Neighborhood Grants Fuel Local Events and Community Pride

Written By One Lucky Guitar

The Northside Neighborhood Association brought neighbors together to celebrate its 50th anniversary with its long-running fall concert, an annual tradition made even better through support from a Neighborhood Engagement Grant. The grant, funded through a Special Opportunity Grant from Foellinger Foundation and managed by the City of Fort Wayne’s Department of Neighborhoods, helped the association expand the event’s reach and impact while continuing a beloved neighborhood celebration.

Held over the last weekend in September 2025, the two-day celebration showcased the pride and history of the Northside community. Saturday began with the Home & Garden Tour—a walkthrough of 11 Northside properties—followed by a presentation on the history of Northside by a local historian and author.

“To me, engagement is the beginning of community.”

— Lori Stombaugh, President of Northside Neighborhood Association

The celebration continued Sunday at Lakeside Park with a fall concert showcasing local musical talent. The event featured food trucks, artisan and author booths, children’s activities, and free neighborhood walking tours, creating a lively atmosphere that captured the spirit of community connection.

“I wish every neighborhood had an association, whether big or small. I wish every neighborhood were connected to the City’s Department of Neighborhoods because they're so helpful in learning how to engage your neighbors,” shared Lori Stombaugh, President of Northside Neighborhood Association and resident of the neighborhood for eight years. “Most neighborhoods don't have the money to spend on events. And those grants are key. Every time you can apply, do it.”

Watch our interview with Lori Stombaugh as she shares how the power of connection is bringing her neighborhood closer together.

Supporting Neighborhoods Across Our Community

The Neighborhood Engagement Grants program helps registered neighborhood associations create events and activities that strengthen community connections. Through this partnership, nine Neighborhood Engagement Grants totaling $40,000 were awarded in 2025 to support projects ranging from block parties and educational workshops to neighborhood cleanups and social gatherings.

“Foellinger Foundation is proud to partner with the City of Fort Wayne’s Department of Neighborhoods to support residents and community leaders,” shared Sarah Strimmenos, President and CEO of Foellinger Foundation. “Through our Independence Continuum framework, we look closely at the strength of a person’s or family’s support system—their relatives, neighbors, and friends. The quality and quantity of those relationships can significantly influence their ability to overcome challenges and create opportunities. You can see how strong neighborhoods are vital in helping people move from in-crisis to thriving!”

2025 Neighborhood Engagement Grant Recipients

The recipients were announced on Monday, June 30, 2025. Below is the list of recipients:

  • Beacon Woods Neighborhood

  • Bloomingdale Neighborhood

  • Crestwood Neighborhood

  • Crown Colony

  • East Central Neighborhood

  • Hamilton Neighborhood

  • Harvester Neighborhood

  • Northside Neighborhood

  • Packard Area Planning Alliance

To learn more about Neighborhood Engagement Grants, visit Engage Fort Wayne.

One Lucky Guitar
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