Accomplishments of 2024

Fundraising

Columbus In Action was the beneficiary of the 2024 Taste of Columbus. This is an annual fundraising event hosted by the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce and a non-profit organization the Chamber selects each year. Proceeds raised from the wine/beer-tasting and auction event are split between the Chamber and the beneficiary. Due to the innovative ideas of our board directors and original CIA founders (Scott and Pat Mueller) , the event raised the most money ever raised - $92,000 total (to be split between the two).

In 2024 Columbus In Action brought innovative ideas to the yearly fundraiser by changing the location, date, and adding a Farm to Table meal, entertainment, and much more.

Columbus In Action also hosted a Vendor Fair, and an open to the public Chili-Cookoff.

Theater Project

This is a special initiative under the umbrella of the CIA. Scott Mueller, Project Chair, is working to develop a plan for funding the theatre's refurbishment. The Theater Committee worked with Strawhecker Non-Profit Services to develop a feasibility study. The committee also worked with NPPD to complete an economic study. The Capital Campaign is actively being developed. This will continue to be a major initiative in 2025 and updates will be presented when available.

Collaboration

Columbus In Action also strives to collaborate with other community entities. Columbus In Action worked collectively with the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce and Central Community College Entrepreneurship Center to host 12 monthly Networking Nights. Columbus In Action is also a primary sponsor of CCC's Annual Big Idea which supports new businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs. Columbus In Action has also supported other non-profits by sponsoring fundraising events at the Innovation Center.

Innovation

Columbus In Action transitioned the Innovation Center to a rental space for corporations, families, parties, events, and so much more. Columbus In Action hosted 69 events outside of it's own as the need for venue space in Columbus increases. Columbus In Action hosted it's first pickleball tournament at the pickleball courts outside the Innovation Center in the spring. The group continued to provide the Bikeshare Program in collaboration with Columbus Community Hospital to the community.

Operations

In 2024 Columbus In Action hired it's first employee. Nicolette Coble was hired as the Executive Director. Columbus In Action also introduced a brand new website, and worked to continue updating the public through social media of upcoming events and collaboration with other entities.