OA Students Secure $25,000 State Matching Grant for Revitalized Space

The students had 45 days to raise $25K in order to receive a state matching grant.

Photo provided.

(Oldenburg, Ind.) - The Oldenburg Academy Innovation Council comprised of seniors Emily Schebler and Maria Voegele and sophomore Kira Sims recently raised $30,000 in local funds, thereby securing a $25,000 matching grant from the State of Indiana.

The OA students collaborated with the town of Oldenburg to revitalize a public space at Maypole Heritage Park, a project that entails resurfacing the town’s basketball courts for a multi-use recreational area which will include pickleball courts, a community fire pit, and seating for gatherings and events.

Under the My Community, My Vision initiative, student teams were challenged to raise at least $25,000 in 45 days to qualify for a full state match. The Oldenburg Academy team reached their goal three days ahead of the deadline.

Senior Emily Schebler is grateful for the community support: “Thank you to everyone who locked in and donated! We literally could never have made this happen without you. You are forever a part of the Maypole Heritage Park.”

Mr. Jason Walke celebrated both the local donations and the project’s learning objectives, stating, “This project has been great for our students. They have learned and honed time management, communication, creativity, collaboration, and many other skills that will benefit them after their school days are over. Being able to make connections within the local communities has been rewarding for them as well. I look forward to seeing them take their idea and bring it to fruition.”

While the initial fundraising goal has been met, donations are still being accepted through Oldenburg Academy or the Ripley County Community Foundation, as additional funds will help bring the full scope of the students’ vision to life.

For more information or to get involved, please contact Innovation Council Supervisor Jason Walke at jwalke@oldenburgacademy.org or 812-934-4440.

RELATED: Crowdfunding Campaign Would Transform Oldenburg's Maypole Heritage Park