Local tourism, arts groups receive COVID-19 grant funds

Bartholomew County organizations are receiving nearly a quarter of a million dollars in grants to help them recover from COVID-19.

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch announced recently that 479 organizations statewide are receiving shares of $10 million through the Arts, Cultural and Destination Marketing Organization grant program. The grant program is a partnership between the Destination Development Corporation and the Indiana Arts Commission. It is meant to provide operational support to local organizations that saw disruptions due to the pandemic.

Crouch said that organizations all enhance the quality of life in Indiana. Award amounts were determined by a formula which included factors for budget size, previous amounts of CARES Act funding received and amount of eligible expenses,

The biggest local recipients are the Columbus Area Visitors Center and Exhibit Columbus which both are receiving $49,061. Columbus Area Arts Council, Kidscommons and YES Cinema are all receiving $26,033.

Other Bartholomew County recipients include:

  • Bartholomew County Historical Society and Dancers Studio Inc. $19,480
  • Bartholomew County 4-H Fair $12,944
  • Su Casa $8,601
  • Columbus Symphony Orchestra $7,063
  • Just Friends $4,815.8