According to a press release from the Northern Indiana Community Foundation, The Hive held its Annual Social Gathering Tuesday at the Knox Community Center, where they awarded $8,000 in grants to local organizations.
The Hive is a women’s giving circle established in 2018 through the Starke County Community Foundation. This philanthropic group brings women together from across the community to pool their annual dues and vote on how funds should be distributed.
According to the press release, The Hive has awarded over $57,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations in Starke County to date.
This year’s attendees received updates from past grant awardees, and presentations from this year’s four recipients: Knox Middle School PTO, North Judson Baseball and Softball Program, San Pierre Parks & Recreation, and the Starke County Youth Club.
The Hive granted Starke County Youth Club $3,000; the North Judson Baseball and Softball Program $2,000; and Knox Middle School PTO and San Pierre Parks & Recreation were each granted $1,500.
Grant funds are made possible through member contributions and an annual distribution from The Hive Giving Circle Endowment Fund at the Starke County Community Foundation. Additional support is provided by the donor-advisor for the Hardesty Memorial Endowment Fund, helping to enhance the total amount awarded each year.
“The Hive is such a special group,” said Jacque Ryan, SCCF Director of Development. “Women from all walks of life get to come together and make a difference with their dollars, and it’s inspiring to see the power of collective impact year after year.”
Guests at this year’s event enjoyed a spread from 213 Mobile Bar & Charcuterie and took home custom bee-themed cookies from Cookies by Arielle. Centerpieces were arranged by Pioneer Floral & Gifts, and each attendee received honey sticks provided by Honney’s Bees Apiary in their gift bags. The Knox Community Center served as a welcoming venue for the celebration of community and collective generosity.
“This year, our finalists represented various corners of Starke County,” added Ryan. “I love finding ways to incorporate other important sectors of our community by working with local, women-owned businesses for our meals, goodies, and giveaways.”
The Hive welcomes any women to become a member and take part in their effort to give back to Starke County. To learn more about The Hive, visit nicf.org.
