The Fulton County Community Foundation’s Ambassadors Club recently gathered to award a series of pop-up grants supporting youth programs and literacy efforts across the county.
The Ambassadors Club, made up of former FCCF board members, meets twice a year to review opportunities and provide surprise funding to local organizations making a difference in the community.
This year’s spring grants centered on youth activities and learning, prompting one ambassador to describe the effort as “our summer for kids.”
Funding was awarded to local athletic leagues that provide opportunities for young people to learn teamwork, build confidence, and stay active throughout the summer. Recipients included the Akron Youth League, Caston Athletic League, Rochester Girls Softball League, and Rochester Youth Baseball League.
Additional grants supported educational and youth enrichment programs across Fulton County. Caston School Corporation received funding to build a decodable book library to support early literacy development. Riddle Elementary School received support for its Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program, while the Rochester Summer Parks Program and Fulton County Pack a Back Pack also received grants to continue serving local youth and families.
Ambassador Kirk Robinson emphasized the importance of literacy initiatives like the project at Caston.
“Strong reading skills are the foundation for a child’s future success,” Robinson said. “Supporting resources that help students build those skills early on is one of the most meaningful investments we can make in our community.”
Ambassador Laura Snipes reflected on the group’s commitment to supporting those who are shaping the next generation.
“We trust the leaders who are guiding our young people,” Snipes said. “When we support the people who are investing their time and energy into the next generation, that’s the circle of giving at work.”
Ambassador Judy Climie noted that the community foundation plays a unique role in bringing together people who care deeply about the future of Fulton County.
“The community foundation is the perfect place to connect people who are involved in our community and aware of emerging needs,” Climie said. “These grants focus on our children because they are our future. When we support the organizations and leaders helping them grow into healthy, capable adults with strong values, we are strengthening the entire community.”
Climie also encouraged others to consider giving through the foundation, noting that local philanthropy has a direct and lasting impact.
“It’s exciting to surprise these organizations with a little extra boost,” she said. “It reminds us that when people come together to give, the benefits ripple throughout our entire community.”
Nominations being accepted for 2026 John Arnold Award for Rural Preservation
New track chairs make Indiana a national leader in accessibility at state parks
Special Olympics Indiana hosting 54th annual state basketball tournament
Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force reporting progress
Thrive info session planned for March 26
BMV warns of scam, more deceptive messages
King looks to bring experience to Parke County Council
Colorado man arrested on Indiana resident for child solicitation, other charge
Zumwalt looks to carry Republican nod for Vermillion County Commissioner District 2
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs, American Legion Department of Indiana sign landmark agreement
Brazil man arrested on rape, other charges
Getting to know the Centerville Bulldogs
GE Aerospace to make millions of dollars of investment in Terre Haute, Lafayette
Phelps looks to claim Vermillion County Commissioner District 2 seat
Rodney Atkins to perform at Putnam County Fairgrounds
Smith looks to punch ticket to Rockville Town Board seat
Safe Zones enforcement to resume on I-70 in Hancock Co., begin on I-65 in Jasper Co.
IDHS focuses on raising awareness during Severe Weather Preparedness Week, March 8-14
Parke Heritage to Martinsville, North Vermillion headed to Frankfort for boys regionals
Martin looks to bring experience to Parke County Commissioner District 2 Seat
