November 19, 2019 –Indiana Youth Institute has announced that the 1:1 Fund will match gifts made to the Randolph County Promise Community Fund on Giving Tuesday, which is December 3, 2019. For one day only, donations will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $500 per donor. Participating counties may earn up to $3,500 in matching funds. Contributions are tax-deductible and can be made online at www.randolphcountyfoundation.org or in person at the Community Foundation of Randolph County. Checks can be mailed but will only be matched if they reach the Community Foundation on or before December 3. The address is 120 West Washington Street in Winchester. Online donations will only be matched if they are made on December 3, 2019. Donations made to individual student accounts are not eligible for a match. Please contact the Community Foundation of Randolph County at 584.9077 for more information.
Randolph County Promise encourages third-grade students and their families to begin thinking about and saving for education beyond high school by helping them open 529 College Choice Direct savings accounts. The accounts may be used for vocational training or college. As Convener and Fiscal Agent for the program, The Community Foundation provides an initial deposit of $25 for each participating student and provides matching dollars if students add to their fund during Champion Week. The Community Foundation also provides additional opportunities for students to earn money for their accounts by completing reading logs or doing service in their communities.
Studies show that students with a balance of between $1 and $499 are three times more likely to attend college and four and a half times more likely to graduate from college than similar youth without an account. Yet, only 11.7% of Indiana youth under the age of 18 have a 529 savings account and are saving for their future. “This program gives Randolph County students and their families hope for the future,” explained Community Foundation Program Director, Stephanie Ward. “On November 28, we will give thanks and on December 3, we will give back. Please help us kick off the giving season and make a difference by having your donation matched.”