Ruth I. Kolpin Family Fund awards grants totaling over $110,000
CARTHAGE, Mo – The Carthage Community Foundation is pleased to announce that eight local organizations have been awarded a total of $110,926 through the Ruth I. Kolpin Family Fund, a charitable fund established to support meaningful projects that benefit Carthage and surrounding communities.
The Foundation, along with representatives from the Ruth I. Kolpin Family Fund—Ron Peterson Sr. and Ron Peterson Jr.—celebrated these impactful investments with a Grants Luncheon held on May 16, where the 2025 grant recipients were formally honored and recognized.
2025 Ruth I. Kolpin Family Fund Grants:
Kansas City University – KCU Community Smiles: $25,000 to support access to oral health care for underserved populations in the Joplin area.
Mercy Health Foundation Southwest Missouri/Kansas – Pediatric Physical Therapy Refresh (PPTR): Keeping PT Access for Kids in Carthage: $25,000 to update pediatric physical therapy spaces and equipment, ensuring continued access for local children.
Carthage Historic Preservation – Phelps House Restoration: $7,060 to repair and restore the porch, Porte cochere ceiling, soƯits, fascia, and first-floor window trim of the historic Phelps House.
Boots Court Foundation – Motel Preservation Project: $20,000 to support continued preservation work at the iconic Boots Court Motel, a landmark of Carthage history.
Joplin Area Catholic Schools – Technology Infrastructure Update: $17,216 to modernize infrastructure and upgrade servers, improving educational technology and learning environments.
American Red Cross – Disaster Financial Assistance: $7,000 to provide direct financial relief to families impacted by local disasters.
Vision Carthage – 2025 Athena Leadership Award: $1,650 to support the annual award recognizing exceptional women leaders in the Carthage community.
Economic Security Corporation of Southwest Area – Community Action Ride System (CARS): $7,000 to improve access to transportation for low-income individuals and families through the expansion of community ride services.
The Ruth I. Kolpin Family Fund, managed by the Carthage Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, honors the legacy of Ruth I. Kolpin by supporting projects that promote education, health, preservation, and civic leadership.
Grants from this fund are designed to make a lasting impact on Carthage and surrounding areas through thoughtful, strategic giving.
“The generosity of the Kolpin family continues to create meaningful change throughout our community,” said John Nicholas, President of the Carthage Community Foundation. “These grants reflect a commitment to honoring the past while building for the future.”