Martin County Alliance for Economic Growth Inc. Awarded $10,000 Grant to Enhance Loogootee Senior Center

Martin County, IN – [June 18,2025] — The Martin County Alliance for Economic Growth Inc. is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the Martin County Community Foundation to support enhancements at the Loogootee Senior Center. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Martin County Alliance, the City of Loogootee, and the Martin County Council on Aging.

The Martin County Alliance secured the funding to improve the Senior Center’s facility, which is owned by the City of Loogootee and where programming is managed by the Martin County Council on Aging. With nearly 20% of Martin County’s population aged 65 and older, this project represents a critical quality-of-life investment for the community’s seniors.

“These enhancements not only provide a welcoming and accessible space for our seniors but also reflect our commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive community where generations can thrive,” said Jessica Potts of the Martin County Alliance. “Investing in our seniors is investing in the foundation of our County.”

Last month, the Martin County Alliance partnered with Loogootee High School senior Ella Parker to paint a mural on the Senior Center wall during the school’s Community Service Day. Research shows that integrating art into community spaces can significantly improve mental health, reduce feelings of isolation, and enhance cognitive function among older adults, contributing to a more vibrant and engaging environment.

Looking ahead, the Martin County Alliance hopes to deepen its partnership with the City of Loogootee and the Martin County Council on Aging by involving local high school students in Project Based Learning (PBL) activities at the Senior Center. PBL is an educational approach that encourages students to actively engage in real-world projects, tackling complex questions and challenges.

“We feel that bringing the younger generation and our future community leaders into the conversation now is essential,” added Potts. “Their fresh perspectives, creativity, and tech savviness offer innovative solutions that can drive real, lasting change. Not to mention, we are empowering youth to participate, building a stronger, more resilient community prepared for the future.”

This project exemplifies the shared dedication of the Martin County Alliance, the City of Loogootee, and the Martin County Council on Aging to enhance the quality of life for all residents by creating spaces where community members of all ages can connect, learn, and grow.