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As we close the chapter on 2025 for the Fayette Community Foundation, I find myself reflecting on a year defined by collaboration, generosity, and a shared belief in the future of our community. 

This year reminded us that meaningful change doesn’t happen all at once—it happens step by step, project by project, neighbor by neighbor. Together, our community has taken some remarkable steps forward.

A Year of Significant Progress

One of the biggest milestones of 2025 was our work through Lilly Endowment GIFT VIII. Not only did Fayette County complete our matching goal ahead of schedule, but community participation exceeded expectations. This is a powerful signal that residents believe in building a stronger tomorrow. Over the past two years, the Foundation has brought a whopping $5.9 million in GIFT VIII grants to our county. These dollars have helped us:

• Develop a comprehensive master plan for the Connersville Parks and Recreation Department, positioning us to secure a transformative $5 million implementation grant.
• Strengthen our unrestricted endowment funds, which give us the flexibility to respond to community needs with agility and purpose.

This work is now moving into its next phase as we begin planning and public surveying for several exciting projects: the inclusive playground and loop trail at Roberts Park and five additional trail segments that will contribute to a more connected, accessible community. This is a win for everyone in our community.

Another bright spot this year has been the growth of funds held at the Foundation. Ten new funds were established in 2025, each created by families, businesses, and residents who believe in leaving a legacy that lasts. These funds will support community needs for generations to come. This is a wonderful sign that folks believe in investing in the future of Fayette County.

We also saw tangible community impact from our grantmaking. So far in 2025, the Foundation has awarded $311,793.90 in grants and $106,932.76 in scholarships, helping local nonprofits expand their reach and supporting students as they pursue their dreams.

Of course, the concept of “connection” has remained at the heart of everything we do. From hosting five Nonprofit Meet-Ups, to celebrating our fifth annual Candy Canes & Cocoa event, to launching our first-ever Swing for Impact Golf Outing, our events this year brought people together in meaningful ways and strengthened relationships with donors, volunteers, and partners.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we step into a new year, my hopes for 2026 center around deepening collaboration and strengthening the foundations we are building together.

I would love to see:

• More collaborative projects between nonprofits, local government, and grassroots community groups—because the biggest challenges require shared solutions.
• Continued growth in endowment-building, which increases our ability to say “yes” to innovative ideas and urgent needs both today and decades from now.
• Expanding community awareness of the Foundation’s role and impact so more residents feel empowered to get involved, give back, or pursue funding for meaningful work.

2026 holds tremendous promise for us and I am energized by the possibilities ahead – aren’t you?

Gratitude for Those Who Made This Year Possible

No year like this happens alone. I am deeply grateful for:

• Our Foundation staff: including Nyah, who celebrated her first year with FCF; Sheila, who celebrated her second; and the opportunity to complete my own four and a half years of service to this community.
• Our Board and Committee Members, whose insight and dedication guided us through a year of growth and ambitious projects.
• Our donors, from families establishing funds to those who give each month through our automated giving program. Every act of generosity matters, and every donor is part of forging a better Fayette County.
• Our community partners—local businesses, municipal leaders, schools, and nonprofits—who worked alongside us to turn ideas into action.

A Final Thought as We Enter 2026

Fayette County is a place full of grit, heart, and possibility. This year proved what can happen when we invest not just dollars, but time, trust, and belief in one another. My hope for 2026 is simple: that we continue moving forward together, building a community where everyone feels they belong and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

From all of us at the Fayette Community Foundation, thank you for your support, your partnership, and your commitment to our shared future. I wish you a joyful holiday season and a bright, hopeful start to the new year.

– Abigail Roszell, FCF Executive Director