Wabash College is set to transform its ties with the Crawfordsville community and bolster support for local nonprofit agencies following a groundbreaking $25 million grant from Indiana’s Lilly Endowment Inc. under the College and Community Collaboration initiative.
This substantial five-year grant, the largest in the College’s history, aims to bridge gaps between Wabash and the community. The initiative, fueled by a meticulous demographic study conducted in partnership with Prolific LLC, targets key areas such as nonprofit development, Latino community engagement, and early childhood education in Montgomery County.
Wabash President Scott E. Feller expressed gratitude, emphasizing the College’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Montgomery County. The grant will facilitate greater access to Wabash’s resources for local nonprofits, strengthen connections with the Latino community, and fund initiatives like early childhood education.
The multifaceted approach includes plans for a new campus and community engagement center, generously supported by Lilly Endowment. This 38,000-square-foot facility will house a dining hall, community event space, meeting rooms, and a pub-style restaurant, addressing the needs expressed by local nonprofits for flexible event spaces.
Director of Foundations, Corporations, and Government Relations at Wabash, highlighted the center’s role in providing vital support to nonprofits. The collaboration with the Montgomery County Community Foundation (MCCF) will further nurture nonprofit development, fundraising, and event infrastructure.
Beyond infrastructure, the initiative aims to engage the community through a reimagined MCCF Nonprofit Learning Series, offering Wabash’s expertise to encourage collaboration and growth. A focus on the Latino community involves the creation of a Latino Community Center, English Language Learning programs, and support for immigrant families navigating the path to higher education.
Funding will also contribute to the Montgomery County Early Learning Center, addressing a crucial need in the community. The College plans to begin immediate implementation of its bold plans, including the renovation of the Latino Community Center building and improvements to campus infrastructure. Groundbreaking for the new campus and community engagement center is anticipated in June.
This transformative initiative positions Wabash as one of six Indiana higher education institutions receiving implementation grants through Lilly Endowment’s competitive initiative. The College’s proactive approach reflects a commitment to community collaboration, setting a precedent for future grants under the Lilly Endowment’s initiative in 2024.
Source: journalreview