G. Martin Kenney Memorial Fund

The G. Martin Kenney Fund was established in 1995 to provide support for charitable organizations serving citizens in the City of Ligonier and St. Patrick Catholic Church in Ligonier.

Guidelines

The fund supports projects that benefit the residents of Ligonier and St. Patrick Catholic Church. This includes efforts to meet community needs, promote volunteer involvement, encourage collaboration, and strengthen the organizations that serve the community. Proposals are not limited to specific types of projects, and applicants are encouraged to submit creative ideas that address emerging needs in the area.

Deadlines

Applications must be submitted via the online system by March 2, July 2, and November 2.

Click to Apply

How to Apply

Grant seekers are encouraged to contact the Community Foundation’s Director of Community Engagement and Leadership to discuss their grant proposal before submitting a formal application. To apply, review the grant application guidelines and submit your application online via the CFNC Grant Portal.

Geographic Area We Serve

The fund serves Ligonier, Indiana.

Questions?

For further assistance, contact Jazmín Herrera, MNA, Director of Community Engagement and Leadership, at Jazmin@CFNoble.org or 260-894-3335, or Caroline Sizelove, Program/Office Assistant, at Caroline@CFNoble.org or 260-894-3335.

About G. Martin Kenney

“Who is G. Martin Kenney?” This question has intrigued Ligonier residents for decades. Today, we have found answers.

George Martin Kenney, born in 1905 to Henry D. Kenney and Mary Leora Kenney (Gafney), was the youngest of three children, including his sister Gertrude and brother John. His mother was a teacher, and his father was a successful farmer and businessman. None of the Kenney children married or had children of their own. Around 1920, the family moved to Mansfield, Ohio, where Martin attended St. Peter’s Catholic School. During his school years, he was active in theater arts and Scouts, later becoming an Assistant Scoutmaster for Mansfield’s Troop 3.

After high school, Martin attended St. Joseph’s College in Indiana, where he remained involved in Scouts, theater, and the Literature Society. After graduating, Martin worked for the Ohio Public Service Company, frequently traveling for business. He also became a Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus, a prestigious Catholic brotherhood.

While Martin’s connection to Ligonier remains unclear, his actions reflect his generous and philanthropic nature. Newspaper articles highlight his commitment to helping others, including ensuring the return of a lost pocketbook to its owner. Martin eventually became disabled, though it is unclear if this was related to a car accident he survived with his father.

Martin Kenney passed away in 1968 at the age of 63. At the time of his passing, he requested to be buried in Ligonier, Indiana, leaving a legacy of generosity and commitment to the community.