About

A Community Foundation is a vital element in creating and maintaining vibrant communities.

Governed by a Board of Directors who live, work, or have roots in Ripley County allows our work to be tailored to local needs and responsive to local opportunities. By supporting the Ripley County Community Foundation, your charitable dollars will benefit your community and your neighbors. The community foundation gives a voice to local donors and connects them with local causes. This allows donors to see the meaningful impact of their donation. As an organization, we strive to keep community in the Ripley County Community Foundation.

The Ripley County Community Foundation was established in 1997 with $19,000 by a group of local citizens who had the vision to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Founding Board Members include:

Front Row (Left to Right): BJ Cox, Vicki Kellerman, Cathy May, and JoDell Koelling / Steuver
Back Row (Left to Right): Daren Baker, Carter Everage, Mark Comer, Steve Gookins, and George Brinkmoeller.
Board Members not pictured: Cindy McKittrick, Clyde Allen, John Kellerman II, Gene Cofield, Bill Foster, Jim Wade, Bob Miles, Denny Harmeyer, & George Stegner

For two decades the Ripley County Community Foundation has granted over $15 million back into the local community while building an enduring source of charitable assets for the future. We serve our donors and communities by putting into practice our mission of, “Connecting People Who Care with Causes that Matter.” We continue to be governed by a volunteer Board of Directors who ensures that we are good stewards of your donations.

Vision

The Ripley County Community Foundation envisions a thriving county where generosity fuels opportunity and enriches the quality of life for generations to come.

Mission

We serve Ripley County by growing and sustaining a culture of giving and investing resources to meet community needs.

Values

Gratitude – We value and appreciate the many gifts shared by our volunteers, donors, and advocates.

Integrity – We respect donor wishes and hold ourselves accountable to uphold a legacy of giving.

Inclusion – We serve and support all people and places in Ripley County.

Sustainability – We effectively steward and invest resources to address community needs for today and forever.

Collaboration – We pride ourselves on being a trusted resource and partner to organizations and people who care about our community.

The Ripley County Community Foundation achieves the values in many ways, which are outlined in it’s policies and procedures. We value transparency and therefore all of our policies, audited financial statements, and 990 form are available upon request.