Giving Sum is an not-for-profit organization creating the next generation of philanthropic leaders working together to improve Indianapolis and central Indiana. By combining members' resources -- time, talent, and finances -- Giving Sum is able to multiply the impact that members have on the community and on each other.
Vision
Giving Sum members share a vision of our community in which everyone participates to create positive change.
Mission
Giving Sum inspires and engages the next generation of leaders by mobilizing their passions, talents, and resources to support innovative community initiatives.
Four Key Objectives
- Engage members in diverse volunteer opportunities, learn about innovative not-for-profit organizations, and raise awareness for critical community needs.
- Provide significant financial resources and volunteer support to organizations operating innovative programs in the community.
- Educate members through highly interactive opportunities with leaders that are making a difference in the community.
- Encourage social and professional networking through fun and rewarding member functions.
Annual Grant
Annually, grant applications are evaluated by members to decide the recipient of the year's $50,000 grant. Applications are evaluated according to set criteria and impact on year's focus areas.
Past grant winners included:
- 2008: Coburn Place, community playground
- 2009: Starfish Initiative, leadership camp
- 2010: Noble of Indiana, community garden
- 2011: Indy Reads, community bookstore
Focus Areas
In 2011, Giving Sum adjusted its format from five affinity groups -- Arts and Culture, Environment, Education, Health and Human Service, and Community and Economic Development -- to electing issue concentrations annually. Early in the year, members vote on the issue that will focus the year's education, volunteer efforts, and grant engagement.
Giving Sum is a 501(c)(3) charitable not-for-profit organization. Contributions to Giving Sum are fully tax-exempt to the extent of the law.