GREENFIELD, Ind. (August 7, 2023) – Bob Wortman and his family have long been major philanthropic supporters of both Shelby and Hancock counties, funding numerous nonprofit agencies as well as the development of two major medical facilities in the area: the Sue Ann Wortman Nephrology Center at Major Hospital and the Sue Ann Wortman Cancer Center at Hancock Regional Hospital.
To ensure that the family’s tradition of supporting their hometown communities continues, Mr. Wortman established the Wortman Family Foundation Fund of Shelby and Hancock Counties in partnership with Blue River Community Foundation (BRCF) in 2021.
“I want to ensure that I can support the communities that helped to support Sue and our family for so many years-in perpetuity,” said Wortman.
The Wortman Family Foundation Fund has already made tremendous impact in Shelby and Hancock Counties since the inaugural cycle. Thirty-two individual organizations have been supported with grant dollars totaling more than $500,000.
Funding from the Wortman Family Foundation focuses on the community needs of both Shelby and Hancock counties. Although efforts and initiatives in education and health are preferred, activities that better the two counties through community enhancement projects in the areas of art, recreation and beautification are also considered. Grant proposals may range between $2,500 and $25,000.
Jennifer Jones, BRCF executive director, said, “Mr. Wortman, his family, and the members of the Wortman Family Foundation Fund Advisory Committee have done amazing work over the past two years in helping choose the programs and projects that have the potential to make the most impact in the Shelby and Hancock communities. We have been extremely pleased with the nonprofit agencies’ responses to the Foundation’s newest opportunity. Bob’s generosity and foresight continue to guarantee that the nonprofit agencies of Shelby and Hancock counties have a forever source of support to accomplish their missions of bettering the communities in which they serve.”
Grant interest forms for the 2023 cycle are due by Nov. 1, 2023, and grant applications must be submitted by Dec. 1, 2023. Mr. Wortman and his board of advisors will evaluate requests and announce grantees in early 2024. Nonprofit agencies may contact Jordan England, BRCF grants and nonprofit relations director, at jengland@blueriverfoundation.com with any questions regarding this opportunity.
CFHC provides philanthropic leadership by encouraging giving, learning, community pride and civic engagement. Working with caring individuals, families, and organizations to create or grow existing permanent endowment funds is critical to the organization’s mission. These funds generate income that is distributed in the form of grants and scholarships to enrich and enhance life in Hancock County, as well as support the donor’s favorite charitable causes, both at home and afar forever. CFHC has granted millions of dollars since their inception in 1992.
