September 2025: White River improvements, Celebrating 20 years of Fellows, Habitat homeownership story, and more
Celebrating 20 Years of the Fellows Program
Last week, Ball Brothers Foundation marked two decades of its Fellows Program, bringing together nearly half of our alumni for a celebratory dinner.
Since 2005, the program has provided nonprofit leaders in East Central Indiana with opportunities to exchange ideas and strengthen dialogue between the foundation and grantees.
During the dinner, retired Program Officer Neil Schmottlach was recognized for his long-time facilitation of the BBF Fellows Program. Neil has continued to lead the Fellows' meetings since his retirement in 2014. This year marks Neil's final year leading the program.
New Projects Expanding Access to the White River
This month, we’re excited to share news about several new projects that will make it easier—and safer—to enjoy the White River. A new canoe/kayak launch will soon be installed on Muncie’s eastside, and emergency mile marker signs featuring new White River branding are being installed between Yorktown and Daleville to support emergency first responders.
These grants are part of a larger effort to make Muncie’s rivers and reservoirs places where even more people can paddle, pedal, and play. Ball Brothers Foundation is proud to support these projects through our Project Blueways funding initiative.
Grantee Spotlight: How Habitat is Helping Build a Path to Homeownership
When Brandie became a Greater Muncie Habitat for Humanity homeowner in 2021, her story didn’t end with a set of house keys.
Over the years through volunteering and leadership, she has become a voice for her neighborhood. Her journey reflects the ripple effect of stable housing that Habitat has created for more than 300 families across Muncie since the organization was founded.
Ball Brothers Foundation has proudly partnered with Habitat for decades, investing over $3 million in its mission to expand homeownership and strengthen neighborhoods.
What We've Been Up To
The past month took us from the classroom to statewide summits and community celebrations. Here are a few highlights:
We headed up to Fort Wayne for our annual visit to the Foellinger Foundation with our 2025 Fellows who had the opportunity to see how another foundation operates.
Program Officer Dan Wolfert attended the Annual Indiana Water Summit, hosted by BBF grantee White River Alliance, where national and local leaders discussed strategies for water stewardship.
The team visited Wes-Del Middle/High School for the Project Lead the Way/STEM Showcase, exploring student projects and seeing how this small, rural district is leading in preparing students for careers in engineering, computer science and more. BBF funding recently helped to support their work.
The foundation celebrated Dr. Jeff Bird, BBF board member and 2025 Greater Muncie Chamber of Commerce Legacy Award winner, honoring his leadership in healthcare and his impact on Muncie.