Stories of Change

Strengthening Support for Scholars

September 21, 2018 It probably comes as no surprise to anyone that a key factor of completing any postsecondary credential is finding a solution for the financial burden that comes with pursuing a degree or certification. Scholarships, like the $1.2 million awarded through CICF, play a major role in supporting students’ financial success. One of the main tenets of CICF’s awarding philosophy is to provide or leverage financial resources to help cover at least 80 percent of the cost of attendance for students…Read More.

A nontraditional scholarship for the nontraditional student

September 20, 2018 For students like Porshea Johnson, a single-mother working to support her family while going to college, scholarships help open the door to higher-education. When Porshea received the Two Oaks Scholarship through Central Indiana Community Foundation, it changed her life. This scholarship, along with others, allowed her to stay in school when her class schedule came in conflict with her work schedule. She was able to make the choice to stay in school.Read More.

The Indianapolis Foundation Awards $322,000 to Local Not-for-Profit Organizations

September 20, 2018 The Indianapolis Foundation, an affiliate of Central Indiana Community Foundation, awarded $322,000 grants to 11 not-for-profit organizations serving Marion County. Grants, approved by The Indianapolis Foundation’s board of directors, support organizations and programs that address substance abuse, homelessness, mental health, leadership development, food insecurity and local theater, among other issues.Read More.

Crime Prevention Grants Totaling $2.3 Million Announced by The Indianapolis Foundation on Behalf of City-County Council

September 18, 2018 Board members for The Indianapolis Foundation, an affiliate of Central Indiana Community Foundation, announced the allocation of $2,325,000 to 52 organizations as part of the Community Crime Prevention Grant Program. Award amounts range from $10,000 to $100,000. The grant program is funded from public resources allocated annually by the Indianapolis City-County Council. At the request of the City-County Council in April 2013, The Indianapolis Foundation entered into a contract with the Cit…Read More.

Kid-Driven Philanthropy: A new take on family giving

August 16, 2018 The Klaus family believes there is no better way to learn than by doing. This model of thinking is what lead David and Melynne Klaus to establish a fund with the Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF) for their three young children to advise. “In fact, we even debated calling it the Klaus Kids Fund but knew that it would be there for a long time when they grow up, so, when they are older maybe they wouldn't want the kids,” Melynne said. “It was something that we thought could be…Read More.

Dismantling Institutional Racism: Our Journey

August 13, 2018 For many, the thought of “undoing” institutional racism seems so abstract and monumental that having the audacity to take it on leaves many people not only skeptical, but often, adversarial. What sound mind would believe the people, power, resources and commitment to tackle this issue exists in a country so strongly rooted in racist acts, where talking about race often sparks turmoil, fear and denial? Read More.