Stories of Impact Across Hamilton County

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has launched in Hamilton County, providing free monthly books to more than 5,000 children under age five through a countywide partnership of local libraries, the Hamilton County Community Foundation, and other community organizations. Hamilton County's program has quickly become the fastest-growing in the nation, inspiring early literacy and community collaboration.
456 nonprofits received grants last year
November 25, 2025
As year-end approaches, HCCF Board member and tax expert Tom Bayer shares straightforward tips to help donors maximize their charitable giving. From donor-advised funds to QCDs to new 2026 tax rules, Tom highlights simple strategies to increase your impact while navigating a changing philanthropic landscape.
November 24, 2025
Hamilton County Community Foundation (HCCF) congratulates Frank Levinson, who received the 2025 Outstanding Philanthropist Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals—Indiana Chapter at the Indiana Philanthropy  Awards
November 19, 2024
Hamilton County Community Foundation is now accepting scholarship applications for the 2025–2026 academic year. Dozens of scholarships are available to help local students pursue education beyond high school, whether at a four-year university, a two-year program, or through technical and career training. 
$8.5 M grants distributed in 2024
November 13, 2025
Three groups on Thursday announced they have awarded $100,000 to the Cicero-based Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank.
November 13, 2025
Hamilton County Community Foundation (HCCF), in partnership with Crosser Family Foundation and the Shelly & Cherryl Friedman Family Fund, has announced a $100,000 grant to Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank.
November 6, 2025
Hamilton County Community Foundation, together with Crosser Family Foundation and the Shelley and Cheryl Friedman Family Fund, has awarded a $100,000 grant to Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank. The emergency funding will help provide nutritious food to residents affected by recent SNAP benefit interruptions, reinforcing the community’s commitment to collaboration and care for neighbors in need.
November 6, 2025
This article, published by Towne Post, highlights the important work Hamilton County Community Foundation (HCCF) does to make Hamilton County, Indiana, a more equitable and inclusive place for all residents.
September 18, 2025
Hamilton County Community Foundation is investing in education and workforce development by partnering with Grace Care Center and Ivy Tech to provide language classes, career coaching, and training that help residents achieve stability and long-term success.
September 18, 2025
Hamilton County Community Foundation has been awarded a $100,000 unrestricted grant through Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VIII) initiative. The grant recognizes the foundation’s board of directors for achieving 100 percent giving participation and underscores their commitment to serving communities across Hamilton County.
September 5, 2025
Prevail Inc. assists survivors of crime and abuse of all ages, providing advocacy, support, housing and prevention services that include one-on-one appointments with staff, courtroom support, resources for healing and more. And Prevail is increasingly busy: The number of domestic violence calls nearly doubled in the first quarter of 2024 compared with the same period the year before.
September 2, 2025
We’re proud to introduce the 2025 cohort of Stronger Partners, Brighter Futures (SPBF). This nine-month initiative is led by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, Hamilton County Community Foundation, and the Indianapolis Foundation—all members of the CICF Collaborative—and supports nonprofits in strengthening their planned giving strategies. It is open to organizations with endowments or similar funds held at CICF Collaborative entities.
August 26, 2025
The Thomas P. and Sondra D. Sheehan Charitable Foundation, a supporting organization of Hamilton County Community Foundation, awarded more than $540,000 in grants to benefit children and local nonprofits. The funding honors the Sheehan family’s legacy of compassion and community impact.
July 7, 2025
HCCF is addressing housing affordability through innovative efforts like a new community land trust and support for survivors of abuse.
May 30, 2025
HCCF is proud to announce an investment of $120,000 over three years in support of Prevail, Inc., a nonprofit that empowers victims of crime and abuse.
May 28, 2025
Hamilton County Community Foundation board of directors has approved grants for Hamilton County nonprofits totaling $172,500.
May 27, 2025
With the help of the Hamilton County Community Foundation, two families have turned their tragedies into something that benefits the community. And this summer, they’re inviting you to get involved.
March 20, 2025
Hamilton County Community Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of new board members and transitions in board leadership. All changes are effective immediately.
March 13, 2025
Last month, Hamilton County Community Foundation announced the appointment of Danielle Stiles-Polk as President. Danielle, who previously served as HCCF’s Vice President of External Strategy & Development, has been serving as Interim President and played a critical role in guiding us through our new strategic plan and rebrand launch in January.
February 26, 2025
The Crosser Family Foundation, a fund of the Hamilton County Community Foundation, has announced $404,676 in grants awarded to 21 nonprofit organizations. In collaboration with the staff at Hamilton County Community Foundation, the advisors of the Crosser Family Foundation support organizations that focus on the communities of Hamilton County and surrounding areas in Central Indiana.
February 12, 2025
Hamilton County Community Foundation (HCCF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Danielle Stiles-Polk as its new President. Stiles-Polk, who previously served as HCCF’s Vice President of External Strategy & Development, has been serving as Interim President and played a critical role in guiding the foundation through its new strategic plan and rebrand launch in January.
February 4, 2025
The Hamilton County Community Foundation is thrilled to congratulate Thomas “Tom” Sheehan on being recognized as a Sagamore of the Wabash by Gov. Eric J. Holcomb. This prestigious honor is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary service and dedication to the state of Indiana, and Tom’s impact on our community makes him a truly deserving recipient.
January 7, 2025
The Hamilton County Community Foundation (HCCF) announces the launch of its new strategic plan, effective January 1, 2025. This transformative roadmap reflects HCCF’s commitment to addressing Hamilton County’s most critical challenges, empowering all residents to thrive in a growing and inclusive community.
December 12, 2024
Hamilton County Community Foundation board of directors has approved grants for Hamilton County not-for-profits totaling $165,000. The grants provide unrestricted operating support to organizations aligned with the Foundation’s three community leadership pillars—behavioral health, family and youth empowerment, and inclusive economic growth.
November 19, 2024
For more than two decades, Trinity Free Clinic has provided free health services to those living and/or working in Hamilton County who are uninsured, under-insured, and in low-income households.
June 24, 2024
Hamilton County Community Foundation has commissioned a report that identifies and analyzes the needs of our community members in Hamilton County.
June 24, 2024
Thanks to the Lilly Endowment Inc., the Hamilton County Community Foundation stands on the brink of achieving its most significant impact yet on the Hamilton County community.
May 30, 2024
After speaking with non-profit leaders and community members, the staff of Hamilton County Community Foundation (HCCF) had just one question: how can a funder make a significant impact with a limited money pool?
March 25, 2024
Hamilton County Community Foundation is proud to announce an investment of $240,000 over three years in support of two nonprofit organizations dedicated to enhancing the well-being of Hamilton County residents.
February 22, 2024
The Crosser Family Foundation, a fund of Hamilton County Community Foundation, announced $491,800 in grants to 21 nonprofit organizations. Working with Hamilton County Community Foundation staff, the Crosser Family Foundation advisors support organizations focusing on the Hamilton County communities or surrounding areas in Central Indiana.  
February 22, 2025
The Crosser Family Foundation, a fund of Hamilton County Community Foundation, announced $491,800 in grants to 21 not-for-profit organizations. Working with Hamilton County Community Foundation staff, the Crosser Family Foundation advisors support organizations focusing on the Hamilton County communities or surrounding areas in Central Indiana.
December 19, 2023
Hamilton County Community Foundation is pleased to announce that five students from Hamilton county have been awarded the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Students receive these scholarships from the county where they reside. 
December 12, 2023
Hamilton County Community Foundation board of directors has approved grants for Hamilton County nonprofits totaling $165,000.