The Hendricks County Community Foundation (HCCF) is proud to announce a continued partnership with The Republican Newspaper to ensure all county residents remain informed and engaged in the democratic process. Through a $90,000 Community Support grant, HCCF will support the production and distribution of voter guides to every household in Hendricks County over the next three years.
This proactive, non-competitive grant is one of six Community Support Grants funded through Lilly Endowment’s GIFT IX. This funding, distributed to The Republican in equal yearly installments beginning in February 2026, aims to provide county-wide access to clear, unbiased information about local candidates, reinforcing HCCF’s long-term commitment to community unity and civic engagement.
“This grant is about more than just paper and ink; it provides the tools for Hendricks County residents to make informed decisions that reflect their values and hopes for the future,” said William Rhodehamel, President and CEO of the Hendricks County Community Foundation. “Ultimately, philanthropy alone cannot solve every community issue; sustainable progress requires an active electorate that votes for candidates who build a stronger community.”
This three-year funding agreement between HCCF and The Republican ensures that reliable, local election information remains a consistent resource for all Hendricks County residents. By covering the primary and general elections through 2028, this partnership provides a foundation for civic engagement over the next several years.
“We are honored to partner with the Community Foundation on this project,” said Jerry Vornholt, Owner and Publisher of The Republican. “Our mission has always been to keep the citizens of Hendricks County informed. This grant allows us to expand that reach significantly, making sure that every resident, regardless of their location or subscription status, has access to the information they need to make an informed decision when voting in our local elections.”
You can learn more and give to support HCCF’s unrestricted grantmaking on their website at www.hendrickscountycf.org.
