’ when designating your gift.
Checks can also be sent to the Northern Indiana Community Foundation at PO Box 807, Rochester, IN, 46975. Be sure to put ‘Our Kids Excel’ in the memo line so your contribution benefits NJ-SP students.
If you have any questions, contact the Starke County Community Foundation at 574-772-3665.
Audio from the presentation that the Verhagen family provided during the NJ-SP School Board meeting can be found in the WKVI article:
https://wkvi.com/2019/06/verhagen-family-discusses-our-kids-excel-fund-with-nj-sp-school-board/
Monday, June 3, 2019
New Fund Being Set Up to Benefit North Judson-San Pierre Students
Posted on June 1, 2019Author
Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Making sure North Judson-San Pierre students have access to the best educational opportunities possible is the goal of a new fund being set up at the Starke County Community Foundation.
Superintendent Dr. Annette Zupin told the school board last week that the Verhagen family is establishing a new fund that they call “Our Kids Excel.”
“What they want to do is they want to help North Judson-San Pierre students,” Zupin explained. “What is it that our kids need? What is it that would be enrichment that our students could use? When the state keeps cutting and cutting, what can we use? So we’ve had some good conversations, and we have some good ideas.”
Zupin said more information will be shared during the June school board meeting.
Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Making sure North Judson-San Pierre students have access to the best educational opportunities possible is the goal of a new fund being set up at the Starke County Community Foundation.
Superintendent Dr. Annette Zupin told the school board last week that the Verhagen family is establishing a new fund that they call “Our Kids Excel.”
“What they want to do is they want to help North Judson-San Pierre students,” Zupin explained. “What is it that our kids need? What is it that would be enrichment that our students could use? When the state keeps cutting and cutting, what can we use? So we’ve had some good conversations, and we have some good ideas.”
Zupin said more information will be shared during the June school board meeting.
Wednesday, May 29, 2019
North Judson Town Council Takes Stellar Contribution under Advisement
Posted on May 29, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The North Judson Town Council was asked to consider contributing money toward the Constellation of Starke Stellar Communities initiative when members met last Monday.
Clerk-Treasurer Andrew Rowe explained that participating communities are being asked to offer a monetary contribution.
The funds will be used to help offset the cost of hiring a consultant who will assist with the creation of a Regional Development Plan and additional matters associated with the Stellar Communities process.
Clerk-Treasurer Rowe asked the members if they would be willing to put $5,000 toward the effort.
Starke County Economic Development Foundation Director Larry Wickert noted that the County and City of Knox have already committed up to $30,000 collectively.
The Starke County Community Foundation is also looking to apply for a grant that could provide additional funding for the cause.
The members decided to take the request under advisement. The topic will be addressed again when the council meets in June.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The North Judson Town Council was asked to consider contributing money toward the Constellation of Starke Stellar Communities initiative when members met last Monday.
Clerk-Treasurer Andrew Rowe explained that participating communities are being asked to offer a monetary contribution.
The funds will be used to help offset the cost of hiring a consultant who will assist with the creation of a Regional Development Plan and additional matters associated with the Stellar Communities process.
Clerk-Treasurer Rowe asked the members if they would be willing to put $5,000 toward the effort.
Starke County Economic Development Foundation Director Larry Wickert noted that the County and City of Knox have already committed up to $30,000 collectively.
The Starke County Community Foundation is also looking to apply for a grant that could provide additional funding for the cause.
The members decided to take the request under advisement. The topic will be addressed again when the council meets in June.
Thursday, April 4, 2019
Starke County Communities Decide to Move Ahead with Seeking Stellar Designation This Year
Posted on April 4, 2019
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Starke County is moving forward with a Stellar Community application. The county’s Stellar Executive Team plans to submit a letter of intent by tomorrow’s deadline, according to Jessica Martinović with the Starke County Community Foundation.
“We are promoting regionalism, but we’re also looking at the uniqueness of every one of our communities and celebrating that uniqueness,” she explains, “but also looking at how we can work together to promote all of Starke County and really promote positivity in Starke County.”
A Stellar designation makes regions eligible for millions of dollars in grant funding, along with help for planning and project development.
At this point, Starke County, North Judson, and Hamlet are working on comprehensive plans. But Martinović says officials have already come up with a “dream list” of potential projects. “We’re definitely concentrating on enhancing our outdoor recreational opportunities, as well as focusing on making our downtowns more vibrant,” she says. “We’re also looking at the need for daycare in our community. We’re looking at helping to extend the trail by partnering with Prairie Trails Club, helping to implement workforce housing in our communities.”
Another part of bringing Starke County’s communities together as one region has to do with branding. “So we just recently came up with a name for our group, which is going to be ‘Constellation of Starke,’ to kind of play on constellation of stars,” Martinović explains, “and so we have a little bit of an image from Mirth and Whimsy. They’re local graphic design artists, photographers, and videographers, and so they’ve been working with us on our branding.” Martinović says the logo will consist of an outline of the county with a star for each of the communities, making up a constellation.
She adds that whether or not Constellation of Starke is officially designated a Stellar region this year, the plan is that the group will continue to exist, to work on ways to improve the local community. The state is expected to choose a list of finalists later this spring, before announcing this year’s Stellar designees in December.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Starke County is moving forward with a Stellar Community application. The county’s Stellar Executive Team plans to submit a letter of intent by tomorrow’s deadline, according to Jessica Martinović with the Starke County Community Foundation.
“We are promoting regionalism, but we’re also looking at the uniqueness of every one of our communities and celebrating that uniqueness,” she explains, “but also looking at how we can work together to promote all of Starke County and really promote positivity in Starke County.”
A Stellar designation makes regions eligible for millions of dollars in grant funding, along with help for planning and project development.
At this point, Starke County, North Judson, and Hamlet are working on comprehensive plans. But Martinović says officials have already come up with a “dream list” of potential projects. “We’re definitely concentrating on enhancing our outdoor recreational opportunities, as well as focusing on making our downtowns more vibrant,” she says. “We’re also looking at the need for daycare in our community. We’re looking at helping to extend the trail by partnering with Prairie Trails Club, helping to implement workforce housing in our communities.”
Another part of bringing Starke County’s communities together as one region has to do with branding. “So we just recently came up with a name for our group, which is going to be ‘Constellation of Starke,’ to kind of play on constellation of stars,” Martinović explains, “and so we have a little bit of an image from Mirth and Whimsy. They’re local graphic design artists, photographers, and videographers, and so they’ve been working with us on our branding.” Martinović says the logo will consist of an outline of the county with a star for each of the communities, making up a constellation.
She adds that whether or not Constellation of Starke is officially designated a Stellar region this year, the plan is that the group will continue to exist, to work on ways to improve the local community. The state is expected to choose a list of finalists later this spring, before announcing this year’s Stellar designees in December.
Monday, March 25, 2019
NJ-SP School Board Accepts Letter of Vacation from Starke County Community Foundation
Posted on March 25, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
North Judson-San Pierre officials recently received a letter indicating that an organization that’s leasing space from the school corporation will soon be vacating the premises.
Superintendent Dr. Annette Zupin shared the announcement during last Tuesday’s school board meeting.
Zupin explained, “The Starke County Community Foundation was our very first lessee. They have been leasing space for over two years and they recently found a permanent location for their organization and will be vacating the middle school.”
Dr. Zupin noted that they plan to be out of the office by May 5th. Members voted formally to accept the letter of vacation from the Starke County Community Foundation.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
North Judson-San Pierre officials recently received a letter indicating that an organization that’s leasing space from the school corporation will soon be vacating the premises.
Superintendent Dr. Annette Zupin shared the announcement during last Tuesday’s school board meeting.
Zupin explained, “The Starke County Community Foundation was our very first lessee. They have been leasing space for over two years and they recently found a permanent location for their organization and will be vacating the middle school.”
Dr. Zupin noted that they plan to be out of the office by May 5th. Members voted formally to accept the letter of vacation from the Starke County Community Foundation.
Thursday, March 21, 2019
North Judson-Wayne Township Fire Station Light Conversion Project Nears Completion
Posted on March 21, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The light conversion project at the North Judson-Wayne Township Firestation is nearly complete.
Fire Chief Joe Leszek informed town council members Monday night that all the indoor lighting has been converted over to LED.
He added that they’re waiting for a nice day to be able to use the lift to change the outdoor lighting.
Chief Leszek previously told members that this project was needed because firefighters had to consistently change out broken ballasts on the older lights. He reported that the LED lights are supposed to be more efficient and last at least a decade.
This project was funded entirely through grant money that was received from the Starke County Community Foundation and the Hardesty Endowment. The Department was awarded a total of $8,000.
Leszek said those funds were able to cover the cost of converting the whole firehouse, inside and out, as well as upgrading four LED scene lights on their main engine.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The light conversion project at the North Judson-Wayne Township Firestation is nearly complete.
Fire Chief Joe Leszek informed town council members Monday night that all the indoor lighting has been converted over to LED.
He added that they’re waiting for a nice day to be able to use the lift to change the outdoor lighting.
Chief Leszek previously told members that this project was needed because firefighters had to consistently change out broken ballasts on the older lights. He reported that the LED lights are supposed to be more efficient and last at least a decade.
This project was funded entirely through grant money that was received from the Starke County Community Foundation and the Hardesty Endowment. The Department was awarded a total of $8,000.
Leszek said those funds were able to cover the cost of converting the whole firehouse, inside and out, as well as upgrading four LED scene lights on their main engine.
Thursday, March 14, 2019
Starke County Park Board Receives $5,000 Contribution for Yellow River Access Point
Posted on March 14, 2019
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board has gotten $5,000 toward a planned Yellow River access point, but where exactly it will be built remains to be determined. Starke County Community Foundation Director of Development Jessica Martinovic presented the park board with a check during Tuesday’s meeting.
“One of our funds, the Hardesty Memorial Endowment Fund, the adviser of that fund, Chuck Hardesty, chose to give $5,000 to the Starke County Park Board for the canoe launch on the Yellow River, for that project,” Martinovic explained. “So he was really interested in that and wanted to support it.”
The project has been discussed for the past couple of years, but so far, hasn’t been able to move forward. The county has some land available at Range Road, but board member Rik Ritzler said it isn’t quite large enough for the proposed access point. “The area that’s the county property is too close to the bridge,” he explained. “You’d have to dig into the walls, the support of the bridge, and you don’t want to do that, obviously. So you’d have to get a little land.”
But County Attorney Marty Lucas said that so far, the neighboring landowner hasn’t been comfortable with the idea. “It’s a beautiful location,” Lucas said. “It’s really, basically, halfway between Wythogan Park and the point at the Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area, so it’s very logistically well-suited. Unfortunately, it’s a little small.”
A landowner in the Ober area had previously expressed interest in letting the county use a piece of land at State Road 23, as an alternative.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The Starke County Park Board has gotten $5,000 toward a planned Yellow River access point, but where exactly it will be built remains to be determined. Starke County Community Foundation Director of Development Jessica Martinovic presented the park board with a check during Tuesday’s meeting.
“One of our funds, the Hardesty Memorial Endowment Fund, the adviser of that fund, Chuck Hardesty, chose to give $5,000 to the Starke County Park Board for the canoe launch on the Yellow River, for that project,” Martinovic explained. “So he was really interested in that and wanted to support it.”
The project has been discussed for the past couple of years, but so far, hasn’t been able to move forward. The county has some land available at Range Road, but board member Rik Ritzler said it isn’t quite large enough for the proposed access point. “The area that’s the county property is too close to the bridge,” he explained. “You’d have to dig into the walls, the support of the bridge, and you don’t want to do that, obviously. So you’d have to get a little land.”
But County Attorney Marty Lucas said that so far, the neighboring landowner hasn’t been comfortable with the idea. “It’s a beautiful location,” Lucas said. “It’s really, basically, halfway between Wythogan Park and the point at the Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area, so it’s very logistically well-suited. Unfortunately, it’s a little small.”
A landowner in the Ober area had previously expressed interest in letting the county use a piece of land at State Road 23, as an alternative.
Friday, March 8, 2019
NJ-Wayne Township Fire Department Secures About $12,000 in Grant Funding So Far This Year
Posted on March 7, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
A Starke County Community Foundation grant totaling $4,000 was recently awarded to the North Judson-Wayne Township Volunteer Fire Department.
Fire Chief Joe Leszek informed town council members of the grant award this week. He said with that money, they’re going to purchase some safety equipment that they will be able to provide to community members.
Chief Leszek explained, “Our fire department anniversary is this October and it will be 130 years for the fire department so we’re planning to have an open house.”
He continued, “What we wanted to do is get some safety material together. We want to be able to hand out CO detectors to people that need it, smoke alarms and things like that.”
Chief Leszek recognized the efforts of his firefighters who have all been working hard to secure grant funding in different ways. He added there are currently 5 grants that have been applied for that they’re just waiting to hear back about.
He told the members that so far this year, the department has already been awarded about $12,000 from various grants. He said those funds have been put toward equipment or other efforts to assist the community.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
A Starke County Community Foundation grant totaling $4,000 was recently awarded to the North Judson-Wayne Township Volunteer Fire Department.
Fire Chief Joe Leszek informed town council members of the grant award this week. He said with that money, they’re going to purchase some safety equipment that they will be able to provide to community members.
Chief Leszek explained, “Our fire department anniversary is this October and it will be 130 years for the fire department so we’re planning to have an open house.”
He continued, “What we wanted to do is get some safety material together. We want to be able to hand out CO detectors to people that need it, smoke alarms and things like that.”
Chief Leszek recognized the efforts of his firefighters who have all been working hard to secure grant funding in different ways. He added there are currently 5 grants that have been applied for that they’re just waiting to hear back about.
He told the members that so far this year, the department has already been awarded about $12,000 from various grants. He said those funds have been put toward equipment or other efforts to assist the community.
Friday, February 22, 2019
Bee-utiful Turn Out at the 2nd Annual Social Gathering of The Hive
Posted on February 21, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The Hive, a local ladies giving circle established through the Starke County Community Foundation, helped provide a platform and funding to four amazing causes during their second annual Social Gathering at the Nancy J. Dembowski Community Center Wednesday evening.
Drew’s Gift of Music and The Cheryl Lyn Welter Family Charitable Foundation will each receive a $750 grant, The Koontz Lake/Oregon-Township Volunteer Fire Department will be getting $1,500 and the Hope Restored Recovery Home will be awarded a grant of $2,000.
Each group had a chance to speak about their organization and discuss how the funding was going to assist their cause. The amount of grant funding was determined by how many votes the various organizations gathered from Hive members.
Representatives of the Hope Restored Recovery Home Steve Purtha and Megan Johnston talked about the need for accessible addiction treatment in the community.
Their grant money will be spent on construction supplies for the facility being built on Lane Street in North Judson. Their anticipated date of completion is fall of this year.
Koontz Lake/Oregon-Township Volunteer Fire Department Captain Kyle Hinds explained that a lot of the funding the department receives comes directly from fundraising and the firefighters themselves.
He said their money will go toward purchasing medical supplies as well as a new rescue saw.
Drew’s Gift of Music Founder Deb Johnson discussed how their charity was established in memory of her son, former Knox High School Drum Major Drew Shearin. She said they’ll be using their money to expand their reach in the community to get instruments in the hands of even more students.
She also emphasized a new program they started at Knox Schools called Music Reycled where the organization pays for one student to get professional lessons and then they teach 10 more students what they learned.
Cheryl Lyn Welter Family Charitable Foundation Founder Harold Welter highlighted the giving spirit of his daughter who passed away in 2000.
He emphasized that in 2018 they were able to provide 17 grants that made a difference in the lives of teachers and students all across Starke County. The funding provided by the Hive will be used to continue their mission of helping local educators and underprivileged children.
In addition to spotlighting those charitable organizations, some officials from the ladies giving circle spoke as well. SCCF Director of Development and Hive Founder Jessi Martinovic and Hive Chairwoman Andrea Cox started the event out by sharing a bit about the organization and past grant recipients.
Northern Indiana Community Foundation Associate Director Corinne Becknell Lucas also took to the podium.
She highlighted how a portion of the dues collected from the Hive members goes to fund the annual grants and how another part is set aside in an endowment fund.
She also shared a recent development that will bring more funds into The Hive to help fund future projects.
She explained, “We are pleased to announce that the Starke County Legacy of Women, a former giving circle of the Starke County Community Foundation, has agreed to move their endowment dollars into the Hive Giving Circle.”
A powerful presentation from ‘The Giving Gal’ Stephanie Jones was another element of the event. She spoke about the importance of giving and living a grateful life.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The Hive, a local ladies giving circle established through the Starke County Community Foundation, helped provide a platform and funding to four amazing causes during their second annual Social Gathering at the Nancy J. Dembowski Community Center Wednesday evening.
Drew’s Gift of Music and The Cheryl Lyn Welter Family Charitable Foundation will each receive a $750 grant, The Koontz Lake/Oregon-Township Volunteer Fire Department will be getting $1,500 and the Hope Restored Recovery Home will be awarded a grant of $2,000.
Each group had a chance to speak about their organization and discuss how the funding was going to assist their cause. The amount of grant funding was determined by how many votes the various organizations gathered from Hive members.
Representatives of the Hope Restored Recovery Home Steve Purtha and Megan Johnston talked about the need for accessible addiction treatment in the community.
Their grant money will be spent on construction supplies for the facility being built on Lane Street in North Judson. Their anticipated date of completion is fall of this year.
Koontz Lake/Oregon-Township Volunteer Fire Department Captain Kyle Hinds explained that a lot of the funding the department receives comes directly from fundraising and the firefighters themselves.
He said their money will go toward purchasing medical supplies as well as a new rescue saw.
Drew’s Gift of Music Founder Deb Johnson discussed how their charity was established in memory of her son, former Knox High School Drum Major Drew Shearin. She said they’ll be using their money to expand their reach in the community to get instruments in the hands of even more students.
She also emphasized a new program they started at Knox Schools called Music Reycled where the organization pays for one student to get professional lessons and then they teach 10 more students what they learned.
Cheryl Lyn Welter Family Charitable Foundation Founder Harold Welter highlighted the giving spirit of his daughter who passed away in 2000.
He emphasized that in 2018 they were able to provide 17 grants that made a difference in the lives of teachers and students all across Starke County. The funding provided by the Hive will be used to continue their mission of helping local educators and underprivileged children.
In addition to spotlighting those charitable organizations, some officials from the ladies giving circle spoke as well. SCCF Director of Development and Hive Founder Jessi Martinovic and Hive Chairwoman Andrea Cox started the event out by sharing a bit about the organization and past grant recipients.
Northern Indiana Community Foundation Associate Director Corinne Becknell Lucas also took to the podium.
She highlighted how a portion of the dues collected from the Hive members goes to fund the annual grants and how another part is set aside in an endowment fund.
She also shared a recent development that will bring more funds into The Hive to help fund future projects.
She explained, “We are pleased to announce that the Starke County Legacy of Women, a former giving circle of the Starke County Community Foundation, has agreed to move their endowment dollars into the Hive Giving Circle.”
A powerful presentation from ‘The Giving Gal’ Stephanie Jones was another element of the event. She spoke about the importance of giving and living a grateful life.
Tuesday, February 12, 2019
Starke County EMS Department Obtains Grant Funds
Posted on February 12, 2019
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
The Starke County EMS Department has secured some additional grant funds. Starke County EMS Director Travis Clary updated the Starke County Commissioners about the funds received last week.
“The Hardesty Memorial Endowment Fund gave us $8,200 and that’s going to go toward the purchase of 800 MHz radios,” explained Clary. “We’re hoping to get five. They’re about $1,700 apiece. We’re very thankful for that. We couldn’t have done that without the Community Foundation here in Starke County. They helped us quite a bit with that.”
This grant announcement comes on the heels of the Knox VFW Post #748 donation of $15,000 that will help the EMS Department acquire a second Lucas Device. The life-saving equipment delivers automated chest compressions at the recommended depth and rate with no pauses.
Clary said that he’s continuing to look locally for grant funding including a Firehouse Subs grant for an ambulance cot and a First Source Bank grant.
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
The Starke County EMS Department has secured some additional grant funds. Starke County EMS Director Travis Clary updated the Starke County Commissioners about the funds received last week.
“The Hardesty Memorial Endowment Fund gave us $8,200 and that’s going to go toward the purchase of 800 MHz radios,” explained Clary. “We’re hoping to get five. They’re about $1,700 apiece. We’re very thankful for that. We couldn’t have done that without the Community Foundation here in Starke County. They helped us quite a bit with that.”
This grant announcement comes on the heels of the Knox VFW Post #748 donation of $15,000 that will help the EMS Department acquire a second Lucas Device. The life-saving equipment delivers automated chest compressions at the recommended depth and rate with no pauses.
Clary said that he’s continuing to look locally for grant funding including a Firehouse Subs grant for an ambulance cot and a First Source Bank grant.
Wednesday, February 6, 2019
North Judson-Wayne Township Fire Department Secures Grant Funding for Light Conversion Project
Posted on February 6, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Officials at the North Judson-Wayne Township Volunteer Fire Department will be able to convert multiple lights over to LED without utilizing any money from their budget.
During his report Monday night, Fire Chief Joe Leszek told town council members that he was able to secure some grant funding to cover the cost of the light conversion project at the firehouse.
He shared, “Through the Starke County Community Foundation and the Hardesty Endowment, we received an $8,000 grant.”
Leszek noted that the grant money will allow them to do even more than what was originally discussed with the council.
“That’s going to be able to take care of our LED light conversion for the whole firehouse,” Leszek continued, “and that’s also going to be upgrading four LED scene lights on our main engine, out on engine one.”
Chief Lezek added that department officials are always on the look out for future funding opportunities.
“Two things that we really wanted to get done this year we were able to do without any cost to us or taking anything out of our budget so that’s awesome. We’re continuing to look for other grant opportunities still to continue to upgrade equipment and get more equipment in.”
If you come across any grants or funding programs that seem like they could be beneficial to the town’s firefighters, you can contact them through the North Judson-Wayne Township Volunteer Fire Department facebook page or by calling 574-896-2712.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Officials at the North Judson-Wayne Township Volunteer Fire Department will be able to convert multiple lights over to LED without utilizing any money from their budget.
During his report Monday night, Fire Chief Joe Leszek told town council members that he was able to secure some grant funding to cover the cost of the light conversion project at the firehouse.
He shared, “Through the Starke County Community Foundation and the Hardesty Endowment, we received an $8,000 grant.”
Leszek noted that the grant money will allow them to do even more than what was originally discussed with the council.
“That’s going to be able to take care of our LED light conversion for the whole firehouse,” Leszek continued, “and that’s also going to be upgrading four LED scene lights on our main engine, out on engine one.”
Chief Lezek added that department officials are always on the look out for future funding opportunities.
“Two things that we really wanted to get done this year we were able to do without any cost to us or taking anything out of our budget so that’s awesome. We’re continuing to look for other grant opportunities still to continue to upgrade equipment and get more equipment in.”
If you come across any grants or funding programs that seem like they could be beneficial to the town’s firefighters, you can contact them through the North Judson-Wayne Township Volunteer Fire Department facebook page or by calling 574-896-2712.
Monday, February 4, 2019
Local Philanthropist Provides $100,000 Donation To Starke County Community Foundation
Posted on February 2, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The Starke County Community Foundation recently received a $100,000 donation from local philanthropist Jerome “Jerry” Scherf. It will become $300,000 thanks to a $2 for $1 matching opportunity available through a Lilly Endowment contribution.
According to a press release from the SCCF, Mr. Scherf said he is thankful to Starke County because it has allowed him to become successful so he wanted to find a way to give back and help.
Mr. Scherf began coordinating with the Community Foundation when he decided to start a scholarship fund. Jerry shared that he feels education is the most important thing to have today and he started the scholarship to help others receive a quality education.
Jerry moved to Starke County with his father, mother, and two brothers, Milton and Maurice, when he was seven years old.
He attended Knox High School and graduated in 1951.
After graduation, Jerry began his career as an entrepreneur. He started his career in buying and selling cars. He later began working in real estate by selling mobile homes and renting out homes.
After seeing the impact of his fund, Jerry began giving back even more, leading to this recent $100,000 gift.
Foundation officials stated that they are thankful for Jerry’s generosity and leadership in the charitable community.
SCCF Director of Development Jessica Martinovic stated that they’re grateful for the matching opportunity through the Endowment and also for Jerry’s decision to leave a legacy with his donation to the Community Foundation.
She added that meeting the match will help them fund charitable causes in Starke County including helping children in need, funding quality of place efforts and so much more.
Mr. Scherf’s donation helps the organization significantly with their personal goal to raise $250,000. The Lilly Endowment has provided $500,000 to the Community Foundation to match gifts to community funds $2 for every $1 that’s donated through December of 2020 or until funds are depleted.
Director Martinovic emphasized that while the SCCF is so appreciative of Jerry’s generous gift, it doesn’t only take large contributions to meet their goal. She quoted one of their founders Jim Hardesty and stated, ‘If you can’t do a lot, do what you can.’
She mentioned that when we all work together and do what we can, we will accomplish great things for our community.
For more information or to make a donation, contact the Starke County Community Foundation by sending an email to starke@nicf.org or by calling 574-772-3665.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The Starke County Community Foundation recently received a $100,000 donation from local philanthropist Jerome “Jerry” Scherf. It will become $300,000 thanks to a $2 for $1 matching opportunity available through a Lilly Endowment contribution.
According to a press release from the SCCF, Mr. Scherf said he is thankful to Starke County because it has allowed him to become successful so he wanted to find a way to give back and help.
Mr. Scherf began coordinating with the Community Foundation when he decided to start a scholarship fund. Jerry shared that he feels education is the most important thing to have today and he started the scholarship to help others receive a quality education.
Jerry moved to Starke County with his father, mother, and two brothers, Milton and Maurice, when he was seven years old.
He attended Knox High School and graduated in 1951.
After graduation, Jerry began his career as an entrepreneur. He started his career in buying and selling cars. He later began working in real estate by selling mobile homes and renting out homes.
After seeing the impact of his fund, Jerry began giving back even more, leading to this recent $100,000 gift.
Foundation officials stated that they are thankful for Jerry’s generosity and leadership in the charitable community.
SCCF Director of Development Jessica Martinovic stated that they’re grateful for the matching opportunity through the Endowment and also for Jerry’s decision to leave a legacy with his donation to the Community Foundation.
She added that meeting the match will help them fund charitable causes in Starke County including helping children in need, funding quality of place efforts and so much more.
Mr. Scherf’s donation helps the organization significantly with their personal goal to raise $250,000. The Lilly Endowment has provided $500,000 to the Community Foundation to match gifts to community funds $2 for every $1 that’s donated through December of 2020 or until funds are depleted.
Director Martinovic emphasized that while the SCCF is so appreciative of Jerry’s generous gift, it doesn’t only take large contributions to meet their goal. She quoted one of their founders Jim Hardesty and stated, ‘If you can’t do a lot, do what you can.’
She mentioned that when we all work together and do what we can, we will accomplish great things for our community.
For more information or to make a donation, contact the Starke County Community Foundation by sending an email to starke@nicf.org or by calling 574-772-3665.
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