RCCF: Ripley County Filmmakers Fund Established

The fund aims to empower filmmakers and promote the art of storytelling.

Photo provided.

(Ripley County, Ind.) - The Ripley County Community Foundation is honored to announce the establishment of the Ripley County Filmmakers Fund. This fund was inspired by the success of the Ripley County Film Fest, which showcased the incredible talent of local filmmakers. The Ripley County Filmmakers Fund will support local filmmakers by creating opportunities for them to learn the art of filmmaking, practice their craft, and finally share their work with the public.

“Filmmaking has the power to inspire, connect, and give people a meaningful way to tell their stories”, stated Daniel Fayette, the fund originator. “Growing up, there were not many opportunities locally to pursue that passion, which is why helping create those opportunities now feels so important. I’ve been encouraged by the Ripley County Community Foundation’s commitment to building momentum for filmmakers through its creative initiatives, and I hope this fund, along with the support of others who care about filmmaking, can help more people in our community experience the joy and art of storytelling through film.”

Filmmaking in the Modern Era

Advances in technology have put the power of filmmaking into the hands of the masses. With smartphones, affordable editing software, and accessible digital platforms, anyone with a story to tell can now create and share films. This shift has made filmmaking one of the fastest-growing art forms, and it deserves our attention and support. By investing in local filmmakers, we are investing in creativity, innovation, and the cultural vitality of Ripley County.

Filmmaking and Ripley County

Ripley County is fortunate to be home to two historic single-screen movie theaters, the Damm Theatre and the Gibson Theatre; both of which have served as cultural landmarks for over 100 years. Having these theatres in our communities makes supporting aspiring filmmakers a natural addition to local art offerings. These theaters are more than entertainment venues; they are gathering places that foster community connections and preserve the charm of small-town life. By supporting filmmakers, we also support our beloved movie theaters, ensuring that local stories have a place to be shared and celebrated.

“This fund is unlike anything we’ve done before, and that’s what makes it so exciting,” commented Amy Streator, Executive Director of the Ripley County Community Foundation. “It will give local filmmakers the resources they need to share their stories, and those stories will strengthen the cultural fabric of our community.”

Why the Arts Matter

The arts are vital to a thriving community. They inspire creativity, strengthen cultural identity, and promote economic growth. Investing in the arts ensures that Ripley County remains a vibrant and engaging place to live and visit.

“Supporting and sharing the arts with the community is an investment in the future of Ripley County,” continued Streator. “Local artists contribute to our community's economic growth and overall well-being. We are deeply thankful for the partnership the community foundation has with the local filmmaking community, and we hope this fund will inspire even more creative projects.”

2026 Ripley County Film Fest

All are invited to attend the 2026 Ripley County Film Fest, at the historic Gibson Theatre and Damm Theatre on June 2-6, followed by nightly Q&A panels with the filmmakers. Visit https://rccfonline.org/impact/initiatives/film-fest/ to learn more about the 2026 Ripley County Film Fest.

How You Can Help

You can make a lasting impact on Ripley County by making a gift to the Ripley County Filmmakers Fund or any of the 265 endowment funds managed by the Ripley County Community Foundation by visiting https://rccfonline.org/. Whether a one-time donation, a recurring monthly contribution, or a planned bequest, your generosity will shape the future of Ripley County.