Articles by Mike Rhodes

By Vicki Veach, Executive Director, Muncie Downtown Development Partnership— MUNCIE, IN — A revitalization project in downtown Muncie has officially been completed, highlighting a collaborative effort between the City of Muncie, the Muncie Redevelopment Commission, Muncie Downtown Development Partnership, and Community Enhancement Projects (CEP). Finalized on May 22, 2025, the initiative reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the city’s urban core. The project was designed to enhance public spaces, support local businesses, and attract further investment, representing a significant improvement in downtown development. “This is what progress looks like when people work together,” said Mayor Dan Ridenour. “This collaboration brings…

By Heather Williams— MUNCIE, IN—Since 2010, Muncie Action Plan (MAP) has been supporting neighborhood leaders through its Neighborhood Leadership Council. In October 2023, MAP expanded this commitment by launching a new initiative—thanks to a generous grant from CenterPoint Energy—to train emerging leaders in grassroots advocacy. This initiative, the CenterPoint Scholars Program, offers a year-long leadership development experience focused on building skills that directly impact Muncie’s neighborhoods. The program began with a competitive application process in January, and the second cohort of Scholars was officially introduced at the March 2025 IDEA Conference. In April, the  Scholars participated in a weekend retreat…

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 understanding of the needs within the community, identify resources and support beyond grantmaking, and provide nonprofits more time to focus…

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 other organizations across the community with transformational impact, including The Community Foundation, for decades. Mike served on the YMCA of…