23 May $8,000 Awarded to Local Group at The Hive’s Annual Social Gathering
Members of The Hive were buzzing with excitement as they awarded $8,000 in grants to local organizations during the Annual Social Gathering on Tuesday, May 20 at the Knox Community Center.
The Hive is a women’s giving circle established in 2018 through the Starke County Community Foundation. This unique philanthropic group brings together women from across the community to pool their annual dues and vote on how funds should be distributed. To date, The Hive has awarded over $57,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations making a difference in Starke County.
This year’s event featured updates from past grantees and presentations from four impressive finalists: Knox Middle School PTO, North Judson Baseball and Softball Program, San Pierre Parks & Recreation, and the Starke County Youth Club. Each paid member had the opportunity to cast a vote, making The Hive’s grantmaking a true reflection of collective decision-making.
The 2025 grant recipients are:
- Starke County Youth Club – $3,000
- North Judson Baseball and Softball Program – $2,000
- Knox Middle School PTO – $1,500
- San Pierre Parks & Recreation – $1,500
Grant funds are made possible through member contributions and an annual distribution from The Hive Giving Circle Endowment Fund at the Starke County Community Foundation. Additional support is provided by the donor-advisor for the Hardesty Memorial Endowment Fund, helping to enhance the total amount awarded each year.
“The Hive is such a special group,” said Jacque Ryan, SCCF Director of Development. “Women from all walks of life get to come together and make a difference with their dollars, and it’s inspiring to see the power of collective impact year after year.”
Guests at this year’s event enjoyed a delicious spread from 213 Mobile Bar & Charcuterie and took home custom bee-themed cookies from Cookies by Arielle. Centerpieces were beautifully arranged by Pioneer Floral & Gifts, and each attendee received honey sticks provided by Honney’s Bees Apiary in their gift bags. The Knox Community Center served as a welcoming venue for the celebration of community and collective generosity.
“This year, our finalists represented various corners of Starke County,” added Ryan. “I love finding ways to incorporate other important sectors of our community by working with local, women-owned businesses for our meals, goodies, and giveaways.”
The Hive welcomes any woman with a heart for giving back. Whether you live in Starke County or simply care about its future, you can become a member and take part in this inspiring effort. Women can already begin paying their 2026 dues at nicf.org to ensure their vote counts next year.
Click here to learn more about The Hive.
Mark Vendl with Starke County Youth Club
Graham Max with the North Judson Baseball and Softball Program
Elizabeth Warren with the Knox Middle School PTO
Gwen Rentz with San Pierre Parks & Recreation