In 2017, the 8twelve Coalition, in partnership with Muncie Habitat for Humanity, received funding from Lowe’s Neighborhood Revitalization Grant. This grant was divided up to support the efforts of the 8twelve Coalition in several projects in the South Central and Thomas Park/Avondale neighborhoods – a transitional home for men at Muncie Mission, a community garden at Maring-Hunt Library, facility updates at the Boys & Girls Club, new playground equipment & landscaping at Ross Community Center, and “A Brush with Kindness” projects by Habitat for Humanity. The total amount received was $250,000, split 50/50 between cash and Lowe’s store credit.
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Muncie Mission
With financial assistance from Lowe’s, Muncie Mission was able to rehabilitate a home directly across the street from the Mission for their men’s transitional housing program.
Maring-Hunt Library
Funding for Maring-Hunt Library Community Garden master plan project was used for the building, improvement, and expansion of the garden pavilions that were developed to address food insecurity in this USDA-designated food desert.
Boys & Girls Club of Muncie
Boys & Girls Club of Muncie used their funds to improve the internal and external appearance of their facility, increase safety, and also add new fitness opportunities for youth attending the Club.
Ross Community Center
This grant allowed Ross Community Center to build a shelter, serenity garden, and pergola for the families of the community to utilize. They also received new playground equipment and landscaping.
A Brush with Kindness
Resources provided to Habitat for Humanity were used for A Brush with Kindness home repair projects for six owner-occupied homes in the 8twelve target area.
The Lowe’s Neighborhood Revitalization Grant has played a major role in the impact that we have seen already. We have taken the funding provided and used it in the various places of these neighborhoods and given them a renewed sense of worth. The planning and action of the 8twelve Coalition is improving the quality of life within our community!
Foundational Outcome Activities in 2017 included:
Sense of Community
- Neighborhood block parties, cookouts, garden party, trunk or treat
Social Cohesion
- Listening Conversations
Collective Action
- Neighborhood Cleanups
- Community Planning
- Community Development Training
Sector/Action Team Outcome Activities in 2017 included:
Housing
Education & Family Engagement
- Ross Center Preschool opened
- Kick off to Kindergarten at South View Elementary
- Individual counseling sessions: 90 sessions provided
Beautification
- Maring-Hunt Garden Pavilion: Phase 2 completed
- Upgrades to community gardens at 10th & Sampson and 7th & Jefferson
Business Development & Employment
- Small Business Training for Residents: 9 trained residents and 3 awarded funds for projects
- Boys & Girls Club Neighborhood Mowing Business for Teens started
Collaborative Grant Award Notifications
Received In 2017
