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Community Enrichment Corporation reports awarding grants to 48 projects from Blue Chip proceeds
Summary
Ron Miller told council the Community Enrichment Corporation received 68 applications for funding this cycle, distributed $650,000 in grants (about $620,500 awarded after expenses), and required first-time applicants to accept $3,000 awards to build capacity and demonstrate compliance.
Ron Miller, president of the Community Enrichment Corporation, presented the board’s 2026 annual report to the Michigan City Common Council on Feb. 17, outlining how the casino-funded program distributes community grants.
Miller said Blue Chip provides $750,000 each year to the Richmond/Community Enrichment fund; $100,000 of that is allocated to the Washington Park Zoo and the remaining $650,000 is awarded to nonprofit projects within the Michigan City school-area boundaries. The board received 68 applications this cycle and funded 48 projects; eight recipients were getting funding for the first time. Miller said first-time applicants are typically limited to $3,000 to establish a relationship and ensure proper use of funds.
Miller described the board’s review process: nine volunteer board members individually scored every application, those scores were averaged and the board worked down the prioritized list until funds were exhausted. He said the total awarded was about $620,500 after reserving a small expense cushion. The board requires biannual reporting from awardees and holds workshops to assist applicants.
Council members thanked Miller and recommended reappointment of a board member who is mid-term; Miller encouraged continued collaboration and said the board will review its application process during the off months.
