The festive spirit of the holiday season was in full swing on December 4, as the
Community Foundation of White County gathered community members, donors, and nonprofit leaders for the annual Holiday Grants Reception at Tippecanoe Country Club.
The evening celebrated the power of philanthropy and the incredible work being done to strengthen and transform White County.
Lucy Dold, Executive Director of the Foundation, opened the evening with a warm
welcome, expressing gratitude to the many supporters who make the Foundation’s mission
possible. “Today, we celebrate the incredible projects and initiatives that make White County a stronger, more connected community,” Dold shared. Guests were encouraged to explore the detailed grant report at their tables, which highlighted how unrestricted donations are addressing critical needs in the community, including mental health, childcare, and youth leadership.
One highlight of the evening was recognizing the new Leslie Grants, honoring Executive Director Emeritus Leslie Wineland Goss. These "small but mighty" grants, capped at $1,000, were designed to meet immediate and impactful needs in the community. In its inaugural year, 13 Leslie Grants funded initiatives ranging from supplying diapers to families in need to preserving historic documents. Leslie’s 18 years of service were celebrated with heartfelt applause and appreciation.
The reception also featured compelling presentations from local nonprofits whose
impactful work was supported by the Foundation. These stories included the Monon Historical Preservation Society’s efforts to preserve historic documents, Sleep in Heavenly Peace’s mission to provide beds for children in need, Habitat for Humanity’s journey to create affordable homes, and Christ Fellowship Church’s diaper ministry meeting the urgent needs of young families. Each story showcased the ripple effects of generosity.
The Foundation’s Vice President, Steve Simmerman, underscored the importance of
unrestricted donations and the opportunities provided by Lilly Endowment’s GIFT VIII
Matching Grant. With a goal of raising $375,000, matched 2:1 by Lilly, the funds will sustain
programs like the Youth Philanthropy Council (YPC). YPC member and Fundraising Chair Ava
Getz inspired attendees with her passionate speech about youth leadership and the importance of investing in the next generation. The YPC’s efforts to raise $20,000, which will be matched sixfold, promise to amplify their impact across White County schools.
The evening concluded with a call to action: a reminder of the vital role donors and
nonprofit partners play in building a brighter future for White County. Guests departed inspired by the stories of impact and the collective power of their contributions.
As Lucy Dold reflected, “It is only together that we can strengthen our community and
invest in a brighter future.”
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