America 250 in Marion, Ohio
June 2025 — America turns 250 years old in 2026 and there is a nationwide effort underway to celebrate this milestone. The America 250-Ohio Commission, a bipartisan commission established through the state legislature, has a mission to plan, encourage, develop, and coordinate the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and the impact of Ohioans on the nation’s past, present, and future.
In 2026, the America 250-Ohio Commission has plans to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States by exploring all the ways in which Ohio has contributed to U.S. history for 250+ years. Each month throughout 2026, the focus will be on a different theme that reflects Ohio’s unique impact. For more information, visit www.amerca250-ohio.org.
Marion Steering Committee:
- Marion’s America 250 Steering Committee includes: Mike Augenstein, Mike Bodine, Kathleen Clemons-Keller, Bill Collins, Mark Davis, Sherry Hall, Heidi Jones. Kate McCleese, Wendy Peirie, Diane Watson, Wendy Weichenthal, Valerie Wigton, Allen Wilson, Brandi Wilson, and Randy Winland.
- Several months of planning have already been invested. The launch event, held April 30 at the Harding Presidential Sites, was attended by representatives of 65 Marion organizations.
- The America 250 grants program accepted applications May 9-June 2, 2025. Awards are expected to be announced on Labor Day, September 1, 2025.
Goals for Marion:
- Build on the community pride efforts like MarionMade! and Love Your City by highlighting and celebrating Marion’s past, present, and future.
- Grow community engagement by including all types of organizations and groups – museums, history, arts, culture, industries, and people.
- Increase education by highlighting under-told stories of people who are less well-known and engaging youth and lifelong learners with educational touchpoints.
- Market Marion as a destination community for those celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. As America’s Workforce Development Capital, promote Marion as the place to build your business and grow your family.
Funding:
With funding from Marion Community Foundation, matching grants, local corporate sponsorships and numerous donations, $75,000 is available for America 250 programs and events in Marion.
Next Steps:
The Steering Committee has done advance planning for the first half of 2026 and meets regularly to focus on the monthly themes, gather stories of Marion’s contributions, and coordinate with local organizations for events, especially during the key months of April, May, and June. The focal point of the year will be the July 2026 Homecoming Picnic at the Harding Presidential Site.
