The Montgomery County Community Foundation held its Annual Meeting Thursday, May 21 at the Hoosier Heartland State Bank’s Success Center. President Erin Gobel presided over the meeting. Following the standard items of business, incumbent board members Tracey Barr, Jack Grimble, and Brenda Lovold were nominated and approved to serve a second three-year term. Mikel Manion was nominated and approved to join the board for a three-year term.
The balance of the 13-member board includes: Preston Bost, Pam Bradley, Cathy Caldwell, Chris Cox, Wendy Feller, Erin Gobel, Zach Hockersmith, Gary Isenberg, and Shawn Ramey.
Volunteer of the Year
Since 1996, the recognition of outstanding volunteers has been a staple of the MCCF Annual Meeting. The 2026 MCCF Volunteer of the Year is Tina Martin, FISH of Montgomery County. For 29 years, Tina Martin has faithfully served neighbors in need through FISH of Montgomery County. As Director of the Linen Closet and a FISH Board member, she has helped countless families with compassion, dignity, and care.
Under Tina’s leadership, the Linen Closet has grown to provide a wide range of household essentials. Through her resourcefulness, generosity, and tireless service, she has created a welcoming place where every person is treated with respect.
Gobel presented her with a plaque commemorating her service and a $1,000 grant to Fish of Montgomery County.
Eight other individuals were nominated, and each received a Certificate of Recognition and a gift. They included:
Cathy Crosby, Women’s Resource Center
- Cathy is a compassionate volunteer whose kindness and dedication have made a lasting impact at the Women’s Resource Center. As a Client Advocate, she mentors mothers in our community with encouragement, guidance, and genuine care. She also leads a monthly Mom’s Group, creating space for connection and support.
- Cathy is always willing to step in where needed, often serving behind the scenes to ensure others feel valued and supported. Her servant heart and commitment to women, children, and families make a meaningful difference in countless lives.
Dee Dee Jones, Pam’s Promise Transitional Housing
- Dee Dee is a hands-on leader whose service has been invaluable to Pam’s Promise Transitional Housing. As a Board Member, Facilities Subcommittee Chair, and fundraising volunteer, she gives her time and talents wherever they are needed most.
- From managing properties and organizing events to recruiting volunteers and helping our families access safe housing, Dee Dee’s impact is far-reaching. Her initiative, leadership, and deep compassion make her an extraordinary asset to both the organization and our community.
Kate Lindsay, IYG
- Kate has made a meaningful difference in the lives of local youth through her service with IYG. For the past two years, she has helped create a welcoming environment by engaging teens, encouraging conversation, and helping maintain a safe and inviting space.
- Kate is also known for connecting young people to other important activities throughout the community. Her dedication to inclusion, advocacy, and supporting youth who may feel unseen or marginalized reflects her belief that every young person deserves to feel safe, valued, and empowered.
Naomi Horton, Montgomery County Free Clinic, Inc.
- Naomi is an outstanding volunteer leader whose expertise and steady guidance have strengthened the Montgomery County Free Clinic for more than six years. In roles ranging from committee leadership to Board President, she has helped the organization navigate challenges while staying focused on its mission of care.
- Naomi brings structure, clarity, and strong nonprofit leadership to every role she serves. Her ability to turn strategy into action has helped ensure the clinic remains efficient, responsive, and ready to serve those who depend on it.
Natasha Headdy, Montgomery County United Band and Guard
- Natasha is a remarkable volunteer whose leadership has strengthened Montgomery County United Band and Guard for the past five years. As President of the MCU Boosters and Coordinator of the Golden Lion Invitational, she works tirelessly to support students and their families.
- From organizing volunteers and uniforms to managing sponsors and budgets, Natasha helps every part of the program succeed. Her calm leadership, kindness, and dedication have made a lasting impact on students and the entire organization.
Jake Peterson, Boys & Girls Club of Montgomery County
- Jake is an exceptional leader whose service has greatly benefited the Boys & Girls Club of Montgomery County. As Board Treasurer, Committee Chair, and Incoming Board President, he has provided strong financial guidance and thoughtful leadership.
- Jake’s support extends well beyond the boardroom. Whether helping with events, building partnerships, or responding to urgent needs, he consistently steps forward to serve. His humility, reliability, and passion for youth make him an invaluable volunteer.
Bill Durbin, Veterans Memorial Park
- Bill has been instrumental to the success of Veterans Memorial Park since its founding in 2023. As Board Secretary, he has contributed vision, leadership, and countless volunteer hours to help create a place that honors all veterans.
- From installing commemorative bricks to hosting visitors and supporting fundraising efforts, Bill is always ready to serve. His dedication, energy, and commitment to remembering those who served have made a lasting impact on our community.
Maria Weir, League of Women Voters of Montgomery County
- Maria is an outstanding volunteer whose dedication to civic engagement has strengthened our community. For the past four years, she has written weekly newspaper articles that keep residents informed about important local issues and encourage public involvement.
- Through research, interviews, and attendance at community meetings, Maria helps promote transparency and awareness. She also founded the Well-Read Citizen Book Club, creating opportunities for learning and discussion for both League members and the public. Her service reflects the very best of community leadership.
MCCF Philanthropy Awards
MCCF Philanthropy Awards were presented to two individuals whose leadership, generosity, and long-standing commitment have helped shape both the Foundation and the broader community. Kelly Taylor presented the awards to Ron Dickerson and Mike Grant.
Dickerson was recognized for more than a decade of dedicated service and volunteer leadership. Since first partnering with MCCF in 2014 to establish an unrestricted fund that has awarded nearly $50,000 in community grants, Dickerson has continued to lend his expertise, vision, and time to numerous Foundation initiatives. He served on the Wabash Heartland Innovation Network, completed seven years on the MCCF Board of Directors, and most recently played a key leadership role in the development of MCCF’s new child care center project, serving as volunteer construction manager and helping guide fundraising and project planning efforts. Along with his wife, he established a named unrestricted fund with the Foundation – continuing their legacy of generosity.
Grant was honored for more than 20 years of leadership and support of MCCF. Since joining the MCCF Board in 2003, Grant has helped shape the Foundation’s vision and growth through his service as Board President and committee chair. Together with his spouse, he made a transformational investment in the Foundation by purchasing and later donating MCCF’s downtown headquarters at 119 East Main Street, providing the organization with a permanent home in the heart of the community. In addition to establishing multiple charitable funds through MCCF, Grant has remained a trusted advisor and advocate whose guidance and commitment continue to impact Montgomery County for generations to come.
Gobel wrapped up the accomplishments of 2025 in which $1.8 million was awarded in grants and scholarships. See a video recap of the year below or check out the 2025 MCCF Annual Report.