Felix E. Martin Jr. Foundation Awards More Than $1.2 Million in Summer Grants Across Muhlenberg County

MUHLENBERG COUNTY, Ky. — The Felix E. Martin Jr. Foundation has announced more than $1.2 million in new grant awards to support educational, community, and infrastructure projects throughout Muhlenberg County.

Among the largest awards is nearly $200,000 for the Foundation’s postsecondary success initiative, Muhlenberg Achieves. The program is designed to strengthen the county’s future workforce by helping residents pursue degrees, certifications, and other educational opportunities beyond high school. Funding will support college campus tours, FAFSA financial aid workshops, career exploration seminars, and the middle school career readiness program, Ignite, among other initiatives.

The Foundation also awarded $55,000 to support the MCC GED Learn & Earn Program, which provides financial incentives for Muhlenberg County residents working toward their GED. Participants can earn cash rewards for studying, referrals, and successful completion of the exam.

Infrastructure improvements received significant support as well. The Muhlenberg County Fair Board was awarded $100,000 for electrical upgrades and the installation of large industrial fans at the Agriculture & Convention Center. The improvements are expected to allow the facility to be used year-round, including during the summer months.

Education-focused grants included $40,000 to the Muhlenberg County Board of Education to provide funding for Family Resource and Youth Service Centers throughout the district. Additionally, Muhlenberg County High School received a $10,000 matching grant to assist students enrolled in dual-credit courses during the 2026-27 academic year.

A major community investment was also announced for Rocketown, which received a $200,000 challenge grant. The award moves the organization more than halfway toward its fundraising goal to establish a Rocketown youth facility in Muhlenberg County.

In addition to the larger awards, the Foundation distributed $115,000 through its Community Grants program, supporting one-time projects proposed by local nonprofit organizations. Funded projects include the City of Drakesboro Clean-Up Day scheduled for June 20, improvements to the city’s community center, fire safety education programs in local elementary schools, a spay-and-neuter initiative at the Muhlenberg County Humane Society, and youth summer camps and activities organized by the Muhlenberg Arts Council.

The Foundation awards approximately $3 million annually through its various grant programs. Nonprofit organizations serving Muhlenberg County are encouraged to apply for funding for projects that address educational, civic, and cultural needs within the community.

The next grant application deadline is July 27, 2026, with funding decisions expected in August. More information, including grant applications and a complete list of annual funding awards, is available at Felix E. Martin Jr. Foundation. Organizations considering applying are encouraged to contact Director of Grants Meredith Zahirovic to discuss project eligibility and Foundation guidelines.