Month: December 2023

Thank You to our Generous Supporters

Posted on by Adrianna Town

Downtown Wabash is not just a destination in Indiana, it’s also a nonprofit organization leading the way for economic revitalization. In 1981, the Wabash community created our nonprofit organization from the “Main Street Movement,” which was born at the national level as an economic development tool. Originally known as Wabash Marketplace, the organization has since accomplished a full rebrand in 2022. The work remains the same: bring vibrancy to Downtown Wabash. 

Our vision is a downtown that is vibrant, every day and night. 24/7, 365 days a year. Crowds gathering for First Friday, Farmers Market and festive community events. Shopping ’til you drop and enjoying delightful dining options among friends and family. The vision is bold and bright!

Our mission is to be a catalyst for community and economic revitalization, as a nonprofit organization utilizing the Main Street Approach™ in Downtown Wabash. As Wabash County collectively takes on the goal of growing its population, downtown districts are identified as key drivers for quality of life. If the downtown area is thriving, the health of the overall community is strong.

2023 was a remarkable year, and we could not have done it without our devoted supporters! Enjoy a glimpse into all that we accomplished this year:

  • Downtown Wabash, Inc. hosted nearly 40 events with 42,000 guests in attendance!
  • In-kind donations and support from community partners was valued at more than $44,800.
  • Downtown Wabash Farmers Market experienced a record-breaking year with over $225,000 in sales.
  • Downtown 2030 was adopted in April 2023 as our new strategic plan.
  • Downtown Wabash, Inc. was a finalist for the PreservINg Main Street Grant from Office of Community and Rural Affairs to bring $2M in facade funding to historic buildings.
  • We were honored with support from 163 members.
  • Two new murals were dedicated in the Wabash Cultural District.
  • Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza attracted over 4,500 guests.
  • Downtown Wabash, Inc. awarded two professional development scholarships to downtown businesses.

Every $1 invested in our mission leverages $24.07 in new investment in our community. You can help by giving to our annual campaign, making a one-time donation or volunteering your time! We also accept event sponsorships, endowment level gifts and donations of property. Learn how to become a supporter today!

Below is the list of our generous 2023 donors. Your support means so much to our staff and board of directors. You have helped us uphold our mission and invest in our vibrant downtown district. Thank you for your immense contributions!

2023 Donor Tiers

Blue Shade Sail ($2,500+)

  • City of Wabash
  • Gebhart Holdings
  • Mark & Amy Ford
  • Sandy Kunkel

Green Shade Sail ($1,000)

  • Arc Light Media
  • Beacon Credit Union
  • Crossroads Bank
  • Ford Meter Box Foundation, Inc.
  • Paperworks Industries
  • Shane & Alecia Waters

Yellow Shade Sail ($500)

  • Intrasect Technologies
  • Parkview Wabash Hospital
  • Schlemmer Brothers Metalworks
  • Vernon Health & Rehabilitation
  • Wabash County YMCA
  • Wabash Wal-Mart
  • Dane & Sandy Haist
  • Rich & Kristy Church

Red Shade Sail ($250)

  • 105.9 The Bash FM
  • 4 Partners in Crime
  • 85 Hope, Inc.
  • Advanced Ag Resources
  • Alley Cat Outfitters
  • Bachelor Creek Church
  • Barabbas BBQ
  • Bellazo
  • Bickford of Wabash
  • Bluebird Boutique
  • Borders & Beyond Gallery
  • Bucheri McCarty & Metz
  • Carol Sue’s LLC BBQ n Cheese Steaks
  • Charley Creek Inn
  • Consumer51
  • Dawes & Pugh CPAs, LLC
  • DBLA Properties, LLC
  • Denney Motor Sales
  • Douglas C. Lehman, P.C.
  • Downs Tandy & Petruniw, P.C.
  • Downtown Nutrition
  • Dynamic Designs by Dyson
  • Edward Jones, Amy Sullivan
  • Ellen’s Bridal
  • Erik Bryant Photography
  • Fireflies Gymnastics
  • First Farmers Bank & Trust
  • For Goodness Shakes
  • Frontline Pest Management
  • Grow Wabash County
  • Halderman Farm Management
  • Hill N Dale Farm
  • Honeywell Arts & Entertainment
  • Hoosier Chiropractic
  • Humana
  • Imagine Restaurants
  • Indiana Estate & Elder Law
  • J.M. Reynolds Oil Co., Inc.
  • J&K’s Mega Pet!
  • JB’s Cuisine Machine
  • John H. Stephens RLS, Inc.
  • JoJo’s Olfactory
  • Kaleigh M Photography
  • Kelli Winer Design
  • Kirtlan Auto
  • Kona Ice
  • Koweba Investments LLC
  • Lafontaine Christian Church
  • Lighthouse Mission
  • Lily’s-N-Things
  • Living Forward ABA
  • Living Well in Wabash County
  • Locomotive Lanes
  • Lundquist Appraisals & Real Estate
  • Make It Your Own Art Studio
  • Manchester Alive
  • Marion Prayer Warriors
  • Martin Yale Industries
  • Miami & Canal LLC
  • Modoc’s Market
  • Moon Dog
  • MRF Real Estate
  • Myo Wellness
  • Nick’s Dog Cart
  • Nicole A. Howard Photography
  • Oswalt-Thomas Sales & Service
  • Our House
  • Paradise Spring Historical Park
  • Payne’s Food Truck
  • Pettit Printing, Inc.
  • Purdue Extension Wabash County
  • Rea Logan & Co.
  • Reading Room Books
  • Realtors Association of Central Indiana
  • Red Earth CPA
  • Redemption Development LLC
  • Rettigs
  • Rock City Lofts
  • Schlemmer’s Fire & Outdoor
  • Siders Premiere Properties
  • The Francis Shoppe
  • The Rose Collective
  • Transform Consulting Group
  • Tulip Tree Title
  • Twisted Scissors Salon
  • Vault 85 Menswear
  • Vertical Communication
  • Wabash Carnegie Public Library
  • Wabash Christian Church
  • Wabash County Museum
  • Wabash Engraving
  • Wabash Landing
  • Wabash Moose Family Center
  • Wabash Plain Dealer
  • Wabash Valley Dance Theater
  • WACT
  • White Rock Recreation
  • Wooden Ivy Boutique and Floral
  • Visit Wabash County
  • Dylan and Christy Reynolds
  • Gary and Deborah Bryant
  • Jordan and Ashley Tandy
  • Julie Dickey
  • Steve and Lisa Downs
  • Noah and Audrey Roberts

Orange Shade Sail ($100)

  • Access Youth Center
  • Arc of Wabash County
  • Babe of Wabash County
  • Hanna Lodge #61
  • Housing Action Wabash County
  • Josiah White’s
  • MSD of Wabash County
  • New Song Church
  • Pathfinder Services
  • Spirit Wear
  • Wabash County Habitat for Humanity
  • Wabash Friends Counseling Center
  • Wabash Professional Offices
  • Mike and Cindy Williams
  • Carolyn Eppley
  • Brooks and Christine Flohr
  • Ernie and Kay Peas
  • Sam and Deanna Unger
  • Henry and Sandy Celmer
  • Robert and Janet Halderman
  • Jim Bain
  • Jim and Diana Stump
  • Nate and Justine Fansher
  • JD and Phyllis Downey
  • Jan Roland
  • Adam and Andrea Zwiebel
  • Tom and Nancy Frank
  • Tod Minnich
  • Jim Widner
  • Willadean Tschantz
  • Bill Konyha
  • Hope Rider
  • Kathy Doran
  • Lana Garber
  • Patsy Myers
  • Shirley Walter

Devoted to Community Betterment: Wabash County YMCA 

Posted on by Downtown Wabash

Whether community members are lifting weights, enjoying a swim in the pool or attending local events, the Wabash County YMCA provides recreational services galore. With a focus on fostering wellness, they continue to invest in Downtown Wabash and the entirety of Wabash County through unique programming, events, educational courses, day camps and more.   

What began as Wabash Community Services in 1940, has gradually evolved into the dynamic recreational organization known as Wabash County YMCA. The Wabash County YMCA was chartered in 2001 and has remained a community staple throughout the decades. The Cass Street facility opened in May 2009 after operating out of the Honeywell Arts & Entertainment center for several years. Among its numerous growth initiatives, stands the iconic Field of Dreams. The addition launched in 1999 as a project created by like-minded community members determined to fill the need for youth recreational programming.

While the Wabash County YMCA holds a rich history, it also ensures a promising future. Their dedicated staff is currently finalizing a strategic plan for 2024-2026 that will provide guidance over the next 3 years as they continue to meet the needs of Wabash County. The strategic plan will further support the organization’s mission, which is “to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.”

As an institution committed to individual and community service, The Wabash County YMCA offers countless programs and membership benefits to the public. A variety of wellness activities, youth and adult sport & recreation programs, school age child care, summer day camps and chronic health intervention programs are amidst their most notorious services. The Wabash County YMCA also has a wide range of teen activities that strive to enrich the lives of Wabash County teens. Not to mention members have personal trainers at their disposal that enthusiastically assist with fitness goals.

The Wabash County YMCA’s unique financial assistance program is among its most prominent offerings. This structure promises that no one is turned away due to an inability to pay, which removes any barriers hindering someone from reaching their full potential. Thanks to Wabash County YMCA and generous donors’ willingness to invest in the community, one third of members and program participants are currently taking advantage of this initiative. Individuals who may benefit, and are interested in becoming a member, can fill out a convenient online financial assistance inquiry form.

Downtown Wabash has greatly benefited from Wabash County YMCA’s presence and frequent involvement in community events. Their central location and immense contributions to the downtown district are extremely appreciated. 

“One of the deciding factors in building the Wabash County YMCA was the location and how we would be close to the downtown area,” states Wabash County YMCA Chief Executive Officer, Dean Gogolewski. “We enjoy being involved in our community, participating in First Friday events and working with other nonprofits to best serve our community.” 

The Wabash County YMCA aims to partner with like-minded organizations and individuals to support a variety of community activities. In 2023 alone, over 70 partnerships were formed that proved instrumental in bringing events to life throughout Wabash County. These partnerships have helped make events such as the Senior Expo, Dam to Dam and After Prom successful. The Wabash County YMCA strives to make programs and events bigger and better than ever by regularly partnering with various local organizations such as the Wabash County Museum, Honeywell Arts & Entertainment and more.

As the Wabash County YMCA continues to flourish, it consequently expands economic development efforts throughout the community. The Field of Dreams advances economic growth by hosting a variety of tournaments during summer months, which undoubtedly attracts athletes and families across the midwest to visit Wabash. Visiting teams and individuals are then able to invest in our economy by dining, shopping and exploring locally. 

The Wabash County YMCA also provides job opportunities to numerous community members. The organization currently employs over 180 individuals, including seasonal staff. As program offerings continue to increase, so does the need for talented team members who are passionate about their mission. The School Age Child Care, SPARK Summer Learning Loss and traditional Summer Day Camp programs have all grown in registrations over the years, showing the need for quality child care programs in our community. The Aquatics and Wellness Departments, as well as the Youth Sport and Recreation programs have also seen tremendous growth. 

“The Wabash County YMCA relies heavily on part-time staff and volunteers to make these programs come to fruition,” says Gogolewski. “If you have the time and desire to impact lives in Wabash County, contact us, and let’s see what we can do together!”

Downtown Wabash, Inc. appreciates Wabash County YMCA’s commitment to serving the community of Wabash, as well as the generosity of its donors. Passionate individuals, organizations and nonprofits like the Wabash County YMCA are what continually boosts the revitalization and vibrancy of our downtown district.

“We could not do everything we do without the support of our donors, volunteers and dedicated staff who work hard every day to bring our services to the community,” states Gogolewski. “We evolve to meet the changing needs, so we partner with other community organizations to help bring more services to those seeking a healthier lifestyle to look and feel better. We want to thank everyone who has and will continue to support the Wabash County YMCA and our community.”

A special thank you to Wabash County YMCA for their longstanding support in helping fulfill the mission of Downtown Wabash, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a vibrant downtown district every day and night.

Wabash Plain Dealer: Cultivating Communication Throughout Wabash, Indiana 

Posted on by Downtown Wabash

Enlightening the community on relevant county-wide updates and current events is the backbone of Wabash Plain Dealer, who believes it is vital for community members to be well-informed. Wabash Plain Dealer prides itself on providing local news to the public and giving a voice to small town America. A foundation of knowledge begins with a devoted local newspaper, which Wabash Plain Dealer diligently strives to ensure.

Wabash Plain Dealer Managing Editor, David Nelson, and Account Advertising Executive, Krissy Schroeder

Although the company has seen substantial growth and several location changes throughout the years, its rich history and impact has remained steadfast. Wabash Plain Dealer was established in 1859 and currently possesses a team of 12 talented storytellers. Wabash Plain Dealer is owned by Paxton Media Group LLC, which is headquartered in Paducah, Kentucky. This fourth generation, family-owned media company has overseen the operations of Wabash Plain Dealer since 1998.

Wabash Plain Dealer’s previous location along Canal Street in Downtown Wabash, Indiana

Wabash Plain Dealer contributes to the community by reporting impartially while still championing the betterment of its citizens. Their team focuses on conveying factual stories while aiming to implement result-based journalism. This is achieved by asking essential questions that inspire solutions, which leads to a better quality of life for the community. Wabash Plain Dealer is published two days a week along with its weekly shopper, Current Bargains.

Throughout the years, Wabash Plain Dealer has persistently adapted to the ever-changing climate of mass media. Although the days of large newsrooms have since past, their journalists and storytellers have remained committed to adjusting alongside media shifts in order to deliver meaningful news to Wabash County. Although its team may seem small, Wabash Plain Dealer is a powerhouse of well-placed, talented individuals that produce quality publications each week.

Among those talented individuals is Managing Editor, David Nelson, who spearheads the longstanding legacy of Wabash Plain Dealer. Nelson can often be spotted with his camera and notepad amidst community events documenting the excitement. Whether it’s coverage for events like Jingle Jubilee, or an impromptu interview with community members, Nelson has been instrumental in the promotion of our incredible downtown district.

His skillful oversight and constant presence is a testament to his passion for serving Downtown Wabash and the entirety of Wabash County. Since transitioning into the role as Managing Editor, Nelson has greatly appreciated the warm welcome he has received.  

“I’ve spent 31 years as a journalist and I have never been in a more friendly community,” said Wabash Plain Dealer Managing Editor, David Nelson. “It is an absolute joy to come to work every day. The people of this community inspire me to produce the highest quality newspaper possible. I’m grateful for my experience here, and will always treasure these days.”

As a result of the effort completed by its outstanding writers and journalists, Wabash Plain Dealer has received an abundance of recognition over the years. The organization has won numerous awards for writing, editing, advertising, circulation, photography and typography. These award-winning publications regularly convey a trajectory of growth in Wabash, Indiana. 

Along with communicating essential news to the public, Wabash Plain Dealer advances local economic development through its promotion and celebration of county-wide projects and initiatives. Team members report on job opportunities and internship programs, cover stories on building renovations, feature new businesses and recognize awarded grants that have further advanced the development of our downtown region.

Downtown Wabash has greatly benefited from Wabash Plain Dealer’s unceasing devotion to serving the public, promoting local initiatives and featuring compelling stories surrounding the district. Their immeasurable contributions are vastly appreciated and do not go unnoticed. While flipping through the next edition of Wabash Plain Dealer, remember its extensive history and endless investment in our local community.

A special thank you to Wabash Plain Dealer for their longstanding support in helping fulfill the mission of Downtown Wabash, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a vibrant downtown district every day and night.

Plan a Roadtrip to 12 Nationally Accredited Main Street Communities in Indiana 

Posted on by Adrianna Town

Small Business Saturday launched Indiana Main Street’s ‘Shop Small IN Indiana’ campaign that highlights 12 Nationally Accredited Main Street communities throughout Indiana! The initiative was designed to encourage shoppers to support local small businesses while exploring new communities. Although the campaign was introduced on Small Business Saturday, its reach will continue to expand as community members are encouraged to participate during the holiday season and beyond.

What started with an idea for a community shopping and amenities guide, quickly formed into an immersive experience that promotes exploring several of the outstanding Nationally Accredited Main Street districts across Indiana.

“As the State coordinating program for Indiana, our main goal is to offer support to our main street communities,” says Andrea Kern, OCRA Director of Strategic Initiatives. “The ‘Shop Small IN Indiana’ campaign is a great way for us to promote tourism to these communities and encourage people to spend their dollars in some of the best downtowns in Indiana.” 

The vision behind this campaign creates the perfect holiday shopping activity for those with an adventurous spirit! By participating in ‘Shop Small IN Indiana,’ you can discover how many amazing communities are represented by Nationally Accredited Main Street organizations while supporting small businesses near and far. Plus, you may even find a new favorite store, restaurant or travel destination!

It All Starts with a Free Tote Bag

So, how can community members like yourself get involved? You can stop by any of the 12 participating Main Street organizations to receive a free ‘Shop Small IN Indiana’ tote bag to kick off your journey. The tote bag will include an extensive shopping guide that features each participating community, an Indiana Main Street pin and the corresponding Main Street organization’s pin. From there, get excited to plan a road trip with stops at all 12 locations to collect the remaining pins and discover what these downtown districts have to offer!

Visiting each location gives you the chance to experience delightful new communities. Tote bags will be available while supplies last, but the guides are a unique tool that can be used well into the future. You can use the guides to plan your next travel excursion, make a list of favorite spots you’d like to revisit or keep on-hand in case you are ever researching businesses that offer products not available in your own community.

Downtown Wabash, Inc. is proud to be featured among the 12 Nationally Accredited Main Street communities. The option to participate in the campaign was offered to each Indiana Accredited and Nationally Accredited Main Street community, and Downtown Wabash, Inc. jumped at the opportunity to be involved. Participating organizations were able to submit promotional materials highlighted in the shopping guide and are included in the tote bag initiative. 

Those featured alongside Downtown Wabash, Inc. are: Aurora Main Street, Main Street Brookville, Frankfort Main Street, Jeffersonville Main Street, Historic Downtown Kendallville, Lawrenceburg Main Street, Heart of Lebanon, Madison Main Street, Richmond Main Street, Seymour Main Street and Shelbyville Main Street. 

The campaign further supports Main Street organizations’ efforts by providing an opportunity for visitors to experience the vibrancy of each downtown district. Not only that, but the initiative also contributes to economic development by boosting local spending and promoting downtown businesses.

Downtown Businesses Benefit

An emphasis on shopping local was fundamental in the creation of the campaign, as locally-owned businesses are the heart of thriving downtown districts. According to American Express, 67 cents of every dollar spent at local small businesses stays within the local economy. The ‘Shop Small IN Indiana’ initiative provides the perfect opportunity for customers to complete holiday shopping while simultaneously giving back to local communities.

Even though some of the destinations may be further away, several businesses have an online presence with the ability to ship products to customers. This means if you find a new favorite business while visiting all 12 locations, you can maintain that connection and continue to receive the products you love. The overall intention is that businesses within participating Main Street communities will get to welcome new visitors who one day may become loyal customers.