About Us - Fort Wayne Trails

Fort Wayne Trails, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Our mission is to be a partner with communities throughout Allen County, Indiana, to promote the equitable development, and maintenance of trails. We advocate for a safe, accessible trail system that improves the quality of life, encourages economic development, and connects county residents to their neighbors, nature, workplaces, schools, and other community assets.

Contact us at:

Fort Wayne Trails, Inc.
300 E. Main Street, Suite 131
Fort Wayne, IN 46802

Phone: 260-969-0079
Email: [email protected]

Kent Castleman, Executive Director

Kent has spent the last 20+ years of his career in nonprofit executive management driving visioning, strategic planning, leadership, organizational effectiveness, and fund development strategy. Kent was the Executive Director of Fort Wayne Trails from 2016-2019 and returned to lead the organization again in May 2024. Most recently he was the Chief Philanthropy Officer for the Embassy Theatre and prior to that was the Chief Development Officer for Lifeline/Crosswinds, He was the founder/Executive Director of the Cornerstone Youth Center for the first 16 years of his career. Kent holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Indiana University, Fort Wayne, and is currently working on his Master’s Degree in Philanthropic Studies with the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and also holds a Certificate in Fund Raising Management from the school.

Kent provides leadership in nonprofit governance in Allen County. He currently serves on the Allen County Public Library Foundation Board of Trustees and formerly served as the President of the NewAllen Alliance Board and the Allen County Public Library Board of Trustees, appointed by the Allen County Commissioners.

Kent is a 2003 graduate of Leadership Fort Wayne and a 2013 graduate of the Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana Leadership Institute. Kent was honored as the Outstanding Fundraiser of the Year, in 2018 by Northeast Indiana Association of Fundraising Professionals; a Top 50 Outstanding Alumni of the IPFW Doermer School of Business in 2015; recognized as a 2013 FW Business Weekly 40 under 40 and other recognitions.

Kent has a daughter, Ellie, who is a senior in high school and about to move on to her dreams of being
an engineer. She is also an avid diver.

Email Kent – [email protected]

Nicole Funk-Evard, Development Director

Nicole Funk-Evard became the Director of Development of Fort Wayne Trails, Inc. in March of 2024 and has a Certificate in Fundraising Management through the Indiana University Lily School of Philanthropy. Nicole believes in engaging with donors through authentic relationship building and has a proven track record of passionate community impact. She brings a unique blend of strategic thinking and hands-on experience to her role as the Development Director for Fort Wayne Trails.

Nicole is a Fort Wayne native who has also lived in Las Vegas and Chicago. Nicole and her family are passionate about nature, being outdoors, conservation, and living an active, healthy lifestyle. Nicole is excited to leverage her skills and expertise to enhance the impact of Fort Wayne Trails, Inc. and create a lasting legacy of connectivity and vitality for generations to come.

Email Nicole – [email protected]

James Holm, Director of Community Engagement

James joined FWT’s staff in August of 2019. James is a Fort Wayne native with a passion for cycling, running, and all things outdoors. Prior to joining the FWT staff James was a regular partner and collaborator for over 10 years during his time in the cycling industry. James is a KPC “20 Millennials Making A Difference” award winner, YLNI Leadership Institute graduate, and FAA Part 107 licensed drone pilot. James is passionate about the positive growth and progress of Fort Wayne and is proud to be a part of the continued development of the beautiful trail network in Allen County.

Email James – [email protected]

W. Joy Lucas, Administrative Assistant

Joy Lucas joined FWT’s staff in July 2014. She puts her office administrative skills to good use processing donations and providing clerical and event support to the Executive Director, Development Director, and Director of Community Engagement. Joy has worked in or near downtown Fort Wayne for several years serving as a volunteer in the Mentoring Department at Early Childhood Alliance, as an IT Assistant for VBOS Inc., and employee for the Carole Lombard House as a Tour Guide and Registered Food Handler. She also served as the Office Administrator for the Phillips Team Real Estate firm for several years and is a former Beauty Consultant for Merle Norman Luxe Day Spa and Salon.

Joy enjoys working with her husband as a volunteer minister of Jehovah’s Witnesses. They devote about 50 hours a month to Bible educational work. Together they enjoy gardening/landscaping, walking, biking, traveling, and cruising. Her time alone is spent drawing, painting, reading, and writing poetry. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends having coffee or tea and the occasional dinner party in person or via Zoom.

Email Joy – [email protected]