News

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – The Community Foundation has announced that 10 high school seniors have been selected as finalists for the 2023 Monroe County Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program. The finalists will be honored at the Community Foundation’s Annual Report to the Community on Tuesday, November 15.

Monroe County’s 2023 Lilly Scholarship finalists include:

• Felicia Bolander, Edgewood High School
• Clara Crain, Edgewood High School
• Advaith Iyengar, Bloomington High School North
• Carina Jacobson, Bloomington High School South
• Jake Keller, Bloomington High School South
• Grace McKay, Bloomington High School South
• Connor Shin, Bloomington High School North
• Jack Steiner, Bloomington High School North
• Hazel Stringer, Bloomington High School South
• Hayden Wilson, Edgewood High School

Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are awarded four-year, full-tuition scholarships to pursue baccalaureate degrees at colleges or universities in Indiana. The scholarship also includes up to $900 annually for required textbooks and equipment. In Monroe County, two students are awarded Lilly Endowment Community Scholarships each year.

Among their many accomplishments, this year’s Monroe County Lilly Scholarship finalists have participated in more than 50 school organizations clubs and sports, volunteered for over 40 organizations, and worked in more than 20 local businesses.

They have pursued and created internships and work experiences to explore their future career paths and have translated ideas into new organizations, clubs, and businesses. As engaged members of the community, that have impacted many local nonprofits including Area 10 Agency on Aging, City of Bloomington, Community Kitchen, Habitat for Humanity, Hoosier Hills Food Bank, Justice Unlocked, New Hope for Families, Middle Way House, People and Animal Learning Services, Pantry 279, Salvation Army, Wheeler Mission, WonderLab, YMCA, and many others.

“In the midst of the pandemic, this exceptional group of young people did more than persevere,” said Tina Peterson, Community Foundation’s president and CEO. “This year’s Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship finalists have shown remarkable motivation to take control of their futures by pursuing their passions, leading by example, and demonstrating kindness.”

“While we always regret that only two of these amazing high school seniors will ultimately receive the Lilly Scholarship, we are proud to recognize each of their accomplishments and hope that many of them will choose to stay in Indiana as they continue their educations and begin their careers.”

The Community Foundation’s Annual Report to the Community begins at 4:30 p.m. on November 15 in Shreve Hall at Ivy Tech Bloomington (200 Daniels Way, Bloomington, IN 47404). This annual event is a celebration of the Foundation’s past year of connecting caring people, important causes, and community resources. More information can be found at: https://cfbmc.org/

Monroe County’s Lilly Scholarship Application Process

Monroe County’s finalists were selected from among 21 semifinalists and 84 applications submitted by students from six of the 11 high schools that serve Monroe County students. Eligible schools include The Academy of Science and Entrepreneurship, Covenant Christian School, Bloomington Graduation School, Bloomington High School North, Bloomington High School South, Edgewood High School, Harmony School, Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics & Humanities, Lighthouse Christian Academy, and Seven Oaks Classical School.

Applications for the 2023 scholarship were blindly reviewed and independently scored by representatives from each high school to identify semifinalists. The number of identified semifinalists reflects each school’s senior class size.

Each semifinalist was invited to submit an updated application, which included additional application questions and recommendations. The Community Foundation’s Scholarship Selection Committee then evaluated the completed semifinalist applications. This committee, comprised of community members, blindly reviewed and scored applications from the semifinalists to select ten finalists. In selecting recipients for the Monroe County Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship, consideration is given to student activities and achievements, community and civic service, academic performance, and leadership potential.

Finalists were interviewed during the week of October 17, and finalist interview scores combined with scoring from the written application. The finalists’ rankings, along with the committee’s recommendations for scholarship nominees, are submitted to Independent Colleges of Indiana, Inc. for final selection of scholarship recipients for Monroe County. The two 2023 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars for Monroe County will be named in December 2022.

Lilly Endowment created the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program for the 1998-1999 school year and has supported the program every year since with tuition grants totaling in excess of $439 million. Administered statewide by Independent Colleges of Indiana, Inc. with local support from Indiana community foundations, more than 5,000 Indiana high school students have been awarded the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship since the program’s inception.

The primary purposes of the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program are 1) to help raise the level of educational attainment in Indiana; 2) to increase awareness of the beneficial roles Indiana community foundations can play in their communities; and 3) to encourage and support the efforts of current and past Lilly Endowment Community Scholars to engage with each other and with Indiana business, governmental, educational, nonprofit and civic leaders to improve the quality of life in Indiana generally and in local communities throughout the state.

For more information on the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program or other scholarships administered by CFBMC, visit https://www.cfbmc.org/lasting-impact/apply-for-a-scholarship/ or contact Marcus Whited, Program Director, at 812-333-9016 or [email protected].

About Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County:

Created by individuals, families, and businesses who share a passion for Monroe County and a vision for its future, the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County has granted $28.9 million to more than 400 local nonprofit organizations since its incorporation in 1990. With a growing $44 million endowment, the Foundation makes a difference by connecting caring people, important causes, and community resources.

Join us to celebrate the past year of connecting caring people, important causes, and community resources.

ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY
Tuesday, November 15, 2022
Program at 4:30 p.m. Cocktail reception to follow.

Ivy Tech Shreve Hall
200 Daniels Way
Bloomington, IN 47404
Directions

To RSVP by November 10, send an email to [email protected] or call Emily Hannon at (812) 333-9016.

Twenty-one high school seniors selected from six area schools as semifinalists for Monroe County’s two 2023 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarships

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – The Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County (CFBMC) has announced that 21 high school seniors have been selected as semifinalists for the 2023 Monroe County Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program. Congratulations to these exceptional students:

• Brooke Bailey, Bloomington High School North
• Felicia Bolander, Edgewood High School
• Clara Crain, Edgewood High School
• Yarra Ellett, Bloomington High School South
• Madilyn Fisher, Bloomington High School North
• Luke Fritz, Lighthouse Christian Academy
• Advaith Iyengar, Bloomington High School North
• Carina Jacobson, Bloomington High School South
• Jake Keller, Bloomington High School South
• Trinity Kissinger, Academy of Science and Entrepreneurship
• Alice Lehr, Bloomington High School North
• Grace McKay, Bloomington High School South
• Ryan Mooney, Bloomington High School North
• Connor Shin, Bloomington High School North
• Nora Shipp, Seven Oaks Academy
• Benjamin Smith, Bloomington High School South
• Jack Steiner, Bloomington High School North
• Hazel Stringer, Bloomington High School South
• Nicky Walker, Bloomington High School South
• Hayden Wilson, Edgewood High School
• Audrey Wu, Bloomington High School South

In Monroe County, two students are awarded Lilly Endowment Community Scholarships each year. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are awarded four-year, full-tuition scholarships to pursue baccalaureate degrees at colleges or universities in Indiana. The scholarship also includes up to $900 annually for required textbooks and equipment.

Monroe County’s semifinalists were selected from among 84 applications submitted by students from six of the 11 high schools that serve Monroe County students. Eligible schools include The Academy of Science and Entrepreneurship, Covenant Christian School, Bloomington Graduation School, Bloomington High School North, Bloomington High School South, Edgewood High School, Harmony School, Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics & Humanities, Lighthouse Christian Academy, and Seven Oaks Classical School.

Applications for the 2023 scholarship were blindly reviewed and independently scored by representatives from each high school to identify semifinalists. The number of identified semifinalists reflects each school’s senior class size.

Each semifinalist has been invited to submit an updated application, which includes additional application questions and recommendations. The Community Foundation’s Scholarship Selection Committee will then evaluate the completed semifinalist applications. This committee, comprised of community members, blindly reviews and scores applications from the semifinalists to select ten finalists. In selecting recipients for the Monroe County Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship, consideration is given to student activities and achievements, community and civic service, academic performance, and leadership potential.

Finalists will be identified and interviewed in October, and finalist interview scores will be combined with scoring from the written application. The finalists’ rankings, along with the committee’s recommendations for scholarship nominees, will be submitted to Independent Colleges of Indiana, Inc. for final selection of scholarship recipients for Monroe County. The two 2023 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars for Monroe County will be named in December 2022.

“High school seniors in Monroe County have a wide array of choices ahead of them, and we are proud that each of this year’s 65 Lilly Scholarship applicants is interested in pursuing their post-secondary education at one of Indiana’s world-class higher education institutions,” said Community Foundation President and CEO Tina Peterson. “While only two Monroe County students will ultimately receive a Lilly Scholarship, we look forward to getting to know each of the semifinalists better and hope that all of our applicants will elect to not only stay in Indiana for post-secondary education but will also choose to make Indiana home after graduation.”

Lilly Endowment created the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program for the 1998-1999 school year and has supported the program every year since with tuition grants totaling in excess of $439 million. Administered statewide by Independent Colleges of Indiana, Inc. with local support from Indiana community foundations, more than 5,000 Indiana high school students have been awarded the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship since the program’s inception.

The primary purposes of the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program are 1) to help raise the level of educational attainment in Indiana; 2) to increase awareness of the beneficial roles Indiana community foundations can play in their communities; and 3) to encourage and support the efforts of current and past Lilly Endowment Community Scholars to engage with each other and with Indiana business, governmental, educational, nonprofit and civic leaders to improve the quality of life in Indiana generally and in local communities throughout the state.

For more information on the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program or other scholarships administered by CFBMC, visit https://www.cfbmc.org/lasting-impact/apply-for-a-scholarship/ or contact Marcus Whited, Program Director, at 812-333-9016 or [email protected].

About Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County:

Created by individuals, families, and businesses who share a passion for Monroe County and a vision for its future, the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County has granted $28.9 million to more than 400 local nonprofit organizations since its incorporation in 1990. With a growing $44 million endowment, the Foundation makes a difference by connecting caring people, important causes, and community resources.

Interested organizations are encouraged to submit letters of intent by September 7.

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – The Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County has opened its Community Impact Funding Initiative. This competitive granting program is designed to fuel innovative ideas and lasting impact in our community by granting funds to nonprofits to meet our community’s most pressing needs and seize its most compelling opportunities.

On an annual basis, the Community Foundation entertains funding requests for projects and programs that will benefit the citizens of Bloomington and Monroe County. Grant funding for this year’s Community Impact Funding Initiative is designed to support a broad range of community needs such as arts and culture, social and health services, education, recreation, beautification and preservation, animal welfare, the environment, and community development opportunities. Grants are awarded from the Unrestricted Endowment Fund, select field of interest funds, and from collaborative funding provided by Community Foundation partners, including the Smithville Charitable Foundation. 

The Foundation seeks to invest in projects that are forward thinking, community changing in their implementation, practical in their application, and unique to the community.  Highest priority in the evaluation of grant awards will be given to projects that incorporate and embrace the following:

• Innovative or transformative solutions to critical community issues
• Collaboration across organizations and/or sectors to increase impact and effectiveness
• Projects/programs that plan for long-term sustainability (when applicable) 

Grant Amounts

Range of grant awards: $10,000 to $50,000 per proposal. 
Total grants: 8-12 awards are expected, depending on grant amounts.

Timeline

• September 7, 2022 – Due date for Letters of Intent, IRS Letter, non-discrimination policy 
• September 23, 2022 – Selected applicants receive invitations for full online application 
• October 31, 2022 – Full applications due
• December 5, 2022 – Announcement of awards
• Mid-December 2022 – Grant funding available (pending grant agreement)

Guidelines, instructions, and frequently asked questions for the grant initiative are available online at https://www.cfbmc.org/lasting-impact/apply-for-a-grant/community-impact-grants/. For more information on eligibility and application procedures, contact CFBMC Program Director Marcus Whited at (812) 333-9016 or [email protected].

About Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County:

Created by individuals, families, and businesses who share a passion for Monroe County and a vision for its future, the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County has granted more than $28.9 million since its incorporation in 1990. With a growing $44 million endowment, the Foundation makes a difference by connecting caring people, important causes, and community resources.

The Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County (CFBMC) awarded six nonprofit organizations with Heading Home grants this summer. A total of $200,000 has been awarded as part of this funding program, CFBMC’s second competitive grant cycle for the 2021-2022 fiscal year.

The Community Foundation’s Heading Home competitive granting program focuses on advancing housing security through projects and programs aligned with solutions outlined in the recently released Heading Home Plan, A Regional Plan for Making Homelessness Rare, Brief, and Non-Repeating.

The Heading Home Plan was developed collaboratively in 2021 by local and regional partners, including service providers, government officials, community members, funders, and people with lived experience. The plan is serving as a community guide to support long-term initiatives with strategies to address the many contributing factors to housing insecurity, ranging from financial and legal challenges to emotional, physical, and mental health-related matters.

“Since the release of the Heading Home Plan, our community has begun a new phase of deliberate collaboration to advance housing security in our region,” said President and CEO Tina Peterson.

“Working together, we are making amazing strides, but we know there is much work yet to do. Today, the Community Foundation is proud to award these Heading Home grants to dedicated nonprofit organizations that have made coordination and collaboration key components of their work. In addition to housing security, individuals and families impacted by these grants will have the benefit of support services from across our community to put them on a path to a better future.”

Grants were awarded in amounts ranging in size from $17,000 to $50,000:

• Beacon, Inc. for a capital campaign feasibility study, architectural designs, and land assessments associated with a new facility that would combine and expand essential services for people experiencing poverty, hunger, and homelessness. – This grant will enable Beacon, Inc. to explore the development of a multi-tiered building that would centralize and expand essential and emergency services and housing stabilization in one location with co-located space for local health and substance misuse programs.

• Bloomington Housing Authority to establish a rent deposit funding program to reduce financial barriers for low-income residents to secure stable housing opportunities. –Available to income-qualified renters, deposit assistance will be provided to an estimated 50-75 individuals per year as zero interest, flexible loans that can be repaid over time in alignment with participant income.

• Catholic Charities Bloomington to support the Parent Empowerment and Child Therapy Program, a collaboration with New Hope for Families. – Through this program, low-income families threatened by homelessness will have on-site access to mental health services, including attachment-based child therapy and parenting empowerment support groups. New Hope’s early childcare educators will also receive evidence-based trauma therapy training to support children at the Nest.

• Community Justice and Mediation Center (CJAM) to expand no-cost mediation services through the Housing and Eviction Prevention Project, a program that provides free landlord-tenant mediation services, legal advice, social service/rental housing assistance referrals, and court navigation support. This grant will enable CJAM to provide advanced eviction-court mediation training, develop mediator recruitment strategies, and expand its capacity to serve more clients.

• Monroe County United Ministries (MCUM) to expand its Self-Sufficiency Center financial assistance program, which provides rent, mortgage, and utility payments for low-income families and individuals at risk of eviction or homelessness. Grant funding will allow MCUM to expand financial assistance to 200 more families and increase Self-Sufficiency Center outreach to landlords and community members.

• New Leaf, New Life (NLNL) to enable 35 formerly incarcerated people to move into transitional housing with transportation vouchers and basic needs for employment such as clothing and shoes. In addition to NLNL’s transition navigation services, this grant will provide initial funding for these individuals to establish immediate transitional housing increasing the likelihood of them remaining sober, healthy, and employed.

CFBMC’s “Heading Home” grant initiative is co-funded by Smithville Charitable Foundation and made possible through unrestricted funds at the Community Foundation and designated field of interest funds established to support specific areas of focus.

“We are grateful for the generosity of Smithville Charitable Foundation and Community Foundation donors for entrusting us to invest in innovative programs and ideas that improve the quality of life for all who call Bloomington and Monroe County home,” added Peterson.

For more information on other efforts to reduce homelessness in our region, visit: https://www.monroeunitedway.org/housing

Other CFBMC Grant Programs

CFBMC’s “Heading Home” grant initiative is the second of two competitive funding rounds for the 2021-2022 fiscal year (July 1-June 30). In December, the Foundation awarded $154,000 to nine organizations as part of its Creating Community Grant initiative. Read more about this announcement.

CFBMC’s next competitive grant round is now open. This round will support a broad range of community needs and compelling opportunities rather than focus on any one specific area or initiative. Letters of intent are due September 7. For more information, visit: https://cfbmc.org/lasting-impact/apply-for-a-grant/community-impact-grants/

About Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County:

Created by individuals, families, and businesses who share a passion for Monroe County and a vision for its future, the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County has granted more than $28.9 million since its incorporation in 1990. With a growing $44 million endowment, the Foundation makes a difference by connecting caring people, important causes, and community resources.

About Heading Home of South Central Indiana:

Heading Home of South Central Indiana is a community-wide partnership working to decrease homelessness and improve housing security. Heading Home’s lead partners are the Community Foundation of Bloomington/Monroe County (CFBMC) and the United Way of Monroe County, where the Heading Home staff is based. For more information, visit https://www.monroeunitedway.org/housing

By Mary Anne Sterling, Special Contributor

From theater to sculpture and from painting to music, the creative arts inspire us—fostering creativity, empathy, and beauty. The arts strengthen our community socially, educationally, and economically—benefits that have persisted even during the pandemic. We are delighted to share a few ways your support has enabled the Community Foundation in helping to enhance the arts in our community.

Constellation Stage + Screen

In April 2022, the newly formed Constellation Stage + Screen organization launched a grand vision for the future of the performing arts in Bloomington. Its three founding organizations, Bloomington Playwrights Project, Cardinal Stage, and Pigasus Institute, began collaborating in 2019. The Community Foundation provided a grant to enable the organizations to work with a consultant and explore the possibility of creating an innovative blend of theater and film production, arts education, and new work.

As a result of the grant and the exploration process, Constellation was formed with a mission to produce world-class theater and film that impacts the national performing arts industry through new work development.

“Our productions, community events, and education programs serve as a leading contributor to Bloomington, Indiana’s cultural and economic vibrancy,” said Gabe Gloden, the new organization’s managing director. “We envision a future where the performing arts is as indispensable to our community as any other public service, and philanthropic giving is the key to the success of this vision.”

To learn more, visit https://cardinalstage.org/support/constellation/

Bloomington Community Band

Established in 1978, the Bloomington Community Band (BCB) is an all-volunteer concert band. “We are comprised of 50 to 60 musicians at any one time, with ages ranging from 18 to 85,” explains Andrea Smith, Chair, Board of Directors. Any adult who plays an instrument may join without auditioning, and BCB performs 15 to 20 times per year in and around Monroe County at civic events, public gatherings, retirement homes, and state parks.

“We established an endowment fund to keep our organization going with match funding offered through the Community Foundation,” she said. The Bloomington Community Band Fund now ensures that the BCB will be able to sustain its mission of bringing the joy music to our community for years to come. To join the band or learn about its 2022 performance schedule, visit https://www.bloomingtoncommunityband.org/.

Indiana Limestone Symposium

The stone belt that runs through Monroe County has carved a deep legacy in the region. “Celebrating that legacy and keeping it alive is our top priority,” says Frank Young, board president, who, with co-founder Amy Brier, created the Indiana Limestone Symposium in 1996.

“Our mission is to teach and share the art and tradition of limestone carving with people of all ages and skill levels,” he said. Thanks to a grant from the Community Foundation, ILS expanded beyond its historic three-week annual program. “While most of our events were cancelled because of the pandemic,” Frank explained, “we managed to develop a carving space at Karst Farm Park to host demonstrations year-round.”

Registration is open for the 2022 Symposium that will take place on the grounds of Bybee Stone Company in Ellettsville, Indiana—a few miles northwest of Bloomington— June 5-25. “Your support will help us build capacity to develop a volunteer program, attract and employ teachers, and keep the art of limestone carving alive in this wonderful region,” Young added. To register for a class or learn more, visit https://limestonesymposium.org/.

USA International Harp Competition

Bloomington is known in Indiana for its musical arts, but it is known worldwide as the host of the triennial USA International Harp Competition (USAIHC), which is open to harpists of all nationalities between the ages of 18 and 32. Held at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music, the event is paired with a globally recognized triennial Composition Contest producing new works for the harp.

The USAIHC nonprofit organization is based in Bloomington and exists to inspire, promote, and sustain artistic excellence while fostering a broader appreciation of the harp and its repertoire. Founded in 1989 by celebrated harpist and Distinguished Professor Emerita of Harp at Indiana University, Susann McDonald, it is the world’s foremost solo harp competition. USAIHC’s vision is to be a global platform for the harp that will inspire artistic excellence, encourage personal growth, launch careers and create community between musicians and their audiences.

This year, 48 contestants from 21 countries have been invited to participate in the 12th competition from June 29 – July 9, 2022. USAIHC also hosts a biannual Concert Series of distinguished harpists and introduces hundreds of students to the harp through its educational program, Harp Start. Joyce Claflin, president and CEO, says the organization “is committed to the diversity of performance, new music, and education.

USAIHC chose to establish two permanent endowment funds at the Community Foundation, the Susann McDonald Fund for USAIHC and the Joyce Claflin Fund for USAIHC, to sustain its mission and support the competition. For more information, visit https://usaihc.org/.

Jewish Theatre of Bloomington

A pillar of the Bloomington community, the Jewish Theatre of Bloomington is the only theater company of its kind in Indiana. “We produce works that are accessible to a diverse audience that arise from or reflect on the Jewish experience and on universal issues of the human condition,” said Deb Allmayer, Board Member and Treasurer.

“Arts organizations like ours face multiple and daily challenges,” she confided. “Locating rehearsal and performance space and raising money to fund compelling productions requires both creativity and collaboration.” “Our co-founder and artistic director, Audrey Heller, is nearing retirement; for 16 years, she has never been paid. We have to ensure we have the means to pay her successor and support the challenges this organization already faces.”

“We are so grateful for the patient and well-informed guidance we received from the Community Foundation,” added Allmayer. Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, donations made through 2024 to the Audrey Heller Jewish Theatre of Bloomington Fund at the CFBMC will be matched up to $100K. Learn more at: https://www.jewishtheatrebloomington.com/audrey-heller-fund

Leck and Savastuk Bravo Fund

Susan Savastuk and Glorianne Leck are passionate about the arts. Susan discovered a love for painting when she retired, and they have enjoyed everything from local theatre, music performances, and the visual arts.

As they became more involved in the local arts community, however, they noticed that venues for the arts to be performed and displayed were often a challenge to secure in Monroe County. Susan and Glorianne stepped up to create a permanent field of interest endowment fund at the Community Foundation that could provide sustainable grant funding to support the arts and art venues. Aptly named the Bravo Fund, it will help provide grant funding dedicated to this vital component of a thriving arts community.

These are just a few examples of how your generosity is creating a stronger, thriving arts ecosystem in Monroe County. To see all of our arts-related funds, check our fund list by focus area and if you have questions, reach out and contact us.

You are invited for an afternoon of refreshments and to learn about CDFI Friendly Bloomington.

Appetizers & Opportunities with CDFI Friendly Bloomington

Thursday, April 14 at 3:30 p.m.
Reception to Follow
The Far Center
505 W. 4th Street
Bloomington, IN 47404

To RSVP, email [email protected]

CDFI Friendly Bloomington is the product of a collaboration among Bloomington entities including the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County, the Bloomington Urban Enterprise Association (BUEA), the City of Bloomington, and local business and civic leaders.

A 501(c)(3) organization, CDFI Friendly Bloomington was formed to enhance the economic welfare, equity, and quality of life for the Indiana Uplands region. It provides technical assistance and financing to nonprofits, small businesses, entrepreneurs, and public servants making a positive impact in their communities. By leveraging the national network of CDFIs (mission-based lenders called community development financial institutions), CDFI Friendly Bloomington helps with financing needs such as microloans, working capital, building remodels, bridge loans, or affordable housing developments.

CDFI partners will be attending the event to meet local partners and share their resources. We encourage you to come learn how your organization or small business may benefit from their services.

Learn more about CDFI Friendly Bloomington at cdfifriendlybtown.org.

Interested organizations are encouraged to submit letters of intent by March 21.

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – The Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County has opened its Community Impact Funding Initiative, CFBMC’s second competitive grant cycle for the 2021-2022 fiscal year. This funding round will focus on advancing housing security through projects and programs aligned with solutions outlined in the Heading Home Plan, A Regional Plan for Making Homelessness Rare, Brief, and Non-Repeating. CFBMC expects to award 8-10 grants with funding amounts ranging from $10,000-$50,000 per proposal.

In 2021, CFBMC and the United Way of Monroe County, with support from the South Central Housing Network, City of Bloomington, Monroe County Government, and the townships of Perry and Bloomington, convened a working group for the explicit purpose of addressing housing insecurity in Monroe County. Using the 2014 Heading Home document, the working group’s goal was to update the county’s plan for ending homelessness by creating a more comprehensive approach for driving community-wide solutions to the depth and breadth of underlying challenges that result in housing insecurity.

The updated Heading Home Plan was developed collaboratively by local and regional partners, including service providers, government officials, community members, funders, and people with lived experience. Released in July 2021, this plan is serving as a community guide to support long-term initiatives with strategies to address the many contributing factors to housing insecurity, ranging from financial and legal challenges to emotional, physical, and mental health-related matters. The plan also speaks to system-level issues related to access to a variety of housing types.

Impact Grant Eligibility and Timeline

Local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and tax-exempt entities are eligible to apply. This includes nonprofits, units of government, school corporations and educational institutions, and religious organizations. Grants may be awarded to religious organizations for programs that are non-proselytizing and do not promote religious doctrine or instruction. In limited situations, CFMBC may be able to grant to other types of organizations that are serving a charitable purpose but do not have a 501(c)(3) status.

Direct costs for implementing the project or program are eligible grant expenses. In addition, no more than 30% of the requested grant funding may be used for indirect costs that contribute to the organization’s ability to implement the grant project or for building and/or sustaining operational capacity for the duration of the grant period. Examples of indirect operating expenses related to the project may include areas such as internal operations such as IT upgrades, financial management tools, administrative costs, essential staffing, and core program costs.

The Community Impact Funding Initiative uses a two-part grant proposal process. Interested agencies should submit a two-page (maximum) letter of intent to the Community Foundation by March 21, 2022. View specific instructions for letters of intent.

Following a review of the letters of intent, selected organizations will be invited to submit full grant applications online, which will be due April 22. The 2022 Community Impact Grants will be announced May 27.

Guidelines, instructions, and frequently asked questions for the grant initiative are available online at https://www.cfbmc.org/lasting-impact/apply-for-a-grant/community-impact-grants/. For more information on eligibility and application procedures, contact CFBMC Program Director Marcus Whited at (812) 333-9016 or [email protected].

For more information on other efforts to reduce homelessness in our region, visit: https://www.monroeunitedway.org/housing

Other CFBMC Grant Programs

CFBMC’s Impact Funding Initiative is the second of two competitive funding rounds planned for its 2021-2022 fiscal year. In December, the Foundation awarded $154,000 to nine organizations as part of its Creating Community Grant initiative. Read more about this announcement.

CFBMC’s next competitive grant round will be announced this summer. It is anticipated that this round will be positioned to support a broad range of community needs and compelling opportunities rather than focus on any one specific area or initiative. This plan may change if circumstances make it prudent or necessary.  Stay tuned for updates.

About Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County:

Created by individuals, families, and businesses who share a passion for Monroe County and a vision for its future, the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County has granted more than $28.9 million since its incorporation in 1990. With a growing $44 million endowment, the Foundation makes a difference by connecting caring people, important causes, and community resources.

Thanks to the generous support of donors and community partners, the Community Foundation is proud to administer a number of educational scholarship funds for students in Monroe County.

Each spring, we open applications for a number of these scholarships. Help us get the word out to students and families you know. The following scholarships have upcoming application deadlines!

Pi Beta Phi Alumnae Club Betty Burnett Welke Scholarship

Deadline to apply: March 1, 2022
Amount: $2,500 

In 1932, Elizabeth (Betty) Burnett was initiated into the Indiana Beta Chapter of Pi Beta Phi and served her chapter as the social chairman, rush chairman, and panhellenic representative during her years as an active member. This memorial scholarship honors Betty Burnett’s years of service and commitment to the Pi Beta Phi chapter at Indiana University. View more information about the Pi Beta Phi Scholarship.

Stinesville High School Alumni Scholarship

Deadline to apply: March 21, 2022
Amount: Two awards of $4,000 each expected

This scholarship is awarded to an Edgewood High School senior who has a Bean Blossom Township School affiliation. Consideration is given for academic as well as other achievements, leadership activities, extra-curricular skills, financial need, and the student’s work record.  View more information about Stinesville High School Alumni Scholarship.

Monroe County Ag Day Scholarship

Deadline to apply: March 21, 2022
Amount: varies, up to $1,500 maximum award expected

This scholarship is awarded to a current senior in high school who meets at least one of the following criteria: raised on a farm, member/former member of the Monroe County 4-H program, current member of an FFA chapter in Monroe County. Scholarship(s) may be used for college tuition, fees, books, and/or equipment necessary for coursework. Applicants may major in any area of study; however, preference will be given to those individuals majoring in Agriculture, Home Economics or Natural Resources. View more information about Monroe County Ag Day Scholarship.

Carl Deal, Jr., Memorial Scholarship

Deadline to apply: March 29, 2022
Amount: varies, up to $3,000 maximum award expected

This scholarship was created in honor of Carl Deal Jr.  Mr. Deal felt a strong passion for The Boys & Girls Club and their strong commitment and success in our community, the lives of his family and friends and he appreciated the commitment and impact that BGCB had on his life.  Carl was a long-time Boys & Girls Club member and wanted to give back to the young people of this community. Upon his death, his friends, co-workers and family coordinated a fundraiser known as “King’s Blues, BBQ & Funkfest”, in order to raise funds to create a scholarship to be presented annually to a current, or former Boys & Girls Club member, for post-secondary education or training. View more information about the Carl Deal, Jr., Memorial Scholarship. 

Thomas Moeller Memorial Scholarship

Deadline to apply: May 9, 2022
Amount: varies, up to $1,600 maximum award expected

This scholarship was created in honor of Tom Moeller, who was best known for his musical talents and the doors he helped to open for others. This scholarship provides music scholarships/grants to high school students – grades 10 to 12 who reside in Monroe County and wish to pursue music endeavors. Examples of expenses eligible for this scholarship award include, but are not limited to, rental or purchase of a musical instrument, music lessons, fees for musical competition, recording projects, vocal lessons, and tuition for music camps. View more information about the Thomas Moeller Memorial Scholarship.

Camisha R. Sims Memorial Nursing Scholarship

Deadline to apply: May 10, 2022
Amount: varies, up to $2,000 award expected

This scholarship honors the legacy of Camisha R. Sims, a dedicated nurse who cared selflessly for others and pursued excellence in her field with passion. This scholarship award is designed to support students who need financial assistance to pursue their goals of becoming a nurse like Camisha. Ideal candidates are Monroe County students of color pursuing any level of nursing or similar healthcare-related field. Priority will be given to students already enrolled in a nursing program, though incoming nursing students may be considered as well. View more about the Camish R. Sims Memorial Nursing Scholarship.

For a complete list of Community Foundation scholarships, visit the Apply For A Scholarship page.

For specific questions on these or other scholarship opportunities, please contact Program Director Marcus Whited at [email protected] or 812-333-9016.

The Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County (CFBMC) has awarded nine nonprofit organizations with Creating Community Grants. A total of $154,036 has been awarded as part of this funding initiative.

Following a year in which many federal, state, and other local funders were, by necessity, focused primarily on meeting basic needs, the Community Foundation was able to open the Creating Community competitive granting program in September with a focus on restoring and enhancing the overall livability of our community. Grants awarded through this program will foster our community’s vibrancy, quality of place, and livability through supporting and enhancing the amenities that make Monroe County an attractive place to call home.

“We had an incredible response to this grant opportunity and welcomed proposals from many organizations that have not previously applied for a Community Foundation grant,” said President and CEO Tina Peterson. “Our grant committee was delighted to learn more about the amazing work of these dedicated organizations, and we are proud of the potential that the nine grants will have in creating a more inclusive, attractive, and thriving community for everyone to visit, live, work, and play.”

Grants were awarded in amounts ranging in size from $10,000 to $25,000 for a total of $154,036.

Cancer Support Community South Central Indiana to develop a mural and launch a therapeutic art program – CSCCI has a new building where as many as 1,800 cancer patients, families, and caregivers receive free support programs beyond clinical care. This grant will fund a mural that inspires hope near the entrance and an art therapy program to complement existing support services.

Canopy Bloomington to pilot the “Youth Tree Tenders” program. This education and awareness initiative will employ six high-risk teens to learn about urban forestry, enhance Bloomington’s existing trees, plant new trees in low-canopy neighborhoods, and improve environmental literacy in the community.

Danny Smith Memorial Park to fund renovations to this community park near Unionville. As the only park in northeastern Monroe County, this multi-use gathering and play space serves 5,600 nearby residents through a variety of recreational activities. These enhancements will fund a new playground and update an existing playground and basketball court.

Edgewood Early Childhood Center to construct a new outdoor shelter for outdoor classes and community events. While current COVID protocols do not allow parents or visitors inside the Center, this new covered shelter will include seating for parents and guardians to join their child(ren) for meals and create a permanent gathering site for educational and community events.

Friends of Lake Monroe to support the Lake Monroe Watershed Management Plan and a contract watershed coordinator. A watershed coordinator will develop education and outreach to protect and enhance Lake Monroe. The coordinator will organize community forums and launch a pilot program to assist homeowners in maintaining septic systems.

Indiana University Arts & Sciences Council to support the “Granfalloon” event scheduled for June 2022. Inspired by Hoosier author Kurt Vonnegut, this festival celebrates civic engagement, independent thought, art, and creativity.Grant funding will support programming and speakers on the topics of advancing local diversity and inclusion, environmental advocacy, and sustainability.

The Project School to install a small learning garden and creative play space. Located on a formerly vacant lot, this “mini-park” will feature raised gardens, storage sheds, art installations, and green space. The multi-use space will be open to the public and used for a variety of educational and recreational programs.

Sycamore Land Trust to restore and stabilize streambanks and trails at the Powell Preserve along Beanblossom Creek. Funding will allow SLT to install erosion control measures, protect access to trails, and improve the water quality along the creek. Once these and other needed enhancements are completed, the preserve will reopen to the public.

WFHB – Bloomington Community Radio to resume the Youth Radio program. This program aims to train youth ages 13-20 with skills in broadcast radio, podcasting, and journalistic reporting to produce live programming each week. WFHB hopes to involve 25 young people in the program each year with an emphasis on underserved youth as well as equity, diversity, and inclusion.

The Creating Community Grant program is co-funded by Smithville Charitable Foundation and made possible through unrestricted funds at the Community Foundation and designated field of interest funds established to support areas of focus.

“We are grateful for the generosity of Smithville Charitable Foundation and Community Foundation donors for entrusting us to invest in innovative programs and ideas that improve the quality of life for all who call Bloomington and Monroe County home,” added Peterson.

This grant program is one of two competitive grant cycles planned for the Community Foundation’s fiscal year (July 1 – June 30). The second competitive grant program will occur in the spring of 2022. For more details on Community Foundation grant programs, visit our website or contact Program Director Marcus Whited at 812.333.9016 or [email protected].

About Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County:

Created by individuals, families, and businesses who share a passion for Monroe County and a vision for its future, the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County has granted more than $27 million since its incorporation in 1990. With a growing $44 million endowment, the Foundation makes a difference by connecting caring people, important causes, and community resources.

About Smithville Charitable Foundation: Inspired by altruism, The Smithville Charitable Foundation was established in 2007 to enrich lives by creating opportunities and bringing necessities to the communities served by Smithville Communications. As a private foundation, Smithville Charitable Foundation works closely with community foundations in the 17 counties of its service territory to support a variety of causes related to religion, education, health, the arts, relief of poverty or distress, and various public organizations.