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Community Support Unlocks $750,000 Matching Grant for Starke County
The Starke County Community Foundation has received a matching fund grant totaling $750,000 as part of the eighth phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s initiative, Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VIII). This funding will strengthen Starke County community funds, allowing SCCF to provide an additional $50,000 in grant support to qualified charitable organizations annually. Read more
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Orkis Recognized for Outstanding Philanthropic Contributions
North Judson native Cheryl Orkis was awarded the 2025 James R. Hardesty Leadership in Philanthropy Award during the Starke County Community Foundation’s annual Giving Tuesday event. The SCCF presents this annual award to outstanding individuals and organizations who positively impact the community through philanthropic efforts. Read more
Why the green?
The green portion of our Community Foundation flower represents the mint harvested in Starke County. Indiana is one of the top mint-producing states in the U.S., and a large portion of that mint is farmed in Starke County. One of our towns, North Judson, holds an annual Mint Festival over Father’s Day Weekend, and every year when the fields are harvested, the entire community is filled with the warm, sweet aroma of mint.
Jacque Ryan started as the Director of Development for the Starke County Community Foundation in the spring of 2021. She grew up in Starke County and after graduating from Ball State University in 2017, she returned to work as a reporter at Kankakee Valley Broadcasting and served as editor of The Starke County Leader newspaper, establishing multiple community connections.
Jacque Ryan, Director of Development
Jacque Ryan
Director of Development
Phone: 574.772.3665
Address: 300 Keller Avenue, North Judson, IN 46366
Mailing Address: PO Box 807, Rochester, IN 46975
The 2024 recipients include Dustin’s Place, New Day Foundation, The Cheryl Lyn Welter Family Charitable Foundation, and The Starke County Public Library System. Learn more
Judy Climie, a member of our Community Foundation family, said, “You don’t give to the Foundation. You give through the foundation.” There are so many ways to make a difference in your community through the NICF. Whether you give a gift now, give to the NICF through your will, or give monthly or through a giving group, you’re making a difference that will last forever.
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