Articles by Mike Rhodes

By Kristen McConnell— MUNCIE,  IN— The YMCA of Muncie is thrilled to announce a significant and transformative capital gift of $3 million from the George and Frances Ball Foundation. This generous contribution marks a milestone in the YMCA’s mission to strengthen the local community and enhance the lives of its residents. “We are incredibly grateful to the George and Frances Ball Foundation for their unwavering commitment to our community’s wellbeing,” said Chad Zaucha, CEO of the YMCA of Muncie. “This transformative gift is a substantial investment in our new facility, ensuring we can better serve the needs of our community…

By Jud Fisher, President/CEO, Ball Brothers Foundation.— MUNCIE, IN—As a foundation that supports many local nonprofit organizations, Ball Brothers Foundation has had a front row seat to see how excellent boards have transformed local organizations over the years. We strongly believe in the importance of outstanding board governance and leadership, as good boards have a profound effect on an organization’s ability to serve its constituents and adapt to meet changing community needs. It is inspiring to see the selflessness of so many of our local citizens who dedicate countless hours to serving on boards, often unpaid and unrecognized. Organizations rely…

By Michelle Kinsey— MUNCIE, IN —Dave’s Alley is getting a makeover. Work began last week on a sculptural public art piece that will hang permanently in the downtown Muncie alleyway. This installation was brought to light – literally – by MuncieArts and the City of Muncie. As the designated “Arts Partner” for the city of Muncie, MuncieArts provides innovative arts programming, creative support for the community, and stewardship of public art. “Arts are so important for a healthy community,” commented Mayor Dan Ridenour. “Murals, art installations, and public performances help foster pride in our community, and get young people interested…

By Cornerstone’s Board of Directors— MUNCIE, IN—The Board of Directors of Cornerstone Center for the Arts (CCA) in downtown Muncie regretfully announces we will pause classes this fall semester. CCA will remain open for rentals, events, and First Thursday exhibits in the Judith Barnes Gallery. Despite long time support from partners and patrons across the city, the cost to maintain our grand 1920s Masonic Temple building often exceeds revenue. This pause in fall classes allows the board the necessary time to meet with key community stakeholders and supporters of Cornerstone. After reviewing seventeen years of programming experience, the board will…

By Juli Metzger— MUNCIE, IN—Summer and fall home builds for Greater Muncie Habitat for Humanity launch this month with the Awareness Build, a five-day effort by community partners and local news, media, and strategic communication professionals. “We have a number of micro-builds,” explained CEO Lindsey Arthur. “These are opportunities for people who work together or have another common interest, to give-back together, often on the same day.” The Awareness Build involves local media outlets including Woof Boom Radio,  The Muncie Journal, Ball State Public Media, Indiana Public Radio, and NASH FM Radio, and a half dozen advertising, marketing, and public…