The CIRCLe Fund (Chicks Impacting Rush County Life) is a field of interest endowment fund administered by the Rush County Community Foundation (RCCF) in Indiana. Established by six women to consolidate giving efforts and amplify impact, the fund empowers female donors to collaboratively support charitable projects that foster meaningful change within Rush County. Through pooled contributions of $300 annually, CIRCLe members help fund competitive grants for local nonprofit initiatives that address community needs—especially those affecting women and children.
The CIRCLe Fund awards one major grant annually. The most recent grant in 2025 totaled $13,000 and supported the transformation of a room in the Rush County Recreation Center into the "Love to Play Haven"—an inclusive, sensory-friendly space for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers. The grant funded a sensory wall to encourage healthy development and interaction. The space will be shared by various community stakeholders including social workers, daycare providers, and the general public. This project reflects the fund’s mission of creating nurturing, inclusive spaces that foster developmental and social wellbeing.
Eligible applicants must be charitable or nonprofit organizations providing services within Rush County, with a preference for those supporting women and/or children. Funding is limited to projects that benefit local residents, and applicants must demonstrate how their initiative addresses a tangible community need. While specific exclusions were not stated, religious or political organizations are commonly excluded unless providing broad community benefit.
Applications must be submitted online only through the RCCF grant portal. The CIRCLe Fund’s application opens approximately one month before the deadline and is due annually on March 15. All applicants must adhere strictly to the online submission requirements; no paper or emailed applications are accepted. Information regarding evaluation criteria and required materials is not detailed but would be available via the RCCF's application portal.
The CIRCLe Fund operates on an annual cycle. Membership contributions are due by December 31 for the upcoming year's grant selection. Award decisions are made in spring, with the grant announcement occurring in early May. For more information or to inquire about applications or membership, prospective applicants can contact the Rush County Community Foundation at info@rushcountyfoundation.org or (765) 938-1177.
Projects aligned with community development and inclusivity, especially for women and children, are prioritized.
