Search Through Grants for Community Service Projects in Indiana in the U.S.

The Minneapolis Foundation

The Minneapolis Foundation drives collective action to realize strong, vibrant communities. We cultivate generosity by taking action on the greatest civic, social, and economic needs—partnering with nonprofits, facilitating grantmaking, driving research and advocacy, and providing services to donors seeking to make a difference in their communities.

Great Lakes Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program

In partnership with the Midwest Environmental Justice Network, NDN Collective, and RE-AMP Network, the Minneapolis Foundation will award environmental justice grants to organizations working in and for underserved communities throughout the Great Lakes region.

Grants will be awarded to community-based nonprofits and other eligible organizations in the following three tiers:

• Tier 1: Assessment and Engagement
• Tier 2: Community Education and Planning
• Tier 3: Project Development and Implementation

We aim to distribute 30% of grant funding to federally recognized tribes and Native American organizations, 25% to rural communities, and 45% to urban communities. The partnership anticipates making 206 grants: 83 in Year 1, 85 in Year 2, and 38 in Year 3.

You may submit an application for multiple tiers at the same time, in any order.

Program Goal

The Great Lakes TCGM Partnership will distribute $40 million to organizations working in and for underserved communities throughout the Great Lakes region. The partnership was selected by the EPA as one of 11 grantmakers around the nation in its new Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program.

The program’s goal is to lift up community-led innovation and strengthen community-based groups by breaking down barriers to federal funding. All grants will be given to environmental and public health efforts in underserved communities as defined by the EPA.

Issue Areas

Grants will support projects that focus on issues including, but not limited to:

• Environmental health
• Air, soil, and water quality
• Healthy homes
• Access to healthy food
• Stormwater and green infrastructure
• Emergency preparedness
• Disaster resilience
• Environmental job training

Tier 1: Assessment and Engagement

Tier 1 awards are one-year grants of up to $150,000 for assessment and engagement efforts that increase understanding of the breadth, depth, or impact of local environmental or public health issues. These grants are limited to capacity-constrained and entry-level applicants, as determined by the information you submit in the intake form. These grants will be paid on a milestone basis: 50% up front and 50% at the midway point, upon completion of agreed-upon milestones.

Eligible activities include, but are not limited to:

• GIS mapping
• Air quality sensor purchasing and siting
• Air, water, or soil sampling, testing, and monitoring
• Research, surveys, and studies
• Power mapping, public engagement, and public education to improve collective understanding of community challenges, needs, and opportunities.

Through a noncompetitive process, we will also award grants of up to $75,000 to capacity constrained communities and community-based organizations under Tier One.

You need not develop a new project to receive a grant. These one-time grants are well suited to support existing work that is currently not funded by another source or to complement other projects for which you already have funding. We also welcome proposals for high-priority new projects. 

The Minneapolis Foundation

The Minneapolis Foundation drives collective action to realize strong, vibrant communities. We cultivate generosity by taking action on the greatest civic, social, and economic needs—partnering with nonprofits, facilitating grantmaking, driving research and advocacy, and providing services to donors seeking to make a difference in their communities.

Great Lakes Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program

In partnership with the Midwest Environmental Justice Network, NDN Collective, and RE-AMP Network, the Minneapolis Foundation will award environmental justice grants to organizations working in and for underserved communities throughout the Great Lakes region.

Grants will be awarded to community-based nonprofits and other eligible organizations in the following three tiers:

• Tier 1: Assessment and Engagement
• Tier 2: Community Education and Planning
• Tier 3: Project Development and Implementation

We aim to distribute 30% of grant funding to federally recognized tribes and Native American organizations, 25% to rural communities, and 45% to urban communities. The partnership anticipates making 206 grants: 83 in Year 1, 85 in Year 2, and 38 in Year 3.

You may submit an application for multiple tiers at the same time, in any order.

Program Goal

The Great Lakes TCGM Partnership will distribute grants to organizations working in and for underserved communities throughout the Great Lakes region. The partnership was selected by the EPA as one of 11 grantmakers around the nation in its new Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program.

The program’s goal is to lift up community-led innovation and strengthen community-based groups by breaking down barriers to federal funding. All grants will be given to environmental and public health efforts in underserved communities as defined by the EPA.

Issue Areas

Grants will support projects that focus on issues including, but not limited to:

• Environmental health
• Air, soil, and water quality
• Healthy homes
• Access to healthy food
• Stormwater and green infrastructure
• Emergency preparedness
• Disaster resilience
• Environmental job training

Tier 2: Community Education and Planning

Tier 2 awards are one- to two-year grants of up to $250,000 for community-focused efforts that design, inform, and highlight solutions to local environmental or public health priorities. Up to 50% of the grant can be used for relevant property acquisition. Grants will be paid on a reimbursement basis, with a small number of grantees eligible for one advance payment of up to 10% of the total grant.

Eligible activities include, but are not limited to:

• Developing project plans
• Developing communications and outreach plans
• Conducting workshops and trainings
• Developing curricula, toolkits, or guidelines; developing social media content
• Producing videos or printed materials
• Hosting events and gatherings
• Building or strengthening partnerships and collaboration
• Creating local advisory committees
• Engaging in public review or comment periods
• Developing or updating disaster resilience plans, emergency preparedness plans, or other community planning and visioning efforts

You need not develop a new project to receive a grant. These one-time grants are well suited to support existing work that is currently not funded by another source or to complement other projects for which you already have funding. We also welcome proposals for high-priority new projects. 

The Minneapolis Foundation

The Minneapolis Foundation drives collective action to realize strong, vibrant communities. We cultivate generosity by taking action on the greatest civic, social, and economic needs—partnering with nonprofits, facilitating grantmaking, driving research and advocacy, and providing services to donors seeking to make a difference in their communities.

Great Lakes Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program

In partnership with the Midwest Environmental Justice Network, NDN Collective, and RE-AMP Network, the Minneapolis Foundation will award environmental justice grants to organizations working in and for underserved communities throughout the Great Lakes region.

Grants will be awarded to community-based nonprofits and other eligible organizations in the following three tiers:

• Tier 1: Assessment and Engagement
• Tier 2: Community Education and Planning
• Tier 3: Project Development and Implementation

We aim to distribute 30% of grant funding to federally recognized tribes and Native American organizations, 25% to rural communities, and 45% to urban communities. The partnership anticipates making 206 grants: 83 in Year 1, 85 in Year 2, and 38 in Year 3.

You may submit an application for multiple tiers at the same time, in any order.

Program Goal

The Great Lakes TCGM Partnership will distribute grants to organizations working in and for underserved communities throughout the Great Lakes region. The partnership was selected by the EPA as one of 11 grantmakers around the nation in its new Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program.

The program’s goal is to lift up community-led innovation and strengthen community-based groups by breaking down barriers to federal funding. All grants will be given to environmental and public health efforts in underserved communities as defined by the EPA.

Issue Areas

Grants will support projects that focus on issues including, but not limited to:

• Environmental health
• Air, soil, and water quality
• Healthy homes
• Access to healthy food
• Stormwater and green infrastructure
• Emergency preparedness
• Disaster resilience
• Environmental job training

Tier 3: Project Development and Implementation

Tier 3 awards are one- to two-year grants of up to $350,000 to pilot or implement project plans. Projects may have educational and outreach components, but must focus on developing tangible community assets or providing environmental or public health benefits to one or more disadvantaged communities. Up to 50% of the grant can be used for relevant property acquisition or purchase. Grants will be paid on a reimbursement basis, with a small number of grantees eligible for one advance payment of up to 10% of the total grant.

Eligible activities include, but are not limited to:

• Strengthening cumulative impact, public health, or environmental protections
• Increasing access to healthy food
• Reducing the use of pesticides or toxic substances
• Cleaning up contaminated sites
• Conducting healthy home assessments
• Increasing energy or water efficiency in homes or buildings
• Launching community energy or water efficiency programs
• Installing water filters; developing community gardens
• Creating community resilience hubs
• Installing green infrastructure projects
• Creating internships or implementing workforce development programs

You need not develop a new project to receive a grant. These one-time grants are well suited to support existing work that is currently not funded by another source or to complement other projects for which you already have funding. We also welcome proposals for high-priority new projects. 

The Jeffris Family Foundation invites applications for grants from the Jeffris Heartland Fund, to support the development of important historic preservation projects in the states of Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin.The decision to pursue a grant from the Jeffris Heartland Fund must be made in consultation with a Director of the Foundation to discuss your project and request a Jeffris Heartland Fund application form.Directors can also assist grant-seekers with the application process, provide related technical assistance to guide wise and constructive use of the grant funding, and administer grants once awarded. Applications, once invited, are accepted at any time.  Award notices are issued within approximately 30 days of receipt of the application.Grants will be made in the range of $5,000 to $50,000 to cover 50% the cost of an Historic Structure Report, and must be matched dollar-for-dollar with cash from sources unrelated to the Jeffris Family.

Historic Significance of the Site

• Priority will be given to sites of documented national and then state historic significance. Sites with local significance only will not be eligible for funding.
• Priority will be given to sites associated with prominent figures of national, regional, or statewide importance, or with events of national, regional, or statewide significance.
• Priority will be given to sites with significant architectural merit, including association with designers of national, regional, or statewide importance.
• Priority will be given to sites with strong elements of the decorative arts.
• Priority will be given to projects involving historic resources that are extremely rare and/or unique.
• Priority will be given to projects with a high degree of historic integrity, and to work relating to the restoration of original elements. While work to accommodate contemporary usage is acceptable, all work on the property must conform to The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

Proposed Project and Plan

• Priority will be given to applicants that can best demonstrate that a Historic Structure Report or other detailed planning study for which funding is being requested is critical to the accurate and appropriate restoration of the property.
• Priority will be given to applicants that can best demonstrate their intended use will be financially viable and operationally sustainable over time.
• Priority will be given to applicants that can assure that the project will fully comply with The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties through review and oversight by a local historic preservation commission, state historic preservation office, or preservation consultants thoroughly familiar and experienced with those standards.

 Organizational Excellence

• Priority will be given to applicants who can demonstrate a pattern of programming and services connected to the site and their stated mission (e.g. educational programs, events, hospitality).
• Priority will be given to applicants who demonstrate a broad base of membership and community support.
• Priority will be given to applicants with demonstrated success in past capital fundraising efforts.

Lilly Endowment Inc. was founded in 1937 by J.K. Lilly, Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. for the “promotion and support of religious, educational or charitable purposes.” Throughout its history, the Endowment has sought to nurture the human spirit, intellect and character. When once asked what the main purpose of the Endowment should be, Eli Lilly said, “I hope we could help improve the character of the American people.”

Our Work: Community Development

In community development, we support efforts that enhance the quality of life 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. 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 its United Ways.

Strengthening Indianapolis

We make grants to a wide range of organizations that improve the overall quality of life in Indianapolis and expand the city’s economic, cultural and recreational opportunities. We support programs that contribute to strong neighborhoods, provide services to at-risk residents, and encourage the creation and expansion of amenities that attract and retain individuals, families and businesses.

Areas of Grantmaking

• Strong neighborhoods help ensure that Indianapolis is a safe, livable community for all of its residents.
• Intellectual capital and community economic development resources are essential to Indianapolis’ efforts to be a place where people want to live, work and contribute to their community.
• Effective and sustainable human service organizations are critical to helping Indianapolis be a caring community, where all residents are supported in overcoming challenges, such as food insecurity, homelessness, unemployment and underemployment, domestic violence and various disabilities.
• Arts and culture organizations strengthen Indianapolis by fostering a creative and energized community and a quality of life that is appealing to individuals and families. 

Strengthening Indiana

Through helping to strengthen and supporting the efforts of community foundations and United Ways, and by encouraging and funding select strategic collaborations, we aim to enhance the quality of life and future prosperity of Indiana’s communities. Recognizing the diversity of our state’s people and their range of needs, we help local communities identify the issues that matter most to their residents and find solutions to the challenges they face.

Compelling other causes

Through helping to strengthen and supporting the efforts of community foundations and United Ways, and by encouraging and funding select strategic collaborations, we aim to enhance the quality of life and future prosperity of Indiana’s communities. Recognizing the diversity of our state’s people and their range of needs, we help local communities identify the issues that matter most to their residents and find solutions to the challenges they face.

Grant Guidelines: Community Development

Our community development grantmaking focuses primarily on enhancing the quality of life in Indianapolis and Indiana. We grant funds for human and social needs, city and neighborhood revitalization, low- and moderate-income housing, and arts and culture in Indianapolis.  On a statewide level, we routinely offer initiatives to support community foundations and United Ways.

Nationally, the Endowment provides support on an invitational basis for compelling other causes that are consistent with our areas of interest, such as disaster relief and recovery efforts, programs for veterans’ affairs and their families, and selective research projects and educational programs focused on efforts to promote the effectiveness of charitable organizations and enhance and increase charitable giving.

Our Mission

The Old National Bank Foundation believes that social responsibility is essential to fostering vibrant, sustainable communities. We realize this belief through strategic partnerships with charitable organizations addressing defined community needs.

Old National Bank Foundation

The Old National Bank Foundation makes contributions to nonprofit organizations to fund widespread community impact programs and/or projects. The Foundation is part of Old National's overall charitable giving initiative, which enables us to support programs that improve quality of life in areas of Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin where our clients, associates and shareholders live and work.

Invested in our communities

Caring for our clients means being an active and dynamic partner in the cities and towns we serve. Through sponsorships, Old National helps organizations improve the quality of life in the areas where our clients, associates and shareholders live and work.

Old National Bank Foundation Sponsorships

Old National sponsorships provide monetary support for events or activities, while enabling us to partner with many community organizations. Typically such sponsorships are in exchange for advertising and/or publicity that directly benefits Old National. Our goal is to make meaningful contributions, measure the results of our sponsorships, and work closely with the organizations we support.

Here are examples of the types of activities we sponsor:

• One-time events
• Fundraisers
• Golf tournaments/scrambles
• Corporate tables at galas
• Sporting events
• Special events (telethons, marathons, races or benefits)

In Our Community

Republic Bank recognizes the importance of making a lasting IMPACT, and that starts by strengthening the communities in which we live and work. We believe Republic Bank not only serves the community but is also a part of the community.

Together, we can make an impact that goes beyond banking. Bank with us, and let’s strengthen our community – together.

Generally, organizations and activities meeting the established criteria will fall into one of the following categories:

• Education and Youth Programs
• Family and Community Welfare
• Civic Projects
• Healthcare and Human Services
• Performing Arts and Cultural Activities
• Recreation and Preservation Programs

In-Kind Donations

Republic Bank occasionally donates used computer equipment, office equipment, and furniture to community organizations. 

Program Area: Environment

For more than two decades, the Joyce Foundation has been a leading foundation funder of policy work related to the Great Lakes. We are working to address three of the region’s critical long-term environmental challenges: climate change, the safety and accessibility of the water we drink and the health of the Great Lakes.

Climate change is the largest intergenerational environmental threat in our region. Great Lakes states are at a pivotal moment to dramatically reduce the emissions that drive climate change, while also creating economic opportunity and improving people’s health. Moreover, this region emits nearly 20 percent of all US climate pollution, so gains here are essential to national progress.

More than 40 million people rely on the Great Lakes for drinking water, and protecting the Lakes is central to the region’s environmental health, economic vitality, and very identity. In our region, climate change is causing more intense storms and increasing the variability of Great Lakes’ water levels. These patterns increase polluted runoff and stress aging water systems. While all communities face water challenges, the most severe impacts fall on people from communities that have lacked investment because of structural racism or other barriers.

To respond to these challenges, Joyce will support efforts to put Great Lakes states on a path to achieve just, equitable, carbon-free electric power systems by 2040. We will also seek to ensure all people in the Great Lakes region have clean water from lake to tap by supporting policy to address threats, improve infrastructure, and remedy water disparities in communities of color. In all our grants, we will prioritize projects that are guided by the perspectives of people impacted by the environmental issues being addressed.

The program has two focus areas: Climate Solutions and Great Lakes & Drinking Water.

Climate Solutions

Shifting to non-carbon sources of electric power is essential to eliminating global warming pollution – both directly by reducing the burning of fossil fuels in power plants, and indirectly as the transportation, industrial, building heating, and other sectors switch to electricity. There is positive technological, economic, and—in some Great Lakes states—policy momentum behind transitioning to carbon-free electric power. Yet, no states in our region are more than about halfway to achieving complete electric sector decarbonization, and some still get 80 or 90 percent of their electricity from fossil fuels. Joyce will support work on clean energy policy in Great Lakes states to secure long-term commitments to 100 percent carbon-free electricity.

Goal: To put Great Lakes states on a path to achieve just, equitable, carbon-free electric power systems by 2040.

• Secure long-term commitments to transition to carbon-free electricity, including states establishing 100 percent carbon-free electricity goals and strategies, and states, utilities and their stakeholders embracing racial equity and energy justice as core elements of decarbonization plans
• Achieve full implementation of near-term state energy efficiency and renewable energy policies, with strategies tailored to fit the unique needs and opportunities in each state— focusing mostly on Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota, with smaller investments in Ohio and Wisconsin
• Support policy innovation to achieve complete, equitable decarbonization, closing the gap between the cumulative reductions that can be driven by the current generation of clean energy policies and 100 percent decarbonization

Great Lakes & Drinking Water

One of every five gallons of fresh water on the surface of the planet is found in the Great Lakes, which provide clean, abundant drinking water for 40 million people in our region. Yet the future health of the lakes is far from assured, given major threats to their physical, chemical, and biological integrity. Public and private decisions made in the next decade will likely determine whether the Great Lakes will be healthy enough to provide for the next generation as they have provided for us.

Protecting the health of our region depends on protecting the health of the Great Lakes and the water systems that serve our communities. The Great Lakes and Drinking Water focus area will accelerate actions to protect the region’s freshwater, upgrade our water infrastructure, and improve access to safe, affordable drinking water. We will pursue two initiatives, with most efforts focused in Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

Goal: To ensure all people in the Great Lakes region have clean water from lake to tap by supporting policy to address threats, improve infrastructure, and remedy water disparities in communities of color.

To help ensure that the Great Lakes remain healthy enough to provide for the next generation as they have provided for us, we will address major threats to their physical, chemical, and biological integrity, with a focus on efforts to:

• Improve water infrastructure performance, management, and funding, with a focus on remedying water system disparities in communities of color
• Prevent unsustainable diversions from the Great Lakes by enforcing the Great Lakes Compact
• Prevent groundwater depletion (proposals currently by invitation only)
• Reduce the risk of oil spills from oil transport by continuing to support closure of the Enbridge Line 5 oil pipeline
• Reduce polluted runoff in rural and urban areas
• Prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species

To help make certain that the next generation in our region has access to safe, affordable drinking water, Joyce will support equitable water policy that ensures that water systems and infrastructure provide safe, affordable water services for everyone. We will focus on efforts to develop and support utility, municipal, state, and federal policies that:

• Reduce the risk of lead exposure in drinking water
• Ensure high quality, affordable water services

Mission

The women of Impact 100 dramatically improve lives in our Greater Cincinnati community by collectively funding transformational grants that make a lasting impact.

Focus Areas

• Culture
  • Cultivate, develop, educate and improve the cultural climate.
• Education
  • Further the ability to educate and improve education.
• Environment Preservation, & Recreation
  • Preserve, enhance, revitalize or restore facilities and surroundings.
• Family
  • Strengthen and enhance the lives of children and families.
• Health & Wellness
  • Positively impact the mental or physical health and wellness of people.

Mission

Impact 100 Greater Indianapolis is a charitable women’s giving circle dedicated to awarding high impact grants to nonprofits in our community in the areas of Arts, Culture & Preservation; Education; Environment & Animal Welfare; Family; and Health & Wellness.

Philosophy

Impact 100 Greater Indianapolis is a charitable women’s giving circle dedicated to awarding high impact grants to nonprofits in our community. We seek to fund critical needs, new ventures, and innovative ways to solve social problems in order to create a more civil and respectful climate.

• We seek to fund critical needs, new ventures, and innovative ways to solve social problems and to create a more civil and respectful climate in our community.
• We believe that every member of our community should have access to a clean, safe environment, cultural enrichment, family services and quality education and healthcare.
• We encourage all greater Indianapolis nonprofits with the vision and capacity to manage a gift of this size to apply.

Core Values

Impact 100 Greater Indianapolis approaches grant making with open minds and a belief that our commitment to our core values makes our giving circle stronger.

• Integrity
  • We approach decision-making with open minds, respect for the ideas of others, and with fairness. We are ethical in our actions and accountable for them.
• Excellence
  • We strive for the highest possible outcomes in all our actions. We educate ourselves to ensure that we are employing “best practices” and that our decisions are made objectively.
• Thoughtfulness
  • We value discussion and spend the necessary time to work through all decisions, giving consideration to all possible paths.
• Collaboration
  • We expect everyone to participate, and value the individual strengths that each member brings to the process. Once a consensus has been reached, we believe all members should fully embrace the decision.
• Humanity
  • We foster kindness and benevolence in our interactions and relationships. The humane consideration of every member of our community is at the heart of our philanthropic endeavor.
• Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI)
  • We strive to be diverse, equitable, and inclusive in our leadership, membership, grantmaking, and community partners. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity/expression.

Focus Areas

Each grant applicant must select only one focus area for grant consideration. Impact 100 will not provide guidance on selecting the appropriate focus area.

The five Impact 100 Greater Indianapolis focus areas committees will consider projects from nonprofits that examine the following subject areas (although this list is not meant to be comprehensive):

• Arts, Culture, & Preservation
  • The arts and culture committee will focus on charitable initiatives that cultivate, develop, educate, preserve, and enrich the theater, museums, both visual and performing arts and literary opportunities in Greater Indianapolis.
• Education
  • The education committee will focus on charitable initiatives that advance learning opportunities and improve education in Greater Indianapolis.
• Environment & Animal Welfare
  • The environment committee will focus on charitable initiatives that:
    • improve, enhance or restore the surroundings in the Greater Indianapolis area;
    • encourage research, public awareness and education relating to the environment;
    • promote conservation of our natural resources;
    • restore, preserve, revitalize or enhance recreational facilities, and/or
    • promote animal welfare.
• Family
  • The family committee will focus on charitable initiatives that strengthen and enhance the lives of children and families in Greater Indianapolis.
• Health & Wellness
  • The health and wellness committee will focus on charitable initiatives that improve the mental and/or physical well being of people living in the Greater Indianapolis area.

The Impact Fund awards recoverable grants to legal services nonprofits, private attorneys, and small law firms who seek to confront economic, environmental, racial, and social injustice. Since our founding in 1992, the Impact Fund has made more than 800 recoverable grants totaling more than $10 million for impact litigation. We award grants four times per year, most within the range of US$10,000 to US$50,000.

Social Justice

The Impact Fund provides grants and legal support to assist in human and civil rights cases. We have helped to change dozens of laws and win cases to improve the rights of thousands. The cases we are funding allege that:

• In Texas and North Carolina, incarcerated people with mental health disabilities are forced to remain in jail despite being found not guilty and unable to proceed with a criminal trial.
• In Orange County, California there are currently 13 gang injunctions under effect, which disproportionately affect young men of color.
• In Chicago, Illinois, the city’s homeless shelter program is inaccessible to people with disabilities.
• In Springfield, Oregon, the city and its police department used excessive force against Black Lives Matter protesters.
• In West Virginia, the state fails to protect children in foster care from abuse and neglect. 
• In Montana, voter suppression laws disadvantage young adults and give priority to gun owners.
• In Gary, Indiana, a gun manufacturer negligently marketed and distributed its guns, leading to an epidemic of gun violence in the city. 
• In Vancouver, British Columbia, the police perpetuate systemic discrimination against Indigenous people through bureaucratic measures.

Environmental Justice

The Impact Fund provides grants to support local litigation for environmental justice. These grants are for cases aiming to help people or communities who are affected by environmental harm or who lack access to basic environmental needs, such as clean water, clean air, adequate waste treatment, and green spaces. The cases we are funding allege that:

• In Centreville, Illinois, the city’s failure to maintain its sewer system has caused raw sewage to flood peoples’ homes, endangering the property and health of a predominantly Black community.
• In Fresno County, California, the California Department of Transportation approved a highway expansion project that would increase air pollution and traffic in one of the state’s most environmentally burdened communities.
• In downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the proposed expansion of a highway would divide the region's Black, Asian, and Latine neighborhoods and cause pollution and ill health.
• In North Dakota, the five-month closure of a highway in response to the Dakota Access Pipeline protests disproportionately affected the livelihoods and health of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe members.
• In Ontario, Canada, mercury contamination of the English-Wabigoon river system causes catastrophic environmental and health impacts for the Grassy Narrows First Nation.
• In Sacramento, California, the county government and Sacramento Area Sewer District violated the Clean Water Act by discharging raw sewage into nearby rivers.
• In the Eastern Coachella Valley in California, 1,900 residents of the Oasis Mobile Home Park suffer from arsenic-laced drinking water, wastewater contamination, and overcharging for utilities.

Economic Justice

The Impact Fund provides financial and other forms of support to cases fighting for economic justice. From workers' rights to consumer protection for vulnerable populations, impact litigation is a powerful tool to hold corporationss and the government accountable. The cases we are funding allege that:

• In Brooklyn, New York, a prominent mortgage lender engaged in predatory practices, leaving homeowners of color at risk of losing their homes. 
• In Washington, live-in caregivers are unconstitutionally excluded from the state’s wage-and-hour protections.
• In Ravalli County, Montana, the county has created a “modern-day debtors’ prison” by incarcerating people unable to afford pre-trial fees. 
• In San Diego, California, vehicle ordinances target unhoused vehicle owners even when no adequate housing alternative exists.
• In New York, a federal immigration detention facility is violating minimum wage and forced labor laws by forcing detainees to work for just a dollar a day. 
• In Minneapolis, Minnesota, the city and county destroy the property of unhoused individuals and conduct forced evictions from public spaces. 
• In Miami, Florida, insurance companies discriminate against a nonprofit community development corporation renting to tenants with Section 8 rental subsidies.

The Daniel and Susan Pfau Foundation

The Pfau Foundation was established in 1994 in Cincinnati by Daniel A. Pfau and Susan Laufer Pfau.

Mrs. Pfau, a community volunteer, and Mr. Pfau, a local businessman, have been actively involved in programs serving disabled and disadvantaged youth, and in organizations promoting the Greater Cincinnati area. The Foundation complements the Pfaus’ personal charitable efforts and will continue their support into the future.

Purpose of the Pfau Foundation

The Pfau Foundation’s primary focus is on the education, health, cultural experience and social welfare of children, adolescents, young adults (to age 30) with physical, mental, or developmental disabilities and their families. A secondary focus is on children, adolescents, young adults (to age 30) who face significant economic barriers to success and their families. There is a particular interest in programs that help clients realize their full potential. The Foundation also advocates and supports large regional arts and cultural organizations. Small and mid-size organizations that use the arts as a vehicle for achieving impact with successful shared outcomes will be considered. (These outcomes must be aligned with the first two priorities of the Foundation.) The fourth area of interest is recreation areas.

Crossroad Fund Grants

Crossroads Fund supports organizations and groups promoting social change in the greater Chicago Metropolitan area (including Northwest Indiana). We define social change work as people in communities collectively working together to challenge the conditions, institutions, and policies that maintain inequality and oppression.

We prioritize groups who are:

• Collaborative or working in solidarity with other progressive groups
• Risk-taking by doing work that is controversial, new or emerging
• Strategic and working with a long-term vision, clear goals, and activities
• Achieving concrete success that has positively impacted the community
• Multiple funding sources throughout the community, such as foundations, businesses, individuals, special events, and income generating projects

Most of our funding programs are for organizations with budgets under $500,000. If your organization’s planned budget for the current fiscal year is $510,000, but your last fiscal year’s actual expenses were $485,500, you would fit.  Crossroads Fund supports non-profit organizations, including those that do not have 501(c)3 status. Fiscal sponsorship for those organizations without tax-exempt status is recommended but not required. An organizational bank account is required for those groups not using a fiscal sponsor. Crossroads Fund also considers funding for 501(c)(4) organizations on a limited basis. 

Types of Work Supported for ALL grants

Crossroads supports many different forms of social change organizing, such as (but not limited to):

• Direct Action Organizing;
• Public Policy Advocacy;
• Art & Cultural work that is community-based and linked to activism;
• Economic Development;
• International Solidarity;
• Action Research as an organizing strategy to identify, document and analyze information, in partnership with a community group
• Media Advocacy that promotes greater public understanding of critical issues and increasing organizing outreach efforts;
• Social Services linked with Activism;
• Leadership Development and Training;
• Providing Resources for Local Activists;
• Working Collaboratively Across Issues and Communities;
• Gatherings and Conferences.

Seed Fund

The Seed Fund is our largest grantmaking fund. It supports long-time, well-established organizations as well as new, emerging, and/or small community-based organizations that are actively engaged in social change work. Funding is provided for general operating, start-up costs, or project expenses. The maximum grant in this program is $15,000.

Ball Brothers Foundation provides funding to organizations operating in Indiana. Historically, the vast majority of our funding has been targeted to organizations in East Central Indiana with a particular emphasis in the Muncie/Delaware County area. While organizations outside the Muncie/East Central Indiana area are welcome to apply for support, please be aware that funding for organizations outside this footprint is rare.

Our Areas of Focus

Arts, Culture, & Humanities

In alignment with our rich history and the vibrant identity of Muncie and East Central Indiana, Ball Brothers Foundation places a significant emphasis on the Arts, Culture, and Humanities. Our funding focuses on inspiring creativity, fostering community engagement, and supporting a variety of cultural initiatives. We provide significant grants to museums, theaters, art education, public art, and more, helping to cultivate a vibrant cultural network in our region.

Education

Education is a fundamental commitment at Ball Brothers Foundation that continues to grow. Our support extends from early childhood education to public schools in Muncie’s Central City, emphasizing teacher development, student programs, and K-12 excellence. We also invest in outdoor learning, after-school, and summer programs that nurture critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, our commitment to career, technical, and continuing education programs aims to help individuals secure employment and thrive in their families. Since our founding, we have continued to support higher education institutions, recognizing the valuable role colleges and universities play in the lives of individuals and in the communities where they locate. 

Environment

Our funding focuses on preserving and protecting land, creating opportunities for children to connect with nature, reclaiming and restoring waterways, and encouraging conservation practices among landowners. In recent years, we've intensified our support for East Central Indiana's waterways, recognizing their vital role in sustaining local industries and providing drinking water. We actively engage the community by promoting outdoor activities like cycling, canoeing, and hiking, transforming our region into a vibrant outdoor recreation destination. Together with our grantees, we proudly contribute to safeguarding our natural resources and supporting organizations dedicated to improving our environment.

Health

Building on a legacy that began with Ball Memorial Hospital in 1929, we prioritize efforts that nurture a robust pipeline of future healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, CNAs, and more. Our funding is helping East Central Indiana build its reputation as a statewide leader in training future healthcare workers.. In addition to training, Ball Brothers Foundation has long supported efforts that prioritize community wellness, including initiatives that target underserved populations, expand access to healthy meals, and encourage physical activity.

Human Services

Ball Brothers Foundation recognizes the transformative power of nonprofits in Muncie and East Central Indiana. Our funding often supports nonprofits that are on the front-lines of neighborhood revitalization, emergency food and shelter, job training, disaster recovery, addiction and recovery services, and more to support community well-being and resilience. To bolster nonprofit capacity, we also provide grants that enhance leadership, organizational effectiveness, and professional development, addressing the unique challenges nonprofits face on tight budgets with lean staffing.

Public Society Benefit

We are steadfast believers in the potential of Muncie and East Central Indiana. The foundation supports initiatives that promote vitality, entrepreneurship, recreational opportunities, and neighborhood development. Our aim is to instill community pride and revitalize downtown areas, fostering inclusive hubs for growth. We also prioritize public safety by supporting local emergency responders and initiatives addressing growing cybersecurity threats.

Elsa Heisel Sule Foundation Grant

General Information

The Elsa Heisel Sule Foundation is an independent private Foundation philanthropic organization originally established in 2004 by Elsa M. Heisel Sule, a native of Northern Kentucky and businesswoman in the television industry.

The Foundation’s governing body meets three times during the year to review applications for grants during April, July and October. The Foundation staff maintains offices in Greater Cincinnati, a central point in the tri-state area it serves, of Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana. 

Operations and Purpose

Grant Applications must be filed for each calendar year in which an organization desires a Grant of funds. Grants are usually awarded for one year unless specifically noted in writing as a multiyear grant or renewable. 

Program Priorities and Objective

The Trustee of the Foundation was originally instructed by Elsa Sule to make grants in the Greater Cincinnati and tri-state area with a focus on Education, Community, and the Arts with the following areas of interests:

• Education Success and Scholarships
• Health, Wellness and Scientific Research
• Children’s Welfare and Competitive Sports
• Fine and Performing Arts and Cultural Vibrancy
• Civic Public Affairs
• Animal Welfare and Preservation
• Environmental and Community Stewardship

Grant Process

On an invitation-only basis, the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust funds primarily nonprofit organizations in Arizona and Indiana that align closely with our giving areas: Helping People in Need, Protecting Animals and Nature, and Enriching Community Life.

Protecting Animals and Nature: Environmental Requests

Mrs. Pulliam loved animals – domesticated and wild – and the natural environment. She sought ways to encourage human bonds with both.

The Trust supports organizations and programs that:

• Programs that provide humane and wellness services for domestic animals, including shelter, rescue, spay/neuter and adoption.
• Programs that promote conservation of natural habitats and ecosystems that advance preservation, protection and restoration of land, water, wildlife and plants.
• Programs that promote environmental awareness to connect people to the natural world, promote personal stewardship, or offer knowledge and tools for addressing current and future problems.

Environmental Initiatives- Protecting nature in Arizona and Indiana

The Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust focuses its environmental strategy primarily on critical waterways and increasing awareness of environmental issues in Arizona and Indiana, the states where we invest.

The Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust is implementing a five-year environmental roadmap, initiated in 2020, that dedicates $19.5 million to investments in protecting nature in Arizona and Indiana, with special emphasis on protecting and restoring the Verde and White rivers, and underwriting environmental reporting and environmental journalism awards.

These efforts are improving our waterways, driving important conversations about our water future and informing the public about broader environmental issues.

Grant Process

On an invitation-only basis, the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust funds primarily nonprofit organizations in Arizona and Indiana that align closely with our giving areas: Helping People in Need, Protecting Animals and Nature, and Enriching Community Life. 

Helping People in Need

Mrs. Pulliam valued giving people experiencing difficulty a hand-up and firmly believed that education was essential to reaching one’s full potential.

The Trust supports:

Self-sufficiency

• Programs that provide adult education or training with accompanying social supports for individuals to obtain and maintain gainful employment.
• Programs that focus on economic self-reliance through micro-lending, small business development and entrepreneurial efforts for low-income individuals.
• Programs that assist the elderly in maintaining their independence and remaining in their homes.

Crisis Intervention

• Programs that assist vulnerable families, women and children to help move them from crisis or instability to greater functioning.
• Programs that provide basic needs, such as food, clothing, emergency shelter or transitional housing.

Foster Care

• Programs that increase the number of licensed foster families and kinship providers.
• Multigenerational programs that help prevent children from entering the system.
• Programs that support young adults ages, 18-25 who are aging out of the system, with post-secondary educational attainment, job training and financial self-sufficiency.

Education and Literacy

• Programs that provide mentoring and tutoring to disadvantaged youth.
• Out-of-school time programs and projects for underserved children.
• Programs that improve literacy skills of adults.
• Programs that help high school students gain access to careers or post-secondary education.
• Programs that work with children (0 – 5) and their families to improve literacy, reading and language acquisition.

Protecting Animals and Nature

Mrs. Pulliam loved animals – domesticated and wild – and the natural environment. She sought ways to encourage human bonds with both.

The Trust supports organizations and programs that:

• Programs that provide humane and wellness services for domestic animals, including shelter, rescue, spay/neuter and adoption.
• Programs that promote conservation of natural habitats and ecosystems that advance preservation, protection and restoration of land, water, wildlife and plants.
• Programs that promote environmental awareness to connect people to the natural world, promote personal stewardship, or offer knowledge and tools for addressing current and future problems. 

Enriching Community Life

Mrs. Pulliam appreciated the importance of having vibrant communities that benefit all residents, while ensuring that nonprofit organizations fulfill their missions at a level of excellence.

The Trust supports:

• Programs that add to the overall civic vibrancy and cultural vitality of the community.
• Programs that create innovative solutions to enhance the quality of life in Indianapolis or Phoenix. 

The American Water Charitable Foundation is an independent, 501(c)(3) private foundation, supported by the shareholders of American Water. The Foundation’s Board of Trustees, composed of officers and leaders of American Water or its subsidiaries, review Foundation programs, guidelines, and distribution of funds.

Applications will be accepted in the following states served by American Water, in addition to its Military Service locations: California, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.

The Water and Environment Grant Program will be awarded to help fund innovative, community-based projects that:

• improve, restore or protect the watersheds, surface water and/or groundwater supplies
• promote water conservation
• improve equitable access to water-based recreation in underserved communities 

Our Mission

The Brave Heart Foundation exists to assist and Support programs that help underserved populations, with special emphasis on children and families through education, health and wellness, and grassroots community action programs. Our mission is to help as many programs as possible. 

Focus Areas

Every year, we assist and support programs dedicated to serving underserved populations, helping to make a difference in our community.

We primarily fund organizations and projects in Indiana with an emphasis on three key areas:

• Education
• Health & Wellness
• Grass Roots Community Action Programs and Services

Requests for larger funding are only accepted from those agencies who have previously received a grant from The Brave Heart Foundation and who provided the required Impact Report following receipt of grant. Requests should use the primary grant application and should only be submitted one time per year.

Transform Lake County

Donors support Transform Lake County grants through gifts to the Lake County Community Fund (LCCF). Transform Lake County Grants are intended to strengthen and empower nonprofits, neighborhoods and residents in Lake County.

Programmatic Funding Requests

For programmatic grantmaking during Legacy Foundation’s Transform Lake County grant cycles, grant requests will be considered which fall into the following general categories:

• Basic Needs: Education, Food Access, Housing, Mental and Physical Health, Transportation
• Economic Mobility: Entrepreneurship, Financial Literacy, Workforce Development
• Community Enrichment: Animal Welfare, Art, Culture, Placemaking
• Safety and Inclusive Justice: Disability Service/Advocacy, Criminal Justice, Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, Public Safety

About GIG Fund

The GIG Fund is a grant of $2,000-4,000 that supports creative projects and educational events in the Midwest. These funds help organizations present artists in their community by supporting programming and touring costs.

The GIG Fund provides flexible grants for nonprofit organizations to support programs and activities featuring professional artists. GIG Fund grants help cover fees for touring or local artists. Funds may also be used for project costs such as accessibility accommodations and marketing. We work with a panel to help us review applications and distribute grants annually.

GIG Fund

Flexible support to help arts and culture organizations grow their capacity, fund artist engagements, and build community.

What is the GIG Fund?

The GIG Fund is a grant of $2,000-4,000 that supports creative projects and educational events in the Midwest. These funds help organizations present artists in their community by supporting programming and touring costs. The GIG Fund is a grant that supports Midwestern organizations that want to contract with a professional artist to offer activities to their community. 

Matching requirement

Organizations will be required to demonstrate matching funds on a 1:1 basis for the grant amount.

To demonstrate the match, your expenses should each be at least double your GIG Fund grant. Potential sources for the match include salaries and wages, in-kind contributions, volunteer hours, earned and contributed revenue (donations, ticket sales, other non-Federal grants), or cash from the applicant or partner organizations.

Our Vision

The Heart of Cook will be a leader in furthering education, supporting human services, and protecting the environment through a continued commitment to local communities in the AEP service area (Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana (La Porte, St. Joseph, and Elkhart Counties)).

Guidelines & Funding Emphasis

Our three primary funding areas are:

• Furthering Education
• Supporting Human Services
• Preserving and Protecting the Environment

We take special pride in supporting organizations and projects in which our employees participate or take a leadership role. The partnership of corporate contributions and employee initiatives typically results in improved outcomes. 

Furthering education

To promote economic development and provide for a well-trained and available work force in the area, we will provide grants to programs that build work skills and to educational organizations and projects that supplement professional development for educators and volunteers. Projects that specifically target science and mathematical disciplines, as well as development in impoverished communities are given priority.

Human services

Strong families are the building blocks for successful communities and businesses. We will provide grants to programs and organizations that nurture children and youth, help foster independence for those in need, ensure safety and support of older individuals, and teach parenting skills.

Protecting the environment

As an energy provider located in a particularly beautiful and unique ecosystem, we recognize the importance of protecting, restoring and enhancing our natural surroundings. We provide grants to organizations and projects supporting these types of environmental activities. 

Daviess County Community Foundation

Established in 1993, the Daviess County Community Foundation is one of over 800 community foundations in the United States today. The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Daviess County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

We are part of the Community Foundation Alliance (The Alliance), a network of nine community foundations serving counties in southwestern Indiana. The Alliance, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, provides management and administrative expertise to county-wide community foundations, empowering each to promote philanthropy, build endowments, and improve well-being in our local community. The Alliance Board of Directors is the governing body and is comprised of up to two representatives from each county affiliate. All are civic-minded volunteers who live or work in the counties they serve.

Program Areas

Arts and Culture

Activities that strengthen the stability of arts organizations, make the arts accessible to low-income populations, enhance the understanding of all types of arts and humanities, and promote the appreciation or understanding of historical event.

Community Development

Activities that foster civil rights, our society, advocacy, community improvement, capacity building, philanthropy, volunteerism, grantmaking, strong neighborhoods; that improve the effectiveness of government, public administration and public officials; that assess community needs; and that support the programs of leadership organizations.

Education

Activities that improve the educational attainment of children and adults, both in and out of the classroom; that support formally constituted educational institutions and organizations or entities that administer or support these institutions; that support libraries and organizations whose primary purpose is to provide opportunities for supplementing and continuing education outside the framework of formal education institutions; and that support organizations which provide education-related services to students and schools.

Health

Activities that improve and promote health outcomes; general and rehabilitative health services; mental health; crisis intervention; associations or services associated with specific diseases, disorders, and medical disciplines; and medical research.

Human Services

Activities that maximize the functioning of special needs populations in mainstream society; that protect the public (crime and delinquency prevention, legal administration, legal services); that promote and support employment and jobs, food and nutrition, agriculture, housing and shelter, public safety, and disaster preparedness and relief; and that support child daycare programs, the United Way, YMCA, YWCA, firefighting activities, and programs of community centers.

Environment

Activities that foster pollution control and abatement, protection and conservation of natural resources, botanic and horticulture, environmental beautification, preservation of open spaces, environmental education and outdoor survival, protection and welfare of animals, humane societies, wildlife preservation and protection, veterinary services, zoos and aquariums, and specialty animal services.

Recreation

Improving and promoting recreational and leisure activities, parks, and community sporting events and activities.

Youth Development

Activities that strengthen the family unit, help children grow and develop, foster youth sports and athletics, that support the Future Farmers of America or other youth development programs, Boys and Girls Clubs, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and scouting.

The Ruth Danley and William Enoch Moore Charitable Fund is a private grantmaking foundation based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, established in 1992. It focuses primarily on philanthropy and voluntarism, with an emphasis on charitable and educational purposes.

The fund specifically supports K-12 education for Native American children living on reservations, aiming to improve educational opportunities in these communities.

The foundation administers grants primarily to select regions based on donor preferences, including Pittsburgh and various counties in Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Jersey, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Maryland, Washington DC, and West Virginia.

Horizon Bank was founded as a community bank in Michigan City, Indiana, and has been putting down roots the right way ever since. Advisors are purposely hired from local communities and empowered to act. Because local knowledge is the most valuable knowledge.

The mission of our Horizon Cares Community Grant Programs is to make a positive difference in the future of our communities by supporting education, arts, economic development and community efforts that meet the housing needs of low- to moderate-income families. In addition to the growth and prosperity of our communities through economic development, these programs also help us lead the way in corporate citizenship, volunteering our time and fulfilling unmet needs of our neighbors. While we certainly see it as a service, we approach it more like a responsibility.

Application for a Horizon Cares Charitable Grant is annual. Applications will be reviewed by the Horizon Cares Charitable Grant Committee and awarded every January.

About

The Robert & Toni Bader Charitable Foundation was created in 2010 to provide philanthropic support to help make the world a better place. Based in Indianapolis, Indiana, our mission is to help further Jewish ideals in the areas of education, science and the arts. 

Since our beginning, we’ve funded projects from New York to California, Michigan to Florida. We have helped teachers educate, helped children learn, helped feed the hungry, helped people earn a living, helped provide work for the unemployed, and helped find new ways to treat illness and improve quality of life. If you are engaged in any of these activities, let us hear from you.

Our logo, the Tree of Life, is a universal symbol of growth and re-growth, providing benefits to the present and future. The circle represents unity and continuity within our communities and our lives.

Guidelines

The Robert & Toni Bader Charitable Foundation (rtbcf) was created to help achieve the Jewish Ideals of improving the world through Science, Education and the Arts.

We do not have minimum or maximum grant amounts. Grants are made based on our evaluation of your project, the number of grants we are considering, and the amount of funds we have to distribute.