March 10, 2026

By Jeff Bennett, CICF Chief Innovation Officer

Civic infrastructure is the connective tissue that brings together government, business, philanthropy, and nonprofits. It includes the relationships, habits, and leadership culture necessary to achieve big goals. For Central Indiana, it’s the “secret sauce” that has consistently allowed us to over-achieve and outperform expectations – and something that other regions of the country have long-sought to replicate.

We’ll see a great example of our civic infrastructure in action this spring as Central Indiana plays host to the NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four for the ninth time. Without Indy’s pivot to a sports strategy in the late 1970s, that event, and the bulk of our region’s present-day tourism and convention landscape, not to mention our local workforce, would look much, much different.

What we’ve learned over the past 50 years holds critical lessons for our nonprofit sector today as we embark on our region’s next great era.

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

The Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation announced Erica Shonkwiler as project & events manager. Previously, Shonkwiler served as a senior lecturer at IU Indianapolis.

The Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation announced Sophie Gordon as manager of communications. Previously, Gordon served as content marketing manager with iCivics.

Samantha Martin has been named director of learning and development at Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana. Martin was formerly a learning and development manager for the organization.

Brittany Adkins has taken on the role of engagement coordinator at Centers of Wellness for Urban Women. Adkins was formerly family and community engagement manager at Edna Martin Christian Center.

The Indianapolis Neighborhood Resource Center is now accepting applications for Legacy Allies, a free two-year program funded by the Indianapolis African American Quality of Life Initiative that pairs elder and emerging leaders to implement resident-driven projects in Martindale Brightwood, Northwest Landing, and Norwood. Participants receive leadership training, a $300 stipend, and a $5,000 neighborhood mini-grant. Learn more and apply.

Indiana Black Expo is offering the FAFSA College Coins workshop in partnership with INvestEd, Ivy Tech, and Future Black Leaders to help students and families navigate college financial aid and explore funding options. Registrants will receive expert guidance on FAFSA and other college financing strategies for high school students, college students, adult learners, and the public. Learn more.

Through partnership between Indiana Philanthropy Alliance and Welborn, the Indiana Department of Insurance has approved the launch of the Nonprofit Benefits Consortium, a new health insurance option designed specifically for nonprofit organizations across the state. The program allows nonprofits to pool resources to access more affordable and predictable health coverage. Learn more.

United Way of Central Indiana is granting $1.16 million to 28 nonprofits outside its accredited network to support basic needs and family-focused programs, reaching more than 59,000 people across seven counties. Funding will help organizations provide essentials like housing, food, and healthcare while strengthening education, financial stability, and overall family well-being. See the recipients.

Ausome Indy is launching a new dad’s group, recognizing that fathers of children with autism often face isolation and limited support. The expansion builds on the organization’s developed mom’s group and growing parent network, which has connected more than 1,300 local families through resources, community, and sensory-friendly events. Join the network.

The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County is accepting nominations for the annual David Sursa Leadership Award, which recognizes outstanding leadership by nonprofit board members serving Delaware County. The award honors the legacy of the foundation’s founding president and includes a $2,500 grant to the recipient’s nominating organization. Learn more & place a nomination.

The Dubois County Community Foundation has received a $1.4 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to expand efforts addressing mental health and substance use disorders in the region. The funding will support partnerships with local nonprofits to strengthen the continuum of care, from prevention to treatment, for individuals and families. Learn more.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

2026 State of the Nonprofit Sector: Funding Your Mission | Webinar

March 11th| 11 a.m.- 12 p.m.

This session will focus on how this past year’s policy changes, donor trends, and other factors are impacting organizations, and reveal ways to adapt to this changing environment. Presented by Forvis Mazars. Cost: Free. Register

Introduction to Individual Giving | Webinar

March 12th | 2- 3 p.m.

A sustainable nonprofit organization has diversified funding streams, and individual donors can play an important role. If you or your organization is new to individual giving, this course is for you. An overview of the fundraising landscape and a walk-through of the key components of an individual giving program. Presented by Candid. Cost: Free. Register 

Using Data to Fundraise Smarter | Webinar

March 17th | 9 a.m.- 11a.m.

This interactive workshop will show nonprofits how to use donor data and artificial intelligence to personalize outreach, prioritize prospects and fundraise smarter — ethically and effectively. Presented by United Way of Central Indiana. Cost: Free. Register

Doing Good Well: Navigating Ethical Tensions in Philanthropy | Webinar

March 18th | 1- 2:30 p.m.

Explore the ethical challenges facing grant makers today, from decision-making under uncertainty and accountability to communities, to the responsibilities that come with institutional influence. Presented by Indiana Philanthropy Alliance. Cost: Free for members, $50 for nonmembers. Register

Ask-Me-Anything: Answers to Nonprofit Legal Questions| Central Library, 40 East St. Claire St., Indianapolis

March 21st | 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Need guidance regarding contracts, governance, IRS rules, or other nonprofit legal matters? Bring your nonprofit-related legal questions to this session with Attorney Ricardo Simmonds, owner of Lighthouse Legal LLC. Presented by Indianapolis Public Library Foundation. Cost: Free. Register

Evidence-based Research for Grant Proposals | Central Library, 40 East St. Claire St., Indianapolis

March 21st | 2-4 p.m.

This workshop will introduce you to resources for locating data and evidence-based research for your nonprofit organization’s grant proposals and answering critical needs statement questions. Presented by Indianapolis Public Library Foundation. Cost: Free. Register

Volunteer Opportunity | Visit Indy

Visit Indy is seeking volunteers to help visitors navigate Indianapolis during conventions, cultural events, and sporting events, providing hospitality, directions, and insider tips. Opportunities include supporting convention groups, assisting at city-wide events, and offering visitor assistance at key locations throughout the city. Register. 

SPONSORS' RESOURCES

Kristen Schunk Moreland The Punchlist Podcast: Strategic Planning for the Future of BAGI

Jameson Camp Jameson Camp in Indy’s Child Magazine

CHARITABLE ADVISORS

FEATURED JOB POSTING

President & CEO - Tipton County Foundation

2025 Central Indiana Salary Report