Program areas at Indiana Philanthropy Alliance
Gift Technical Assistance Program : Supporting Indiana community foundations, this program provides technical assistance, training, and resources to over 90 community foundations and affiliate funds participating in the GIFT (Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow) initiative. In 2023, the program's 43 training events encompassed nearly 900 participants serving communities throughout Indiana. There were 136 attendees at three "Boot Camps"-basic training for community foundation and board and staff members-and 409 GIFT technical assistance in-person and virtual consultations ranging in scope, issue area, and complexity.
Community Foundation Internships (CFI) Program: The CFI program provides Indiana community foundations participating in the GIFT initiative access to grant dollars to hire college students attending an Indiana-accredited college or university. The program aims to provide operational support to foundations-expanding their capacity to serve communities. It also gives Indiana students hands-on job training and experiences that enrich their educational and personal development. These young professionals exit the program deeply aware of the important role community foundations and philanthropy serve in improving our quality of life. In 2023, 34 community foundations and affiliates offered 77 college internships.
Member Services : Indiana Philanthropy Alliance (IPA) fosters a collaborative and knowledgeable philanthropic sector that is empowered to address society's most pressing challenges. During 2023, IPA held multiple networking/peer gatherings across the state and produced 104 member newsletters that informed and engaged its network. IPA's website was leveraged to amplify the work of philanthropy while recruiting new talent and partners into the sector. IPA also provided technical assistance and web-based access to vetted technical and professional resources. With a 88% membership retention rate in 2023, IPA continues to fortify its commitment to empowering impactful philanthropy in Indiana. Grantmaker Education and Resources : Indiana Philanthropy Alliance (IPA) offers a comprehensive array of quality educational programs designed to fulfill members' professional development needs at a free and affordable price. During 2023, IPA provided 89 grantmaker education programs, Issue Collaborative meetings, and Peer Community convenings to expand its member's horizons and networks. There were 2,055 attendees at IPA programs. In addition to events, IPA's searchable online knowledgebase provides access to a wealth of resources spanning various topics for foundations and corporate philanthropy. Additionally, IPA extends its expertise nationally to philanthropy-serving organizations and foundations through virtual Community Foundation Boot Camps.
Public Policy : In 2023, Indiana Philanthropy Alliance's (IPA) advocacy efforts encompassed monitoring state and federal legislation and delivering timely updates to members through email, e-newsletters, and the IPA website. IPA also engaged in active lobbying with members of the state legislature and Congress on topics related to philanthropy and charitable giving. IPA's policy-related efforts included producing informational materials to educate elected officials about Indiana foundations' pivotal role and impact. From an events perspective, IPA facilitated virtual and in-person meetings to share information about IPA and member foundations and discuss potential public policies affecting philanthropy.
The John Mutz Philanthropic Leadership Institute identifies and cultivates visionary philanthropic leaders in Indiana. The cohort-based program provides continuing education training to equip emerging leaders for board and executive positions in foundations and corporations statewide. With each cohort, Indiana Philanthropy Alliance aims to bring fresh perspectives to the existing community, support emerging leaders, and elevate Indiana's philanthropic field. The 2023 class, comprising 23 graduates from 15 Indiana counties, exemplifies IPA's commitment to nurturing transformative leadership that drives positive change in communities across the state.