Blue River Community Foundation

08/28/2026

Giving back to the community that shaped you can take many forms. ❤️

Theresa and Joe Harlan recently utilized the Robert Edward Elliott, Jr. Fund to Benefit the Shelbyville Fire Department, established in memory of Theresa’s brother, to support the Shelby County Swift Water Rescue Team and its need for new equipment. The team was in desparate need of a dedicated truck to safely transport boats and specialized equipment when making water rescues. The Harlans made a tax-deductible, charitable contribution to the fund and BRCF then used the gift to provide a grant to the Shelbyville Fire Department - Indiana

We’re grateful to the Harlans for continuing to honor Robert’s legacy while supporting the firefighters and first responders who are ready to serve our community whenever and wherever they are needed most.

Pictured below are Jason Mohr, SFD; Theresa Harlan, holding a picture of her brother Robert Elliott Jr.; Joe Harlan; and Brandon Routier, SFD.

08/17/2026

In the past, including after the devastating floods in Texas and North Carolina, BRCF collected donations and then directed those funds to trusted community foundations serving the affected areas. This time, we’re taking a slightly different approach.

Rather than collecting donations ourselves, we are sharing a list, provided by Indiana Philanthropy Alliance, of trusted organizations and funds assisting the affected communities. This allows you to choose where your gift goes and what need you would most like to support, whether that is immediate relief, food and shelter, recovery and rebuilding, or support for a particular community.

Our role may look a little different this time, but the spirit behind it is the same: neighbors helping neighbors, even when those neighbors are many miles away.

Learn how you can help: https://inphilanthropy.org/news/indiana-disaster-relief-how-support-affected-communities

08/17/2026

08/13/2026

For over two years, the Grover Center and the City of Shelbyville have graciously worked alongside the Blue River Community Foundation (BRCF) team to bring a large-scale public art project to the alleyway between Grover and Fire Station 1. This installation will honor the longstanding Sister City exchange between Shizuoka, Japan, and Shelbyville, Indiana.

The project was originally anticipated to be completed last spring. During construction of the sculpture’s foundations, unforeseen structural considerations required modifications to the engineering plan. Work on those adjustments continued throughout the summer to ensure the installation is completed safely and successfully.

BRCF recognizes that the extended timeline has created challenges for the Grover Center and its visitors, particularly because the alley closure affects access to the museum’s side entrance and elevator. We are grateful to the Grover Center, the City, and our community for their patience and flexibility as the necessary engineering adjustments have been addressed. What initially appeared to be a relatively straightforward modification ultimately required a more extensive process than anticipated to ensure a proper and safe installation.

We are pleased to share that construction is expected to resume within the month. We appreciate everyone’s continued patience and partnership, and we look forward to seeing this meaningful project completed and enjoyed by our community.

08/10/2026

DON’T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY!

BRCF’s Summer Scholarship Application Cycle closes September 1.

WHO CAN APPLY?

Current high school students on track to graduate by June 30, 2027.

WHY APPLY NOW?

• One application = consideration for the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship and 200+ BRCF-administered scholarships.

• No need to reapply during the winter scholarship cycle.

• Students will be considered for all scholarships they qualify for, even if they do not meet the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship requirements.

IMPORTANT: Any student interested in the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for Shelby County MUST apply during this cycle.

APPLY NOW: https://app.smarterselect.com/programs/109766

TO LEARN MORE: https://www.blueriverfoundation.com/brcf-scholarships

08/07/2026

The Southwestern Hometown Fund, held at BRCF, recently awarded nearly $8,000 in grants to projects that are expanding recreation opportunities, supporting youth programs, and strengthening community life throughout the southwestern area of Shelby County.

The Marietta Community received a $3,060.72 grant to support the Marietta Recreation Project. The project created a new gathering place featuring a half basketball court, permanent pickleball court, space for an additional pickleball court, and picnic tables, giving residents of all ages a place to stay active and connect with one another.

Mt. Auburn Church received a $3,509 grant to support the Mt. Auburn Recreation Project. The funding will help replace outdated playground equipment with new play features and a safer rubber mulch surface, creating a larger and more welcoming place for all children and families to gather and play.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Shelby County, received a $1,000 grant to purchase STEM resources, reading materials, play equipment, and other programming supplies for the Southwestern Club.

The Southwestern Athletic Boosters Club, received a $400 grant to support the school's athletic programs, helping provide resources that benefit student-athletes and strengthen extracurricular opportunities.

The Southwestern Hometown Fund makes projects like these possible by supporting initiatives that address the unique needs and opportunities of the Southwestern area. If you'd like to help invest in the future of your community, you can make a contribution to the Southwestern Hometown Fund here: https://form.jotform.com/233087756938169

08/06/2026

The Waldron Area Hometown Fund, held at Blue River Community Foundation, recently awarded grants to five projects that are strengthening the Waldron community through youth development, beautification, education, and public service.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Shelby County, received a $2,000 grant to support its Waldron Clubhouse Enhancement Project. The funding will provide supplies, equipment, and technology to enhance the Club's after-school program and create an engaging space for local youth.

The Waldron Beautification Committee received a $1,634.33 grant to support Cleanup Day supplies, flowers and flower maintenance, flag replacement, and a new road mural. These projects help keep Waldron welcoming and attractive for residents and visitors.

The Shelby County Youth Assistance Program received a $500 grant to support its Lunch Buddy Program at Waldron Elementary School. The program connects students with trained adult mentors who provide encouragement and support during the school day.

The Waldron Community Volunteer Fire Department received a $500 grant to support its Meeting Hall Remodel project. The improved space will provide a better location for training, meetings, and collaboration with neighboring departments.

Waldron High School received a $300 grant to support its Hall of Fame Awards, recognizing individuals whose accomplishments and service have made a lasting impact on the school and community.

The Waldron Area Hometown Fund makes projects like these possible by supporting initiatives that address the unique needs and opportunities of the Waldron area. If you'd like to help invest in the future of your community, you can make a contribution to the Waldron Area Hometown Fund here: https://form.jotform.com/233087547267162

08/05/2026

The Northeastern Hometown Fund, held at Blue River Community Foundation, recently awarded grants to three organizations that are strengthening the Morristown area through youth development, public safety, and welcoming community spaces.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Shelby County, received $2,500 to support its Morristown Youth Enrichment Project. The grant will provide art supplies, books, educational games, fitness equipment, LEGO® sets, and other hands-on activities to create a safe, engaging after-school environment for youth while encouraging creativity, healthy habits, and learning beyond the classroom.

The Fountaintown Volunteer Fire Department received a $1,000 grant to assist with replacing firefighter turnout gear. The department is working to replace five sets of protective gear as part of a larger equipment replacement effort, helping ensure firefighters have the equipment they need to safely serve northern Shelby County.

The Velma Wortman Morristown Branch - Shelby County Public Library received a $1,000 grant to enhance its children's area with modular soft seating designed to create a more inviting space for reading, story time, and family activities. The project complements upcoming improvements to the branch and will help make the library an even more welcoming place for young readers and their families.

The Northeastern Hometown Fund makes projects like these possible by supporting initiatives that address the unique needs and opportunities of northeastern Shelby County. If you'd like to help invest in the future of your community, you can make a contribution to the Northeastern Hometown Fund here: https://form.jotform.com/232965875874174

08/04/2026

The Northwestern Hometown Fund, held at BRCF, recently awarded grants to two organizations that are enriching life for residents in the Fairland area through history, connection, and community engagement.

The Fairland Historical Society received a $2,176 grant to support its mission. The organization helps preserve and share Fairland's rich history through educational programs, community events, online resources, and an oral history initiative. The organization also partners with local groups to host programs that strengthen community pride and connect residents with their local heritage.

Shelby Senior Services, Inc., was also awarded $586 from the Northwestern Hometown Fund to support Senior Entertainment at the Fairland Horizon Center. An additional $1,590 was provided for this program through the Senior Citizens Benefit Fund. The funding will help provide monthly live entertainment and engaging programming for older adults, creating opportunities for social connection while supporting their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. As attendance continues to grow, these programs play an important role in helping seniors stay active and connected within their community.

The Northwestern Hometown Fund makes projects like these possible by supporting initiatives that address the unique needs and opportunities of northwestern Shelby County. If you'd like to help invest in the future of your community, you can make a contribution to the Northwestern Hometown Fund here: https://form.jotform.com/232965134818160

08/03/2026

The Blue River Community Foundation enewsletter was distributed on Saturday. If you missed the publication in your inbox, here is a preview of what's inside and a quick link to read more. If you aren't already subscribed to receive this monthly newsletter, you can subscribe here: https://www.blueriverfoundation.com/resources-1 . It's always full of good news from Shelby County!

🔹Alongside local partners, BRCF continues to gather data and convene stakeholders to help make strategic investments that will have a lasting impact on our community.
🔹Shelby County's hometowns received over $20K to enhance the quality of life in their corner of the county.
🔹Julia Hamblen, a BRCF scholar (and so much more!), is giving back to her community in several ways, including serving on the BRCF scholarship committee.
🔹The Summer Scholarship Application Cycle is open! High school students on track to graduate in June of '27 must apply during this cycle in order to be eligible for the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship.
🔹Four Shelby County students completed internships with local nonprofit agencies. Applications for next year's program are now open.
🔹Thanks to strong grassroots efforts, the Marietta community now has a gathering space that includes basketball and pickeball courts.
Read more at https://mailchi.mp/blueriverfoundation.com/brcf-aug2026-news-176622678