The Bright Future of Origin Park Programming
Origin Park is expanding free, nature-based educational programming in 2026 thanks to new and continued support from the CenterPoint Energy Foundation and the Caesars Foundation of Floyd County. The two foundations have provided a combined $ 19,000 to broaden equitable access to hands-on learning for youth and families across Southern Indiana.
CenterPoint Energy Foundation’ s latest $ 10,000 award builds on its 2024 investment that created the popular community picnic area and outdoor classroom at Buttonbush Woods. The Caesars Foundation’ s $ 9,000 grant continues its commitment to enhancing educational and recreational opportunities in Floyd County.
With this support, RHC will partner with local educators, nonprofit leaders, and cultural experts to offer at least 24 free workshops in 2026, advancing environmental literacy, STEM learning, and community connection. More than 600 participants are expected to take part.
“ Both foundations’ continued investment is helping us connect hundreds of learners to science, nature, and one another,” said Dennis Schnurbusch II, CEO of RHC.
Team Adventure Day at Charlestown State Park
This past October, the River Heritage Conservancy Team traded their desks for trails and spent a day immersed in the crisp air, vibrant colors, and rich history of Charlestown State Park. Guided by the incredible Interpretive Naturalist, Jeremy Beavin, the team explored the park with fresh eyes and curious minds.
From uncovering the fascinating history of Rose Island to learning about the park’ s ecological restoration and invasive species management efforts, every step offered a new insight. The team also got a sneak peek at the early preservation work being done on a historic Ranney Well, an inspiring reminder of the importance of conserving both nature and history.