You can have a face-to-face conversation with any of us at a moment’s notice.
We know South Madison. It’s our business to know which organizations are providing what services to which groups within our communities — and to help them do the best they can.
We are part of an honored tradition. The foundation was begun by a handful of civic leaders who had a vision for their community’s future. Today, we reap the benefits of the tradition they began, and in turn, it is our responsibility to set the stage for tomorrow’s bright future.
We are committed to stewardship. We comply with stringent national standards. We engage in regular training and development, both in regular meetings and through partnership with the Lilly Endowment, Indiana Philanthropy Alliance, and Council on Foundations.
Learn More about SMCF
Betsy Allen, President
Following in her father's footsteps, Betsy is a second generation Foundation Board member. She was born and raised in Pendleton, where she is now working and raising her own family. She is creating a life filled with community involvement and enrichment. Her goal is to have an impact on the community in which her children are raised so they can enjoy wonderful opportunities like she did. Betsy and family spend their free time at the pool and lake with family and look forward to annual family vacations.
Amy Turner, Vice President
Amy Turner is a business owner who loves to unwind in the great outdoors- camping and traveling while keeping her home and business grounded in South Madison County. She sees an excellent quality of life and boundless opportunity in the local community and wants to help others get connected and engaged in the local amenities she knows so well. Always willing to learn more and pitch in to help a community project succeed, Amy has served on Pendleton’s Bicentennial Committee, helped create a local volunteer fair and has served on the Foundation’s grant committee.
Rachel Christenson, Treasurer
In her career as a community planner, Rachel helped Pendleton secure nearly $7 million in state and federal grants. She guided the town's comprehensive plan and plans for bikes/pedestrians, downtown revitalization, parks and more. Rachel is a Ball State graduate who's certified by the American Institute of Certified Planners. She's also a graduate of the Leadership Academy of Madison County and was selected to The Herald Bulletin's 20 Under 40 in 2017. Current and past board service includes the Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau and Main Street Pendleton. When Rachel moved to Pendleton for its character, sense of place, historic feel and Falls Park, she told her family, "I want to work for this town one day."
Connie Rector, Secretary
Connie is a long-tenured business owner, a yoga instructor, an artist, teacher, environmentalist, and volunteer for many community organizations. She has long admired the Foundation’s work in the community and is honored to represent the organization as a member of the Board.
Andrea Baldwin
Andrea returned to her hometown in 2019 and immediately got involved with the Plan Commission and the Lapel Community Association so she could serve her community and see it thrive. Andrea is married to Gary and has two adult children. She loves to spend time watching her two grandsons participate in sports and cattle shows.
Joe Bastin
Joe Bastin moved into a house in downtown Pendleton as a temporary short term stop and still calls that place home nearly a decade later. He believes that there is just something magnetic about Pendleton that grabs you and holds on. Joe is a full-time professional beekeeper, maintaining over 1,200 colonies on his family farm. Joe also manages Indiana’s largest beekeeping supply store. Joe and his family love camping, kayaking, and hanging out with friends in the back yard.
Lori Brand
Lori Brand teaches Kindergarten in South Madison Community School Corporation. A graduate of Ball State University, she's been a Pendleton resident for 25 years. A mother of two, Lori enjoys spending time with family and friends. She looks forward to serving the community foundation because of her desire to help the youth of South Madison County now and on into their adulthood and beyond.
Mark Dudley
Judge Mark Dudley lives in rural Madison County. He is the father of six daughters. Recognizing the importance of parental involvement, Mark volunteers for team concession stands, mows the Pendleton Heights High School Cross Country course, times swim meets, and participates in several running road races with his family every year.
Amy Gwinn
Amy continues her mother’s passion for the South Madison community as a second generation board member and a 7th generation grain farmer in Adams and Stony Creek Township. She holds a leadership role with a crop protection and seed company headquartered in Indianapolis. Amy graduated from Purdue University and University of Illinois with degrees in Agricultural Finance. In addition to farming, Amy enjoys basketball, gardening, tailoring and shooting sports. Amy serves on numerous United Way committees, Lapel Trinity United Methodist Church Council, and local 4-H and FFA activities.
Sara Hauser
Sara Hauser has been a Pendleton resident since 2006 and chose to make it her home and raise her family in South Madison County because of the vibrant community life. Sara is a teacher, former children's programmer at the library, and a mom to two amazing kids. When not working or serving on the board, she likes to travel with her family. The Hausers are often off on an adventure in their camper or making great memories on the trails. When at home, Sara likes to pass her time reading, crafting, or being outside with her family and their neighbors.
Dustin Pennington
Dustin Pennington is a Certified Financial Planner who brings financial management and wealth transfer experience to the Board of Directors, where he is interested in helping others fulfill a legacy that lasts beyond their lifetime. He is involved with the Pendleton Business Association, Ovid Community Church, and the Pendleton Lions Club, where he helps run the annual Fishing Derby and June Jamboree. Dustin and wife Amanda enjoy travel, camping, helping their children with sports, and living in a small town with character.
