The Community Foundation of Boone County (CFBC) has awarded $1 million through its Lifelong Learning Grant Initiative to support two projects that expand access to education, skill development, and community participation for Boone County residents.
The selected projects are: A Collaborative Multi-Generational Birth-to-Career Learning Continuum, a partnership between United Way of Central Indiana, Boone County Mentoring Partnership, and the Witham Family YMCA; and Learning Without Limits, led by ILADD, Inc.
Together, these projects will strengthen Boone County’s lifelong learning landscape by connecting residents with educational resources, developing essential life and career skills, and creating more inclusive pathways to personal and professional growth.
“At CFBC, we believe learning is important at every age and for people of all abilities. This investment will help more Boone County residents access opportunities to explore their interests, develop new skills, and reach their goals, while strengthening the organizations and partnerships that support them.”
Launched in May 2026, the initiative was designed to support large-scale projects that place learning at the center of their work, demonstrate measurable impact, and create sustainable benefits for Boone County residents. Both selected projects will be implemented through 2028, with an emphasis on community partnerships and programs designed to continue beyond the grant period.
“These projects stood out for their thoughtful approaches to addressing gaps in existing services and bringing community resources together in new ways. From helping young people navigate their educational and career paths to creating more inclusive learning experiences for adults with disabilities, each initiative offers practical solutions to real needs in Boone County. We’re excited to see these ideas put into action.”
A Collaborative Multi-Generational Birth-to-Career Learning Continuum: United Way of Central Indiana, Boone County Mentoring Partnership, and Witham Family YMCA
This collaborative initiative will establish a coordinated network of educational and support services designed to help Boone County residents learn, grow, and succeed from early childhood through adulthood.
Through Boone County Mentoring Partnership, the project will strengthen early childhood enrichment and literacy initiatives, including ReadUP, while expanding tutoring and one-on-one mentoring opportunities for students. A dedicated Pathways Coach will extend support beyond high school, helping young adults navigate college enrollment, financial aid, career training, and the practical skills needed for independent living.
For adults and families, the Witham Family YMCA’s Center for Working Families will provide education and employment coaching, financial literacy resources, and assistance overcoming barriers such as childcare, transportation, and credentialing costs. Health education and chronic disease prevention programming will further equip residents with the knowledge and tools to support their long-term well-being.
By connecting these services through stronger partnerships and coordinated referrals, the initiative will create a more seamless network of support, helping individuals and families navigate life’s transitions while building greater stability, independence, and economic opportunity.
Learning Without Limits: ILADD, Inc.
Through its Learning Without Limits initiative, ILADD will establish the Boone County Community Lifelong Learning Collaborative, expanding educational opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities beyond high school.
The project will offer personalized learning plans, accessible courses, and hands-on experiences focused on independent living, literacy, employment readiness, financial management, technology, and health and wellness. Participants will help shape their own educational experiences based on their individual interests, abilities, and goals.
A central component of the initiative will be the development of Community Inclusion Labs, connecting participants with local businesses, libraries, nonprofits, and community organizations where they can apply new skills in real-world settings, build relationships, and become more engaged in their communities.
By the end of 2028, the Collaborative aims to offer more than 60 accessible courses and establish at least 15 Community Inclusion Labs throughout Boone County.
Beyond expanding educational access, the initiative will help adults with disabilities build confidence, independence, and meaningful opportunities to contribute as employees, volunteers, and community leaders, while strengthening support networks for their families.
Funding for the Lifelong Learning Grant Initiative comes from a portion of the $1.5 million Community Support Grant awarded to CFBC by Lilly Endowment Inc. as part of the ninth phase of its Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT IX) initiative. GIFT IX is a statewide initiative designed to strengthen Indiana community foundations and their ability to address local priorities, challenges, and opportunities.
For more information about CFBC and its grantmaking initiatives, visit www.communityfoundationbc.org.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF BOONE COUNTY
The Community Foundation of Boone County exists to unite people, organizations, and philanthropy to create a thriving community for all. Since 1991, its leaders have worked to empower and engage local communities to make a difference right here in Boone County, while also leading a vision to collaboratively address the root causes of challenges facing Boone County in diverse and equitable ways. The Community Foundation continues to invest in the people working to fill local needs and has granted more than $32.7 million to nonprofit organizations and programs working to solve critical challenges in Boone County. With more than $46 million in assets, the Community Foundation works with donors to create permanent funds for charitable giving, to strengthen Boone County for generations to come.
About Lilly Endowment Inc.
Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private philanthropic foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. through gifts of stock in Eli Lilly and Company. The Endowment supports community development, education, and religion, with a special commitment to Indianapolis and Indiana.