The Helen Riggs Memorial Music Fund, managed by the Vermillion County Community Foundation, has kicked off 2026 by providing a $1,000 donation to enhance the North Vermillion Elementary School Music Program.
Colleen Leto, music teacher at North Vermillion Elementary School, shared her intention to use the funds to add to the school’s music library, including band and choral repertoire, and to update and add classroom instruments.
According to Dale White, CEO of the Community Foundation, “The establishment of this memorial fund can be credited to a generous contribution from John and Dolores Brown, along with additional support from friends, neighbors, relatives, and former students. Established in 2012, the fund aims to honor Mrs. Riggs for her lifelong dedication to infusing music into both school and community life. Helen Riggs, who taught for 38 years, not only inspired students but also financially supported the school’s outstanding music programs.”
This donation is presented in celebration of the 112th anniversary of Helen Riggs’ birth, which falls on January 14, 2026, and continues her lasting legacy of music education in the community.
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Vermillion County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Western Indiana Community Foundation, is a not-for-profit public charity established in 1996 to serve donors, award grants and scholarships, and provide leadership to improve all of Vermillion County.
Pictured: Jeff Clark, Board Member – Vermillion County Community Foundation; Kara Porter, Principal – North Vermillion Elementary School; Colleen Leto, Music Teacher – North Vermillion Elementary School; Kay Hicks, Board Member – Vermillion County Community Foundation
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