Small Dollars with a Mighty Impact

When your Community Foundation of White County introduced the Leslie Grants in 2024, we knew even small dollars could make a mighty impact. Designed to honor Executive Director Emeritus Leslie Wineland Goss—whose legacy of leadership, passion, and persistence shaped the Foundation for nearly two decades—these grants were created to uplift the very heart of our community in meaningful, accessible ways.

Now in their second year, Leslie Grants have already supported a diverse range of projects that improve lives across White County. From safety upgrades to youth programming, these micro-grants are helping nonprofits do what they do best: serve.

With over $10,000 awarded so far, here’s a snapshot of how 2025 Leslie Grants are being put to work:

·        Bright Beginnings Daycare – Enhancing child safety with a new security system upgrade

·        Remington Wolcott Community Development – Empowering kids through Farmers Market youth programming

·        First Baptist Church – Supporting families with a Community Back to School Event

·        Mental Health America – Raising awareness through Mental Health Proclamation support

·        Purdue Extension – Strengthening early childhood support with a childcare team in White County

·        White County Historical Society – Preserving heritage through Barn Legacies documentation

·        Anson Wolcott Historical Society – Improving community space with updated carpet

·        Literacy Volunteers of White County – Boosting learning with a new computer and software

These projects might seem small in size, but their collective impact is undeniable. They reflect the creativity, care, and commitment of local nonprofits—and the trust placed in them by unrestricted donors who believe in the power of community.

Funding is still available for the 2025 grant cycle, which remains open until November 1—or until funds are fully awarded. Nonprofits with projects under $1,000 are encouraged to apply. Leslie Grants are intentionally simple, flexible, and timely—perfect for filling in the gaps or launching new ideas.

Leslie Grants are made possible by unrestricted gifts to the Foundation. These “use where they’re most needed” gifts give the Foundation the flexibility to respond to emerging needs and opportunities year-round. Thanks to the generosity of hundreds of donors and more than 45 unique unrestricted endowments, this funding—along with other community grantmaking efforts—is made possible.

As Leslie herself might say, sometimes the smallest things have the greatest power to create change.

To learn more or to apply for a Leslie Grant, visit www.cfwhitecounty.org or contact Director Lucy Dold at (574) 583-6911.