Community Development

In community development, we support efforts that seek to enhance the quality of life for everyone in Indianapolis and Indiana. This support is rooted in our founders’ commitment to their hometown. “All of us Lillys put together have never done as much for Indianapolis as Indianapolis has done for us,” Eli Lilly wrote in 1974. That commitment has extended across the state through grantmaking that supports Indiana’s community foundations and United Ways. We also provide funding for compelling causes throughout the country that are consistent with the values and interests of our founders.

“After roughly three years of fundraising and construction, Wheeler Mission has opened the doors to its expanded and upgraded Center for Women and Children. At 267 beds, the addition has effectively doubled the shelter's overall capacity and tripled the number of emergency beds and family units,” said Colleen Gore, director of programming for Wheeler Mission.

With support from a $4 million Lilly Endowment grant in 2019, the $14.8 million capital campaign will expand the capacity for emergency shelter and long-term programs; increase staff to create a more secure environment; and include a dayroom with access to case management, rooms for appointments with community service providers and family visits, expanded dining areas, a secure indoor play space, and additional space for medical and mental health clinics.

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