The CIRCLe Fund, also known as Chicks Impacting Rush County Life, is a women’s giving group dedicated to supporting nonprofit organizations that serve the residents of Rush County, Indiana. The fund prioritizes projects and programs that demonstrate innovation, responsiveness to community needs, and a commitment to collaboration and partnership. Special consideration may be given to initiatives that specifically benefit women and children.

The 2025 CIRCLe Fund grant opportunity offers a total award of $13,000. Nonprofit organizations that meet the eligibility requirements and have projects aligning with the fund's priorities are encouraged to apply. Since its inception in 2013, the CIRCLe Fund has granted $141,000 to various organizations, including M.o.R.E. for Kids, Rush County Victims Assistance, Rush County Historical Society, the City of Rushville Parks Department, and Rushville Public Library. The most recent recipient, Rush County Senior Center, utilized its award to purchase a new wheelchair lift for its Ride Rush public transport vehicle and expand programming for the community.

Applications must be submitted online through the Rush County Community Foundation (RCCF) grant portal. The deadline for submission is March 15, 2025, at 11:59:59 p.m. Organizations with questions about the grant may contact Cindy Taff at (765) 932-2872. For technical assistance with the application process, applicants can reach out to the RCCF office via email at info@rushcountyfoundation.org or by calling (765) 938-1177, extension 3.

The CIRCLe Fund was established by a group of six women who shared a passion for their community and sought to create a lasting impact through collective giving. The fund operates under the Rush County Community Foundation, which oversees the administration of the grant process.

Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Rush County residents. While there are no explicit restrictions on the types of projects that can be funded, proposals that align with the fund’s core values—innovation, responsiveness, and collaboration—are more likely to receive support. The review process will consider the project's impact, feasibility, and alignment with community needs.

This grant opportunity is non-recurring and operates on a fixed schedule. The deadline for submission is final, and there is no indication that late applications will be considered. Applicants are encouraged to submit their proposals well in advance of the deadline to ensure they meet all requirements and address any technical issues that may arise.