Non-Profit

By Kylene Swackhamer— MUNCIE, IN—As the Muncie Action Plan (MAP) looks back on a productive year, we are excited to reflect on our continued efforts to enhance the quality of life in Muncie and Delaware County. We invite the community to join us for our Annual Report to the Community, taking place Wednesday, January 28, at 6:00 p.m. in the Multi-Purpose Room at Ivy Tech. During this gathering, each of MAP’s four task forces will present their accomplishments and progress from 2025 and their goals and aspirations for 2026. This article marks the first in a series of updates from…

By Jud Fisher— MUNCIE, IN – Muncie’s Old West End (OWE) is on the cusp of major redevelopment. Empty lots have plans attached to them, long-vacant properties–many that have cycled through the tax sale repeatedly over the past 10-15 years–have been mapped for future use, and the community has aligned around a vision for what’s next. Block by block, a historic neighborhood adjacent to downtown Muncie is gaining new life. This is the result of steady, community-led work that has been building for years, and it offers an important look at how communities across Indiana can take on the challenges…

By Tami Silverman, President & CEO of Indiana Youth Institute— INDIANAPOLIS—During the busy holiday season, many families focus on their celebratory meals, decorations, and shopping lists. Amid such hustle, it is worth remembering the timeless truth: it is better to give than to receive. But how do we teach our children to move beyond consumerism and embrace gratitude and generosity? Research increasingly shows that giving back is not just good for communities generally; it’s good for kids. Volunteering and acts of kindness are linked to improved mental health, stronger social skills, and even greater happiness. In fact, giving activates the…

By Lucas Pint— MUNCIE — Do you have a bold idea that could make your neighborhood stronger, safer, or more vibrant? Organizers of the Eleventh Annual Neighborhood IDEA Conference want to hear from you! The conference returns to Ball State University on March 7, 2026, and organizers are calling on residents, neighborhood groups, and community partners to step up and lead the conversation. Hosted by the Muncie Action Plan, Shafer Leadership Academy, Building Better Neighborhoods, and the Ball State Office of Community Engagement, IDEA brings together more than 130 residents from over 30 active neighborhoods for a full day of inspiration,…

By Jacob Thomas, Grants Administrator, ECIRPD— MUNCIE, IN—The East Central Indiana Regional Planning District would like to invite you to attend their upcoming training session about the grant writing process. It will take place on January 13th, 2026, and February 3rd, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Innovation Connector, 1208 W. White River Boulevard, Muncie, IN 47303. The workshop costs $225, which includes all materials and lunch on both days. The training will focus on drafting and polishing a proposal and navigating the grant process. The two-day Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing program is a great skill…

By Kallie Sulanke— MUNCIE, IN—The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County awarded $82,172 in Community Grants this week. Community Grants provide nonprofit organizations serving Muncie and Delaware County with 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…

By Jud Fisher— MUNCIE, IN — Ball Brothers Foundation has presented its 2025 John W. and Janice B. Fisher Governance Award to Anthony (Tony) Pierce, board president of the Delaware County Futbol Club (DCFC). Pierce was recognized with the award at the Greater Muncie Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner on November 18. The Fisher Governance Award honors a nonprofit board member in Delaware County whose strategic leadership, planning, and oversight have strengthened their organization’s mission, financial health, and general effectiveness. Pierce has served on the DCFC board for 16 years, including the last 10 as president. Under his leadership, the…