March 2026 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently sat down with Matt Starr to talk through some of the biggest updates impacting the city—from storm recovery to future planning.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Storm Cleanup Still Ongoing

Following the March 13th windstorm, Mayor Starr shared that 41 trees fell across Mount Vernon, leaving behind a significant cleanup effort. Crews are already hard at work, but with the amount of debris, it could take a couple more weeks to fully clear the city.

Because of the scale of the damage, the city plans to make one full pass through neighborhoods rather than multiple pickups. Starr encouraged residents to lend a hand where possible—especially by taking debris to the Knox County Compost Site—as crews continue balancing storm cleanup with their regular duties. He noted this storm ranks among the most impactful since the 2012 derecho.

Curtis Building Condemned

The conversation also turned to damage at the historic Curtis Building. High winds caused part of the façade to separate, raising serious safety concerns.

After inspection, the city’s appeals board unanimously voted to condemn the buildings just north of City Hall, with demolition expected within 90 days. While Starr acknowledged the emotional weight tied to the Curtis family’s legacy, he emphasized that public safety must come first. The city plans to explore ways to honor that history in the future.

Strong Financial Outlook

On a more positive note, Starr highlighted strong financial performance during his State of the City address. In 2025, Mount Vernon saw record tax revenue exceeding $22 million, driven by payroll withholdings, business taxes, and commuter contributions.

Additional growth came from lodging taxes—boosted by new hotel activity—as well as grants, permits, and utility revenues. Combined with more than $17 million in private housing investment, Starr says the city is in a solid position for continued growth.

Progress Across the City

Starr also pointed to several key accomplishments. The Public Works Department responded to 31 winter weather events, keeping roads clear despite heavy demands. Meanwhile, community amenities continue to grow, including the popular Captain Hunter Splash Pad and ongoing improvements on the city’s west side.

Looking ahead, the city is pursuing funding for projects like Arch Avenue Park and upgrades to Memorial Park. Safety services are also advancing, with increased training and more certified operators across departments.

Connecting with the Community

Mayor Starr is taking his message directly to residents, scheduling presentations with businesses, churches, and community groups. He says these face-to-face conversations are key—especially as discussions continue around downtown development and the South Sandusky corridor.

New City Role Focused on Growth

The city is also hiring a Community Development and Public Information Officer. Starr described the role as more than communications—it’s about building partnerships, strengthening community engagement, and identifying new revenue opportunities through sponsorships and fundraising.

City Council Updates

Recent action from City Council includes approving sidewalk improvements on Martinsburg Road through the Safe Routes to School program. A $500,000 grant will also support a study of a dangerous intersection on North Sandusky Street.

In addition, council approved borrowing up to $29 million for a new police station, with current estimates closer to $26 million. Planning is moving forward as the city continues addressing infrastructure and safety needs.

Focus on Safety and Training

The Safety Services Department remains focused on training, particularly in de-escalation techniques—helping reduce use-of-force incidents. The department has earned recognition from the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, including praise for scenario-based training led by Officer Rex Young.

Training also extends to specialized situations, like grain bin rescues, ensuring teams are prepared for a wide range of emergencies.

Looking Ahead to Spring Events

As the city moves into spring, several events are on the horizon. A tire recycling event will take place at Ariel Foundation Park, along with the Washington Forum on March 31, featuring speakers from multiple levels of government.

Families can also look forward to the Joy and Jerry Klinger Easter Egg Hunt at Hiawatha Park, along with increased activity across local parks. Starr also reminded drivers to stay alert for cyclists as warmer weather returns.

A Final Thought

When asked how the community can support city leadership, Starr emphasized the need for wisdom and good stewardship. As Mount Vernon continues to grow and address challenges, he reflected on the importance of making thoughtful decisions that will benefit future generations.

Click HERE to keep up with the City of Mount Vernon!

Big Stories, Bigger Heart: MVNU’s ‘Big Fish’ Makes a Splash This Spring

MVNU Theatre Brings “Big Fish” to Life: Cast Shares Stories Behind the Magic

Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s spring musical Big Fish is set to take the stage March 26–29 at the R.R. Hodges Chapel Auditorium, promising an unforgettable journey filled with imagination, humor, and heart. As the cast prepares for opening night, several student performers shared their experiences bringing this larger-than-life story to reality.

Click HERE to hear ALL the interviews!

Zane Menzie: Bringing Stories to Life On and Off Stage

Senior Zane Menzie, from Marion, Ohio, plays Young Edward while also serving as the show’s director—balancing two major roles in the production. With a lifelong connection to theatre through his grandmother, a former executive director at a local theatre, Menzie has been immersed in the arts from a young age.

“Edward is the personification of these wild, hyperbolic stories,” Menzie explained. “He’s constantly creating these larger-than-life tales—he’s kind of crazy, but that’s what makes him so fun.”

As director, Menzie has spent months organizing rehearsals, giving notes, and shaping the overall vision of the show. Despite the workload, his favorite moments have come from late nights spent rehearsing with friends.

His favorite song, “Time Stops,” highlights a pivotal moment when Edward realizes he has found the woman he will marry. Menzie encourages students to get involved in theatre without hesitation: “Just give it a shot, do your best, and have fun.”

Tyler Maddux: Exploring Logic and Emotion Through Will

Senior worship arts major Tyler Maddux, from New Philadelphia, Ohio, portrays Will, Edward’s son. With roots in theatre dating back to his childhood in Arkansas—where his family managed a dinner theatre—Maddux brings both personal and professional passion to the stage.

“Will is very logical, and I had to learn how to portray that mindset,” he said. “But what I love most is how much he grows throughout the story.”

Maddux’s favorite song, “Stranger,” captures a turning point for his character as he processes becoming a father himself. Having performed in 18 productions, he hopes to continue theatre in the future, even as he steps into a new role as a worship pastor in Beavercreek, Ohio.

He emphasizes that theatre isn’t just for performers: “There are so many ways to get involved—crew, tech, set building. Just do it.”

Josiah Holloway: A Milestone Performance as Edward

For senior nursing major Josiah Holloway, Big Fish marks his 40th production—a milestone in a journey that began in fifth grade.

Holloway plays Old Edward, portraying both the 30- and 55-year-old versions of the character. “Edward is a father trying to show his son that there’s more to life,” he said. “In a lot of ways, he reminds me of my own dad.”

His favorite number, “How It Ends,” closes the show with emotional depth. Halloway hopes it resonates with audiences as strongly as it does with him.

Reflecting on his theatre experience, he highlights the friendships and humor shared backstage, including playful competitions among cast members. His advice: “Even if you’re busy, it’s worth making time for theatre.”

Kate Carter: Stepping Into Two Versions of Jenny Hill

Sophomore worship arts major Kate Carter, from Pickerington, Ohio, plays Jenny Hill—both as a young girl and later in life.

“I love getting to show both sides of her character,” Carter said. “It’s a fun challenge, especially with costume changes that make me look completely different.”

Her favorite song, “Be the Hero,” features energetic choreography she especially enjoys performing. Carter values the unique experiences theatre offers, from acting to set-building, and encourages others to experience it for themselves.

Grace Maddux: A Story of Family On and Off Stage

Junior social work major Grace Maddux plays Sandra, Edward’s wife and a central figure in the story’s emotional core. Inspired by her parents’ love of theatre, she has embraced the role’s warmth and maternal qualities.

“Sandra is very nurturing, and that feels natural to me,” she said, noting she has also worked to perfect a Southern accent for the role.

Her favorite song, “I Don’t Need a Roof,” reflects the show’s themes of love and devotion. This production is especially meaningful, as it marks her final show performing alongside her brother, Tyler.

“This show is about family, fatherhood, and redemption,” she said. “It’s a beautiful story that people should come experience.”

Don’t Miss the Show

Big Fish will be performed March 26–29 at 7 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 3 p.m., in Thorne Hall at R.R. Hodges Chapel & Auditorium.

After months of preparation, the cast is eager to share a story filled with adventure, laughter, and heartfelt moments. As Menzie put it, “We’ve spent so long bringing this story to life—it’s something really special.”

Click HERE for ticket information!

From Local Voices to New Adventures: Knox County CVB Invites You to Explore and Celebrate

There’s something special happening in Knox County right now, and it centers around the stories that shape the community. Recently, Eric Brown from WNZR spoke with Olivia Toth from the Knox County Convention and Visitors Bureau about a project designed to preserve those stories for generations to come.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

The Visitors Bureau, working alongside the local library, is creating an audio time capsule and inviting residents to contribute their own experiences and memories. It’s an opportunity for people across Knox County to share moments that reflect how the area has grown and changed over time. The plan is to collect these stories throughout the year and eventually turn them into a book or presentation that will be archived in the library. It’s a simple idea with a lasting impact—giving future generations a chance to hear directly from the people who lived it.

Some of the stories already collected highlight just how meaningful this effort can be. They touch on changes within the community, memories connected to national conflicts, and local achievements that have helped shape Knox County’s identity. Together, they paint a picture of a community that continues to evolve while staying rooted in its history.

This focus on storytelling comes at a meaningful time, as Knox County prepares to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Throughout the year, there will be parades, picnics, and a variety of events designed to bring people together. The state of Ohio is also introducing themed celebrations, connecting local communities to the broader national milestone. One event already drawing attention is a showing of Bye Bye Birdy at Ariel-Foundation Park on July 26 as part of the “Ohio Goes to the Movies” initiative, offering a fun way for families and friends to gather and celebrate.

At the same time, the Visitors Bureau is helping people experience Knox County in new ways. This year’s county guide, titled the “New Adventures Guide,” takes a fresh approach by removing advertisements and focusing entirely on content. Instead of ads, readers will find stories, interviews, and features that highlight the people and places that make the county unique. The goal is to not only inform but also inspire both residents and visitors to explore more deeply.

Even those who have lived in Knox County for years may be surprised by what they haven’t discovered yet. There’s a strong emphasis on showcasing lesser-known attractions—the kinds of places that might not always get the spotlight but are well worth a visit. To make exploring easier, digital trail passes have been introduced, offering curated experiences across the area. One of the newest additions is the Knox County Coffee Trail, which features seven different stops and gives people a fun, interactive way to explore local coffee spots.

All of these efforts—from collecting personal stories to creating new ways to explore—are about strengthening the connection people have to Knox County. Whether it’s sharing a memory, attending a community event, or discovering a hidden gem, there are more ways than ever to be part of what makes this area special.

Click HERE to learn more about the Knox County CVB!

WNZR’s Meet the Staff Monday with Josiah Styer

If you’ve tuned into WNZR lately, you may have heard a new voice bringing energy, authenticity, and a love for radio to the airwaves. Meet Josiah Styer, a freshman from Wooster, Ohio, who is quickly becoming a vibrant part of the MVNU campus community and the WNZR radio team.

Click HERE to hear the full interview!

Josiah chose Mount Vernon Nazarene University because of how strongly the communication, radio, and ministry departments stood out to him. As a Communications and Media major, he was looking for a place where he could grow creatively and spiritually—and MVNU checked all the boxes. Now, as an on-air DJ at WNZR, he’s getting the chance to live out that passion in real time.

His love for radio actually started long before college. Growing up, Josiah spent time listening to a variety of radio programs, and somewhere along the way, something clicked. That exposure sparked a deep interest in audio production and storytelling through sound. Fast forward to today, and he’s not just listening—he’s the one behind the mic, connecting with listeners and sharing music that matters.

When he’s not in the studio, Josiah is deeply involved in campus life. He plays percussion in both Pep Band and Jazz Band, and if there’s a game happening, chances are you’ll spot him in the student section. In fact, some of his favorite memories come from being part of the Cougar Crazies—especially themed games. One standout? Valentine’s Day, when the section was filled with red and pink, and the energy was unforgettable.

Musically, Josiah has a clear favorite right now: “Can’t Steal My Joy” by Josiah Queen. It’s a song that resonates with him on a personal level, reflecting a message of unshakable joy that aligns with his faith. And when it comes to food, nothing beats his mom’s homemade mac and cheese—a comfort classic that still holds the top spot.

Outside of music and radio, Josiah enjoys spending time outdoors, especially biking, but he’s also all about having fun—whether that’s playing games or just hanging out with friends. He values relationships deeply, and when asked about the most important person in his life, he doesn’t hesitate to say his dad. Josiah admires his dad’s energy and character and hopes to follow in his footsteps.

Here’s a fun fact: Josiah is a big fan of romantic comedies. He loves a good laugh mixed with a heartfelt story, and his favorite film is While You Were Sleeping. It’s a movie he appreciates for its humor, warmth, and timeless charm.

But beyond the fun and hobbies, Josiah also has a powerful personal story. He shared that during his early high school years, he struggled to find close friendships. That began to change during his sophomore year, especially through his involvement in youth group, where he found a genuine community of believers. That season of life shaped his faith in a meaningful way, and today, it continues to influence who he is.

One Bible passage that has stayed close to him is Psalm 13—a passage that honestly wrestles with feelings of waiting and questioning, yet ultimately returns to trust in God. It’s a reflection of both struggle and hope, something Josiah relates to deeply.

You can catch Josiah on-air every Tuesday and Thursday from 9–10 PM.

Click HERE to learn more about 90.9 FM WNZR!

Building Inclusion Through Community: Special Olympics Game Highlights Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently sat down with Brittany Coon, Public Outreach Manager for the Knox County Board of Developmental Disabilities, to talk about something important happening this month—and right here in our community.

Click HERE to hear the full interview!

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a nationwide observance that dates back to 1987 when President Ronald Reagan first established it. The goal is simple but powerful: to promote opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities to reach their full potential.

Brittany explains that developmental disabilities can include a wide range of conditions, such as autism, cerebral palsy, ADHD, and Down syndrome, along with other physical, learning, or behavioral challenges. But here in Knox County, the focus isn’t just on definitions—it’s on inclusion. She describes the community as one where people of all abilities can truly live, work, and grow together.

That spirit of inclusion will be front and center at a special event tonight. At 6 p.m., Ariel Arena on the campus of Mount Vernon Nazarene University will host a Special Olympics basketball game featuring the Knox County Eagles. The evening will also include cheerleaders and a lineup of local community leaders joining in the fun.

The event is made possible through partnerships with MVNU and community supporters like Paul McNeil, and it brings together a wide range of familiar local faces—from healthcare and law enforcement to business and public service. It’s shaping up to be a high-energy, meaningful night centered on connection and support.

As Brittany shared during the conversation, Special Olympics is about much more than sports. It creates a sense of belonging—not only for the athletes, but for everyone involved. Through competition and teamwork, athletes build physical fitness, leadership skills, and confidence, while also forming lasting relationships.

Events like tonight’s game also serve another important purpose: they create an easy entry point for the broader community. For many people, it may be their first time attending a Special Olympics event or interacting with individuals with developmental disabilities. That exposure helps build understanding, break down barriers, and strengthen the entire community.

Eric and Brittany also talked about what support looks like beyond just one month or one event. Brittany emphasized that awareness is only the beginning—what really matters is action. That can mean listening, advocating for accessibility, supporting inclusive workplaces, volunteering, and making a conscious effort to include others in everyday life, whether at work, community events, or places of worship.

She encourages everyone to come out to the game, not just for the fun of it, but for what it represents. Showing up sends a powerful message to the athletes that their community is behind them.

The game tips off at 6 p.m. at Ariel Arena, and admission is free, making it an easy way for families and community members to get involved and be part of something meaningful.

Click HERE to learn more about the Knox County DD!

WNZR’s Meet the Staff Monday with Zane Menzie!

It’s time for Meet the Staff Monday, and this week we’re introducing Zane Menzie, one of the newest members of the WNZR radio team!

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Zane is from Marion, Ohio, and transferred to Mount Vernon Nazarene University after realizing his previous school in Columbus wasn’t the right fit. After visiting campus, he felt MVNU was the place for him and decided to make the move.

Zane joined WNZR through one of his classes and decided to give radio a try—and now you can hear him on the air Thursdays from 1–3pm. Outside the studio, he stays busy as the president of the Theatre Club, something he’s very passionate about. He even had the opportunity to direct his own play, which gave him the chance to see theatre from the other side of the curtain. Zane hopes to pursue a master’s degree in directing and producing, with dreams of becoming a professor or working with smaller theatre productions in the future.

This spring he’s also involved with the theatre production of Big Fish: The Musical, happening March 26–29. The show tells the story of a larger-than-life storyteller and the relationship between a father and son as they discover the truth behind the tall tales. You can search for MVNU Theatre tickets online if you’d like to attend.

When he’s not on the air or working with theatre, Zane enjoys making homemade sushi, playing video games on the weekends, and spending time with family and friends. His favorite song right now is “Hard Fought Hallelujah.”

One interesting fact about Zane is that he was born with nerve damage in one ear and can only hear about 25% from it. He also shared how God has been helping him grow in his faith—learning to make it his own rather than simply following the faith of his family.

Be sure to tune in and hear Zane on WNZR Thursdays from 1–3pm!

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

Flying Horse Farms Offers Life-Changing Camp Experience for Children with Serious Illnesses

For many kids, summer camp means swimming, boating, archery, and making lifelong memories with new friends. At Flying Horse Farms in Mount Gilead, those same camp traditions are made possible for children living with serious illnesses.

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently spoke with Liv Malmsten about the organization’s unique medical specialty camp and the impact it has on children and families.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Flying Horse Farms provides a traditional camp experience—complete with activities like swimming, boating, archery, and arts and crafts—while also ensuring campers are supported in a medically and emotionally safe environment. The goal is simple: give kids the chance to just be kids while still receiving the care they need.

A key part of that support is the camp’s on-site Wellness Center. The facility is staffed by medical and psychosocial professionals who help meet campers’ physical, emotional, and behavioral needs. With that level of care available, children can safely enjoy the full camp experience even while managing serious health conditions.

During the conversation, Malmsten explained that the camp carefully adapts activities so every child can participate. Whether it’s modifying equipment or adjusting how an activity is run, the staff works to ensure each camper can join in and experience the fun alongside their peers.

Looking ahead to the upcoming summer season, Flying Horse Farms is encouraging families to apply soon. The priority application deadline is March 16, although applications will still be accepted after that date as space allows.

The camp is also currently seeking adult volunteers who want to help support campers throughout the summer. Volunteers play an important role in creating a welcoming and encouraging environment for children and their families.

Click HERE to learn more about the camp, apply, or explore volunteer opportunities!

United Way of Knox County Celebrates 75 Years While Continuing to Serve the Community

United Way of Knox County Executive Director Katie Ellis sat down with WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart to address the organization’s current challenges and future plans, including staffing reductions, continued programs, and upcoming community initiatives.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Ellis explained that the nonprofit recently made the difficult decision to reduce staff as part of broader efforts to address economic pressures. Like many organizations, the United Way has faced financial strain and needed to make spending adjustments. While the cuts were unfortunate, Ellis emphasized that they were necessary to ensure the organization’s long-term sustainability.

Despite the changes, Ellis reassured the community that the United Way’s core programs will continue. In fact, new partners have stepped forward to help support several initiatives, ensuring that services remain available to local residents.

One program that has already seen strong participation this year is the organization’s free tax preparation service. During walk-in days, volunteers and staff have worked long hours assisting residents with filing returns, completing more than 150 tax filings so far. Ellis encouraged anyone interested in receiving free tax assistance to visit the United Way’s website at uwayknox.org, where a pop-up allows residents to submit their information and get started.

The organization is also continuing to expand its community presence from its new headquarters at 305 East High Street in Mount Vernon. Ellis said the building provides additional opportunities to increase services and support for the community.

She also addressed recent rumors suggesting a potential merger between the United Way organizations in Knox and neighboring Licking County. Ellis clarified that there are no plans for such a merger and that the Knox County organization remains focused on serving its local community.

Looking ahead, the United Way is preparing to celebrate its 75th anniversary, a milestone that will include special campaigns and events throughout the year. Ellis said 2026 will also feature expanded initiatives, including work with the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and other community programs.

One of the next opportunities for the public to connect with the organization will be its annual meeting on March 17 from 4:30–5:30 p.m. at the Ramser 4‑H Activity Center. The meeting is open to the community and will include a recap of 2025 accomplishments as well as a look at the organization’s future plans.

Another major focus is the upcoming grant cycle. Ellis said the United Way plans to allocate more than $500,000 to 21 programs across Knox County, supporting initiatives in education, health care, financial stability, and other vital services.

Volunteers remain a cornerstone of the organization’s mission. Ellis emphasized that community involvement is critical to meeting local needs and encouraged residents to get involved. Those interested in volunteering can contact the organization by emailing liveunited@uwayknox.org

Ellis summed up the mission simply: the United Way exists because of the community and for the community—and its work depends on people coming together to support one another.

Click HERE to find out more about the United Way of Knox County!

The Knox County Foundation awards a record $1.08 Million in Competitive Grants

WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talked with Lisa Lloyd, Senior Program Director for The Knox County Foundation. Lisa shared the exciting news of recent grant awards. The Foundation Board of Directors has approved $1,087,800 in competitive grant funding to 16 nonprofit organizations. Among the awards are two $300,000 grants.
The Knox County Board of Developmental Disabilities received $300,000 toward the New Hope Early Education Center Renovation.
The Winter Sanctuary was also awarded $300,000 for a “Permanent Home” – a transformational, permanent facility for Knox County’s emergency shelter and homeless advocacy services.

Lisa also shared details about how the grant process works and how local non-profits can apply.
She also announced the NEW Summer Youth Enrichment Grants. $36.300 in grants were awarded to ensure that all Knox County youth have opportunities to grow, connect, and thrive through summer and seasonal experiences.

Lisa also shared about other grants and scholarships that the Foundation awards each year and details about the application process.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation or click on the picture below.

For more information about grant opportunities, visit http://www.knoxcf.org

Picture – Ann Marie Wiley, assistant director (left), and Joe Springer, executive director of The Winter Sanctuary, represent one of two organizations awarded $300,000 in competitive grants from the Knox County Foundation during its February grant cycle. (Photo courtesy of The Winter Sanctuary)

FULL PRESS RELEASE

Lisa Lloyd
Senior Program Director
Knox County Foundation
740-392-3270
Lisa@knoxcf.org

Knox County Foundation Awards Record $1.08 Million in Competitive Grants

Historic awards include two $300,000 grants and the launch of a new summer youth enrichment initiative

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio (Feb. 27, 2026) — The Knox County Foundation Board of Directors approved $1,087,800 in competitive grant funding to 16 nonprofit organizations at its February 11, 2026, board meeting.

This year’s cycle saw a record number of applications and a total request amount of $1,937,279, reflecting both the growing needs and the continued momentum of organizations serving Knox County.

Among the awards are two $300,000 grants — tying for the largest competitive grants ever awarded by the Foundation.

The Knox County Board of Developmental Disabilities (KCBDD) received $300,000 toward the NewHope Early Education Center Renovation, a five-phase capital project designed to enhance safety, accessibility, and functionality at the KCBDD facility. The center houses Head Start and Educational Service Center classrooms and offices, supporting the delivery of education, therapy, and developmental services. The project will improve learning and program spaces, reduce safety hazards, increase access for underserved populations, and generate long-term cost savings that can be reinvested into programs that improve quality of life.

Steve Oster, superintendent of the KCBDD, said, “We are deeply grateful to the Knox County Foundation for this generous grant, which will have a tremendous impact on the NewHope Early Education Center and the community we serve. Upgrading our building with new windows, doors, fresh paint and modern heating controls ensures a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment for children, adults, and families who rely on our programs. Investments like this allow us to continue providing high-quality education and support for individuals with developmental disabilities and children from birth through age five.”

The Winter Sanctuary was awarded $300,000 for “A Permanent Home,” a transformational initiative to secure a permanent facility for Knox County’s emergency shelter and homeless advocacy services. The property will allow for sleeping areas, staff workspace, and on-site advocacy services to operate under one roof. Renovations will also include dedicated space for unhoused families with children and will allow for the potential of year-round operations and expanded services in the future.

“This grant from the Knox County Foundation will help secure a permanent home for Knox County’s emergency shelter, providing consistent, safe shelter for individuals and families during times of crisis. It represents an investment not only in our organization, but in the stability and well-being of our entire community. We are deeply grateful for the Foundation’s partnership and commitment to caring for our most vulnerable neighbors,” said Joe Springer, executive director at the Winter Sanctuary.

2026 Competitive Grant Recipients:

  • Knox County Board of Developmental Disabilities – NewHope Early Education Center Renovation (Three-Year Capital Improvement Plan), $300,000
  • The Winter Sanctuary – A Permanent Home for Knox County’s Unhoused, $300,000
  • Foundation for Knox Community Hospital – Grant Award to be Publicly Announced at a Later Date
  • Kokosing Gap Trail – Kokosing Gap Trail Repaving, $75,000
  • Knox County Park District – Access and Welcome Facilities at the Woodlands Park, $64,000
  • Centerburg Local Schools – New Baseball Field, $50,000
  • HopeNow Inc. – Replacement of Box Truck, $50,000
  • Mount Vernon Arts Consortium – Amplifying Arts and Entertainment 2026 (Economic Development Initiative), $22,500
  • Mount Vernon City School District – Yellow Jacket CORE Drive to Succeed, $12,500
  • Knox County Educational Service Center – Youth Enrichment Series (Year 3 of 3), $12,500
  • Area Development Foundation, Inc. – 2026 Knox Teacher Manufacturing Bootcamp, $10,000
  • Food for the Hungry – Annual Drive Day Campaign (Year 3 of 3), $5,000

“These record-level grant requests demonstrate both the strength of our nonprofit community and the significant needs within Knox County,” said Lisa Lloyd, senior program director of the Knox County Foundation. “We are proud to partner with these organizations to make meaningful, long-term investments in our community.”

Introducing Summer Youth Enrichment Grants

New this year, the Foundation launched Summer Youth Enrichment Grants, designed to reduce financial barriers that prevent children and teens from participating in meaningful summer and extracurricular programs. The initiative aims to ensure that all Knox County youth have opportunities to grow, connect, and thrive through summer and seasonal experiences.

Summer Youth Enrichment Grant recipients include:

  • SPI – Summer Enrichment Camps, $10,300
  • MTVarts – Education Taking Wing Programming, $10,000
  • Knox County Family and Children First Council – Intentional Funding Program, $10,000
  • The Gund at Kenyon College – Summer Camp Series for Middle Schoolers and Teens, $6,000

Donor Advised Fund Grants

In addition to competitive grants, the Board ratified $289,660 in grants to 44 organizations from 21 Donor Advised Funds. These grants, recommended by fund advisors between December 2 and February 10, support a wide range of charitable initiatives across the community.

The next competitive grant cycle will conclude April 15, 2026. An Expression of Intent form is due by March 15, 2026. This cycle will be for small grants only, for requests of $10,000 or less.

For more information about grant opportunities, visit www.knoxcf.org.

Knox County Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in Knox County through charitable giving.

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