August 2025: Village updates from BSU President, New Annual Report, Capital projects making progress, and more
BSU President Shares Timeline and Updates on Village Revitalization
For decades, The Village has been a gathering place just off Ball State’s campus. Now, a bold revitalization effort is underway—rooted in arts, culture, and innovation. Ball Brothers Foundation was proud to invest $2.5 million toward the new performing arts center that will anchor the district and serve as a cultural and economic driver for the region.
Learn more from Ball State University President Geoff Mearns about the vision, timeline, and impact of this exciting project.
Site plan for The Village Revitalization Project near Ball State University. Three major facilities expected to be completed in late Summer 2026.
ICYMI: 2024 Annual Report
Our 2024 Annual Report highlights efforts across East Central Indiana-and beyond-to protect rivers and trails and inspire a love of the outdoors.
Read about efforts focused on expanding land conservation, restoring the White River’s delicate ecosystem, and building new facilities at Camp Crosley, a century-old YMCA of Muncie camp.
Capital Projects Making Progress
Muncie is buzzing with new construction this summer. The BBF team recently stopped by several project sites that are shaping the city’s neighborhoods and creative spaces including new classrooms, makerspaces, and trailheads.
Learn more about local capital projects that are transforming Muncie and what they mean for residents and visitors.
Community Officials Breakfast
In August, Ball Brothers Foundation welcomed local community officials to Minnetrista Museum & Gardens for coffee and conversation.
We shared updates on projects we’re proud to support and heard insights from our friends at Indiana Philanthropy Alliance about funding changes at state and federal levels.
Together, we discussed shared priorities for Muncie and Delaware County—ranging from strengthening public education and sustaining affordable childcare to building trail connections and protecting land. Other areas of focus included neighborhood redevelopment, public safety, public art, and cybersecurity.
Insights from Our Community
Thank you to everyone who shared feedback in our recent communications survey! Here's what we learned from your input:
Continue highlighting grantee work
Showcase collaborations like Project Blueways and Optimus Primary
Share how we respond to urgent community needs
Keep monthly updates coming
On the Move
Over the past month, our team has been out in the community, connecting, learning, and celebrating the people and projects that make ECI great. Here are a few highlights:
Dan Wolfert joined the White River Alliance at Conner Prairie for the Watershed Health Toolkit Launch, featuring updates on efforts supported by BBF and other funders from across the state.
Susan Brumley attended the IAAP Summit 2025, a professional development event for administrative professionals.
The foundation celebrated the 20th anniversary of Forge Your Path ECI where CEO Jud Fisher introduced a Fireside Chat with the organization's board chair and Indiana Governor Mike Braun.
BBF staff visited Second Harvest Food Bank to see progress on cooler and sprinkler system upgrades and got a first look at the new mobile market, helping bring fresh food to families across the region.