Rush County Project Spotlight 2026 Nominations
Changing Footprints
Changing Footprints is a nonprofit that provides free shoes to individuals and families in Rush County, including children, adults, and work footwear. Through partnerships with local schools, the organization also helps supply shoes for students and sports programs, ensuring basic needs are met for the community.
First5 Early Learning Coalition
First5 Early Learning Coalition supports children from birth to age five and their caregivers through early learning resources, family support, and education programs. The organization also operates a diaper pantry and partners with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to provide free books and promote early literacy.
Imaginenation
Imaginenation is a community-based arts initiative in Rushville dedicated to bringing people together through creativity, expression, and shared artistic experiences. The organization focuses on building community connection by providing opportunities for residents of all ages to engage in the arts, including creative programming, events, and collaborative projects. By fostering participation in visual and performing arts, Imaginenation helps strengthen community identity, encourage creative expression, and create inclusive spaces where individuals can connect and grow through art.
M.o.R.E For Kids
M.O.R.E For Kids is a community organization that supports youth and families through mentoring, education, and resources. The organization helps empower young people by providing guidance and opportunities that support growth and success.
RCHS BAND BOOSTER DISNEY TRIP
The RCHS Band Booster Disney Trip supports the RCHS Roarin’ Regiment band’s opportunity, held every four years, to travel to Disney World for a once-in-a-lifetime educational and performance experience. During the trip, students participate in workshops with Disney animators, including collaborative sessions focused on creating and performing sound for skits. The band also has the honor of marching in a Disney parade, showcasing their talent on a world-renowned stage.
For many students, this trip represents their only opportunity to visit Disney World, making it a truly memorable and impactful experience. This Project Spotlight nomination seeks support to help offset the cost of the trip so more students can participate and benefit from this unique educational and life-changing opportunity.
Rushville American Legion Post 150
Rushville American Legion Post 150 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving local veterans, their families, and the Rush County community through a wide range of support and service efforts. They host benefits for veterans and families facing cancer, provide access to an on-site Veterans Service Officer, and coordinate the Honor Guard in providing military honors for veterans at funerals and community ceremonies. The organization actively participates in community remembrance events, including placing crosses on the courthouse lawn for Memorial Day, supporting Veterans Day ceremonies, and volunteering at local events when needed. Through the American Legion Riders’ fundraising rides, flag retirement ceremonies, and the distribution of flags at cost to the community, Post 150 continues to honor service, preserve tradition, and strengthen community support for veterans.
Rushville Animal Shelter
Rushville Animal Shelter is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the care, protection, and adoption of animals in the Rushville community. They go above and beyond in their adoption process to ensure animals are placed in safe, loving homes, while also providing important community support through their summer vaccination and microchip clinic. This clinic is especially helpful for seniors and individuals living on fixed incomes by offering affordable access to essential pet care services, helping keep pets healthy, safe, and with their families.
Rushville Breakfast Optimist Club
Rushville Breakfast Optimist Club is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to bringing out the best in youth, the community, and themselves through positive service projects and programs. They primarily support local children by organizing activities such as sports leagues, scholarships, and school enrichment opportunities, while also promoting civic engagement and community support. In Rushville, the club is best known for hosting the Annual Student Art Show, the Fall Youth Recreational Soccer League, the 4th of July Car Show, and the Turkey Chase, a free outdoor obstacle course event that brings families together each year.