Three Muncie Grantmakers Recognized for 25 Year Commitment to Promoting Philanthropy in Indiana
MUNCIE—Ball Brothers Foundation, The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County, and the Sherman and Marjorie Zeigler Foundation, Inc. were all recognized last week as grantmaking organizations that were founding members of the Indiana Philanthropy Alliance (IPA). IPA, the state’s membership association of grantmakers, is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. As part of its celebrations, the Alliance recognized these three Muncie-based grantmakers for their continued membership in IPA and for their commitment to promoting philanthropy in Indiana.
According to the first annual report of the Indiana Philanthropy Alliance (then the Indiana Donors Alliance), the purposes of the organization were to: foster interaction among donors; enhance the quality and quantity of grantmaking in Indiana; stimulate development of new foundations and corporate giving programs; inform grantseekers about private philanthropy in the state; and bring attention to the contributions and importance of philanthropy in Indiana. While the Alliance has gone through various additional name and mission statement changes over the years, these core purposes have remained.
Representatives of Muncie-based grantmaking organizations have served on IPA’s board and on various committees throughout the years, representing East Central Indiana well. Notably, Doug Bakken, former Executive Vice President/COO of Ball Brothers Foundation, served as the Alliance’s first Board Chair upon its establishment in 1991. He also played a key role in the formation of the Alliance, helping to drive its creation. Bakken was recognized for his invaluable contributions during a November 16 ceremony held in Indianapolis.
With assets totaling nearly $160 million, Ball Brothers Foundation annually makes grants in support of arts and culture, education, the environment, health, human services and public affairs. The Muncie-based family foundation gives priority to projects and programs that improve the quality of life in BBF’s home city, county and state.
Now celebrating its 30th year, The Community Foundation’s permanent endowment has grown to $55 million and more than $41 million has been awarded in grants and scholarships to enrich the lives of the residents of Muncie and Delaware County. Chances are every person in Delaware County has been affected at least once by the efforts of The Community Foundation as they work towards the betterment of our community and leave a legacy for the future.
The Sherman and Marjorie Zeigler Foundation, Inc. was formed in 1984 to improve the quality of life within and the natural beauty of the City of Muncie, Delaware County, and the State of Indiana through the promotion of horticultural conservation and development, historical preservation, recreational facilities, and community celebrations.