The Community Foundation of Whitley County recently celebrated 22 local residents whose time, talent, and generosity help make Whitley County a stronger community.
At its annual Heart of Gold event on September 15, the Foundation recognized residents who were nominated by members of the community for going the extra mile to make life here a little kinder. Each honoree received an engraved heart-shaped medallion from their nominator.
Among this year’s honorees are several familiar faces from throughout Whitley County, including Jordan Esterline, Darcy Hoopingarner, Julie Jensen-Kelley, Robert Reilly, Abby Weber, and others.
Four individuals—Jordan Esterline, Julie Jensen-Kelley, Robert Reilly, and Abby Weber—received special Heart of Gold recognition for decades of volunteerism. Each will have the opportunity to direct a $1,000 grant to a Whitley County charity of their choice.
The Foundation says the common thread among this year’s honorees is their love of community.
Also in the Community Foundation’s Latest Newsletter
The September newsletter includes several other stories, opportunities, and resources for Whitley County residents:
- The Nestel Gross Community Fund was established to support programs that combat social isolation among youth and older adults in Churubusco and strengthen community connections.
- A new Chad Banks memorial endowment fund will support Giving Garden’s Mooshwa Meadow and help preserve a natural habitat in Columbia City.
- Whitley County nonprofits can apply for up to $5,000 through the Accessible Communities Fund for inclusive programs and projects serving people with disabilities.
- The Foundation shares information about year-end charitable giving and planned giving options.
- Local farmers can learn about a grain-giving opportunity connected to the Lilly Endowment GIFT IX Matching Challenge, which the Foundation says can triple the impact of a qualifying gift.
- The Foundation is preparing for the traveling Smithsonian exhibition, Voices & Votes: Democracy in America, coming to Whitley County in early 2027.
There is a lot happening across Whitley County, from recognizing the people who give their time and talents to creating new opportunities for nonprofits, families, farmers, and future generations.
Read the full Community Foundation of Whitley County newsletter for all the details and opportunities.
