$45,000 goal to receive a matching grant through IHCDA's CreatINg Places program

Valparaiso will soon have a new public art installation if this crowdfunding campaign reaches its goal of raising $45,000, by Oct. 3, 2023. If successful, the project led by the Valparaiso Creative Council will receive a matching grant as part of IHCDA’s CreatINg Places program.

"This proposed sculpture will add beauty and a sense of place to Valparaiso's new skate park," said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana's Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. "It is the latest milestone in a project that has been a point of passion in this community, and we are thrilled to see continued investment in the future of Valparaiso."

Funds from this campaign will be used to support a local artist with the building, installation, lighting and celebration of a new sculpture at Flounder & Friends Skate Park.

"The Valparaiso Creative Council is honored to feature a local sculptor to enhance the new Flounder & Friends Skatepark," said Stephanie Swearington, Valparaiso Creative Council President. "Our #ARTinthePARK campaign has allowed us to be creative in our fundraising efforts and we are excited to utilize this unique platform. It is a great way for our supporters to make a larger impact by having their donations doubled through the matching funds."

Since the CreatINg Places program began in 2016, projects have raised more than $8.9 million in public funds and an additional $7.3 million in matching IHCDA funds. The program is available to projects located in Indiana communities. Non-profit entities (with 501c3 or 501c4 status) and local units of government are eligible to apply. Eligible projects must have a minimum total development cost of $10,000, where the recipient will receive $5,000 in IHCDA matching funds should it successfully raise $5,000 through Patronicity. IHCDA will provide matching grant funds up to $50,000 per project.