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I n community development, education and religion – the three causes the Endowment was established to support – we seek to identify experienced organizations and emerging efforts that have the potential to address effectively important challenges and needs. We then help the organizations realize this potential by providing funding, consulting and technical assistance, research and evaluation support, and connections to other organizations with relevant aims and experience. In all cases, we strive to keep foremost in mind the impact these organizations have and will have on the individuals, families and communities they seek to serve.

Where We Work

Much of our grantmaking reflects our founders’ commitment to their hometown, Indianapolis, and their home state of Indiana. We also make substantial contributions to various efforts of national significance, especially in the field of religion. Outside the field of religion on an invitational basis, we support programs that enhance higher education opportunities for African-Americans, Native Americans and Latino Americans throughout the country. We also support key organizations in the nation’s philanthropic infrastructure and selected research and educational programs important to the advancement of giving and volunteering. Additionally, we fund by invitation disaster relief and recovery efforts and public policy organizations throughout the country.

Our Work

We generally consider proposals in three areas of interest: community development, education and religion. We also pursue initiatives that benefit youth and that promote the causes of philanthropy and volunteerism.

Community Development
In community development, we support efforts that seek to enhance the quality of life for everyone in Indianapolis and Indiana. We also provide funding for compelling causes throughout the country that are consistent with the values and interests of our founders.
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Education and Youth
In education, we strive to help enhance and increase educational attainment and meaningful economic opportunities for the people of Indiana and build the state’s intellectual capital. We also support youth programs in Indiana that help all young people reach their full potential.
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Religion
In religion, we seek to deepen and enrich the lives of Christians in the United States, primarily by supporting efforts that enhance the vitality of congregations and strengthen the pastoral and lay leadership of Christian communities. The Endowment also seeks to improve public understanding of diverse religious traditions by supporting fair and accurate portrayals of the role religion plays in the United States and across the globe.
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Open Initiatives
These Endowment initiatives are open to eligible organizations that support work within one of the Endowment’s three main areas of focus: community development, religion and education and youth. Eligibility, deadlines and submission guidelines vary, please review the initiatives' Request for Proposals for specific details related to each.
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