Current Funds

Anyone may add to these funds at any time

Descriptions of Funds

 

Albert and Manda Huff Memorial Scholarship Fund

Albert and Manda (Hamblin) Huff were both born in 1904 into humble beginnings in the Cumberland Mountains of the Eastern Kentucky Appalachians. Each of them was only able to attend school up to the third grade. They married at age 16.

The Huffs moved their family to a 60-acre farm just south of Salem in 1947. Albert worked for the railroad for 26 years and Manda managed the farm during the week and also worked at the canning factory in Austin. Albert enjoyed carpentry, wood crafting and singing Appalachians Folk songs. Manda enjoyed gardening, making candy and playing the organ that Albert bought for her.

Because of their background, both valued formal education and hard work very much. Through example, they instilled these values into their children. They were determined that their children attend college. Their children thought it appropriate to honor their parents and their values by creating a scholarship fund to help young people in Washington County further their education.

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Amzel and Knofel Fortner

Knofel began his career in education in 1937. Over the years, he taught bookkeeping, mathematics, and was a very successful basketball coach. He served as principal of Campbellsburg High School and as Superintendent of the West Washington School Corporation for 21 years, retiring in 1980. During his tenure as Superintendent, he supervised the reorganization of 10 elementary schools and two high schools into the current structure of one elementary school and one Jr/Sr High School.

Amzel received her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in education from Indiana University. She taught school, mostly fifth grade, for 38 years, retiring in 1980. She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Indiana State Teacher’s Association, Delta Kappa Gamma, and Phi Beta Psi Sororities, and the Eastern Star.

Amzel and Knofel dedicated their lives to educating our youth. They spent countless hours preparing our students for their future roles as citizens. Now, thorough the Amzel and Knofel Fortner Fund, they can continue this very important work, by providing graduating seniors from West Washington scholarships to pursue their college education. What an incredible way for educators to continue their mission in life!

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Audrey Mounts Scholarship Fund
Audrey Mounts grew up in the New Philadelphia area of Washington County. She was an only child who lost her father at an early age. She had to work part time while attending Indiana University and sent money home to help her mother.

She retired from the West Washington School Corporation where she taught English. She was an avid gardener, collector and historian. She volunteered at the Stevens Museum and was a member of the Historical Society. She loved to work in her flower garden and she collected glassware, china, antiques, and she saved many cards and pictures that she received from former students.

This fund was established to help students attend college. Audrey’s dream was to help others attend college, so that they would not have to struggle the way that she did and also to teach others to give back to their community.

 

Awareness Washington County Fund
This fund, established by Burl and Carmelita Jean in 1994, will help to support the on-going operating costs of Awareness Washington County. Awareness Washington County, in existence since 1983, is a nationally recognized leadership training program dedicated to strengthening and transforming Washington County by developing servant leaders. Awareness Washington County offers classes on an annual basis to anyone interested in enhancing their leadership skills and working towards the betterment of Washington County.

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Awareness Washington County Class of 2002 Scholarship Fund
This is the class project for the AWC Class of 2002. Their goal is to make a lasting difference in our community. As a result of this goal, they decided to establish a scholarship fund with the Washington County Community Foundation, to provide scholarships to college-bound individuals who have demonstrated involvement in their community through community service. The class is currently conducting several fundraising events. They are also establishing the criteria to be used to determine the scholarship recipient.

 

Barbara (Welcher) Custer Memorial Fund
John Custer established this fund in honor of his wife, Barbara Welcher Custer. Distributions from this fund will benefit the Girl Scouts and the Salem High School Band.

 

 

Billy Stonecipher Scholarship Fund

Billy was born in 1919 and grew up in Salem. He graduated form Salem High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics and science from Butler University. He earned a Master of Science degree from Indiana University and also earned 66 hours of credit beyond the Master’s level.

He was an army veteran, having served four years in WWII in both the European and Pacifi c theaters. In 1971, he became the superintendent for Salem Schools.

He served in that position for four years, until his death.

Not many people come full circle in their lives, as Billy did. Rising to Superintendent of the school system that provided him his education for the fi rst twelve years is an unusual, outstanding accomplishment. Helping to build a new educational facility is a once in a lifetime event. Being honored with a scholarship fund, which will provide a Salem graduating senior with money for college every year, forever, is a legacy that will never die. Not bad for a “kid from Salem.”

 

Blue River Friends Church and Cemetery
Friends of the church have funded this endowment in order to maintain the current Quaker Church and its cemetery.

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Blue River Services
This fund was established to further the mission and work of Blue River Services, Inc., which has many social service programs in Washington County and Southern Indiana.

 

 

 

Board of Directors Gift for Tomorrow Fund
This fund was established in 2004 by the Board of Directors. It is to remain an acorn fund for 100 years and, as future board members continue to add to it, this fund will grow into a very sizeable fund by 2104, at which time it will used for discretionary grants.

 

Brent and Lauren Elliott Touch Tomorrow Fund
Brent is currently a member of the Board of Directors and Lauren has volunteered her time to the Foundation on several occasions. Both Brent and Lauren believe in the future of Washington County and started this unrestricted fund in 2002 to support the future needs of the community.

 

 

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Bob Holler Scholarship Fund
This fund was started by Community First Bank to honor Bob Holler as he retired from their Board of Directors. The issued funds will provide scholarships for Salem High School and West Washington High School seniors that are of sound moral character and possess a strong record of community service.

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Burl and Carmelita Jean Touch Tomorrow Fund
Burl and Carmelita established this fund in 2001. Both Burl and Carmelita have been actively involved in the Foundation. Carmelita is one of the Foundation’s founding board members and Burl served on the Foundation’s Board of Directors for the first ten years that the Foundation was in operation. They wanted to establish a fund that would be flexible in meeting the needs of our community, both now in the future, so they started this unrestricted fund, which will issue grants for a variety of projects on an annual basis.

 

 

 

Canton United Methodist Church Fund
Brent and Lauren Elliott started this fund to provide support to the church as it carries out its role and mission. Generations of Brent’s family attended church at Canton.

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Carol Ruth Mosier Touch Tomorrow Fund

Carol Ruth was a dedicated school teacher for 34 ½ years. She was also devoted to her family and her church. Carol Ruth served on the Foundation Board of Directors from 2003 until her death in 2005. She served on several committees and was a strong advocate of the Foundation. Upon her death, her family and friends started this fund in her memory, so that her dedication to our community could go on forever.

 

Cavetown Church & Cemetery Fund
This fund was created through the efforts of Don Green and Mary Nicholson of Campbellsburg to perpetuate the maintenance of the church and cemetery.

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Charlotte Martin Memorial Fund
Charlotte Pruitt Martin was born in 1943 in Jeffersonville, Indiana. As a small child, the Pruitts moved to Borden, where Charlotte grew up and graduated from high school. Her musical talents led her to sing in local churches, on her own radio show, and even at the Grand Ole Opry at the age of 17. It was at the Opry that a young man borrowed and accidentally scratched her new guitar. Later, the young man became the legendary country music singer Conway Twitty.

Charlotte valued her involvement with her three children and teaching them her values. She also loved horses. She actively participated in her children’s lives up until she was no longer physically able, following her diagnosis of breast cancer in 1979. Although the doctor’s predicted she would live two years, she fought the disease for six years. Her family established this fund to honor her and her fight against cancer and to help other people who are fighting cancer. The specific purpose of the fund is to help provide transportation for medical appointments.

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Clark-Grosvenor Parent Touch Tomorrow Fund
Bruce and Linda Grosvenor moved to Salem/Washington County in 1990. Bruce worked in local industry and Linda worked for the school corporation.  Both have retired to the community and wanted to establish a fund in honor of their parents – Charles and Thelma Clark, and Bruce and Juliette Grosvenor, Sr..  This Touch Tomorrow Fund was established in 2007 to help support the many worthwhile projects the Washington County Community Foundation makes possible.  Bruce has served on the Board of Directors of the Foundation since 2002.

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Community Learning Center Fund
Beth Sluys, Victor and Mary Dufour, Jim and Judy Johnson, David and Carolyn Beck, Jack and Carol Mahuron, Tom and Kim Scifres and Bob and Carol Strange established this fund. The purpose is to provide grants for operational expenses of the Community Learning Center.

 

D. Jack Mahuron Education Fund
The Washington County Community Foundation Board of Directors established this fund in 2001 in honor of the first Executive Director of the Foundation, Jack Mahuron. Jack worked as the Executive Director of the Foundation from 1993-2001 on a volunteer basis.

Jack was born on October 30, 1926 in Salem, Indiana, to John and Bertha Mahuron. An industrious young man, he began working while in grade school in the dairy industry. Throughout high school, he cooked at the White Tavern in Salem.

Upon his high school graduation in 1944, Jack initiated his extensive military career by enlisting in the Air Force. In 1946, he was discharged and enlisted in the US Air Force Reserves, and also started his long banking career. He remained in the Air Force Reserves until 1974, and then enlisted in the Indiana National Guard in Salem where he stayed until 1986. He is currently a Major in the Indiana Guard Reserve, where he has served for over 14 years. Jack retired from Farmers Citizens Bank in 1992, after 46 years in banking, but remained on the Board for National City Bank until 1998.

Volunteer positions Jack has held include: Pres. of the Aviation Commissioners, Pres. and Founder of John Hay Center Foundation, Director of the Washington County Historical Society, Executive Director and Co-founder of the Washington County Community Foundation, Secretary and Co-founder of the Washington County Economic Growth Partnership, and Fair Board President.

Upon his retirement as Executive Director, this fund was established in his honor. The purpose of the fund is to provide small grants to classroom teachers in all three county school corporations for innovative classroom projects.

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D. Jack & Carol Mahuron Fund
This fund was established by Jack and Carol to perpetuate their support of the First Christian Church and the Washington County Historical Society.

 

 

 

Daniel Main Fund for Youth in Arts
To honor Daniel Main and his years and talent of directing youth plays in Washington County, Kim Scifres started this fund to provide support to organizations in Washington County that provide opportunities for youth to participate in artistic endeavors. Many of Daniel’s former actors and their parents also chose to honor Daniel by contributing to this fund.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Eddie Apple Family Community Youth Development Fund
Dr. Eddie Apple’s friends established this field of interest fund to support youth development in the community. Money from this grant will be used to support youth activities and development in Washington County.

 

David Beck Touch Tomorrow Fund
David Beck was the first President of the Washington County Community Foundation Board of Directors. He has served in this capacity for ten years. During this time he chaired the Executive Committee and also served on many other committees as well. He is one of the original founding board members whose foresight and hard work resulted in the establishment of the Washington County Community Foundation.

David established this fund to help future generations of Washington County residents realize a better quality of life. Because this fund is unrestricted, it will be able to address the changing needs of Washington County.

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Edmund and Mary Drabek Scholarship Fund
Mary Drabek established the scholarship fund after the death of her beloved husband, Edmund. Edmund’s adage to his family was always “I can’t doesn’t live here, but I can if I try does!” This adage followed Edmund from the poor farming family in Richmond, Texas to his first ARMY station in Fort Knox, Kentucky where he met Mary. The two married soon after they met and began raising a family. After a few years of saving, Edmund and Mary bought an 80-acre farm in Greenville, Indiana. After five years of farming in Greenville, Edmund decided it was time to take on a bigger farm. They found the perfect 300-acre farm in Washington County and still continued with their outside jobs. Edmund and Mary always encouraged their children to excel at school and at least one of them attended the school events. The kids were never allowed to give up without trying. Edmund and Mary’s teachings of their own children, love of Washington County, and the wish to see more Washington County youth succeed is the basis of the Edmund and Mary Drabek Scholarship Fund for Washington County youth who are pursuing their education in mathematics and science. Hopefully with some help: I CAN IF I TRY will be a motto for more youth of Washington County.

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Exchange Club of Salem Fund
David and Carolyn Beck originally founded this account. The Exchange Club is continuing to contribute to this fund. Distributions from this fund will be used to support the Exchange Club’s scholarship program.

 

First Baptist Church (Salem) Fund
This fund was established by Robert and Mary Margaret Arnold. Distributions from this fund will be used to support the church.

 

 

First Christian Church (Salem) Fund
This fund was established by The First Christian Church Trustees and Donald L. and Virginia Martin to be used as the church board deems appropriate. Robert and Clarice Morris have also added to this fund.

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First Harrison Bank Touch Tomorrow Fund
In a spirit of community, the First Harrison Bank established this unrestricted fund, in order to contribute to our county now and forever.

 

 

Friends of Beck’s Mill
Larry Nelson established the fund after a literal “luck of the draw”. Nelson won $1,000.00 at the WCCF annual meeting and decided the money would be best served by establishing a fund to provide support to the Friends of Becks Mill.

 

 

Garland and Norma Sue White Touch Tomorrow Fund
Garland and Norma Sue moved to Salem in 2000. Since that time they have become very active in our community through their church, service clubs and seizing every opportunity to work towards the betterment of our county. Their initial gift to this fund was made in memory of their parents, Russell H. White, Sr, Mildred (Trinkel) White, Harold E. Peters and Esther (Zahnd) Peters. The establishment of this fund is a natural extension of their civic-minded generosity.

 

Gene and Judy Hedrick Touch Tomorrow Fund
Desiring to improve the quality of life in Washington County, Gene and Judy Hedrick established this fund in 2003. Through this fund, they will be able to give back to Washington County for time without end.

 

Glenn Armstrong Touch Tomorrow Fund
Glenn was born on March 14, 1912 to Stephen and Ada (Sherwood) Armstrong. His mother succumbed to Tuberculosis when Glenn was six months old. Shortly after her death, Glenn’s grandmother, Amanda Sherwood, assumed responsibility for his care and raised him.

At age 33, Glenn went into the family business, Armstrong Hardware, which was opened by Steve Armstrong, Glenn’s father, in 1914. “I had worked in the store for years in my spare time,” Glenn once said. “When WW II ended, the Charlestown Powder Plant (where he had been working) closed down.” The timing was right for both Armstrong men since Steve Armstrong was ready for semi-retirement due to failing health.

In 1989, after 75 years of family ownership, Glenn and his wife, Bernice, sold the hardware store. “I hadn’t planned seriously to retire although at my age I thought it was time for retirement” stated a 77-year-old Glenn. “It’s been a very pleasant experience. If it hadn’t been for the customers, we wouldn’t have lasted that long.”

This unrestricted fund will support numerous worthwhile community projects. Glenn’s wish to give back to the community will come true, year after year, forever.

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Goldie Taylor Nally Memorial Fund
“She was always concerned when she saw a young child wearing a worn out coat,” remembered Hiram Nally of his mother, Goldie. “She was always so concerned about the welfare of children.”

Goldie Taylor Nally was born in Higginson, Arkansas on January 21, 1906 to John and Minnie Lee Taylor. Her father was a Justice of the Peace and a constable and her mother was a homemaker.

Goldie married Henry Hiram Nally when she was sixteen years old. Together, they had three children: James, who died in infancy, Mildred and Hiram. They lived in Arkansas until the depression. They moved to Indianapolis in 1933 so that Hiram could work as an estimator in an uncle’s household goods moving and storage business. Times were tough, but Goldie and Hiram worked hard to provide for their children.

“She really loved kids,” stated Hiram. “Our house was the gathering spot in the neighborhood. The neighbor kids liked to talk to her. She was willing to spend the time and talk to them about things that they were interested in.”

Goldie lived to be 92. At the time of her death she had three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She never wavered in her love of children. In 1998 Hiram established the Goldie Taylor Nally fund with the Washington County Community Foundation. This is a designated fund that issues grants to the “Shop with a Cop” Program. “I thought it would be appropriate to set up this fund in Mom’s memory,” stated Hiram. “Now at least one child will be clothed and taken care of each Christmas in her memory. I think she would have been very pleased.”

 

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Helen Gill Scholarship Fund
Helen was born at home on April 10, 1911 to Dora “Dode” and Wynn McCoskey. When Helen started school, her method of transportation was simple: she walked. Depending upon the time her life, this could be as little as ½ mile or could entail walking “through fields on the neighbor’s farm, cross a creek by means of a foot log, and climb the hill to the school.” However, these trips evolved into a life long love of education.

Helen started high school in the autumn of 1924. The previous spring, she had attended the high school play and operetta and fell in love with “the handsome young man who had the leading role in the programs.” She told one of her friends that she was going to marry that boy. His name was John Parnell “Bob” Gill.

On their first date, Helen, Bob and a chaperone went to Marengo Cave. Being outgoing and eager to make an impression, Helen drove Bob’s car. “I cut a corner too close and ran off the end of a culvert. A few dents in the car was the result of that episode.” Eventually, Bob and Helen were married on February 15, 1939. “Everything worked out fine and we were happy.” Bob and Helen had two daughters, Cheryl Lynn and Jean Elaine.

Helen taught school for many, many years. She also traveled internationally for Sweet Adeline Competitions. Helen could play the piano, clarinet, guitar and accordion. She played the organ for many years at St. Patrick Church.

This scholarship fund, established in Helen’s memory, will provide scholarships to graduating seniors from Salem and East Washington High Schools.

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Helsel Family Salem Presbyterian Church Fund

Barbara and Jess Helsel started this fund in 2007.  The purpose of this fund is to provide support to the Salem Presbyterian Church for capital improvement projects. 

 

 

Henderson Park Fund-City of Salem Fund
The Salem Common City Council established this fund with proceeds from the purchase of permanent rights to Henderson Park by the Nature Conservancy. Distributions each year will be used to support the operation of the Salem Water Department.

 

Hicksite Church & Cemetery Fund
Quaker Friends have funded this endowment in order to maintain the Old Quaker Church and its cemetery. This church is one of the oldest churches in Indiana.

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Holler/Myers Fund
Bob and Evelyn Holler established this fund to provide financial support for maintenance expenses for Lawrenceport Cemetery Association, Saltillo Cemetery and the Blue River Friends Cemetery.

 

Hoosier Uplands Fund
This is an agency endowment fund established by the Board of Directors of Hoosier Uplands. Earnings from this fund will be granted to Hoosier Uplands to provide support to Hospice, Headstart and Hoosier Uplands Housing Services.

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Howard and Juanita Hinkle Fund
Max and Phyllis Hinkle established this fund in honor of Max’s father and stepmother. The purpose of the fund is to provide vocational scholarships to Washington County High School Students. The scholarship is to be rotated between the three county high schools.

A life-long resident of Washington County, Howard was born on February 9, 1914 to Earl and Emma Hinkle. He graduated in 1933 from Salem High School. That was on a Friday. The following Wednesday, Howard started to work as a mechanic for Simpson Brothers Construction Company. He worked there for about a year. “I started to work on automobiles when I was twelve years old,” Howard once stated. “It was all I ever knew.”

By 1946, Howard was the owner of an Oldsmobile dealership, Salem Motors Company. He retired at age 68, after 48 years in the car business. “I’ve sold quite a few automobiles in my lifetime. We could repair anything from the front bumper to the back; from the top to the bottom. I always said, ‘If human hands made it, then human hands can fix it.’”

Juanita (Myers) Hinkle, was in the same Salem High School graduating class with Howard. She was born in Washington County on January 3, 1914 to Orlando and Maude Myers. Juanita went to college to study education. She received her teacher training at Central Normal, Ball State University and Indiana University. She taught for many years, finally retiring in 1975 from Bradie Shrum Elementary School. During her tenure at Salem, Juanita spent two and one-half years teaching Special Reading and during her final year of employment, she was Supervisor of the Tutorial Program and Teacher’s Aid Program.

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JP “Bob” Gill Fund for the Poor and Needy
JP “Bob” Gill was born on August 31, 1906 to Edith (Carnes) and James Gill. Although born on a farm, Bob’s family moved to town when he was a child, so he knew little of the “farm life.” Bob’s nickname came from his sister, who stated that when he was little he looked like a “bob” in the water. The nickname stayed with him his entire life.

Bob attended New Albany Commercial College and received a two-year accounting certificate. He then enrolled at Hanover College and received a teaching certificate.

Bob’s first teaching assignment was at a one-room school in Old Pekin. Among other innovative ideas, he developed a football team and a school lunch program, allowing the eighth grade girls to cook soup for the other students. From there, Bob moved on to Mitchell High School, where he taught bookkeeping and then returned to New Albany Commercial College. He taught there part time, coached the basketball team and worked part time in a law office. He was admitted to the bar on June 6, 1928. He then moved to Chicago. There he worked for Marshall-Field and Company, which was one of the nation’s largest department stores. Bob married Helen McCosky on February 15, 1939.

Bob was also an inventor and enjoyed experimenting with innovative ideas. He was one of the first hog farmers to use electric heat lamps at farrowing time and then studied whether this was economically feasible. He also designed special feeders and feed mixes and was featured in several national farm magazines. He was an accountant, a lawyer, and a farmer. He could use surveying equipment, he could fix anything and he was an avid ham radio operator.

At the time of his death, Bob made provisions for his favorite charities. Because of this, the Washington County Community Foundation now holds the following funds: The Washington County Food Bank Fund, The JP “Bob” Gill Fund for the Poor and Needy, (to provide support to a local chapter or council of the St. Vincent DePaul Society, and to St. John’s Center, Inc.,) and the St. Patrick Church Cemetery Fund.

 

 

John D. Fultz Family Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund, started by John D. Fultz in 2005, will provide scholarships to Washington County graduating seniors. John has been a member of the Board of Directors since 2002.

 

John and Ginger Morris Touch Tomorrow Fund
John and Ginger have been active in our community for many years. Ginger was a founding board member for the Washington County Community Foundation and retired from the board in 2002, after 10 years of service. They wanted to continue the good work of the Foundation and support the many worthwhile projects yet to come, so they established this unrestricted fund with the Foundation in 2002.

 

James and Diana Apple Touch Tomorrow Fund
Diana has served on the Foundation’s Board of Directors since 2000. She is the President of the 2003 Board of Directors. James and Diana have a history of community service and wanted their community-minded spirit to live on, so they established this unrestricted fund with the Washington County Community Foundation in 2002.

 

Jim & Judy Johnson Touch Tomorrow Fund
Judy is the first employee of the Foundation and the second Executive Director. She began her employment with the foundation in 2001.

Desiring to make Washington County a better place for those who follow, Jim and Judy established an unrestricted fund. Therefore, their gift will support hundreds of future projects that will serve to improve the quality of life in Washington County.

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Jinny Scifres Memorial Scholarship Fund
Paul and Tom Scifres, Dr. Ed Apple and Jinny’s many friends established this fund. This fund will provide scholarships to individuals pursuing post secondary education in the field of nursing.

Jinny was born on August 17, 1942 in Salem to Tom and Louise (Evans) Tiedt. After starting a family, Jinny made the tough decision to return to school and study nursing. After graduation, Jinny began her nursing career at Washington County Memorial Hospital as an Emergency Room Nurse. Jinny’s love of nursing eventually lead her to several promotions and back to school once again. She eventually became the Director of Patient Care Services.

Jinny died in the fall of 2000, after bravely battling bone cancer. Her family and many friends established this scholarship fund in her memory, to assist others who, like Jinny, return to school to study nursing after starting a family or career.

Jinny once stated, “My vocation in nursing has been rewarding. I appreciate the opportunity to help others in many ways, … With God’s help, I can make a difference and that is what I try to do.”

 

 

John W. Mead and Mary B. Mead Fund

John has been a member of the Board of Directors since 2002. He and Mary are active in the community and their church. They have established this endowed fund to improve the quality of life in Washington County for generations to come.

 

John & Paula Jones Touch Tomorrow Fund
John has been a member of the Board of Directors for the Foundation since 2000. He is a successful businessman and active in the community. Paula is also very active in the community and her church. They both are interested in making Washington County a better place for future generations.

Like many donors to the foundation, John and Paula wanted their gift to benefit as many individuals as possible. After careful consideration, they decided to make their gift unrestricted. By doing so, their fund will be flexible to meet the ever changing needs of Washington County, FOREVER.

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John Elliott Scholarship Fund
John Elliott was an industrial arts teacher at Salem High School, a farmer, a business partner, an auctioneer and a mentor to many. He influenced the lives of many during his 28 years of teaching and his sponsorship of exchange students from various places around the world through the Rotary Club.

John was born in Washington County in 1936. He attended Canton grade school and graduated from Salem High School. He married Sharon Cauble in 1956. Because of his value of education, he strongly influenced his own four children to complete college degrees. He enjoyed such hobbies as drafting, metalworking, carpentry, and woodworking. In 1972, he designed and built a house that straddles a creek, with the help of family members. He lived there until his death.

By starting a scholarship fund in 1999 honoring his father, Brent Elliott felt he was also honoring his father’s beliefs and values. Other members of the family have also contributed to this scholarship fund to honor John E. Elliott.

 

John Hay Center Foundation Fund
The John Hay Center Foundation Fund is to help maintain the John Hay Center owned by the Washington County Historical Society.

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John C. Tackett Healthcare Provider Scholarship
Originally from Lexington, Kentucky, John moved his medical practice to Salem in 1994. A member of the Exchange Club and the Alternative Mission Team, John is keenly interested in helping others. He established this scholarship fund to help the youth of Washington County pursue higher education in the medical field and to provide a resource to help dreams come true.

 

Joseph and Joanna Gili Scholarship Fund
This fund was established by Joseph and Joanna Gili’s children in honor of their mother and in loving memory of their father. This fund will offer scholarships to graduating seniors from Salem and West Washington who intend to pursue a career in education.

Joseph was born on September 20, 1914 in Clinton, Indiana after his parents had recently emigrated from Northern Italy. Joanna was born on March 28, 1920 in Bowling Green, Kentucky, where her family had lived for generations. Joseph and Joanna met at Western Kentucky University. Joanna completed college in three years so that she “could graduate with Joseph” in 1939. They were married prior to graduation, but kept it a secret so that Joseph would not lose his housing on campus. Joseph and Joanna had five children: Joseph Anton, Victoria, James Bradford (Brad), Susannah, and Sarah.

Both Joseph and Joanna dedicated their lives to their children and to education. In 1962, Joseph became the first principal of the newly consolidated West Washington High School and Joanna taught English. Through their actions, Joseph and Joanna taught their children the valuable lesson of giving to others. In 2002, their children used those many lessons taught and established this fund in honor of their parents, thereby creating a permanent legacy to Joseph and Joanna.

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Josh Kearschner Memorial Fund
It was the little things that will be remembered. His smile. His hugs. The way he loved to play the piano. His love for his church and his religious convictions. The time he drove an hour to deliver a birthday card and some chocolate chip cookies. Josh did simple acts of kindness all the time.

He was also a gifted musician. He composed and recorded several original instrumental songs, which were made into a tape and CD. Anyone who listens to his music can feel his depth and tenderness and can imagine a heart full of love for others.

After his death, Josh’s many friends worked together to establish a fund in Josh’s memory. This fund will benefit missionaries from Josh’s church, the Church of the Latter Day Saints.

 

J.P. "Bob" Gill Fund for the Poor and Needy
This fund was established from the J.P. “Bob” Gill Trust.

The primary purpose of this fund shall be to provide support (A). To a local chapter or council of the St. Vincent DePaul Society, as organized by the local catholic church in Salem for its projects, if in existence and functioning. (B). To St. John’s Center, Inc., 700 East Muhammad Ali Blvd, Louisville, KY or its successor. St. John’s Center is a shelter serving the homeless. This fund is to provide for any aid, support, maintenance, and assistance to charitable institutions whose purpose is to provide aid, comfort, support or assistance to children or aged people or indigent adults or the crippled or infirmed

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Kays Chapel Community Church Scholarship Fund

Upon the closure of this church, the trustees took the proceeds from the sale of the property and created this scholarship fund for West Washington graduating seniors.

 

Kenneth “Colie” Coliapolis Memorial Urban Beautification Fund
Colie’s many friends and neighbors instituted this memorial fund in honor of him. He was very much interested in beautiful flowers and lawns; therefore, disbursements from this fund are to be used by the Urban Beautification Committee of Salem.

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Kenneth W. Collins Scholarship Fund
Kenneth William Collins was a friend and teacher to all students who walked the halls of Eastern High School.  Ken was born in Fressingfield, England on May 1, 1945.  He was the only child of Brenda Elizabeth and William Collins.  Ken graduated from Manual High School in 1963.  He graduated from Purdue University in 1968 and accepted his first teaching position at Pendleton Heights High School in Pendleton, Indiana. 

Ken spent his life educating our youth.  He spent countless hours preparing our students to be better citizens and to have a good work ethic.  And now through the Kenneth W. Collins Scholarship Fund he can continue this important work. 

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Kevin Johnson Touch Tomorrow Fund
Kevin Johnson named the Washington County Community Foundation as beneficiary of his life insurance policy.  This gift will be used for generations to come for the betterment of Washington County.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lee John Fultz/Russell Trueblood Touch Tomorrow Fund
This fund is named in honor of two men who served as President of the Board of Directors of the Lee John Fultz School, a school for special needs children located on Harrison Street. Originally called the Hopewell School, this institution provided educational services for up to 25-30 special needs children every school year. It operated from 1954-1991.

Both of these men were instrumental in building a trust fund to support the operation of the school. After the school closed, the fund lay dormant for 10 years, upon which time, the trustees decided to place the money with the Washington County Community Foundation in honor of Lee John Fultz and Russell Trueblood. This is an unrestricted fund that will be flexible to meet the varying needs of Washington County.

 

Larry Medlock Red Oak Fund
This fund was established by Larry Medlock, who served on the Washington County Community Foundation Board of Directors from 1993-2002. Disbursements from this fund are to be used to support the education and life enrichment of individuals with Type I diabetes.

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Larry Stephenson Scholarship Fund
Larry taught biology at Salem High School for four years. Teaching was a second career for him. Perhaps that is why he enjoyed it so much. He often said, “It’s great to be at Salem High School. I am so glad that I didn’t have to go to work today. I get to go to school!”

Larry’s enthusiasm spilled over into the classroom. He didn’t measure his success in his work. He measured his success in the improvement he saw in each individual child, whether that was in the classroom or on the basketball court, where Larry loved to coach. He frequently received notes from his students with positive comments about his teaching style or a project in the lab. Those notes thrilled Larry. He often shared them with his co-workers, sometimes close to tears when a student had particularly kind words for him.

Shortly before his death, Larry indicated that he would appreciate memorial gifts to establish a scholarship fund in his memory, and that is exactly what many of his friends, former students and family did. Although Larry’s presence will be deeply missed in the in the classrooms at Salem High School, his memory and love of teaching and working with youth will live on forever, through the Larry Stephenson Scholarship.

 

Legacy Council Touch Tomorrow Fund
David Beck established this fund upon his retirement from the Board of Directors of the Foundation in 2002. The Legacy Council is a group of individuals who have served on the Board of Directors and wish to remained active with the Foundation in a volunteer capacity. Members of the Legacy Council are encouraged to add to this fund on an annual basis.

 

Lelah Payne Fund
Lelah Payne established this fund for the purpose of assisting senior citizens. Part of the fund is designated for disbursements to particular Senior Citizen organizations and the rest is at the discretion of the Washington County Community Foundation Board of Directors.

 

 

Lois Price Scholarship Fund
On September 15, 1918, Clinton Wesner and Carrie Thompson Wesner welcomed their youngest of five children, Lois, into the world.  Lois attended grade school in Jefferson Township: Prowsville grade school and also Four Corners School.  She graduated from Salem High School and was the first in her family to graduate high school.   She later moved to Indianapolis where she met her husband Fred Price.  They were married September 1, 1945.

Lois passed away in March 2007.  This fund was created out of her estate to provide scholarships to graduating Salem High School seniors.

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Little York Grade School-Scholarship Fund
The alumni of Little York Grade School established this fund for the purpose of giving scholarships each year to a Salem High School graduate from the Little York area.

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Marjorie A Martin Souder Fund

MarjiAnn was a history buff from the start. She received the DAR Good Citizen’s Award in high school (an award she would later bestow on many other students in the county.) At the time, she had no idea what the ward was about, but after researching the organizations, she quickly learned that the DAR was closely aligned with several of her core values. She became very active in the DAR. She served as state regent from 1994-1997 and NSDAR Vice President General from 1997-2000

This fund will honor the outstanding history student at Eastern High School.

Through this fund, MarjiAnn’s love of history will live on through the students that receive the award, and so will a little bit of MarjiAnn.

 

 

Mary Frances Nicholson Fund
Mary Frances Nicholson was a life-long resident of Washington County and was involved in many different organizations. One of those organizations was Blue River Services, of which Mary was on the Board of Directors. To honor Mary and her love of Washington County and helping others, Blue River Services established this fund in her name.

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Marvin and Sandy Clark Touch Tomorrow Fund
Marvin and Sandy Clark established this fund in 2002, in support of the Foundation and the many grants that are distributed on an annual basis. In the spirit of giving back to the community, Marvin and Sandy’s fund will issue grants to worthwhile community projects, as determined by the current Board of Directors. Since this is an endowed fund, it will continue to give, forever.

 

 

Mary H. Payne Scholarship Fund
This fund was established by bequest to present scholarships to Salem High School students.

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Memorial Fund
This fund was established by the Board of Directors in 2002 for the many memorials given to the Foundation. For a complete list of all memorials given to the Foundation, please visit our memorial book on this website.

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Morris J & Martha M. Rosenbaum Scholarship Fund
Morris and Marty Rosenbaum, former educators at Salem Community Schools, established this scholarship fund to further the education of Salem High School graduates.

 

Mt. Tabor Christian Church Fund
This fund was established by Morris (Buster) and Betty (Clevenger) Hoar. Disbursements from this fund will be used to support the operations of the church.

 

Mt. Washington Church of Christ Cemetery Commission Fund
Disbursements from this fund will be used to support the maintenance and historic preservation of the cemetery at Mt. Washington, near Pekin and Martinsburg. MarjiAnn Souder, who served on the Washington County Community Foundation Board of Directors from 1993-2002, established this fund.

 

National City Bank SI Touch Tomorrow Fund
The President of National City Bank, Steve Risen, established this fund in 2001. Striving to be an exemplary corporate citizen, National City Bank started this fund to support worthwhile community projects throughout the county. Since the needs of the county will change over time, the bank set up an unrestricted fund in order to be in a position to address those changing needs.

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Norton Healthcare IUS Scholarship Fund
Norton Healthcare established this fund to provide nursing scholarships at Indiana University Southeast.

 

 

 

Oliver P. Sizemore Masonic Home Fund
Steve Brewer established this fund in 2007 in honor of Oliver’s retirement and his 35 years of public service as a CPA to our community.  Oliver was a founding board member for the Foundation.  He retired from the board after 10 years of service and then re-joined the board in 2007.   He is currently serving as Treasurer. 

 

 

 

 

Operating Fund (Community Foundation)
This fund is for the assured future of the Foundation. Disbursements from this fund will be used to support the general operation of the Foundation when no other funds are available.

 

Paul Ogle/Edward Baugh Youth Fund
Paul Ogle was born in Switzerland County, Indiana. He was the owner of Silgas, a liquefied gas company that sold to residents and businesses throughout Southern Indiana for over 40 years. When Paul died in 1998, the company was sold and the proceeds formed the Paul Ogle Foundation.

Paul’s vision was to assist the communities in which he made his fortune. To that end, the Paul Ogle Foundation made a $50,000.00 contribution to the Washington County Community Foundation to help establish this youth philanthropy fund. The fund is used by the Washington County Youth Foundation to issue youth directed community service grants to Washington County youth organizations and to teach the youth of Washington County about philanthropy.

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Edward Baugh
Edward Baugh was born in East Chicago, Illinois. He and his family moved to Washington County in 1942, when they purchased a farm. He joined the army when he was seventeen years old and served his country overseas in China, Burma, and Egypt.

Edward learned many trades over his lifetime. He worked as a farmer, plumber, welder, machinist, and tinsmith among other trades. He valued honesty and a strong work ethic. In 1996, Edward contributed $34,000.00 to establish the youth fund.

Betty Motsinger has also contributed to this fund.

This fund was established to provide the youth of Washington County an opportunity to learn about philanthropy and community service. The Washington County Youth Foundation issues grants on an annual basis from this fund to support youth directed community service projects throughout Washington County.

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Ralph and Mae Decker Scholarship Fund
Ralph Decker was born in Grayson County, Kentucky. He married Mae Stevenson, who was also from Grayson Kentucky. Four years after their marriage, Ralph and Mae moved to Louisville where Ralph worked at Porter’s Paint Company for seven years. The Deckers bought a farm near Hardinsburg where they raised their two daughters. Ralph sold Moorman feed and was a good friend to all. After Ralph’s retirement, he and Mae moved to Salem. Ralph was always interested in children getting a better education that he, as he was unable to go to college. Mae Decker and GleEtta Williams established this fund for Salem High School graduates in the form of scholarships, especially those in the fields of nursing, theology, missionary work or a healthcare related field.

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Ralph and Faye Motsinger Mahuron Fund
Both Ralph and Faye (Motsinger) Mahuron were lifelong residents of Washington County. Ralph worked in many different jobs. Both Ralph and Faye worked in the Charlestown Powder Plant during World War II. Although they did not have children of their own, they did love children.

Ralph also enjoyed politics and was the first Mayor of Salem to be re-elected. Among the town developments for which he was heavily responsible are Henderson Park and the Senior Citizens Center. Ralph and Faye led a quiet, conservative lifestyle, but also were active in their community through the Masonic Lodge, the Order of Eastern Star, and their church. They were also interested in the history of Washington County.

It was through their conservatism that the Mahurons were able to form a large estate. Through their generosity, the fund now benefits the three area high schools with scholarships, the Washington County Memorial Hospital, Blue River Baptist Church, Salem Baptist Church, Olive Branch Church, Salem Masonic Lodge, Order of Eastern Star, the Senior Citizens Center, Blue River Cemetery, Olive Branch Cemetery, Rodman Cemetery, and the John Hay Center Foundation.

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Raymond, Alma, Cleo and Betty Motsinger Family Fund
This fund was established by Betty Motsinger in demonstration of gratitude for all the support their farming operation received from the community, especially all the middle school and high school boys who worked for them. This fund will provide a scholarship to an Eastern High School graduating senior.

 

Riley's Place Fund
Riley’s Place Playground was built in September 2001 in memory of Riley Jean Tomlinson. Riley, who died in an accident at the age of 17 months, was the beautiful son of Jennifer and Wade Tomlinson.

After his death, his parents were overwhelmed with the kindness of friends and neighbors who wanted to do something in memory of Riley. Jennifer remembered a playground that she and Riley had once visited in Nashville, Tennessee, and the dream of Riley’s Place began. Committees were set up and the work to plan the playground and raise the money began. Over 3,000 children in Washington County had an opportunity to turn in ideas for the design of the playground.

The playground was completely constructed in 6 days. The first day of the build, September 11, 2001, was one of the darkest days in our nation’s history. Building Riley’s Place gave the community something positive to focus on when our country was in great despair and grief. In all, over 2,000 people put their skills to work to build the playground.

The playground was dedicated on September 16, 2001. One white balloon, in memory of Riley, was released, along with 2001red balloons, symbolizing all the children who will play on the playground.

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St. Isidore the Farmer Catholic Church
William Harlen, Salem business owner, established this fund. Grants from this fund will help St. Isidore the Farmer Catholic Church maintain the Old St. John Catholic cemetery, where many of Mr. Harlen’s ancestors are buried.

 

St. Patrick Catholic Church and Cemetery Fund
This fund was established by the J.P. “Bob” Gill Trust for the maintenance and historic preservation of the St. Patrick Cemetery.

 

Salem Education Foundation Fund
This scholarship fund was established and contributed to by individuals and families that are interested in the future education of Salem High School graduates.

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Salem High School Class of 1954 Scholarship Fund
This scholarship fund, established in 2004 by the 1954 class of SHS, will award scholarships to graduating SHS seniors.

 

 

 

Salem High School Class of 1957 Education Fund
The Salem High School Class of 1957 established this fund in 2007 to provide support to Salem Community Schools to support education, with an emphasis on classroom teachers and employees for the purpose of providing innovative, engaging, and meaningful opportunities that are designed to stimulate learning. 

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Salem Schools Giving Tree Funds
Two funds, established by Salem Community Schools employees, will provide grants to Salem Community Schools teachers for innovative classroom projects. School employees have made direct contributions to these funds as well as participating in a payroll deduction program.

 

 

Salem Mortgage Touch Tomorrow Fund
Like many business owners, John Mischler wanted to give something back to the community, so he established the Salem Mortgage Touch Tomorrow Fund in 2002. This fund will be used to fund grants for worthwhile community projects through a competitive grant application process.

 

Salem Presbyterian Church Fund
This fund was established by Helen Roberson, Dr. Edward DeJean and Elinor DeJean and added to by Robert E. Boggs. The disbursements from this fund are to be used to support the mission and operations of the Presbyterian Church in Salem.

 

Salem Public Library Fund
The Board of Directors and friends of the library established this fund. It is to be used for the purchase of books and other peripheral items needed by the library.

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Salem True Value Touch Tomorrow Fund
Bob Strange established this fund in 2002, in order to facilitate the continuing support that Salem True Value gives to the community. By creating this fund, Salem True Value will be able to support grants to the community now and forever.

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Smedley Scholarship Trust Fund
Lawrence “Corky” Smedley was born on March 28, 1928 in a house on West Market Street in Salem, Indiana. He was a thirty-second degree Mason and a DeMolay sponsor. He loved to read and enjoyed the stage and musicals. He was a member of the First Christian Church. He had three children and two grandchildren at the time of his death in 1986.

Corky will always be remembered for his love of horses, which started at an early age. As a young boy, he taught his pony to untie the ribbons in the hair of his younger sister. Thus started his long relationship with horses that would last the rest of his life, as he was never without a horse to break or train. Corky was also a highly respected horse show judge. He served as ring steward for the Corydon Labor Day AQHA show, as well as being show chairman of the Washington County Fair horse show.

He was happiest when surrounded by family and friends and horses. His wife, Sharon, commented, “He loved kids and liked to work with kids and horses. He delighted in teaching kids to ride.” Corky was a 4-H leader for many years, and a 4-H volunteer for even longer. The 4-H Horse and Pony Club (now the Lucky Leathers) flourished under his leadership. He served on the Area II Horse and Pony Committee and took his duties seriously. It was important to Corky that he keep his word; he would not agree to take on a responsibility that he couldn’t meet. And he expected the same dedication from others.

“The idea for a scholarship fund in Corky’s honor actually came to us before he died,” reflected Marji Morris, longtime friend of Corky’s. “It was so hard to watch him go through the chemotherapy. Corky was always so vibrant and alive, even after he got sick. We knew we wanted to do something to honor him and his indomitable spirit. He loved kids, horses and teaching kids to ride horses. A scholarship fund that helps the youth of Washington County advance their equine studies, either at camps or at the college level, just made sense. His friends needed to keep his memory and his desire to help kids alive.”

For Corky, there is an old saying that holds especially true: “There is nothing better for the inside of a man than the outside of a horse.” Corky’s friends, 4-H co-leaders, and loved ones, by establishing this scholarship fund, will help future generations of Washington County residents understand the meaning of that old saying.

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Stevens Memorial Trust Fund
Warda Stevens Stout established this trust in 1970 when she financially assisted in the construction of the Stevens Museum. Disbursements from this fund are to be used for capital improvements.

 

 

Sugar Creek Christian Church Fund
Roy and Mae Lee established this fund as a permanent endowment that others can add to and the income is to be used as the church body deems appropriate as needed most.

 

 

 

The Women’s Fund
The purpose of this fund is to provide opportunities, encouragement, knowledge and hope to women and girls.  The Women’s Fund was established in 2007. 

 

 

 

 

 

Tony and Jeanette Nolan Touch Tomorrow Fund
Tony and Jeanette ran a successful hardware store for many years in Salem.  Upon the sale of their business, they wanted to give back to the community in which they operated their business for so many years.  Their unrestricted gift funded this Touch Tomorrow Fund, which will be used at the Board of Directors discretion to improve the quality of life in Washington County for generations to come. 

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2004 Board of Directors Gift for Tomorrow Fund
This fund was established in 2004 by the Board of Directors. It is to remain an acorn fund for 100 years and, as future board members continue to add to it, this fund will grow into a very sizable fund by 2104, at which time it will be used for discretionary grants.

 

 

W. Frank Cole, Jr. and Joanne (Jo) Puckett Cole Scholarship Fund
Frank and Jo Cole established the fund to award graduating county seniors that maintained a GPA of 3.0 – 4.0. Frank and Jo are both retired educators that understand the value of continuing education.

 

 

Veterans Memorial Maintenance Fund
Robert and Clarice (Martin) Morris established this fund for the maintenance and upkeep of the Veterans’ Memorial.

 

 

 

 

Washington County Aquatics Fund
Richard and Marcia Grassmyer established this fund in 2007 to help the youth of Washington County advance their aquatic skills.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Washington County Community Foundation Discretionary Fund
This pass-through fund is to be used at the discretion of the Washington County Community Foundation Board of Directors. It was established by friends of the Foundation.

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Washington County Community Foundation Touch Tomorrow Fund
This is the largest fund in the Foundation. Disbursements from this fund are used to support grant making to non-profit organizations in Washington County, either by application or by the direction of the Board of Directors.

 

Washington County Family YMCA Fund
This fund was established by David and Carolyn Beck, David Brown, Bonnie Davis, Victor and Mary Dufour, Ernie and Dottie Gravatt, Jim and Judy Johnson, Jack and Carol Mahuron, Don Martin, Tom and Kim Scifres, and Bob and Carol Strange. The purpose is to provide grants for operational expenses of the YMCA.

 

Washington County Food Bank Fund
This fund was established by the J. P. “Bob” Gill trust to provide support to the Food Bank. The primary purpose of this fund is to provide support to charitable institutions whose purpose is to provide aid, comfort, support or assistance to persons who are poor and in need of the common necessities of life, such as food, clothing, shelter and medical care.

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Washington County Historical and Pioneer Cemetery Fund
This fund was established in 2003 to provide support to the Washington County Historical and Pioneer Cemetery Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to the maintenance and historical preservation of local cemeteries.

 

 

Washington County Fund for Education
The purposed of this fund is to promote and strengthen education for individuals all ages in Washington County.

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Washington County Scholarship Fund
The WCCF Board of Directors established this fund to provide college scholarships to Washington County residents.

 

 

WCHS Depot Fund
Salem’s role in the 1847 organization of the railroad that served much of the state of Indiana is commemorated at The Depot, the railroad museum at the John Hay Center. Memorabilia devoted to the New Albany & Salem Railroad and the Monon Railroad and a large HO scale model depicting the Monon through Washington County in the period of 1957-1964 are main features of the museum.

Funded with grants and donations, The Depot was constructed by students from Salem and Eastern High School who were members of the Building Trades Class at Prosser School of Technology, New Albany. During the two years of construction, 39 students were involved in the project.

The Depot is owned by the Washington County Historical Society and is operated by volunteers. Operational expenses are covered by donations, admissions, gift shop income and rentals for meetings, receptions, etc.

The WCHS Depot Fund was established to help cover operating and maintenance expenses. The fund was started with donations from Bob Boggs, Jack and Carol Mahuron, Cecil and Martha Smith, Roger and Sarah Voyles, and Robert and Clarice Morris.

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Whiskey Wilson Humane Society Fund
Whiskey Wilson was the beloved pet of Donovan and Jean Wilson. They adopted him from the Humane Society when he was around one and one half years old. Although Jean did not want an animal in the house, Whiskey very quickly changed her mind. His unconditional love and his character made him almost an instant part of their family. They took him everywhere with them, including Florida, Massachusetts and Montana. Donovan and Whiskey took daily walks up until Whiskey’s death.

Jean Wilson is one of the Foundation’s founding board members. Her knowledge and understanding of the foundation led to the establishment of this fund.

Upon Whiskey’s death, the Wilsons decided to set up a memorial fund to honor Whiskey and to help the Humane Society care for more like they did for Whiskey before he went to live with the Wilsons. Now anyone can donate to this fund in honor of their own pets.

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William Clarence and Martha B. Branaman Fund
Both Martha and Clarence Branaman were natives of Washington County. Clarence was born in Jefferson Township, the son of W. Floyd Branaman and Alice Stewart Branaman. He was a 1920 graduate of Salem High School. He attended Purdue University in Lafayette, Indiana, and graduated with a degree in agriculture in 1924. In 1925, he became a teacher of agriculture and Future Farmers of America sponsor at Salem High School. He was a pioneer in introducing scientific agriculture to Washington County, and he very successfully farmed a large acreage of land north, northeast, and west of Salem.

Martha Smith Branaman was born in Salem, Indiana in 1910. She was the daughter of the late Ford A. Smith and Florence Blanche Munkelt Smith. Her father, Ford Smith, was the founder of Smith Cabinet Manufacturing Company. Martha graduated from Salem High School in 1928. She met Clarence Branaman while at Salem High School, and they were married in December 1928. They had two children - David Branaman (1932) of Louisville, KY and the former President of Salem’s Child Craft Industries, Inc. and Martha Ann Branaman Gran (1937) of Indianapolis, IN.

Both Martha and Clarence were community-minded people who contributed their time and money to helping others. They were active in their church and in various community organizations. Martha was a former director of Smith Cabinet Manufacturing Company and an active member of Tri-Kappa, Study Club, and Fortnightly Club. She was President of Christian Women’s Fellowship and served on the Board of Directors of the First Christian Church of Salem. Clarence was an active member of Fortnightly Club and SAR. He was President of Lion’s Club and Master of the Masonic Club. He was also active in the church, serving as a Deacon and on the Church Board.

The Washington County Community Foundation supports Martha and Clarence’s charitable interests, including the Salem Library, the Stevens Memorial Museum, and the Salem Education Foundation. The Christian Church Foundation supports their local First Christian Church of Salem, the church’s historical society, theology students training for ministry, and older people in need.

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William O. Martin Math Prize Fund
William O. Martin was born in 1904 in Pierce Township. William passed a test as a senior that allowed him to begin teaching grades one through eight following one summer at college. He later continued his education and received a master’s degree from Indiana University in 1949. His favorite subject was mathematics. During his 47 years of teaching, he also served as principal and coach at East Washington High School. As coach, he never had a losing season and he introduced the school motto, “All for one and one for all.” This eventually led the school to adopt the Musketeer as the mascot and royal purple and bright gold as the school colors.

William married Elizabeth Hoyt ten years after graduating high school. One of his accomplishments after retirement was to develop a popular blend of apple cider. He also helped get electricity and more updated phone lines into the eastern part of the county. William was also involved with the East Washington Lions Club, the John Hay Society Sons of the American Revolution, his church and the building fund committee for the Washington County Memorial Hospital.

William O. Martin’s children established this fund to honor their father and reward an Eastern High graduating senior who has excelled in mathematics.

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Wonder Valley Fund
The Wonder Valley Church Camp established this fund for the purpose of maintaining the camp and for future building purposes. The camp services several counties in our area. Bethel Wesner has also added to this fund.

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Ranessa Cooper Science Scholarship Fund- Ranessa received financial assistance from the Audrey Mount Educational Loan Program when was attending college.  Because of the impact of Audrey’s generosity on her life, Ranessa has now established a college scholarship fund for Salem High School graduates who excel in science.   

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Crusade for Children Fund- This fund was established by John Jones in memory of Joe Huber.  It will support the work of the Crusade for generations to come.  

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James L Brown Scholarship Fund- The West Washington Agriculture Department establish this scholarship fund in honor of Jim Brown, who taught Ag for 30 years and was also the FFA sponsor.  The purpose of the fund is to provide scholarships to students from West Washington whoare 4 year FFA members, have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and indicate a strong desire to major in an Ag related field of study in college.

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Mary Hilton Youth Development Fund- Because Mary Hilton was a beloved teacher, mentor, and friend to all students whose lives she touched just by being herself, the Pekin High School Class of 1958  has established a Youth Development Fund in Mary’s honor.  This fund will be Mary’s legacy and continue her mission in life….  Helping young people to realize their potential. 

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Todd and Beth Armstrong Youth Development Fund- Because of their passion for youth, Todd and Beth established this fund to support our youth and make our community a better place to raise children.

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Betty Motsinger Touch Tomorrow Fund

 

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Wade-Swift Youth Development Fund- Lindsey and J.D. have been involved with the youth of our community for many years.  They have decided to establish an endowed fund to support out youth long after they are gone.  

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1st Youth First Youth Development Fund

The Advisory Council of Youth First has established many goals, one of which is sustainability for the organization.  To that end, they decided to establish this fund, hopefully the first of many, and lay the groundwork for others to follow. 

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SHS Class of 1963 Fund

The Salem High School Class of 1963 is starting early on their 50th Anniversary gift!  They have given themselves 5 years to work towards their goal.  Although they have not definitely decided on the purpose of the fund, they have agreed to establish their fund in the Washington County Community Foundation and they have begun to build this fund.  Good luck Class of ‘63!

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Big Brothers Big Sisters
Big Brothers Big Sisters established this fund, with the assistance of a matching challenge grant, to support their important work, youth mentoring, for generations to come. 

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Ron and Pam Haendiges Youth Development Fund- Pam has been a teacher at Bradie Shrum for many years and Ron has been involved with youth in our community in many ways.  He is currently serving on the Advisory Council for Youth First and the YMCA Board of Directors.  In order to continue this tradition of supporting our youth, they have started this fund, which will support the youth in our community forever. 

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