A community doesn’t “just happen” and New Albany is proof. We’re joined by Craig Mohre from the New Albany Community Foundation for a behind-the-scenes look at how local philanthropy, smart planning, and relentless collaboration turn big ideas into places people actually use. We start with what’s coming up around town, from school theatre at the McCoy to the New Albany Symphony featuring Renée Fleming, plus a civil discourse and debate night pairing James Carville with Reince Priebus and a mental health talk featuring Christian Slater.

Then we get into the foundation story. Craig shares how he landed in New Albany, how the foundation grew from a plan on paper into a community catalyst, and why the first “swing” was a library. You’ll hear how raising $1 million helped unlock a Columbus Metropolitan Library branch, why David McCullough became such a powerful advocate, and how putting civic anchors in the town center creates the foot traffic and shared pride many suburbs never find.

We also break down what the New Albany Community Foundation does today: twice-yearly community grants, more than 90 endowment funds, and over $25 million granted out to local nonprofits. Craig highlights programs many residents benefit from without realizing the foundation’s role, like Safety Town, author residencies in the schools, support for Healthy New Albany and the farmers market, and even a denim drive that turns old jeans into donations and recycled insulation. Finally, we look ahead to new priorities like environmental stewardship and what it takes to keep a growing city feeling connected.

If you care about New Albany, Ohio, community grants, the arts, education, mental health, or sustainability, this one will give you practical insight and plenty of hope. Subscribe, share this with a neighbor, and leave a review with one idea you want to see New Albany pursue next.

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