Through its Summer Youth Program Fund, Lilly Endowment collaborated with 10 funders in Marion County (Indianapolis) which in the aggregate in 2011 awarded more than $2.5 million to more than 185 programs in 163 agencies that serve thousands of youth in the county.  It greatly appreciates the insights, dedication and collaborative spirit of its funding partners.

Lilly Endowment contributed more than $1.3 million toward these programs in 2011.

The grants focus on providing safe and positive experiences for children and teens ages 4 to 19 years old at little or no cost. Grants are given to programs in residential and daily care, enhancement and youth employment. Grant recipients represent organizations ranging from churches and area community centers to theaters and parks, offering sports, overnight camping, arts, community service and tutoring.

Additionally, the Endowment provides more than $450,000 to 30 agencies for modest capital projects.  The Marion County Commission on Youth received funding to provide youth and adult staff training, evaluation and end-of-summer educational awards. 

The program directors for this grant program are Willis K. Bright Jr., 317/916-7358, and Barbara S. DeHart, 317-916-7345.

For more information, visit the Summer Youth Program Fund website:  www.summeryouthprogramfund-indy.org or call the Marion County Commission on Youth at 317/921-1288 (www.mccoyouth.org).