24 May Hive Giving Circle Grants $8,000 to Local Organizations
May 24, 2022
Chesapeake Run Golf Club in North Judson was abuzz during The Hive’s annual social gathering on World Bee Day, Friday, May 20. Over 30 women from The Hive, Starke County’s women’s giving circle, attended the event where the group granted $8,000 to local charitable organizations. Funding support was generated from Hive membership dues, The Carrier Family’s Luminous Fund, and the Hardesty Memorial Endowment Fund.
This year’s speakers were 2021 Hive grant recipients, which included Just in Case Foundation Founder Kayla Borton, Dunebrook Public Education Coordinator Sarah Hoyt, and Starke County CASA Volunteer Coordinator Brenda Palmer, who emphasized the positive impact that last year’s grant dollars made on their organizations.
“It’s incredible to see the positive effect that past grants have made on local groups who received assistance from The Hive.” Starke County Community Foundation Director of Development Jacque Ryan shared. “The giving circle is such a great concept; local ladies pay dues, and their dollars go back into the community to make a difference on a local level. You can see the impact your donation makes.”
The 2022 Hive grant recipients include the North Judson-Wayne Township Fire Department, who will receive $3,000 for gear upgrades and The Starke County Youth Club that will get $2,000 for summer fieldtrip costs as well as Knox Community Elementary Science Department, who will receive $1,500 to purchase microscopes and other STEM equipment and Hoosiers Feeding the Hungry, which will receive $1,500 to supply meat to local food pantries.
The Hive event also showcased local artists and businesses. Attendees enjoyed music by local band Return to Normal and food catered by Connie’s Cakes and Cookies by Arielle with giveaways from Main Street Floral & Gifts and Pioneer Florist County Store. Giftbags included jars of honey donated by Goin’s Blueberry Lane and bee-themed candle melts gifted by Making Scents with Shannon.
Hive members 22 years old or younger pay $60 per year and all other members pay a $120 yearly donation. Membership dues must be paid to vote for grant recipients. Women can get a jumpstart on their 2023 membership by visiting The Hive page.
Knox Elementary School Teacher Jamie Shireman
North Judson-Wayne Township Fire Department Representative Paul Newcomer
Starke County Youth Club Director Irene Szakonyi