Quality of Life of Residents in Orleans and Paoli

The Orange County Community Foundation, Inc. has announced that the Sol Strauss and Simmons Tegarden Grants are now open for applications as of July 7, 2025. These grant opportunities are designed to support charitable programs in the towns of Orleans and Paoli, Indiana. The Foundation is a locally-rooted philanthropic organization that administers endowments and community investments to strengthen the social, cultural, educational, and economic fabric of Orange County. With its mission of "For Good, Forever, For Orange County," the Foundation operates by awarding grants through strategic funding sources and legacy donor contributions. The Simmons Tegarden Grant, which serves the town of Orleans, is supported through the Don Simmons Unrestricted Fund and the Tegarden Unrestricted Fund. These funds provide flexible financial support for a range of charitable purposes that benefit the Orleans community. Funding categories eligible for support include arts and culture, civic and historical affairs, community development, education, recreation, health and human services, and youth services. Projects that demonstrate a capacity to reach broad audiences or address pressing community needs will be prioritized during the evaluation process. Similarly, the Sol Strauss Grant serves the town of Paoli and is administered through the Sol Strauss Supporting Organization. This fund was established to carry forward the legacy of Sol Strauss, a former Paoli merchant who dedicated his estate to the betterment of the community. The primary focus of the Strauss Grant is on initiatives that benefit children, though other charitable purposes that serve the broader Paoli population may also be considered. Applicants for either grant must be tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, governmental entities, or other entities operating with charitable status. For-profit organizations may apply if the proposed project aligns with charitable purposes and receives board approval. The Foundation strongly encourages for-profit applicants to partner with a nonprofit organization to ensure eligibility and compliance with charitable funding requirements. To apply, eligible organizations must submit an application through the Foundation's online platform, accessible at www.occf-in.org or via its social media channels. Proposals must include a description of the project or program, the funding amount requested, contact information for the organization, and an explanation of the anticipated impact of the project. Supporting documents required include proof of charitable or tax-supported status and a copy of the organization’s current annual budget. Applications for both grants opened on July 7, 2025, and must be submitted by noon (12:00 PM) on July 31, 2025. For additional information or questions about the application process, applicants may contact Destany Pingle, Program Manager at the Orange County Community Foundation, Inc., via email at dpingle@orangecountycommunityfoundation.org or by phone at 812-723-4150.

Partner with a nonprofit if applying as a for-profit.