Ben Peetz
President
“I have seen the benefits that organizations and individuals receive from the Community Foundation's efforts through grants and scholarships. The impact that an organization like the Ripley County Community Foundation has on our small communities is tremendous when it comes to providing opportunities to those in our area who might not otherwise have access to them,” states Ben.
Steve Mathes
Vice President
"I’m excited about joining the board because of the many ways it can help support Ripley County and its residents. I’ve had the opportunity to meet some of the wonderful non-profit groups supporting our area, through grants, etc. and I’ve seen the RCCF support several of those groups and the impact they can have. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to help be part of that as we continue to make Ripley County a great place to live."
Megan Walke
Treasurer
"I’m looking forward to helping give back to a community that has always been home to me. Supporting the people that make this a great place to live and work and raise a family is important to making sure it will still be a wonderful community for future generations."
Megan Gray
Secretary
"I believe it’s important to take an interest in the local community. I'm looking forward to building and establishing relationships, while helping to make decisions that will create a big impact on the citizens within the communities."
Jeff Binzen
Jeff has witnessed firsthand the positive impact of local nonprofits on the community's quality of life, as President of the Southeast Indiana Mountain Bike Association. He is enthusiastic about contributing his time and expertise to further the mission of the Ripley County Community Foundation and values the organization's dedication to supporting local nonprofits.
Jim Black
“I joined the board to offer my talents and services for the lasting betterment of Ripley County. I look forward to growing relationships and enabling the continued development of our community.”
Cindy Cottingham
"I have long recognized and respected the important work RCCF does in our area and hope to be able to use my talents and time alongside other dedicated board members to contribute meaningfully to the quality of life here in Ripley County. Through my work with the large grant committee, I was fortunate to learn about some amazing organizations already operating in our county and I look forward to better understanding both the needs and resources available to support our communities and residents."
Jacob Koehne
"I was born and raised in Ripley County. I believe it's important to do what you can to better your community. The opportunity of joining the Ripley County Community Foundation Board provides a direct way to impact my community."
Tracy Lemon
"I feel privileged to serve the Community Foundation as a new board member. The Foundation has had such a positive impact on our county; improving the quality of life of our residents in many ways, through scholarships, as well as grants for community delvelopment."
Trent Linville
"Being part of Ripley County Youth Outreach in high school taught me the importance of community involvement and how local leadership can make a real, lasting difference. That experience stayed with me. Now, I’m proud to return to the foundation that first sparked my passion for service. I look forward to continuing to support Ripley County and the grant programs that make a meaningful impact in our community."
Owen Menchhofer
“I appreciate the opportunity to serve on the board as another way to give back to the community. Ripley County has been good to our family, as we have lived in Ripley County for many generations, and it is so important to give back. With my involvement in Wreaths Across Ripley County, I truly understand how important RCCF’s mission of connecting people with causes that matter truly is in our county.”
Deb Shumate
"I always aim to use my skills and passions to contribute to building a better community. The Ripley County Community Foundation does so many wonderful things and I'm honored to be on the board and hope to make more connections and am able to make a positive impact and help more people in all Ripley County communities."
Ryan Schebler
“I joined the Community Foundation’s Board of Directors to support initiatives that strengthen local communities and create lasting impact. I aim to contribute my skills, foster collaboration, and help guide strategic decisions that empower individuals, promote equity, and build a more vibrant, sustainable future for all.”
Jill Tunny
Jill feels that serving on the RCCF Board of Directors is an honor and great opportunity to grow personally as an individual. Additionally, she is looking forward to building relationships with board members and donors and helping contribute as a board member to the continual growth of Ripley County and joining in with continuing to make Ripley County a great place to live.
Dave Westmeyer
“I have been involved with the Foundation for many years through my family's and my organization's scholarship programs, promoting our future by helping to develop our youth. I am pleased to further engage with the Foundation and take on a more active role in an organization that has made significant contributions to our community.”