TMCS Reflects on year of service, community programs and local traditions

Tipp Monroe Community Services (TMCS) spent 2025 strengthening community connections through a wide range of social service, educational, recreational and cultural programs for residents of Tipp City and Monroe Township.

Throughout the year, TMCS relied on partnerships with local organizations, volunteers and donors to provide programs addressing basic needs, lifelong learning, recreation and community traditions.

One of the organization’s largest fundraisers, the Enchanted Fairy Garden Purse Auction and Luncheon, was held in March at the Tipp City Global Methodist Church. The event featured live and silent purse auctions, raffles, a boutique, door prizes and a luncheon, along with a table-decorating contest. Proceeds supported TMCS’s Lunch On Us program, a summer meals initiative that would otherwise cost the organization about $55,000 annually. A total of $19,770 was raised in 2025 to support the program.

The Lunch On Us program continued as a cornerstone of TMCS services, providing 6020 free, nutritious meals to local children during the summer months. Meals were distributed weekdays at the Tipp City Global Methodist Church, with delivery routes available for children unable to travel to the site. Weekend bags were also provided to approximately 240 children. 

TMCS also coordinated the annual School Supplies for Kids drive near the end of summer, with local businesses serving as collection points for donated backpacks and school supplies prior to distribution to families.

During the school year, TMCS partnered with Tipp City Schools to operate the Backpack Program, which provides weekend nutrition support to students at no cost to families. Each Friday, participating students receive a bag containing enough nonperishable food for two breakfasts, two lunches, six snacks and two dinners. By the end of 2025, more than 1,000 bags were delivered over the course of the year to help ensure consistent access to food during weekends and extended school breaks.

Educational programming remained a focus in 2025. TMCS continued its long-standing Camp Kern experience for Tipp City fifth graders, offering a two-day outdoor education program centered on science, social studies and group skills. A total of 117 students participated in the camp. 

Summer learning opportunities included Vacation at the Park, a seven-week program for children ages 4 to 8 held at the Tipp City Park Roundhouse. The program combined active play, crafts, games and hands-on learning, along with visits from community organizations and weekly activities supported by local businesses.

Year-round enrichment opportunities were offered for both children and adults. Students participated in ACT test preparation and youth cooking classes, while adult programs included sourdough bread workshops, wine-tasting classes and reflexology sessions.

TMCS also supported arts and culture through programs housed under its umbrella, including the Tippecanoe Community Band. The band includes about 60 musicians and was formed in 1980 with eight members. Led by director Gail Ahmed since its founding, the band has been part of TMCS for more than 45 years and presents regular concerts throughout the year.

Community events brought residents together throughout the year, including the Annual Community-Wide Garage Sale and the Halloween Spooktacular. The garage sale is held on the first Saturday in May. The official 2025 map included listings for 130 sales. The Halloween event featured a parade through downtown Tipp City, led by a Tipp City Police vehicle and members of the Tippecanoe High School Marching Band in costume, along with games and a costume-judging contest that drew about 150 children.

Recreation and wellness programming included spring and fall NFL FLAG Football leagues, girls’ recreational volleyball, youth basketball, middle school tennis and beginner tennis classes offered in partnership with Schroeder Tennis Center. Adult and youth fitness opportunities included Functional Pilates, Taekwondo and the Tipp City Sneakers walking challenge.

The annual Run for the Mums 5K, held during the Tipp City Mum Festival weekend in September, drew 309 runners and walkers and remains TMCS’s largest annual source of income dedicated to supporting youth recreation programs. Proceeds from the event help ensure programs remain affordable and accessible for families.

During the holiday season, TMCS hosted its annual Holiday Gift Giving Program. In 2025, the program assisted 30 families, providing gifts for 68 children through confidential appointments and community donations. TMCS also welcomed more than 125 children and their families to Broadway Elementary School for the Visit with Santa event, which featured a festive morning of games, crafts, music, face painting, balloon art, and photos with Santa. Admission donations of food, toys, and cash supported the Needy Basket program.

“As we look back on 2025, we are incredibly grateful for the volunteers, donors, and community partners who made these programs possible,” said Kathy Taylor, director of Tipp Monroe Community Services. “Their continued support allows us to meet real needs, bring people together, and create meaningful opportunities for families throughout Tipp City and Monroe Township.”

TMCS plans to continue building on these efforts in 2026 by expanding programs that support families, encourage healthy lifestyles and strengthen community traditions. With continued support from volunteers, donors and community partners, the organization remains committed to meeting local needs and enhancing quality of life throughout Tipp City and Monroe Township.