Lilly Endowment awards $54.7M to groups that aid kids, youth

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Thirteen groups that serve children and young people across central Indiana have landed $54.7 million in grants from the Lilly Endowment Inc. aimed at boosting their long-term financial sustainability.

The endowment said 12 of the Indianapolis-based organizations receiving the funding provide a variety of services that support children, teenagers and young adults and their families. The other is a multi-service, neighborhood-based community center with a significant focus on youth.

The foundation said the grants are designed to help each of the groups build stronger financial futures and resiliency so they can have a lasting impact on the youths they serve. The grants range in amount from $1 million to $7.5 million.

The Indianapolis-based Lilly Endowment said in a statement that the 13 groups getting the funding 'œare undercapitalized for the scope and volume of services they are called upon to provide."

'œThese organizations work every day to help children and young people navigate the path to becoming thoughtful, caring individuals who are prepared for work and able to lead fulfilling lives,'ť said Ronni Kloth, the endowment's vice president for community development. 'œIt is a privilege to help them build their capacity to thrive for years to come.'ť