Wortman family establishes fund for local nonprofits

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2065

GREENFIELD — A new fund established by Bob Wortman will assist nonprofit agencies in Hancock and Shelby Counties.

The Wortman Family Foundation of Hancock and Shelby Counties is an endowed component fund of the Blue River Community Foundation, Inc. (BRCF).

The Wortman family has long been philanthropic supporters of both Hancock and Shelby counties, funding numerous nonprofit agencies as well as the development of two major medical facilities in the area: the Sue Ann Wortman Cancer Center at Hancock Regional Hospital and the Sue Ann Wortman Nephrology Center at Major Hospital.

“I want to ensure that I can support the communities that helped to support Sue and our family for so many years – in perpetuity,” Wortman said in a press release.

The foundation’s inaugural grant cycle will open in January of 2022. Funding will address community needs with preference given to education and health. Activities that better the two counties through community enhancement projects in the areas of art, recreation, and beautification will be considered.

Requests benefitting the Morristown community are a priority.

Grant proposals may range between $2,500 and $25,000.

A grant review committee has been established at BRCF that will include representation from Shelby and Hancock counties, including Mary Gibble, president and CEO of the Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF).

“Bob and his family are dear friends to me and to all of Hancock County,” Gibble said in a press release. “I am grateful for his forethought in creating a legacy that will impact the well-being of both counties forever. HCCF is honored to serve the Wortman Family as an advisor in this philanthropic work.”

BRCF Executive Director Jennifer Jones added, “Mr. Wortman and his family continue to be a blessing to our communities. Bob’s generosity and foresight will guarantee that our nonprofit agencies have a forever source of support to continue their missions of bettering the communities in which they serve.”

Grant interest forms are being accepted now, and the submission deadline is Jan. 28. The form can be accessed at www.blueriverfoundation.com/wortman-family-foundation.

Grant applications must be submitted by Feb. 28. Wortman and his board of advisors will evaluate requests and announce grantees in late March or early April.

For questions, contact BRCF Grants and Nonprofit Relations Director Jordan England at [email protected].