Articles by Mike Rhodes

The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County awarded $455,550 in Community Grants to 24 community organizations during the second quarter of 2025. Classroom Connections of ECI received $11,000 to support their mission to provide essential classroom tools to teachers and students, ensuring teachers can teach and learners can learn. Pictured: Classroom Connections volunteers prepare for a book give-away.

Non-Profit May 25, 2025

Community Grants Totaling $450K Awarded by The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County

By Kallie Sulanke— MUNCIE, IN—The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County awarded $455,550 in Community Grants this week. Community Grants provide nonprofit organizations serving Muncie and Delaware County the opportunity to apply for funding to support their work. Grants are awarded to address the broad needs of Muncie and Delaware County. Organizations interested in applying for funding are encouraged to connect with the Foundation’s Program and Nonprofit Relations team. Through these conversations, Foundation staff and volunteers develop a deeper…

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Community Foundation Board Chair Casey Stanley (left) presents the 2025 David Sursa Leadership Award to Michael Lunsford (right) for his service to the YMCA of Muncie at a special presentation on May 22.

Non-Profit May 23, 2025

Michael Lunsford Named 2025 Recipient of The Community Foundation’s David Sursa Leadership Award

By Kallie Sulanke— MUNCIE, IN—The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County has announced that Michael Lunsford received the 2025 David Sursa Leadership Award to recognize his dedicated service to the YMCA of Muncie. The YMCA of Muncie nominated Mike Lunsford in recognition of his exceptional leadership and service to the Muncie community. As a former board member, Mike’s visionary leadership, steadfast commitment, and passion for community development left a lasting mark on the YMCA. Mike has also served many…

Photo courtesy of Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever.

Entertainment May 23, 2025

Indiana Pacers and Fever Basketball Camp Coming to YMCA of Muncie This Summer

By Kristen McConnell, VP of Mission Advancement— MUNCIE, IN — Young athletes across East Central Indiana will have the opportunity to train like the pros thissummer as the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever Basketball Camp comes to the YMCA of Muncie from June 2-6, 2025. Open to boys and girls ages 7–15, this exciting four-day camp will offer elite instruction from experienced coaches affiliated with The National Basketball Academy (TNBA)—official youth development partner of the Pacers and Fever. Whether your…

Wade Hampton

Business May 22, 2025

YMCA of Muncie Welcomes Wade Hampton as Interim CEO

By  Kristen McConnell, YMCA VP of Mission Advancement— MUNCIE, IN —The YMCA of Muncie is pleased to announce that Wade Hampton will serve as Interim Chief Executive Officer beginning June 1, 2025 as the organization conducts a national search for its next CEO. Wade brings more than 43 years of YMCA leadership experience, with a well-earned reputation for guiding organizations through times of transition with stability, mission-focus, and results-driven support. He is widely respected in the Y movement for his…

Sharon Rhodes picks out a Wawa strawberry parfait to take home. Photo by Mike Rhodes

Business May 22, 2025

Initial Look at Indiana’s First Wawa Convenience Store in Daleville, IN

By Mike Rhodes, Editor-in-Chief— DALEVILLE, IN— I had an opportunity to get a firsthand look at the new Wawa store in Daleville last week after receiving an invitation to attend media day, one day before the store opened to the general public. Having never heard of the brand before I wondered, “What’s a Wawa?” I left the store still not knowing what a Wawa was. Mostly because I forgot to ask the super helpful and friendly Wawa PR people in…

Gardening is a good way to get some exercise and clear your mind—improving your mental health. Photo provided.

Health May 21, 2025

Caring For Your Mental Health

By Jennifer VanSkyock, LCSW, LCAC, LISW-S— MUNCIE, IN—May is Mental Health Awareness Month and this is a great time to focus on ways to improve your mental health through everyday behaviors. What can we do to improve our mental health? There are several things that can have a significant impact on how we feel. One area to look at is your physical wellbeing. This means planning to have daily physical activity in your routine. This doesn’t require any special equipment…

Anthony McPherron, DO, MBA, FAOFO.

Health May 21, 2025

IU Health Orthopedic Surgeon to Lead Care for Ball State Student Athletes

By Courtney Schmoll— MUNCIE, INDIANA – IU Health Ball orthopedic surgeon Anthony McPherron, DO, MBA, FAOFO, is joining the orthopedic team that oversees care for Ball State Athletics through IU Health’s ongoing partnership with the university. A board-certified orthopedic surgeon with more than 25 years of experience, Dr. McPherron brings deep expertise in sports medicine and joint replacement to his role. He will support the care of Ball State student-athletes, with a focus on injury prevention, performance enhancement, and long-term…

Photo provided.

Non-Profit May 20, 2025

Cardinal Greenways Announces Final Phase of Kitselman Gateway Project

By Kyle Johnson, President, Cardinal Greenway Board of Directors— MUNCIE, IN— Cardinal Greenways is proud to announce the commencement of the third and final phase of the Kitselman Gateway Project, a transformative initiative that completes the critical connection between the Cardinal Greenway and White River Greenway across the White River. This major milestone not only enhances trail connectivity and safety, but also marks a significant moment in the revitalization of Muncie’s post-industrial landscape into a dynamic, inclusive, and beautiful public…

Photo provided.

Health May 20, 2025

Open Door Health Services Will Open in the New Muncie YMCA on June 2

By Erin Moore— MUNCIE, IN—Convenient healthcare services are coming to the new Muncie YMCA next month, care of Open Door Health Services. The new health center, opening on June 2, 2025, will offer primary care, chiropractic, and behavioral health services to community members. “We’re excited to work alongside the Muncie YMCA with our shared mission of improving individual and community health and wellness,” said Bryan Ayars, Open Door CEO.  “This partnership allows us to increase healthcare access to the residents…

The Community Foundation announced four finalists for the 2025 David Sursa Leadership Award: Keith Doudt, Urban Light Community Development Corporation; Brad King, Muncie Land Bank; Michael Lunsford, YMCA of Muncie; and Kim Miller, Muncie Arts and Culture Council.

Non-Profit May 20, 2025

The Community Foundation’s David Sursa Leadership Award 2025 Finalists Announced

By Kallie Sulanke— MUNCIE, IN—The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County recognizes the following finalists for the 2025 David Sursa Leadership Award: Keith Doudt, Urban Light Community Development Corporation; Brad King, Muncie Land Bank; Michael Lunsford, YMCA of Muncie; and Kim Miller, Muncie Arts and Culture Council. The David Sursa Leadership Award was established in memory of the Foundation’s first board leader. As inaugural President, David Sursa blazed the trail for The Community Foundation. His visionary leadership contributed significantly…