OA students receive $25K matching grant after fundraiser

Still accepting donations

(OLDENBURG, Ind.) – Oldenburg Academy students have secured a $25,000 matching grant from the State of Indiana. 

The fundraising project began earlier this year with the goal of revitalizing the public space by the May Pole. The project includes the basketball courts being resurfaced for a multi-use recreational area which will include pickleball courts, a community fire pit, and seating for gatherings and events. 

OA’s Innovation Council which is comprised of seniors Emily Schebler and Maria Voegele and sophomore Kira Sims raised $30,000 in local funds, securing a $25,000 matching grant through the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA).

The organizers reached their goal three days ahead of the deadline. 

“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,” Shebler said. 

Teacher Jason Walke oversaw the student project and said it has had numerous benefits for the 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,’ Walke said. 

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.