A new chapter in Kosciusko County’s development story begins today with the launch of the Community Amenities Program (CAP) — a $5 million grant initiative designed to fund transformational public projects that enhance quality of life in towns across the county.
Established through the Orthopedic Industry Retention Initiative (OIRI) and managed by the K21 Health Foundation, CAP is a strategic investment in the places that is designed to bring communities together through things like parks, trails, gathering spaces, community centers and other public amenities that strengthen connection, well-being and hometown pride, according to a provided news release.
“The biggest impact of the CAP program is really to change the quality of life and quality of place opportunities for the whole county,” said Rich Haddad, president and CEO of K21 Health Foundation. “Kosciusko is an incredible place to live, work and play. This program allows every community, no matter its size, to grow into the kind of place people want to call home.”
The CAP program is open to municipalities, 501(c)(3) nonprofits and school systems across Kosciusko County, with priority given to projects outside of the Warsaw and Winona Lake areas. Grants will cover up to 50% of project costs, with a maximum award of $500,000 per project. The program is expected to catalyze more than $10 million in total investment through public-private matching.
Kosciusko County Community Coordinator Amy Roe, who works closely with the county’s smaller towns, says the excitement is already building.
“These communities have their own unique character, and they’re energized by this opportunity. For many of them, this is a chance to pursue projects they’ve dreamed about for years,” said Roe. “The CAP program sends a clear message: Every town in Kosciusko County matters, and each one has a role to play in our shared future.”
CAP emerged as part of a broader effort to retain and attract talent to the region, particularly in support of the orthopedic industry. But local leaders made it clear that the benefits should extend far beyond a single sector.
“If the orthopedic industry wins, every industry wins,” said Haddad. “And when people live in places they love, where they feel connected, active, and engaged — everyone benefits.”
To apply for CAP funding, eligible organizations must complete a Letter of Intent (LOI) through the K21 Health Foundation portal, linked on the ALL IN Kosciusko website at allinkosciusko.com. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed by a grant committee made up of community leaders from across the county.
“No one has to do this alone,” said Roe. “We’re ready to help communities build strong applications, connect with resources, and turn their ideas into real impact.”
As the program launches, Haddad and Roe sat down for the latest ALL IN Kosciusko podcast episode to share the full story behind CAP, how the process works, and what this investment could mean for the future of the county.
Listen to the Podcast: Episode 2 is now streaming on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and at www.AllInKosciusko.com