January 13, 2026

Written by Jeff Bennett, CICF 

Central Indiana enters the new year with a tension familiar to communities across the country: Basic needs are rising, at the same time nonprofits and local governments confront much leaner budgets.

What is our most effective response? The two studies I linked to above show that major challenges, such as hunger and housing instability, transcend county lines. A regional approach is one of the most practical ways to stretch nonprofit resources, attract more funding for everyone, reduce duplication, and make sure that effective solutions benefit every community in Central Indiana.  

When nonprofits, funders, employers, and public partners share data, coordinate strategies, and back one another up, our region becomes stronger than any single organization can be on its own.

With that in mind, here are some of the major issues our region will face in 2026 and beyond. 

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Indy Arts Council has named Anna Tragesser director of community impact and strategic investment. Tragesser formerly served as program manager.

Trinity Episcopal Church has named Will Turpin-Doty director of communications. Turpin-Doty previously served as director of development and outreach at Trinity Haven.

Second Helpings has named Oriana Reyes manager of hunger relief. Reyes formerly served as kitchen manager.

Second Helpings has named Tiara Shelton senior kitchen coordinator. Shelton formerly served as kitchen coordinator.

The Mitch Daniels Leadership Foundation is now accepting applications through February 13, for its free, two-year Class IX Fellowship, a statewide leadership program for established Indiana professionals committed to principled leadership and driving meaningful community impact. Apply.

Wes-Del Community Schools, a rural district of 850 students, has built a nationally recognized K–12 STEM and technical career pipeline aligned with in-demand careers with the help of a $93,000 grant from Ball Brothers Foundation. This strategic philanthropy will expand access to high-quality technical education, strengthen Indiana’s workforce, and help students pursue careers close to home. Learn more.

Brightlane Learning announced new partnerships with True North Academy and William Penn Middle School to expand academic tutoring for students experiencing housing instability, building on its recent expansion to all Indianapolis Public Schools high schools. The added programs extend the organization’s K–12 support model during a critical middle school period for student learning and development. Learn more.

TechPoint announced the finalists for the 2026 Mira Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations across talent and innovation for their contributions to Indiana’s tech economy. Award winners, honoring everyone from rising entrepreneurs to established industry leaders, will be announced April 24. See the finalists.

The Hendricks County Community Foundation completed its Stronger Together Campaign, raising $1.5 million in unrestricted endowment funds, generating a total of $4.5 million for community impact. The total was made possible by a match through Lilly Endowment Inc.’s GIFT VIII initiative and a local donor, addressing a wide range of needs across Hendricks County. Learn more.

The Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy is offering two full-ride scholarships to high school seniors and IU Indianapolis undergraduates passionate about making a difference. Winners of the Pitch Your Passion competition will receive up to four years of tuition, room and board, books, and a semester abroad. The competition takes place on February 21, 2026; applications are due by February 5. Apply.

The Center for Aging and Community at UIndy will be hosting “The Art of Aging Well: How Joy and Awe Enrich the Journey,” a free, in-person event with Dr. Julia Gahimer on January 27, where participants will explore how laughter, wonder, and joy can make aging a vibrant, enriching experience. See details and sign up. 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Modern Grantseeking 101: Practical Steps to Find, Match, and Manage Grants | Virtual

Jan. 14^th | 1-2 p.m.

This session shows nonprofits how to use AI, IRS 990 data, and peer insights to identify aligned funders, uncover hidden and non-solicitation grant opportunities, and manage a streamlined grant pipeline from prospecting through reporting. Presented by Nonprofit Hub. Cost: Free Register.   

Strategic Planning in Times of Uncertainty| Webinar

Jan. 21^st | 2 p.m.

This interactive webinar helps nonprofit leaders build practical, adaptive strategic plans that navigate uncertainty, stay focused on impact, and equip teams with proven frameworks and tools to make confident decisions amid change. Presented by the Bridgespan Group. Cost: Free. Register

Community-Led Change Trainings | Virtual

Jan. 28^th | 5:30-7:30 p.m.

This session for neighborhood residents and Steering Committee members builds on strengths-based practices like Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) and Appreciative Inquiry (AI) to help you lead positive, inclusive change in your neighborhood. Presented by Indianapolis Neighborhood Resource Center and DIP-IN. Cost: Free. Register.

Volunteer Opportunity | The Milk Bank

The Milk Bank needs volunteers to help stamp and address postcards about their Saving Infant Lives license plate. Shifts as short as an hour at the Indianapolis headquarters are available. Sign up.

SPONSORS' RESOURCES

Covi Why Gratitude and Empathy Are Your Most Powerful Leadership Tools | The COVI Way | Episode 15 

Charitable Allies Guiding Your Nonprofit Toward Success with Board Goals

CHARITABLE ADVISORS

FEATURED JOB LISTING

Executive Director, Community Learning Center - Community Learning Center

2025 Central Indiana Salary Report