LOOGOOTEE — The Martin County Community Foundation (MCCF) concluded 2025 with a significant surge in local investment, awarding nearly $200,000 in grants during the final two quarters of the year.
Director Curt Johnson reported that the foundation distributed $100,000 in the third quarter followed by $92,000 in the fourth quarter. These funds have reached various corners of the county, supporting infrastructure, education, and social services.
Several key local initiatives received substantial backing during this period:
- Senior Services: Funding was awarded to the Martin County Council on Aging to improve facilities in Shoals.
- Education & Athletics: The Loogootee School Corporation received support for multiple projects, including significant upgrades to the girls’ softball field.
- Community Support: Additional grants were funneled to local parks, historical organizations, and various area nonprofits.
Johnson also highlighted new incentives for those looking to increase the impact of their charitable giving:
- Designated & Scholarship Funds: A one-to-one match is available for these funds, up to $5,000 per fund.
- Unrestricted Funds: An ongoing two-to-one match remains in place, allowing donors to triple their impact on the county’s greatest needs.
Leadership Transition on the Horizon
The announcement of these grants comes as the foundation prepares for a major leadership change. After nearly 11 years of service, Curt Johnson has announced his plans to retire in the coming months. The foundation board has officially begun the search for his successor to lead the organization into its next chapter.
The MCCF maintains four grant cycles annually. Nonprofits looking for support should note the April 30th deadline. Interested organizations can apply online via the foundation’s official website.
For more details on these community impacts, the full interview with Curt Johnson and Greg Bateman is available on Razor945.com under the “Gettin’ in the Know” section.
