Impact

Making a Difference in 2023

generous donors

nonprofits received grants

$ 1 M+

awarded in grants

scholarships awarded

$ 1

awarded in scholarships

new funds established

Grants in Action

The Porter County Community Foundation was founded in 1996 and since then has awarded over $45 million in grants and scholarships to nonprofits and students in our community. Our grants support many causes, including animal welfare, arts and culture, education, the environment, health and human services, and youth programs. Here are a few of them in action.

Humane Indiana

Humane Indiana reaches over 10,000 community members through their outreach programming to community groups, schools, and environmental organizations. Along with its domestic and wildlife educational programs, Humane Indiana’s animal shelter, which found homes for over 1,700 dogs and cats last year, is also supported by grants from PCCF.

4th Street Theater

Over the years, PCCF has presented the award-winning performing arts center, 4^th Street Theater, grants to upgrade its sound, lighting, HVAC, and safety systems. The Foundation also sponsored 4^th Street’s Red Kite theater camp for children on the autism spectrum, young people with developmental disabilities and other accessibility needs, and their families.

South Haven Boys & Girls Club

PCCF contributed $50,000 to the South Haven Boys & Girls Club’s renovation campaign to further its mission and enhance its building and programs. The new club will feature a STEM lab, teen lounge, art room, full-size gymnasium, sensory room, playground, games room, and heightened security.

Initiatives

First Things First Porter County

First Things First Porter County is a collaborative of over 35 community partners creating a rich system of care, support, and services so every one of the five babies born each day in Porter County is prepared for a strong start in life to grow and thrive.

Seeds of Promise

A growing number of babies from Porter County have received a $100 grant toward their education beyond high school—the $100 serves as seed money for a 529 college savings account. Funds are invested in an account administered by PCCF on behalf of the child, and the account has 18 years to grow.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

As an affiliate of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, PCCF partners with Porter County libraries to deliver free, high-quality books to children from birth to five years old, inspiring a love of reading in children and their families. The family must reside in Porter County.

How You Can Make an Impact

Circle of Promise

The Circle of Promise recognizes the wonderful individuals, families, and businesses who support PCCF with an annual gift of $1,000 or more. Circle of Promise members ensure the Foundation has the resources to respond to our community’s most pressing needs.

Echo Society

The Echo Society honors the generosity of those who create an endowed fund or leave assets to the Foundation through a beneficiary designation, will, or estate plan. By creating an endowed fund or leaving assets to PCCF, you leave a lasting legacy – like an echo.