The Community Foundation of Boone County (CFBC) has reached a significant milestone for the future of the county, surpassing its GIFT VIII fundraising goal of $825,000 and unlocking $1.5 million in matching funds from Lilly Endowment Inc. through the Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VIII) initiative.
Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of donors, fund advisors, community leaders, and partners, CFBC exceeded the required match ahead of schedule. As a result, more than $2.3 million will now be available to strengthen the Foundation’s capacity to address Boone County’s most pressing needs and invest in long-term, community-driven solutions.
“This achievement reflects the deep care, trust, and commitment Boone County residents have for one another,” said Julie Reagan, CEO of the Community Foundation of Boone County. “Every gift—large or small—played a role in unlocking this transformational funding. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient Boone County for generations to come.”
The $1.5 million match was awarded through Lilly Endowment Inc.’s statewide GIFT VIII initiative, which helps Indiana community foundations grow unrestricted endowments and expand their ability to respond to emerging challenges and opportunities. By exceeding the $825,000 goal, CFBC has significantly increased its ability to invest in education, health and wellness, community connectivity, nonprofit support, and other priorities essential to the county’s long-term vitality.
“Meeting and surpassing the GIFT VIII goal is a powerful statement about who Boone County is,” said Joan Soller, Board Chair of the Community Foundation of Boone County. “This community believes in taking care of one another, and we are deeply grateful to every donor who made this possible.”
Funds raised through GIFT VIII, along with the newly secured matching dollars, will support unrestricted grantmaking and community leadership efforts. This flexible funding allows CFBC to respond to evolving needs and invest in innovative solutions across all areas of Boone County.
“Unrestricted community impact giving is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen a community foundation,” Reagan added. “Our donors have helped create a lasting legacy of problem-solving and opportunity-building that will benefit Boone County for decades to come. We are truly humbled and grateful.”
About the Community Foundation of Boone County
The Community Foundation of Boone County unites people, organizations, and philanthropy to create a thriving community for all. Founded in 1991, the Foundation works to empower local communities while addressing the root causes of challenges in diverse and equitable ways. To date, CFBC has awarded more than $31 million in grants to nonprofit organizations and programs serving Boone County. With more than $40 million in endowed assets, the Foundation partners with donors to create permanent funds that strengthen Boone County for generations.
About Lilly Endowment Inc.
Lilly Endowment Inc. is a private philanthropic foundation based in Indianapolis, established in 1937 by J.K. Lilly Sr. and his sons, Eli and J.K. Jr., through gifts of Eli Lilly and Company stock. The Endowment supports community development, education, and religion, with a special commitment to Indianapolis and the state of Indiana.