Search Results for Innovation connector

By Juli Metzger— MUNCIE, IN—Area leaders, experts in early childhood development, math and reading, postsecondary success and career pathways, gathered recently to breakdown the details that will fuel a five-year strategic plan for the Cradle to Career Muncie initiative. Collaborative Action Networks (CANs), which are outcome-focused, cross-sector teams, looked at what they’ve done, where the successes lie, and where the gaps remain. Cradle to Career Muncie is a collective impact model embracing a philosophy that the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the one. Behind each network are core services that prop up a thriving society, including not…

By Arrick Garringer— MUNCIE, IN – In recognition of Autism Awareness Month, Shafer Leadership Academy invites employers, professionals, and community members to attend Autism at Work: Awareness, Accommodations, and Advocacy, a free community panel discussion on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the Innovation Connector, 1208 W White River Blvd, Muncie, IN 47303. This interactive session will explore the experiences of autistic employees, best practices for workplace accommodations, and strategies for self-advocacy. Autistic employees bring valuable skills and perspectives to the workplace, yet many organizations struggle to create environments where neurodiverse individuals can truly thrive….

By Jud Fisher— MUNCIE, IN — Ball Brothers Foundation presented its annual Fisher Governance Award to John West, a founding board member of the Muncie Land Bank. The award was presented at the Greater Muncie Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Annual Meeting & Dinner on November 12. This award highlights Dr. West’s strong leadership as a board member and as former board chair, recognizing his strategic vision, financial oversight, and dedication to advancing the Muncie Land Bank’s mission to address property abandonment and the revitalization of local neighborhoods. Dr. West has played an integral role in the Muncie Land Bank since…

 By Jud Fisher— MUNCIE IN – Ball Brothers Foundation, a family foundation committed to place-based grantmaking in Indiana for nearly a century, has awarded over $5 million in its fall round of grants for 2024, supporting 36 organizations across East Central Indiana. Among the recipients is United Day Care Center, which was awarded $125,000 to add on to its existing facility on the east side of downtown Muncie. As families continue to face challenges in accessing affordable childcare, the need for quality early childhood education has never been more pressing. Currently, nearly 60% of families in the region struggle to…

By Kelsey Harrington— MUNCIE, IN—Founded in 1937, the George and Frances Ball Foundation has spent the last 87 years upholding the legacy of George, Frances, and Elisabeth Ball. The Foundation uses its role as a grantmaker to reflect the family’s passions rooted in improving livability and educational attainment for citizens in Muncie and Delaware County. This commitment to local livability and education is displayed year-round through the Foundation’s community engagement activities and partnerships, including its work serving as the backbone organization for Cradle to Career Muncie. Additionally, these values are exemplified four times each year when the board gathers to…

By Arrick Garringer— MUNCIE, IN – Delaware County Sheriff Tony Skinner will lead a discussion on leadership at Shafer Leadership Academy’s Coffee Talk event titled “In Pursuit of Leadership” on July 31, 2024. The event will take place from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the Innovation Connector, located at 1208 W White River Blvd. Sheriff Skinner, with nearly 30 years of law enforcement experience, will share insights on leadership styles, the importance of detail orientation, and the unique role of the sheriff’s office. His aim is to provide valuable lessons for anyone in or aspiring to be in a…

By Kallie Sulanke— MUNCIE, IN – The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County awarded $411,897 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 in arts and culture, community betterment, economic development, education, and human services. 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…