2014
ROSE
SCHILMILLER
Caesars Foundation
program director
While Rose Schilmiller’s role at the Caesars Foun-
dation hasn’t changed since first being recognized, the
organization’s footprint in the surrounding community
has certainly become more prominent.
Schilmiller and Jerry Finn are the only two employ-
ees of the Caesars Foundation, which facilitates a
number of philanthropic initiatives in Floyd County.
On any given day, she said she could do simple organi-
zational tasks like paying the bills, while different days
could involve focusing on some of her pet projects.
To Schilmiller, one of the most fulfilling aspects of
her work is the scholarship program.
“That’s the most rewarding thing,” she said. “It’s
seeing these kids graduate and knowing how hard they
work. I think I’m proud of the fact that we give so
much flexibility in how we can help them out. That’s
unique to our scholarship. There aren’t really hard and
fast rules of how they have to utilize them. It’s really
tailored to them.”
Scholarships have been handed out since the
foundation’s inception in the early 2000s. In the 11
years she’s been involved, Schilmiller estimated that
roughly 50 students in Floyd County have received
scholarships.
Other initiatives taken on by the foundation include
revolving loans for small businesses, historic preserva-
tion and community art installations.
“It’s a little different than something like helping
with a soup kitchen,” she said. “The foundation is
really dynamic in trying to make this community a
great place to live and educate our kids.”
The foundation gives Schilmiller an outlet to find
creative solutions to problems. Though she has the
same title and is mostly performing the same func-
tions, the scope of her work is constantly changing.
“Every day is different, so you don’t get stuck in a
rut,” she said. “The needs of the community change
all the time... My role is to make the connections and
make things happens. There’s so many opportunities,
and I think that does help to make sure there’s no moss
growing.”
Now that the coronavirus pandemic has made its
way to Southern Indiana, the Caesars Foundation has
had to shift how it would normally give back to the
community. So far, it has launched a $50,000 forgiv-
able loan for small local businesses taking a hit due to
shutdowns.
Money that would have otherwise gone toward
the spring grant cycle has been allocated to become
more flexible to meet needs stemming from the pan-
demic as they arise. One example is the funding of the
YMCA to provide a daycare for children of healthcare
workers.
As the situation unfolds, more help will be given,
and Schilmiller looks forward to contributing in any
way she can.
“I really love my job,” she said. “I’m proud of our
organization. I’m happy to be where I am.”
May / June 2020
21