Rising Sun Regional Foundation loses casino money

(RISING SUN, Ind.) – The Rising Sun Regional Foundation (RSRF) has announced that they are no longer receiving funds from Rising Star Casino Resort.

“While the casino remains in operation in Rising Sun, these contributions have ceased with no indication they will resume,” the nonprofit said. 

RSRF was established in 1994 and the casino made monthly contributions based on its adjusted gross revenue. 

The nonprofit has given out more than $35M to nonprofits in Ohio County, Ripley County, Aurora and Batesville. The grants have supported educational opportunities, strengthened public safety services, and enhanced critical infrastructure.

The foundation consulted an Indianapolis-based legal firm for representation and guidance as they attempted to negotiate an ongoing revenue stream.

RSRF board president Stan Wiedeman says the loss of its primary funding source marks a challenging moment for the nonprofit. 

“For more than three decades, these funds have allowed us to make a meaningful and consistent impact in our communities. The loss of this revenue requires us to make difficult but necessary changes to ensure we can continue serving the region responsibly.”

RSRF is reevaluating all aspects of its grantmaking strategy. Beginning with the upcoming third-quarter grant cycle, the maximum grant award will be reduced from $40,000 to $30,000 per quarter.

Additionally, the Foundation will place increased priority on projects that demonstrate strong matching funds and community investment.

“Moving forward, we must be more strategic than ever,” said Rachael Cole, Board Vice-President. “Projects that show strong local support and matching resources will rise to the top. Our goal is to maximize the impact of every dollar we are able to invest.”

Further changes to grant guidelines are currently under review, and additional updates are expected.

For more information about updated grant guidelines and application details, please visit www.rsrfonline.org or contact Cheryll Obendorf, Executive Director, (812) 438-4490 or director@rsrfonline.org.