News Articles
Community Foundation Receives $30 Million to Tackle Housing Crisis
The GIFT VIII awards will allow the Community Foundation to work with local and regional shareholders to build more homes, revitalize neighborhoods, and ensure economic development in our county and larger region. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $817,500 in Special Project Grants
Mishawaka Parks Foundation receives $200,000 toward Miracle League Field at Normain Heights Park. Additional recipients include Hope Ministries, Habitat for Humanity, Boys & Girls Clubs, and more. Read More
Foundation Announces $300,000 in Arts Grants
37 area organizations received more than $300,000 in arts grants from the Indiana Arts Commission. These grants support arts programming in six counties across northern Indiana. Read More
2024 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
Meet this year's cohort of Laidig Service Scholars, recipients of college scholarship funds and invaluable local internship experience with fantastic area nonprofits. Read More
Foundation Announces Recipients of 2024 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced Becca Kerley, Emily Newburn, and Elise Walker as recipients of the 2024 Boorda Scholarship. Read More
Foundation Announces Charles Martin Scholarship Recipient
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce Marcus Henderson as the recipient of the 2024 Charles Martin "Touch a Life" scholarship. Read More
WNIT Receives Major Venture Grant
In 2024, WNIT celebrated fifty years of public television across Michiana. They also received a Major Venture grant from the Community Foundation to help them plan for the next fifty. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $110,000 in Senior Living Grants
LOGAN, Saint Joseph Health System, and South Bend Heritage Foundation each received Senior Living grants during the spring 2024 cycle. Read More
Foundation Announces Currier Scholarship Recipients
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce William Schalliol and Casey Zielke as recipients of the prestigious Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. Read More
2025 Lilly Scholarship Process Opens for Applicants
The 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship application is now available in St. Joseph County through the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Performing Arts Series
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is thrilled to announce the return of its summer Performing Arts Series with two events this August at the Chris Wilson Pavilion. There's no better way to wind down a perfect summer evening than with art, music, and good friends out on the lawn. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $411,000 in Special Project Grants
Recipients include Reins of Life, Imami Unidad, Inc., LOGAN, South Bend Youth Hockey, University of Notre Dame, and YWCA North Central Indiana, Inc. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Celebrates Successful Conclusion of Leighton Award Campaign
Juan Constantino reflects on their time as Leighton Award winner, reflects on everything that's happened since, and looks forward to the next fifty years of community service. Read More
Foundation to Host Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
21st Century Scholars are invited to join program representatives and 21st Century Fellows on April 13 at the Community Learning Center to complete program steps, receive FAFSA help, and much more. Read More
Aaron Perri Joins Foundation as Vice President, Community Impact
“Aaron’s optimism and deep love for the South Bend Mishawaka area are well known,” says Rose Meissner, Foundation President. “I am delighted the focus of his vision, talent and experience will return to St. Joseph County. The tremendous impact he has already on improving our community will continue in to thrive in this new role.” Read More
Charitable Gift Annuities: The Gift That Pays You Back
Now is a good time for people over the age of 70 ½ to think about setting up a charitable gift annuity, and thanks to Lilly Endowment Inc., the impact of your gift is increased now more than ever. Foundation President Rose Meissner shares a little bit about how the process works. Read More
Imagination Library Delivers 600,000th Book
Fewer than five years after joining with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library to promote literacy for children and families in St. Joseph County, the Community Foundation was able to help deliver its 600,000th book in November 2023. Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 25 Years of Impact
It's been more than 25 years since the AACF was founded, and in the time since, the African American Community Fund has given more than $1.3 million to African American causes and organizations across St. Joseph County including Dismas House, the St. Joseph County Public Library, and the MLK Jr. Dream Center. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Applications Due March 7, 2024
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2025 (July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025) Arts Project Support (APS) grants. Applications are due Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Announces Grant Workshops
Indiana Arts Commission grants awarded through the Regional Arts Partnership are available to qualifying nonprofit organizations through a competitive application process. Learn more about upcoming opportunities and grant workshops. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $200,000 Senior Living Grant to enFocus
Funds to assist Greener Homes Retrofit program for South Bend seniors, which aims to lower utility bills and decrease carbon footprints. Read More
Community Foundation Announces $197,000 in Arts Grants
Eight area non-profits received ArtsEverywhere grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, The Music Village received $140,000 for a multi-year initiative to create a recording arts studio classroom. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2024 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2024 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $455,000 in Grants
Six area non-profits received Special Project grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, the Center for the Homeless received $125,000 toward building renovations and Women's Care Center received $125,000 toward construction of a new Mishawaka facility. Read More
Robinson Center Helps Keep Seniors Young
Like it did many places, the Covid-19 pandemic halted the day-to-day operations at the Notre Dame Robinson Community Learning Center. But especially for the Center’s senior adult audiences, the effects of the shutdown were felt more deeply. Seniors reported feeling loneliness, anxiety, and depression due to the prolonged isolation. Lu Ella Webster, Adult Programs Coordinator, knew that the 95 adults who participated in her programs were in need of human connection. Read More
Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County Wins 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County winner of its 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes BGCSJC for its unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community’s children. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023-24 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Forty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. These grants, which total over $317,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Winners of 2023 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced the recipients of this year’s Anita F. Boorda Scholarship for the Performing Arts: Grace Luce, Warsaw Community High School; Abigail Moody, Clay; and Nikolas Prathaftakis, Rochester Community School. Read More
2023 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Christian Jackson, Riley High School, who will study business administration and marketing at Indiana University Bloomington; Josephine Lawrence, Adams High School, who will study art education at Indiana University South Bend; Elliana Lemberis, LaVille High School, who will study engineering at Purdue University; Olivia Leonhard, LaVille High School, who will study biology at Trine University; and Aurora Nunez, St. Joseph High School, who will study biology and marketing at Holy Cross. Read More
Winner of 2023 Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Sydney Taylor as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Taylor will attend Butler University to study Speech Language Pathology. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $432,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2023 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $432,000 in grants funding to five local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
2023 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This six-event free series begins on July 22 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 26, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels April 24 and April 26, 2023
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 24, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. EST, and one grant review panel open to the public on Wednesday, April 26, at 10:00
a.m. EST. The public is invited to observe these panels through YouTube. Read More
Foundation Hosts Third Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its third free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, March 25, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, snacks and giveaways, and more! Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of the 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked for photos of enrolled children enjoying the free books they receive through the program. Read More
Imagination Library 2023 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, February 27, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 3. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2024 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2024 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces ArtsEverywhere Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
close to $200,000 to local nonprofit organizations in ArtsEverywhere grants. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2023 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $680,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $680,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Second Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its second free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, Dec. 3, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
Tonight’s Free SBSO Concert Moves Indoors
Because of the predictions for rain, we’re moving this evening’s South Bend Symphony Orchestra concert into the Adams High School auditorium. The concert begins at 7 p.m., and is free and open to the public. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022-23 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty-seven area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023. These grants, which total over $230,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Currier Scholarship Winner
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Levi Dickson (St. Joseph High School, 2020) as the 2022 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required fees, an allowance for books, and on-campus housing or an off-campus living allowance for up to six semesters at Purdue University. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $374,065 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
$374,065 to local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Senior Living grants are designed to support quality programs and services that local seniors need to remain healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
2022 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This five-event free series begins on July 30 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 27, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
2022 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Tristan Badia, Penn High School, who will attend Ivy Tech Community College; Lubabah Hassan, Penn High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington; Moriah Love, Riley High School, who will attend Alabama A&M University; and Peyton Shrader, Clay High School, who will attend University of Notre Dame. Read More
Winners of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Ann Okhiria and Nah’Shon Williams as the recipienta of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Okhiria will attend Indiana University Bloomington to study computer science, and Mr. Williams will attend Purdue University to study construction management. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $409,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $409,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, May 14, from 9 a.m. until noon, at the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete required program (SSP) steps, an employer fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 25, 2022
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 25, 2022. The panels will be held at 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
Imagination Library 2022 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2022 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, March 14, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 18. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2023 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2023 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Offers Free Guide to Planning Your Will
The Community Foundation offers the free "Provide and Protect: A Guide to Planning Your Will and Trust" on our website. In easy-to-understand language, this 24-page guide walks you through the process of collecting and organizing the information you’ll need to share with your attorney in order to create a will. You can download it at no cost. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $210,000 in Recent Grants
As part of its 2021 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $210,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students awarded the 2022 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Wins 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
La Casa de Amistad has won the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County's prestigious 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. Read More
Community Bids Fond Farewell to George Rickey’s “Space Churn”
On Tuesday, November 16, Space Churn with Octagon—a sculpture by world-renowned artist George Rickey—will be de-installed from its current location in the Studebaker Plaza in downtown South Bend, at the corner of Michigan Street and Jefferson Boulevard, and returned to the George Rickey Foundation Collection. Through the generosity of the George Rickey Estate, the sculpture’s term of loan was extended multiple times, allowing it to remain in South Bend for more than seven years. Read More
Performing Arts Series August 7 Event Cancelled
We’re sorry to announce that the opening performance for the 2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series—Southold Dance Theater, scheduled for this Saturday, August 7—has been cancelled. Read More
Community Foundation Announces IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022. These grants, which total over $234,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Since 1998, the Community Foundation has been a Regional Arts Partner for the IAC, overseeing the grants application and award process for St. Joseph, Elkhart, Fulton, Marshall, Kosciusko, and Starke counties in northern Indiana. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $540,000 in Recent Grants Cycle
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $540,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Foundation, Partners Encourage Enrollment in 21st Century Scholars
Wednesday, June 30, is a critical deadline for students who are eligible for free college tuition through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program, and the Community Foundation and our partners in the 21st Century Scholar Success Coalition want to be sure that families take advantage of this golden opportunity. Read More
2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
We're back! After a year's hiatus, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This three-event free series begins on August 14 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 28, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. Read More
2021 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Laidig Service Scholars are Kylie Blake, Mishawaka High School, who will attend Butler University; Adreyana Bryan, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; Ta’Nyi Reed, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; and Brianna Woods, Adams High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington. Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Kayla Mkandawire, St. Joseph High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Mkandawire will attend Loyola University Chicago to study neuroscience. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its third annual Imagination Library Photo Contest. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $305,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $305,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. Recipients include Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County, Cultivate Culinary School and Catering, Potawatomi Zoological Society, Five Star Life, South Bend Rotary Charitable Foundation, Transformation Ministries, and the Robinson Community Learning Center. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 19, 2021
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 19, 2021. The panels will be held at 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of which will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
Community Foundation, Ivy Tech Host FAFSA Completion Event
In partnership with Ivy Tech Community College, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) assistance event for area students as part of its 21st Century Scholar Success Initiative, an effort to dramatically increase the number of local low-income students who achieve well-paying jobs in our region by completing post-secondary degrees through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Offers Grant Workshops, Office Hours
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2022 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 4, 2021, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2021 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
CFSJC Receives $4,066,025 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Large-Scale Community Leadership Grant of $4,066,025 through the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. The grant will support the 21st Century Scholar […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $200,000 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Community Leadership Grant of $200,000 as part of the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. This grant will support the implementation of […] Read More
Community Foundation Supports OneMoreVoice.com
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce are partnering to support a new statewide initiative to help people register to vote, learn about candidates, and show up to vote in November. In […] Read More
Community Foundation, SBSO Cancel Aug. 29 Concert at Chris Wilson Pavilion at Potawatomi
Because of the risks presented by the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Symphony Orchestra have made a joint decision to cancel the August 29 concert planned for the Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards FY2021 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2021. These grants, which total over $203,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Amaani Lee, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Lee will attend the University of Notre Dame to study biology. […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2020 Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2020 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Rebecca Mattson, Penn High School, who will attend Butler University; Lorei Munoz, Washington […] Read More
Meissner Receives 2020 Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka Award
Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka has announced that Rose Meissner, president of the Community Foundation and a member of Leadership Class 20, is the organization’s 2020 Distinguished Alumna. Kristine Hilger, executive director of Leadership, says that Meissner exemplifies the organization’s values as […] Read More
Coronavirus Response: Community Foundation Grants $45,000 to REAL Services, Food Bank Partnership
UPDATED 2/22/20: The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced a second $45,000 grant to REAL Services, which will sustain this program through the month of May. In response to the tremendous need created by the current coronavirus crisis, […] Read More
Resources for Local Nonprofits During the Coronavirus Crisis
We know that our local nonprofit organizations are facing unprecedented challenges during the current coronavirus crisis. Many have questions about loans and grants available through the new federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act, as well as potential […] Read More
2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of […] Read More
Community Foundation Commits $200K to United Way’s COVID-19 Fund
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has committed $200,000 to the United Way of St. Joseph County’s recently announced COVID-19 Response Fund. During this crisis, nonprofit organizations in our community can apply to the fund for grants to respond […] Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Apps Due March 5, 2020
The deadline for local arts organizations to apply for Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) grants awarded through the Regional Initiative Grant (RIG) program is Thursday, March 5, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. EST. The IAC’s Regional Initiative Grant program provides funding in order to […] Read More
Community Foundation Presents Free Grant Proposal Workshop
In its role as a regional partner of the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present a grant proposal workshop in late January. This free workshop is designed for nonprofit arts organizations and other […] Read More
Community Foundation Names 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 20th Anniversary
The African American Community Fund—a family of 23 endowed funds held within the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County— marks its 20th anniversary this year with an exhibit that chronicles the history of the fund and celebrates its accomplishments. The […] Read More
2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence Goes to SB Symphony
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named the South Bend Symphony Orchestra winner of its 2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes the Symphony for its strong leadership, artistic quality, and commitment to broadening its impact […] Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panel on Wednesday, April 29
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Wednesday, April 29, 2020. The panels will be held at 9:30 […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $1,550,000 in Major Senior Living Grants
As part of its Senior Living Initiative, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded a total of $1,550,000 to three different local nonprofit organizations that support local seniors and their caregivers. The recipients are: REAL Services ($750,000, payable […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $3 Million Challenge Grant to Support Library Project
In support of its $10 million commitment to the expansion and renovation of the St. Joseph County Public Library’s downtown Main Library, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a major challenge grant from the Judd Leighton Foundation. […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards IAC Regional Arts Grants
Twenty-nine area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2020. These grants, which total over $214,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2019 Currier Scholar
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Nicholas Casetti (Penn High School, 2018) as the 2019 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required […] Read More
2019 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
SHORT SURVEY: Click here to let us know what you think about the series—and what you’d like to see in 2020! For the tenth consecutive year, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Deana Griffin, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Griffin will attend Ball State University to study social work. The […] Read More
Community Foundation Names Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2019 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Megan Jakubowicz, Riley High School, who will attend Purdue University; Veronica Navarro, Clay […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $189,500 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2019 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $189,500 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Challenge Grants. The Special Project Challenge Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its first Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Major New Senior Living RFP
For more than 15 years, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County’s Senior Living Initiative has supported high-quality programs and services that older adults need to be healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. In recognition of a major demographic shift occurring […] Read More
Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2019 Imagination Library Photo Contest. One winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $30 Million to Tackle Housing Crisis
The GIFT VIII awards will allow the Community Foundation to work with local and regional shareholders to build more homes, revitalize neighborhoods, and ensure economic development in our county and larger region. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $817,500 in Special Project Grants
Mishawaka Parks Foundation receives $200,000 toward Miracle League Field at Normain Heights Park. Additional recipients include Hope Ministries, Habitat for Humanity, Boys & Girls Clubs, and more. Read More
Foundation Announces $300,000 in Arts Grants
37 area organizations received more than $300,000 in arts grants from the Indiana Arts Commission. These grants support arts programming in six counties across northern Indiana. Read More
2024 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
Meet this year's cohort of Laidig Service Scholars, recipients of college scholarship funds and invaluable local internship experience with fantastic area nonprofits. Read More
Foundation Announces Recipients of 2024 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced Becca Kerley, Emily Newburn, and Elise Walker as recipients of the 2024 Boorda Scholarship. Read More
Foundation Announces Charles Martin Scholarship Recipient
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce Marcus Henderson as the recipient of the 2024 Charles Martin "Touch a Life" scholarship. Read More
WNIT Receives Major Venture Grant
In 2024, WNIT celebrated fifty years of public television across Michiana. They also received a Major Venture grant from the Community Foundation to help them plan for the next fifty. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $110,000 in Senior Living Grants
LOGAN, Saint Joseph Health System, and South Bend Heritage Foundation each received Senior Living grants during the spring 2024 cycle. Read More
Foundation Announces Currier Scholarship Recipients
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce William Schalliol and Casey Zielke as recipients of the prestigious Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. Read More
2025 Lilly Scholarship Process Opens for Applicants
The 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship application is now available in St. Joseph County through the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Performing Arts Series
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is thrilled to announce the return of its summer Performing Arts Series with two events this August at the Chris Wilson Pavilion. There's no better way to wind down a perfect summer evening than with art, music, and good friends out on the lawn. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $411,000 in Special Project Grants
Recipients include Reins of Life, Imami Unidad, Inc., LOGAN, South Bend Youth Hockey, University of Notre Dame, and YWCA North Central Indiana, Inc. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Celebrates Successful Conclusion of Leighton Award Campaign
Juan Constantino reflects on their time as Leighton Award winner, reflects on everything that's happened since, and looks forward to the next fifty years of community service. Read More
Foundation to Host Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
21st Century Scholars are invited to join program representatives and 21st Century Fellows on April 13 at the Community Learning Center to complete program steps, receive FAFSA help, and much more. Read More
Aaron Perri Joins Foundation as Vice President, Community Impact
“Aaron’s optimism and deep love for the South Bend Mishawaka area are well known,” says Rose Meissner, Foundation President. “I am delighted the focus of his vision, talent and experience will return to St. Joseph County. The tremendous impact he has already on improving our community will continue in to thrive in this new role.” Read More
Charitable Gift Annuities: The Gift That Pays You Back
Now is a good time for people over the age of 70 ½ to think about setting up a charitable gift annuity, and thanks to Lilly Endowment Inc., the impact of your gift is increased now more than ever. Foundation President Rose Meissner shares a little bit about how the process works. Read More
Imagination Library Delivers 600,000th Book
Fewer than five years after joining with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library to promote literacy for children and families in St. Joseph County, the Community Foundation was able to help deliver its 600,000th book in November 2023. Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 25 Years of Impact
It's been more than 25 years since the AACF was founded, and in the time since, the African American Community Fund has given more than $1.3 million to African American causes and organizations across St. Joseph County including Dismas House, the St. Joseph County Public Library, and the MLK Jr. Dream Center. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Applications Due March 7, 2024
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2025 (July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025) Arts Project Support (APS) grants. Applications are due Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Announces Grant Workshops
Indiana Arts Commission grants awarded through the Regional Arts Partnership are available to qualifying nonprofit organizations through a competitive application process. Learn more about upcoming opportunities and grant workshops. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $200,000 Senior Living Grant to enFocus
Funds to assist Greener Homes Retrofit program for South Bend seniors, which aims to lower utility bills and decrease carbon footprints. Read More
Community Foundation Announces $197,000 in Arts Grants
Eight area non-profits received ArtsEverywhere grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, The Music Village received $140,000 for a multi-year initiative to create a recording arts studio classroom. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2024 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2024 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $455,000 in Grants
Six area non-profits received Special Project grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, the Center for the Homeless received $125,000 toward building renovations and Women's Care Center received $125,000 toward construction of a new Mishawaka facility. Read More
Robinson Center Helps Keep Seniors Young
Like it did many places, the Covid-19 pandemic halted the day-to-day operations at the Notre Dame Robinson Community Learning Center. But especially for the Center’s senior adult audiences, the effects of the shutdown were felt more deeply. Seniors reported feeling loneliness, anxiety, and depression due to the prolonged isolation. Lu Ella Webster, Adult Programs Coordinator, knew that the 95 adults who participated in her programs were in need of human connection. Read More
Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County Wins 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County winner of its 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes BGCSJC for its unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community’s children. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023-24 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Forty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. These grants, which total over $317,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Winners of 2023 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced the recipients of this year’s Anita F. Boorda Scholarship for the Performing Arts: Grace Luce, Warsaw Community High School; Abigail Moody, Clay; and Nikolas Prathaftakis, Rochester Community School. Read More
2023 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Christian Jackson, Riley High School, who will study business administration and marketing at Indiana University Bloomington; Josephine Lawrence, Adams High School, who will study art education at Indiana University South Bend; Elliana Lemberis, LaVille High School, who will study engineering at Purdue University; Olivia Leonhard, LaVille High School, who will study biology at Trine University; and Aurora Nunez, St. Joseph High School, who will study biology and marketing at Holy Cross. Read More
Winner of 2023 Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Sydney Taylor as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Taylor will attend Butler University to study Speech Language Pathology. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $432,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2023 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $432,000 in grants funding to five local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
2023 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This six-event free series begins on July 22 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 26, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels April 24 and April 26, 2023
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 24, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. EST, and one grant review panel open to the public on Wednesday, April 26, at 10:00
a.m. EST. The public is invited to observe these panels through YouTube. Read More
Foundation Hosts Third Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its third free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, March 25, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, snacks and giveaways, and more! Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of the 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked for photos of enrolled children enjoying the free books they receive through the program. Read More
Imagination Library 2023 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, February 27, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 3. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2024 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2024 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces ArtsEverywhere Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
close to $200,000 to local nonprofit organizations in ArtsEverywhere grants. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2023 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $680,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $680,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Second Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its second free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, Dec. 3, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
Tonight’s Free SBSO Concert Moves Indoors
Because of the predictions for rain, we’re moving this evening’s South Bend Symphony Orchestra concert into the Adams High School auditorium. The concert begins at 7 p.m., and is free and open to the public. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022-23 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty-seven area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023. These grants, which total over $230,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Currier Scholarship Winner
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Levi Dickson (St. Joseph High School, 2020) as the 2022 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required fees, an allowance for books, and on-campus housing or an off-campus living allowance for up to six semesters at Purdue University. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $374,065 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
$374,065 to local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Senior Living grants are designed to support quality programs and services that local seniors need to remain healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
2022 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This five-event free series begins on July 30 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 27, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
2022 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Tristan Badia, Penn High School, who will attend Ivy Tech Community College; Lubabah Hassan, Penn High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington; Moriah Love, Riley High School, who will attend Alabama A&M University; and Peyton Shrader, Clay High School, who will attend University of Notre Dame. Read More
Winners of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Ann Okhiria and Nah’Shon Williams as the recipienta of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Okhiria will attend Indiana University Bloomington to study computer science, and Mr. Williams will attend Purdue University to study construction management. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $409,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $409,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, May 14, from 9 a.m. until noon, at the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete required program (SSP) steps, an employer fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 25, 2022
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 25, 2022. The panels will be held at 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
Imagination Library 2022 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2022 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, March 14, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 18. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2023 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2023 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Offers Free Guide to Planning Your Will
The Community Foundation offers the free "Provide and Protect: A Guide to Planning Your Will and Trust" on our website. In easy-to-understand language, this 24-page guide walks you through the process of collecting and organizing the information you’ll need to share with your attorney in order to create a will. You can download it at no cost. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $210,000 in Recent Grants
As part of its 2021 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $210,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students awarded the 2022 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Wins 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
La Casa de Amistad has won the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County's prestigious 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. Read More
Community Bids Fond Farewell to George Rickey’s “Space Churn”
On Tuesday, November 16, Space Churn with Octagon—a sculpture by world-renowned artist George Rickey—will be de-installed from its current location in the Studebaker Plaza in downtown South Bend, at the corner of Michigan Street and Jefferson Boulevard, and returned to the George Rickey Foundation Collection. Through the generosity of the George Rickey Estate, the sculpture’s term of loan was extended multiple times, allowing it to remain in South Bend for more than seven years. Read More
Performing Arts Series August 7 Event Cancelled
We’re sorry to announce that the opening performance for the 2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series—Southold Dance Theater, scheduled for this Saturday, August 7—has been cancelled. Read More
Community Foundation Announces IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022. These grants, which total over $234,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Since 1998, the Community Foundation has been a Regional Arts Partner for the IAC, overseeing the grants application and award process for St. Joseph, Elkhart, Fulton, Marshall, Kosciusko, and Starke counties in northern Indiana. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $540,000 in Recent Grants Cycle
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $540,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Foundation, Partners Encourage Enrollment in 21st Century Scholars
Wednesday, June 30, is a critical deadline for students who are eligible for free college tuition through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program, and the Community Foundation and our partners in the 21st Century Scholar Success Coalition want to be sure that families take advantage of this golden opportunity. Read More
2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
We're back! After a year's hiatus, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This three-event free series begins on August 14 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 28, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. Read More
2021 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Laidig Service Scholars are Kylie Blake, Mishawaka High School, who will attend Butler University; Adreyana Bryan, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; Ta’Nyi Reed, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; and Brianna Woods, Adams High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington. Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Kayla Mkandawire, St. Joseph High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Mkandawire will attend Loyola University Chicago to study neuroscience. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its third annual Imagination Library Photo Contest. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $305,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $305,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. Recipients include Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County, Cultivate Culinary School and Catering, Potawatomi Zoological Society, Five Star Life, South Bend Rotary Charitable Foundation, Transformation Ministries, and the Robinson Community Learning Center. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 19, 2021
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 19, 2021. The panels will be held at 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of which will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
Community Foundation, Ivy Tech Host FAFSA Completion Event
In partnership with Ivy Tech Community College, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) assistance event for area students as part of its 21st Century Scholar Success Initiative, an effort to dramatically increase the number of local low-income students who achieve well-paying jobs in our region by completing post-secondary degrees through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Offers Grant Workshops, Office Hours
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2022 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 4, 2021, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2021 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
CFSJC Receives $4,066,025 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Large-Scale Community Leadership Grant of $4,066,025 through the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. The grant will support the 21st Century Scholar […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $200,000 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Community Leadership Grant of $200,000 as part of the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. This grant will support the implementation of […] Read More
Community Foundation Supports OneMoreVoice.com
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce are partnering to support a new statewide initiative to help people register to vote, learn about candidates, and show up to vote in November. In […] Read More
Community Foundation, SBSO Cancel Aug. 29 Concert at Chris Wilson Pavilion at Potawatomi
Because of the risks presented by the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Symphony Orchestra have made a joint decision to cancel the August 29 concert planned for the Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards FY2021 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2021. These grants, which total over $203,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Amaani Lee, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Lee will attend the University of Notre Dame to study biology. […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2020 Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2020 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Rebecca Mattson, Penn High School, who will attend Butler University; Lorei Munoz, Washington […] Read More
Meissner Receives 2020 Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka Award
Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka has announced that Rose Meissner, president of the Community Foundation and a member of Leadership Class 20, is the organization’s 2020 Distinguished Alumna. Kristine Hilger, executive director of Leadership, says that Meissner exemplifies the organization’s values as […] Read More
Coronavirus Response: Community Foundation Grants $45,000 to REAL Services, Food Bank Partnership
UPDATED 2/22/20: The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced a second $45,000 grant to REAL Services, which will sustain this program through the month of May. In response to the tremendous need created by the current coronavirus crisis, […] Read More
Resources for Local Nonprofits During the Coronavirus Crisis
We know that our local nonprofit organizations are facing unprecedented challenges during the current coronavirus crisis. Many have questions about loans and grants available through the new federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act, as well as potential […] Read More
2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of […] Read More
Community Foundation Commits $200K to United Way’s COVID-19 Fund
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has committed $200,000 to the United Way of St. Joseph County’s recently announced COVID-19 Response Fund. During this crisis, nonprofit organizations in our community can apply to the fund for grants to respond […] Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Apps Due March 5, 2020
The deadline for local arts organizations to apply for Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) grants awarded through the Regional Initiative Grant (RIG) program is Thursday, March 5, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. EST. The IAC’s Regional Initiative Grant program provides funding in order to […] Read More
Community Foundation Presents Free Grant Proposal Workshop
In its role as a regional partner of the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present a grant proposal workshop in late January. This free workshop is designed for nonprofit arts organizations and other […] Read More
Community Foundation Names 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 20th Anniversary
The African American Community Fund—a family of 23 endowed funds held within the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County— marks its 20th anniversary this year with an exhibit that chronicles the history of the fund and celebrates its accomplishments. The […] Read More
2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence Goes to SB Symphony
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named the South Bend Symphony Orchestra winner of its 2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes the Symphony for its strong leadership, artistic quality, and commitment to broadening its impact […] Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panel on Wednesday, April 29
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Wednesday, April 29, 2020. The panels will be held at 9:30 […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $1,550,000 in Major Senior Living Grants
As part of its Senior Living Initiative, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded a total of $1,550,000 to three different local nonprofit organizations that support local seniors and their caregivers. The recipients are: REAL Services ($750,000, payable […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $3 Million Challenge Grant to Support Library Project
In support of its $10 million commitment to the expansion and renovation of the St. Joseph County Public Library’s downtown Main Library, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a major challenge grant from the Judd Leighton Foundation. […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards IAC Regional Arts Grants
Twenty-nine area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2020. These grants, which total over $214,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2019 Currier Scholar
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Nicholas Casetti (Penn High School, 2018) as the 2019 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required […] Read More
2019 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
SHORT SURVEY: Click here to let us know what you think about the series—and what you’d like to see in 2020! For the tenth consecutive year, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Deana Griffin, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Griffin will attend Ball State University to study social work. The […] Read More
Community Foundation Names Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2019 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Megan Jakubowicz, Riley High School, who will attend Purdue University; Veronica Navarro, Clay […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $189,500 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2019 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $189,500 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Challenge Grants. The Special Project Challenge Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its first Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Major New Senior Living RFP
For more than 15 years, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County’s Senior Living Initiative has supported high-quality programs and services that older adults need to be healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. In recognition of a major demographic shift occurring […] Read More
Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2019 Imagination Library Photo Contest. One winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $30 Million to Tackle Housing Crisis
The GIFT VIII awards will allow the Community Foundation to work with local and regional shareholders to build more homes, revitalize neighborhoods, and ensure economic development in our county and larger region. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $817,500 in Special Project Grants
Mishawaka Parks Foundation receives $200,000 toward Miracle League Field at Normain Heights Park. Additional recipients include Hope Ministries, Habitat for Humanity, Boys & Girls Clubs, and more. Read More
Foundation Announces $300,000 in Arts Grants
37 area organizations received more than $300,000 in arts grants from the Indiana Arts Commission. These grants support arts programming in six counties across northern Indiana. Read More
2024 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
Meet this year's cohort of Laidig Service Scholars, recipients of college scholarship funds and invaluable local internship experience with fantastic area nonprofits. Read More
Foundation Announces Recipients of 2024 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced Becca Kerley, Emily Newburn, and Elise Walker as recipients of the 2024 Boorda Scholarship. Read More
Foundation Announces Charles Martin Scholarship Recipient
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce Marcus Henderson as the recipient of the 2024 Charles Martin "Touch a Life" scholarship. Read More
WNIT Receives Major Venture Grant
In 2024, WNIT celebrated fifty years of public television across Michiana. They also received a Major Venture grant from the Community Foundation to help them plan for the next fifty. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $110,000 in Senior Living Grants
LOGAN, Saint Joseph Health System, and South Bend Heritage Foundation each received Senior Living grants during the spring 2024 cycle. Read More
Foundation Announces Currier Scholarship Recipients
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce William Schalliol and Casey Zielke as recipients of the prestigious Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. Read More
2025 Lilly Scholarship Process Opens for Applicants
The 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship application is now available in St. Joseph County through the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Performing Arts Series
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is thrilled to announce the return of its summer Performing Arts Series with two events this August at the Chris Wilson Pavilion. There's no better way to wind down a perfect summer evening than with art, music, and good friends out on the lawn. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $411,000 in Special Project Grants
Recipients include Reins of Life, Imami Unidad, Inc., LOGAN, South Bend Youth Hockey, University of Notre Dame, and YWCA North Central Indiana, Inc. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Celebrates Successful Conclusion of Leighton Award Campaign
Juan Constantino reflects on their time as Leighton Award winner, reflects on everything that's happened since, and looks forward to the next fifty years of community service. Read More
Foundation to Host Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
21st Century Scholars are invited to join program representatives and 21st Century Fellows on April 13 at the Community Learning Center to complete program steps, receive FAFSA help, and much more. Read More
Aaron Perri Joins Foundation as Vice President, Community Impact
“Aaron’s optimism and deep love for the South Bend Mishawaka area are well known,” says Rose Meissner, Foundation President. “I am delighted the focus of his vision, talent and experience will return to St. Joseph County. The tremendous impact he has already on improving our community will continue in to thrive in this new role.” Read More
Charitable Gift Annuities: The Gift That Pays You Back
Now is a good time for people over the age of 70 ½ to think about setting up a charitable gift annuity, and thanks to Lilly Endowment Inc., the impact of your gift is increased now more than ever. Foundation President Rose Meissner shares a little bit about how the process works. Read More
Imagination Library Delivers 600,000th Book
Fewer than five years after joining with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library to promote literacy for children and families in St. Joseph County, the Community Foundation was able to help deliver its 600,000th book in November 2023. Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 25 Years of Impact
It's been more than 25 years since the AACF was founded, and in the time since, the African American Community Fund has given more than $1.3 million to African American causes and organizations across St. Joseph County including Dismas House, the St. Joseph County Public Library, and the MLK Jr. Dream Center. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Applications Due March 7, 2024
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2025 (July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025) Arts Project Support (APS) grants. Applications are due Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Announces Grant Workshops
Indiana Arts Commission grants awarded through the Regional Arts Partnership are available to qualifying nonprofit organizations through a competitive application process. Learn more about upcoming opportunities and grant workshops. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $200,000 Senior Living Grant to enFocus
Funds to assist Greener Homes Retrofit program for South Bend seniors, which aims to lower utility bills and decrease carbon footprints. Read More
Community Foundation Announces $197,000 in Arts Grants
Eight area non-profits received ArtsEverywhere grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, The Music Village received $140,000 for a multi-year initiative to create a recording arts studio classroom. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2024 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2024 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $455,000 in Grants
Six area non-profits received Special Project grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, the Center for the Homeless received $125,000 toward building renovations and Women's Care Center received $125,000 toward construction of a new Mishawaka facility. Read More
Robinson Center Helps Keep Seniors Young
Like it did many places, the Covid-19 pandemic halted the day-to-day operations at the Notre Dame Robinson Community Learning Center. But especially for the Center’s senior adult audiences, the effects of the shutdown were felt more deeply. Seniors reported feeling loneliness, anxiety, and depression due to the prolonged isolation. Lu Ella Webster, Adult Programs Coordinator, knew that the 95 adults who participated in her programs were in need of human connection. Read More
Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County Wins 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County winner of its 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes BGCSJC for its unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community’s children. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023-24 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Forty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. These grants, which total over $317,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Winners of 2023 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced the recipients of this year’s Anita F. Boorda Scholarship for the Performing Arts: Grace Luce, Warsaw Community High School; Abigail Moody, Clay; and Nikolas Prathaftakis, Rochester Community School. Read More
2023 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Christian Jackson, Riley High School, who will study business administration and marketing at Indiana University Bloomington; Josephine Lawrence, Adams High School, who will study art education at Indiana University South Bend; Elliana Lemberis, LaVille High School, who will study engineering at Purdue University; Olivia Leonhard, LaVille High School, who will study biology at Trine University; and Aurora Nunez, St. Joseph High School, who will study biology and marketing at Holy Cross. Read More
Winner of 2023 Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Sydney Taylor as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Taylor will attend Butler University to study Speech Language Pathology. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $432,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2023 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $432,000 in grants funding to five local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
2023 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This six-event free series begins on July 22 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 26, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels April 24 and April 26, 2023
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 24, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. EST, and one grant review panel open to the public on Wednesday, April 26, at 10:00
a.m. EST. The public is invited to observe these panels through YouTube. Read More
Foundation Hosts Third Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its third free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, March 25, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, snacks and giveaways, and more! Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of the 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked for photos of enrolled children enjoying the free books they receive through the program. Read More
Imagination Library 2023 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, February 27, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 3. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2024 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2024 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces ArtsEverywhere Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
close to $200,000 to local nonprofit organizations in ArtsEverywhere grants. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2023 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $680,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $680,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Second Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its second free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, Dec. 3, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
Tonight’s Free SBSO Concert Moves Indoors
Because of the predictions for rain, we’re moving this evening’s South Bend Symphony Orchestra concert into the Adams High School auditorium. The concert begins at 7 p.m., and is free and open to the public. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022-23 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty-seven area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023. These grants, which total over $230,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Currier Scholarship Winner
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Levi Dickson (St. Joseph High School, 2020) as the 2022 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required fees, an allowance for books, and on-campus housing or an off-campus living allowance for up to six semesters at Purdue University. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $374,065 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
$374,065 to local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Senior Living grants are designed to support quality programs and services that local seniors need to remain healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
2022 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This five-event free series begins on July 30 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 27, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
2022 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Tristan Badia, Penn High School, who will attend Ivy Tech Community College; Lubabah Hassan, Penn High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington; Moriah Love, Riley High School, who will attend Alabama A&M University; and Peyton Shrader, Clay High School, who will attend University of Notre Dame. Read More
Winners of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Ann Okhiria and Nah’Shon Williams as the recipienta of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Okhiria will attend Indiana University Bloomington to study computer science, and Mr. Williams will attend Purdue University to study construction management. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $409,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $409,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, May 14, from 9 a.m. until noon, at the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete required program (SSP) steps, an employer fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 25, 2022
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 25, 2022. The panels will be held at 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
Imagination Library 2022 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2022 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, March 14, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 18. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2023 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2023 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Offers Free Guide to Planning Your Will
The Community Foundation offers the free "Provide and Protect: A Guide to Planning Your Will and Trust" on our website. In easy-to-understand language, this 24-page guide walks you through the process of collecting and organizing the information you’ll need to share with your attorney in order to create a will. You can download it at no cost. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $210,000 in Recent Grants
As part of its 2021 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $210,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students awarded the 2022 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Wins 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
La Casa de Amistad has won the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County's prestigious 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. Read More
Community Bids Fond Farewell to George Rickey’s “Space Churn”
On Tuesday, November 16, Space Churn with Octagon—a sculpture by world-renowned artist George Rickey—will be de-installed from its current location in the Studebaker Plaza in downtown South Bend, at the corner of Michigan Street and Jefferson Boulevard, and returned to the George Rickey Foundation Collection. Through the generosity of the George Rickey Estate, the sculpture’s term of loan was extended multiple times, allowing it to remain in South Bend for more than seven years. Read More
Performing Arts Series August 7 Event Cancelled
We’re sorry to announce that the opening performance for the 2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series—Southold Dance Theater, scheduled for this Saturday, August 7—has been cancelled. Read More
Community Foundation Announces IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022. These grants, which total over $234,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Since 1998, the Community Foundation has been a Regional Arts Partner for the IAC, overseeing the grants application and award process for St. Joseph, Elkhart, Fulton, Marshall, Kosciusko, and Starke counties in northern Indiana. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $540,000 in Recent Grants Cycle
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $540,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Foundation, Partners Encourage Enrollment in 21st Century Scholars
Wednesday, June 30, is a critical deadline for students who are eligible for free college tuition through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program, and the Community Foundation and our partners in the 21st Century Scholar Success Coalition want to be sure that families take advantage of this golden opportunity. Read More
2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
We're back! After a year's hiatus, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This three-event free series begins on August 14 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 28, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. Read More
2021 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Laidig Service Scholars are Kylie Blake, Mishawaka High School, who will attend Butler University; Adreyana Bryan, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; Ta’Nyi Reed, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; and Brianna Woods, Adams High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington. Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Kayla Mkandawire, St. Joseph High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Mkandawire will attend Loyola University Chicago to study neuroscience. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its third annual Imagination Library Photo Contest. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $305,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $305,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. Recipients include Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County, Cultivate Culinary School and Catering, Potawatomi Zoological Society, Five Star Life, South Bend Rotary Charitable Foundation, Transformation Ministries, and the Robinson Community Learning Center. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 19, 2021
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 19, 2021. The panels will be held at 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of which will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
Community Foundation, Ivy Tech Host FAFSA Completion Event
In partnership with Ivy Tech Community College, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) assistance event for area students as part of its 21st Century Scholar Success Initiative, an effort to dramatically increase the number of local low-income students who achieve well-paying jobs in our region by completing post-secondary degrees through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Offers Grant Workshops, Office Hours
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2022 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 4, 2021, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2021 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
CFSJC Receives $4,066,025 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Large-Scale Community Leadership Grant of $4,066,025 through the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. The grant will support the 21st Century Scholar […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $200,000 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Community Leadership Grant of $200,000 as part of the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. This grant will support the implementation of […] Read More
Community Foundation Supports OneMoreVoice.com
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce are partnering to support a new statewide initiative to help people register to vote, learn about candidates, and show up to vote in November. In […] Read More
Community Foundation, SBSO Cancel Aug. 29 Concert at Chris Wilson Pavilion at Potawatomi
Because of the risks presented by the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Symphony Orchestra have made a joint decision to cancel the August 29 concert planned for the Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards FY2021 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2021. These grants, which total over $203,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Amaani Lee, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Lee will attend the University of Notre Dame to study biology. […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2020 Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2020 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Rebecca Mattson, Penn High School, who will attend Butler University; Lorei Munoz, Washington […] Read More
Meissner Receives 2020 Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka Award
Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka has announced that Rose Meissner, president of the Community Foundation and a member of Leadership Class 20, is the organization’s 2020 Distinguished Alumna. Kristine Hilger, executive director of Leadership, says that Meissner exemplifies the organization’s values as […] Read More
Coronavirus Response: Community Foundation Grants $45,000 to REAL Services, Food Bank Partnership
UPDATED 2/22/20: The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced a second $45,000 grant to REAL Services, which will sustain this program through the month of May. In response to the tremendous need created by the current coronavirus crisis, […] Read More
Resources for Local Nonprofits During the Coronavirus Crisis
We know that our local nonprofit organizations are facing unprecedented challenges during the current coronavirus crisis. Many have questions about loans and grants available through the new federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act, as well as potential […] Read More
2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of […] Read More
Community Foundation Commits $200K to United Way’s COVID-19 Fund
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has committed $200,000 to the United Way of St. Joseph County’s recently announced COVID-19 Response Fund. During this crisis, nonprofit organizations in our community can apply to the fund for grants to respond […] Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Apps Due March 5, 2020
The deadline for local arts organizations to apply for Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) grants awarded through the Regional Initiative Grant (RIG) program is Thursday, March 5, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. EST. The IAC’s Regional Initiative Grant program provides funding in order to […] Read More
Community Foundation Presents Free Grant Proposal Workshop
In its role as a regional partner of the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present a grant proposal workshop in late January. This free workshop is designed for nonprofit arts organizations and other […] Read More
Community Foundation Names 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 20th Anniversary
The African American Community Fund—a family of 23 endowed funds held within the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County— marks its 20th anniversary this year with an exhibit that chronicles the history of the fund and celebrates its accomplishments. The […] Read More
2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence Goes to SB Symphony
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named the South Bend Symphony Orchestra winner of its 2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes the Symphony for its strong leadership, artistic quality, and commitment to broadening its impact […] Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panel on Wednesday, April 29
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Wednesday, April 29, 2020. The panels will be held at 9:30 […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $1,550,000 in Major Senior Living Grants
As part of its Senior Living Initiative, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded a total of $1,550,000 to three different local nonprofit organizations that support local seniors and their caregivers. The recipients are: REAL Services ($750,000, payable […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $3 Million Challenge Grant to Support Library Project
In support of its $10 million commitment to the expansion and renovation of the St. Joseph County Public Library’s downtown Main Library, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a major challenge grant from the Judd Leighton Foundation. […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards IAC Regional Arts Grants
Twenty-nine area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2020. These grants, which total over $214,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2019 Currier Scholar
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Nicholas Casetti (Penn High School, 2018) as the 2019 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required […] Read More
2019 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
SHORT SURVEY: Click here to let us know what you think about the series—and what you’d like to see in 2020! For the tenth consecutive year, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Deana Griffin, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Griffin will attend Ball State University to study social work. The […] Read More
Community Foundation Names Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2019 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Megan Jakubowicz, Riley High School, who will attend Purdue University; Veronica Navarro, Clay […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $189,500 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2019 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $189,500 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Challenge Grants. The Special Project Challenge Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its first Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Major New Senior Living RFP
For more than 15 years, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County’s Senior Living Initiative has supported high-quality programs and services that older adults need to be healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. In recognition of a major demographic shift occurring […] Read More
Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2019 Imagination Library Photo Contest. One winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $30 Million to Tackle Housing Crisis
The GIFT VIII awards will allow the Community Foundation to work with local and regional shareholders to build more homes, revitalize neighborhoods, and ensure economic development in our county and larger region. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $817,500 in Special Project Grants
Mishawaka Parks Foundation receives $200,000 toward Miracle League Field at Normain Heights Park. Additional recipients include Hope Ministries, Habitat for Humanity, Boys & Girls Clubs, and more. Read More
Foundation Announces $300,000 in Arts Grants
37 area organizations received more than $300,000 in arts grants from the Indiana Arts Commission. These grants support arts programming in six counties across northern Indiana. Read More
2024 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
Meet this year's cohort of Laidig Service Scholars, recipients of college scholarship funds and invaluable local internship experience with fantastic area nonprofits. Read More
Foundation Announces Recipients of 2024 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced Becca Kerley, Emily Newburn, and Elise Walker as recipients of the 2024 Boorda Scholarship. Read More
Foundation Announces Charles Martin Scholarship Recipient
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce Marcus Henderson as the recipient of the 2024 Charles Martin "Touch a Life" scholarship. Read More
WNIT Receives Major Venture Grant
In 2024, WNIT celebrated fifty years of public television across Michiana. They also received a Major Venture grant from the Community Foundation to help them plan for the next fifty. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $110,000 in Senior Living Grants
LOGAN, Saint Joseph Health System, and South Bend Heritage Foundation each received Senior Living grants during the spring 2024 cycle. Read More
Foundation Announces Currier Scholarship Recipients
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce William Schalliol and Casey Zielke as recipients of the prestigious Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. Read More
2025 Lilly Scholarship Process Opens for Applicants
The 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship application is now available in St. Joseph County through the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Performing Arts Series
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is thrilled to announce the return of its summer Performing Arts Series with two events this August at the Chris Wilson Pavilion. There's no better way to wind down a perfect summer evening than with art, music, and good friends out on the lawn. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $411,000 in Special Project Grants
Recipients include Reins of Life, Imami Unidad, Inc., LOGAN, South Bend Youth Hockey, University of Notre Dame, and YWCA North Central Indiana, Inc. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Celebrates Successful Conclusion of Leighton Award Campaign
Juan Constantino reflects on their time as Leighton Award winner, reflects on everything that's happened since, and looks forward to the next fifty years of community service. Read More
Foundation to Host Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
21st Century Scholars are invited to join program representatives and 21st Century Fellows on April 13 at the Community Learning Center to complete program steps, receive FAFSA help, and much more. Read More
Aaron Perri Joins Foundation as Vice President, Community Impact
“Aaron’s optimism and deep love for the South Bend Mishawaka area are well known,” says Rose Meissner, Foundation President. “I am delighted the focus of his vision, talent and experience will return to St. Joseph County. The tremendous impact he has already on improving our community will continue in to thrive in this new role.” Read More
Charitable Gift Annuities: The Gift That Pays You Back
Now is a good time for people over the age of 70 ½ to think about setting up a charitable gift annuity, and thanks to Lilly Endowment Inc., the impact of your gift is increased now more than ever. Foundation President Rose Meissner shares a little bit about how the process works. Read More
Imagination Library Delivers 600,000th Book
Fewer than five years after joining with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library to promote literacy for children and families in St. Joseph County, the Community Foundation was able to help deliver its 600,000th book in November 2023. Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 25 Years of Impact
It's been more than 25 years since the AACF was founded, and in the time since, the African American Community Fund has given more than $1.3 million to African American causes and organizations across St. Joseph County including Dismas House, the St. Joseph County Public Library, and the MLK Jr. Dream Center. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Applications Due March 7, 2024
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2025 (July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025) Arts Project Support (APS) grants. Applications are due Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Announces Grant Workshops
Indiana Arts Commission grants awarded through the Regional Arts Partnership are available to qualifying nonprofit organizations through a competitive application process. Learn more about upcoming opportunities and grant workshops. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $200,000 Senior Living Grant to enFocus
Funds to assist Greener Homes Retrofit program for South Bend seniors, which aims to lower utility bills and decrease carbon footprints. Read More
Community Foundation Announces $197,000 in Arts Grants
Eight area non-profits received ArtsEverywhere grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, The Music Village received $140,000 for a multi-year initiative to create a recording arts studio classroom. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2024 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2024 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $455,000 in Grants
Six area non-profits received Special Project grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, the Center for the Homeless received $125,000 toward building renovations and Women's Care Center received $125,000 toward construction of a new Mishawaka facility. Read More
Robinson Center Helps Keep Seniors Young
Like it did many places, the Covid-19 pandemic halted the day-to-day operations at the Notre Dame Robinson Community Learning Center. But especially for the Center’s senior adult audiences, the effects of the shutdown were felt more deeply. Seniors reported feeling loneliness, anxiety, and depression due to the prolonged isolation. Lu Ella Webster, Adult Programs Coordinator, knew that the 95 adults who participated in her programs were in need of human connection. Read More
Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County Wins 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County winner of its 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes BGCSJC for its unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community’s children. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023-24 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Forty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. These grants, which total over $317,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Winners of 2023 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced the recipients of this year’s Anita F. Boorda Scholarship for the Performing Arts: Grace Luce, Warsaw Community High School; Abigail Moody, Clay; and Nikolas Prathaftakis, Rochester Community School. Read More
2023 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Christian Jackson, Riley High School, who will study business administration and marketing at Indiana University Bloomington; Josephine Lawrence, Adams High School, who will study art education at Indiana University South Bend; Elliana Lemberis, LaVille High School, who will study engineering at Purdue University; Olivia Leonhard, LaVille High School, who will study biology at Trine University; and Aurora Nunez, St. Joseph High School, who will study biology and marketing at Holy Cross. Read More
Winner of 2023 Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Sydney Taylor as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Taylor will attend Butler University to study Speech Language Pathology. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $432,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2023 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $432,000 in grants funding to five local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
2023 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This six-event free series begins on July 22 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 26, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels April 24 and April 26, 2023
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 24, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. EST, and one grant review panel open to the public on Wednesday, April 26, at 10:00
a.m. EST. The public is invited to observe these panels through YouTube. Read More
Foundation Hosts Third Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its third free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, March 25, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, snacks and giveaways, and more! Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of the 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked for photos of enrolled children enjoying the free books they receive through the program. Read More
Imagination Library 2023 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, February 27, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 3. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2024 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2024 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces ArtsEverywhere Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
close to $200,000 to local nonprofit organizations in ArtsEverywhere grants. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2023 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $680,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $680,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Second Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its second free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, Dec. 3, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
Tonight’s Free SBSO Concert Moves Indoors
Because of the predictions for rain, we’re moving this evening’s South Bend Symphony Orchestra concert into the Adams High School auditorium. The concert begins at 7 p.m., and is free and open to the public. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022-23 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty-seven area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023. These grants, which total over $230,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Currier Scholarship Winner
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Levi Dickson (St. Joseph High School, 2020) as the 2022 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required fees, an allowance for books, and on-campus housing or an off-campus living allowance for up to six semesters at Purdue University. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $374,065 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
$374,065 to local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Senior Living grants are designed to support quality programs and services that local seniors need to remain healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
2022 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This five-event free series begins on July 30 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 27, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
2022 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Tristan Badia, Penn High School, who will attend Ivy Tech Community College; Lubabah Hassan, Penn High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington; Moriah Love, Riley High School, who will attend Alabama A&M University; and Peyton Shrader, Clay High School, who will attend University of Notre Dame. Read More
Winners of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Ann Okhiria and Nah’Shon Williams as the recipienta of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Okhiria will attend Indiana University Bloomington to study computer science, and Mr. Williams will attend Purdue University to study construction management. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $409,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $409,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, May 14, from 9 a.m. until noon, at the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete required program (SSP) steps, an employer fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 25, 2022
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 25, 2022. The panels will be held at 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
Imagination Library 2022 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2022 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, March 14, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 18. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2023 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2023 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Offers Free Guide to Planning Your Will
The Community Foundation offers the free "Provide and Protect: A Guide to Planning Your Will and Trust" on our website. In easy-to-understand language, this 24-page guide walks you through the process of collecting and organizing the information you’ll need to share with your attorney in order to create a will. You can download it at no cost. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $210,000 in Recent Grants
As part of its 2021 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $210,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students awarded the 2022 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Wins 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
La Casa de Amistad has won the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County's prestigious 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. Read More
Community Bids Fond Farewell to George Rickey’s “Space Churn”
On Tuesday, November 16, Space Churn with Octagon—a sculpture by world-renowned artist George Rickey—will be de-installed from its current location in the Studebaker Plaza in downtown South Bend, at the corner of Michigan Street and Jefferson Boulevard, and returned to the George Rickey Foundation Collection. Through the generosity of the George Rickey Estate, the sculpture’s term of loan was extended multiple times, allowing it to remain in South Bend for more than seven years. Read More
Performing Arts Series August 7 Event Cancelled
We’re sorry to announce that the opening performance for the 2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series—Southold Dance Theater, scheduled for this Saturday, August 7—has been cancelled. Read More
Community Foundation Announces IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022. These grants, which total over $234,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Since 1998, the Community Foundation has been a Regional Arts Partner for the IAC, overseeing the grants application and award process for St. Joseph, Elkhart, Fulton, Marshall, Kosciusko, and Starke counties in northern Indiana. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $540,000 in Recent Grants Cycle
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $540,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Foundation, Partners Encourage Enrollment in 21st Century Scholars
Wednesday, June 30, is a critical deadline for students who are eligible for free college tuition through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program, and the Community Foundation and our partners in the 21st Century Scholar Success Coalition want to be sure that families take advantage of this golden opportunity. Read More
2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
We're back! After a year's hiatus, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This three-event free series begins on August 14 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 28, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. Read More
2021 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Laidig Service Scholars are Kylie Blake, Mishawaka High School, who will attend Butler University; Adreyana Bryan, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; Ta’Nyi Reed, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; and Brianna Woods, Adams High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington. Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Kayla Mkandawire, St. Joseph High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Mkandawire will attend Loyola University Chicago to study neuroscience. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its third annual Imagination Library Photo Contest. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $305,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $305,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. Recipients include Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County, Cultivate Culinary School and Catering, Potawatomi Zoological Society, Five Star Life, South Bend Rotary Charitable Foundation, Transformation Ministries, and the Robinson Community Learning Center. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 19, 2021
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 19, 2021. The panels will be held at 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of which will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
Community Foundation, Ivy Tech Host FAFSA Completion Event
In partnership with Ivy Tech Community College, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) assistance event for area students as part of its 21st Century Scholar Success Initiative, an effort to dramatically increase the number of local low-income students who achieve well-paying jobs in our region by completing post-secondary degrees through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Offers Grant Workshops, Office Hours
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2022 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 4, 2021, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2021 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
CFSJC Receives $4,066,025 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Large-Scale Community Leadership Grant of $4,066,025 through the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. The grant will support the 21st Century Scholar […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $200,000 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Community Leadership Grant of $200,000 as part of the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. This grant will support the implementation of […] Read More
Community Foundation Supports OneMoreVoice.com
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce are partnering to support a new statewide initiative to help people register to vote, learn about candidates, and show up to vote in November. In […] Read More
Community Foundation, SBSO Cancel Aug. 29 Concert at Chris Wilson Pavilion at Potawatomi
Because of the risks presented by the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Symphony Orchestra have made a joint decision to cancel the August 29 concert planned for the Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards FY2021 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2021. These grants, which total over $203,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Amaani Lee, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Lee will attend the University of Notre Dame to study biology. […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2020 Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2020 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Rebecca Mattson, Penn High School, who will attend Butler University; Lorei Munoz, Washington […] Read More
Meissner Receives 2020 Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka Award
Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka has announced that Rose Meissner, president of the Community Foundation and a member of Leadership Class 20, is the organization’s 2020 Distinguished Alumna. Kristine Hilger, executive director of Leadership, says that Meissner exemplifies the organization’s values as […] Read More
Coronavirus Response: Community Foundation Grants $45,000 to REAL Services, Food Bank Partnership
UPDATED 2/22/20: The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced a second $45,000 grant to REAL Services, which will sustain this program through the month of May. In response to the tremendous need created by the current coronavirus crisis, […] Read More
Resources for Local Nonprofits During the Coronavirus Crisis
We know that our local nonprofit organizations are facing unprecedented challenges during the current coronavirus crisis. Many have questions about loans and grants available through the new federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act, as well as potential […] Read More
2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of […] Read More
Community Foundation Commits $200K to United Way’s COVID-19 Fund
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has committed $200,000 to the United Way of St. Joseph County’s recently announced COVID-19 Response Fund. During this crisis, nonprofit organizations in our community can apply to the fund for grants to respond […] Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Apps Due March 5, 2020
The deadline for local arts organizations to apply for Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) grants awarded through the Regional Initiative Grant (RIG) program is Thursday, March 5, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. EST. The IAC’s Regional Initiative Grant program provides funding in order to […] Read More
Community Foundation Presents Free Grant Proposal Workshop
In its role as a regional partner of the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present a grant proposal workshop in late January. This free workshop is designed for nonprofit arts organizations and other […] Read More
Community Foundation Names 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 20th Anniversary
The African American Community Fund—a family of 23 endowed funds held within the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County— marks its 20th anniversary this year with an exhibit that chronicles the history of the fund and celebrates its accomplishments. The […] Read More
2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence Goes to SB Symphony
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named the South Bend Symphony Orchestra winner of its 2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes the Symphony for its strong leadership, artistic quality, and commitment to broadening its impact […] Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panel on Wednesday, April 29
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Wednesday, April 29, 2020. The panels will be held at 9:30 […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $1,550,000 in Major Senior Living Grants
As part of its Senior Living Initiative, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded a total of $1,550,000 to three different local nonprofit organizations that support local seniors and their caregivers. The recipients are: REAL Services ($750,000, payable […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $3 Million Challenge Grant to Support Library Project
In support of its $10 million commitment to the expansion and renovation of the St. Joseph County Public Library’s downtown Main Library, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a major challenge grant from the Judd Leighton Foundation. […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards IAC Regional Arts Grants
Twenty-nine area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2020. These grants, which total over $214,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2019 Currier Scholar
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Nicholas Casetti (Penn High School, 2018) as the 2019 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required […] Read More
2019 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
SHORT SURVEY: Click here to let us know what you think about the series—and what you’d like to see in 2020! For the tenth consecutive year, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Deana Griffin, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Griffin will attend Ball State University to study social work. The […] Read More
Community Foundation Names Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2019 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Megan Jakubowicz, Riley High School, who will attend Purdue University; Veronica Navarro, Clay […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $189,500 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2019 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $189,500 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Challenge Grants. The Special Project Challenge Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its first Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Major New Senior Living RFP
For more than 15 years, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County’s Senior Living Initiative has supported high-quality programs and services that older adults need to be healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. In recognition of a major demographic shift occurring […] Read More
Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2019 Imagination Library Photo Contest. One winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $30 Million to Tackle Housing Crisis
The GIFT VIII awards will allow the Community Foundation to work with local and regional shareholders to build more homes, revitalize neighborhoods, and ensure economic development in our county and larger region. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $817,500 in Special Project Grants
Mishawaka Parks Foundation receives $200,000 toward Miracle League Field at Normain Heights Park. Additional recipients include Hope Ministries, Habitat for Humanity, Boys & Girls Clubs, and more. Read More
Foundation Announces $300,000 in Arts Grants
37 area organizations received more than $300,000 in arts grants from the Indiana Arts Commission. These grants support arts programming in six counties across northern Indiana. Read More
2024 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
Meet this year's cohort of Laidig Service Scholars, recipients of college scholarship funds and invaluable local internship experience with fantastic area nonprofits. Read More
Foundation Announces Recipients of 2024 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced Becca Kerley, Emily Newburn, and Elise Walker as recipients of the 2024 Boorda Scholarship. Read More
Foundation Announces Charles Martin Scholarship Recipient
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce Marcus Henderson as the recipient of the 2024 Charles Martin "Touch a Life" scholarship. Read More
WNIT Receives Major Venture Grant
In 2024, WNIT celebrated fifty years of public television across Michiana. They also received a Major Venture grant from the Community Foundation to help them plan for the next fifty. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $110,000 in Senior Living Grants
LOGAN, Saint Joseph Health System, and South Bend Heritage Foundation each received Senior Living grants during the spring 2024 cycle. Read More
Foundation Announces Currier Scholarship Recipients
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce William Schalliol and Casey Zielke as recipients of the prestigious Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. Read More
2025 Lilly Scholarship Process Opens for Applicants
The 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship application is now available in St. Joseph County through the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Performing Arts Series
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is thrilled to announce the return of its summer Performing Arts Series with two events this August at the Chris Wilson Pavilion. There's no better way to wind down a perfect summer evening than with art, music, and good friends out on the lawn. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $411,000 in Special Project Grants
Recipients include Reins of Life, Imami Unidad, Inc., LOGAN, South Bend Youth Hockey, University of Notre Dame, and YWCA North Central Indiana, Inc. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Celebrates Successful Conclusion of Leighton Award Campaign
Juan Constantino reflects on their time as Leighton Award winner, reflects on everything that's happened since, and looks forward to the next fifty years of community service. Read More
Foundation to Host Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
21st Century Scholars are invited to join program representatives and 21st Century Fellows on April 13 at the Community Learning Center to complete program steps, receive FAFSA help, and much more. Read More
Aaron Perri Joins Foundation as Vice President, Community Impact
“Aaron’s optimism and deep love for the South Bend Mishawaka area are well known,” says Rose Meissner, Foundation President. “I am delighted the focus of his vision, talent and experience will return to St. Joseph County. The tremendous impact he has already on improving our community will continue in to thrive in this new role.” Read More
Charitable Gift Annuities: The Gift That Pays You Back
Now is a good time for people over the age of 70 ½ to think about setting up a charitable gift annuity, and thanks to Lilly Endowment Inc., the impact of your gift is increased now more than ever. Foundation President Rose Meissner shares a little bit about how the process works. Read More
Imagination Library Delivers 600,000th Book
Fewer than five years after joining with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library to promote literacy for children and families in St. Joseph County, the Community Foundation was able to help deliver its 600,000th book in November 2023. Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 25 Years of Impact
It's been more than 25 years since the AACF was founded, and in the time since, the African American Community Fund has given more than $1.3 million to African American causes and organizations across St. Joseph County including Dismas House, the St. Joseph County Public Library, and the MLK Jr. Dream Center. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Applications Due March 7, 2024
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2025 (July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025) Arts Project Support (APS) grants. Applications are due Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Announces Grant Workshops
Indiana Arts Commission grants awarded through the Regional Arts Partnership are available to qualifying nonprofit organizations through a competitive application process. Learn more about upcoming opportunities and grant workshops. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $200,000 Senior Living Grant to enFocus
Funds to assist Greener Homes Retrofit program for South Bend seniors, which aims to lower utility bills and decrease carbon footprints. Read More
Community Foundation Announces $197,000 in Arts Grants
Eight area non-profits received ArtsEverywhere grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, The Music Village received $140,000 for a multi-year initiative to create a recording arts studio classroom. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2024 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2024 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $455,000 in Grants
Six area non-profits received Special Project grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, the Center for the Homeless received $125,000 toward building renovations and Women's Care Center received $125,000 toward construction of a new Mishawaka facility. Read More
Robinson Center Helps Keep Seniors Young
Like it did many places, the Covid-19 pandemic halted the day-to-day operations at the Notre Dame Robinson Community Learning Center. But especially for the Center’s senior adult audiences, the effects of the shutdown were felt more deeply. Seniors reported feeling loneliness, anxiety, and depression due to the prolonged isolation. Lu Ella Webster, Adult Programs Coordinator, knew that the 95 adults who participated in her programs were in need of human connection. Read More
Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County Wins 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County winner of its 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes BGCSJC for its unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community’s children. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023-24 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Forty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. These grants, which total over $317,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Winners of 2023 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced the recipients of this year’s Anita F. Boorda Scholarship for the Performing Arts: Grace Luce, Warsaw Community High School; Abigail Moody, Clay; and Nikolas Prathaftakis, Rochester Community School. Read More
2023 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Christian Jackson, Riley High School, who will study business administration and marketing at Indiana University Bloomington; Josephine Lawrence, Adams High School, who will study art education at Indiana University South Bend; Elliana Lemberis, LaVille High School, who will study engineering at Purdue University; Olivia Leonhard, LaVille High School, who will study biology at Trine University; and Aurora Nunez, St. Joseph High School, who will study biology and marketing at Holy Cross. Read More
Winner of 2023 Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Sydney Taylor as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Taylor will attend Butler University to study Speech Language Pathology. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $432,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2023 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $432,000 in grants funding to five local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
2023 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This six-event free series begins on July 22 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 26, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels April 24 and April 26, 2023
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 24, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. EST, and one grant review panel open to the public on Wednesday, April 26, at 10:00
a.m. EST. The public is invited to observe these panels through YouTube. Read More
Foundation Hosts Third Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its third free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, March 25, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, snacks and giveaways, and more! Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of the 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked for photos of enrolled children enjoying the free books they receive through the program. Read More
Imagination Library 2023 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, February 27, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 3. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2024 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2024 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces ArtsEverywhere Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
close to $200,000 to local nonprofit organizations in ArtsEverywhere grants. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2023 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $680,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $680,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Second Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its second free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, Dec. 3, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
Tonight’s Free SBSO Concert Moves Indoors
Because of the predictions for rain, we’re moving this evening’s South Bend Symphony Orchestra concert into the Adams High School auditorium. The concert begins at 7 p.m., and is free and open to the public. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022-23 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty-seven area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023. These grants, which total over $230,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Currier Scholarship Winner
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Levi Dickson (St. Joseph High School, 2020) as the 2022 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required fees, an allowance for books, and on-campus housing or an off-campus living allowance for up to six semesters at Purdue University. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $374,065 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
$374,065 to local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Senior Living grants are designed to support quality programs and services that local seniors need to remain healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
2022 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This five-event free series begins on July 30 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 27, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
2022 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Tristan Badia, Penn High School, who will attend Ivy Tech Community College; Lubabah Hassan, Penn High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington; Moriah Love, Riley High School, who will attend Alabama A&M University; and Peyton Shrader, Clay High School, who will attend University of Notre Dame. Read More
Winners of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Ann Okhiria and Nah’Shon Williams as the recipienta of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Okhiria will attend Indiana University Bloomington to study computer science, and Mr. Williams will attend Purdue University to study construction management. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $409,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $409,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, May 14, from 9 a.m. until noon, at the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete required program (SSP) steps, an employer fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 25, 2022
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 25, 2022. The panels will be held at 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
Imagination Library 2022 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2022 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, March 14, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 18. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2023 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2023 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Offers Free Guide to Planning Your Will
The Community Foundation offers the free "Provide and Protect: A Guide to Planning Your Will and Trust" on our website. In easy-to-understand language, this 24-page guide walks you through the process of collecting and organizing the information you’ll need to share with your attorney in order to create a will. You can download it at no cost. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $210,000 in Recent Grants
As part of its 2021 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $210,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students awarded the 2022 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Wins 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
La Casa de Amistad has won the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County's prestigious 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. Read More
Community Bids Fond Farewell to George Rickey’s “Space Churn”
On Tuesday, November 16, Space Churn with Octagon—a sculpture by world-renowned artist George Rickey—will be de-installed from its current location in the Studebaker Plaza in downtown South Bend, at the corner of Michigan Street and Jefferson Boulevard, and returned to the George Rickey Foundation Collection. Through the generosity of the George Rickey Estate, the sculpture’s term of loan was extended multiple times, allowing it to remain in South Bend for more than seven years. Read More
Performing Arts Series August 7 Event Cancelled
We’re sorry to announce that the opening performance for the 2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series—Southold Dance Theater, scheduled for this Saturday, August 7—has been cancelled. Read More
Community Foundation Announces IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022. These grants, which total over $234,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Since 1998, the Community Foundation has been a Regional Arts Partner for the IAC, overseeing the grants application and award process for St. Joseph, Elkhart, Fulton, Marshall, Kosciusko, and Starke counties in northern Indiana. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $540,000 in Recent Grants Cycle
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $540,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Foundation, Partners Encourage Enrollment in 21st Century Scholars
Wednesday, June 30, is a critical deadline for students who are eligible for free college tuition through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program, and the Community Foundation and our partners in the 21st Century Scholar Success Coalition want to be sure that families take advantage of this golden opportunity. Read More
2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
We're back! After a year's hiatus, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This three-event free series begins on August 14 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 28, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. Read More
2021 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Laidig Service Scholars are Kylie Blake, Mishawaka High School, who will attend Butler University; Adreyana Bryan, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; Ta’Nyi Reed, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; and Brianna Woods, Adams High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington. Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Kayla Mkandawire, St. Joseph High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Mkandawire will attend Loyola University Chicago to study neuroscience. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its third annual Imagination Library Photo Contest. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $305,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $305,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. Recipients include Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County, Cultivate Culinary School and Catering, Potawatomi Zoological Society, Five Star Life, South Bend Rotary Charitable Foundation, Transformation Ministries, and the Robinson Community Learning Center. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 19, 2021
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 19, 2021. The panels will be held at 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of which will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
Community Foundation, Ivy Tech Host FAFSA Completion Event
In partnership with Ivy Tech Community College, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) assistance event for area students as part of its 21st Century Scholar Success Initiative, an effort to dramatically increase the number of local low-income students who achieve well-paying jobs in our region by completing post-secondary degrees through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Offers Grant Workshops, Office Hours
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2022 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 4, 2021, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2021 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
CFSJC Receives $4,066,025 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Large-Scale Community Leadership Grant of $4,066,025 through the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. The grant will support the 21st Century Scholar […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $200,000 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Community Leadership Grant of $200,000 as part of the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. This grant will support the implementation of […] Read More
Community Foundation Supports OneMoreVoice.com
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce are partnering to support a new statewide initiative to help people register to vote, learn about candidates, and show up to vote in November. In […] Read More
Community Foundation, SBSO Cancel Aug. 29 Concert at Chris Wilson Pavilion at Potawatomi
Because of the risks presented by the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Symphony Orchestra have made a joint decision to cancel the August 29 concert planned for the Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards FY2021 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2021. These grants, which total over $203,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Amaani Lee, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Lee will attend the University of Notre Dame to study biology. […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2020 Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2020 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Rebecca Mattson, Penn High School, who will attend Butler University; Lorei Munoz, Washington […] Read More
Meissner Receives 2020 Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka Award
Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka has announced that Rose Meissner, president of the Community Foundation and a member of Leadership Class 20, is the organization’s 2020 Distinguished Alumna. Kristine Hilger, executive director of Leadership, says that Meissner exemplifies the organization’s values as […] Read More
Coronavirus Response: Community Foundation Grants $45,000 to REAL Services, Food Bank Partnership
UPDATED 2/22/20: The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced a second $45,000 grant to REAL Services, which will sustain this program through the month of May. In response to the tremendous need created by the current coronavirus crisis, […] Read More
Resources for Local Nonprofits During the Coronavirus Crisis
We know that our local nonprofit organizations are facing unprecedented challenges during the current coronavirus crisis. Many have questions about loans and grants available through the new federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act, as well as potential […] Read More
2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of […] Read More
Community Foundation Commits $200K to United Way’s COVID-19 Fund
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has committed $200,000 to the United Way of St. Joseph County’s recently announced COVID-19 Response Fund. During this crisis, nonprofit organizations in our community can apply to the fund for grants to respond […] Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Apps Due March 5, 2020
The deadline for local arts organizations to apply for Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) grants awarded through the Regional Initiative Grant (RIG) program is Thursday, March 5, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. EST. The IAC’s Regional Initiative Grant program provides funding in order to […] Read More
Community Foundation Presents Free Grant Proposal Workshop
In its role as a regional partner of the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present a grant proposal workshop in late January. This free workshop is designed for nonprofit arts organizations and other […] Read More
Community Foundation Names 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 20th Anniversary
The African American Community Fund—a family of 23 endowed funds held within the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County— marks its 20th anniversary this year with an exhibit that chronicles the history of the fund and celebrates its accomplishments. The […] Read More
2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence Goes to SB Symphony
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named the South Bend Symphony Orchestra winner of its 2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes the Symphony for its strong leadership, artistic quality, and commitment to broadening its impact […] Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panel on Wednesday, April 29
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Wednesday, April 29, 2020. The panels will be held at 9:30 […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $1,550,000 in Major Senior Living Grants
As part of its Senior Living Initiative, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded a total of $1,550,000 to three different local nonprofit organizations that support local seniors and their caregivers. The recipients are: REAL Services ($750,000, payable […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $3 Million Challenge Grant to Support Library Project
In support of its $10 million commitment to the expansion and renovation of the St. Joseph County Public Library’s downtown Main Library, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a major challenge grant from the Judd Leighton Foundation. […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards IAC Regional Arts Grants
Twenty-nine area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2020. These grants, which total over $214,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2019 Currier Scholar
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Nicholas Casetti (Penn High School, 2018) as the 2019 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required […] Read More
2019 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
SHORT SURVEY: Click here to let us know what you think about the series—and what you’d like to see in 2020! For the tenth consecutive year, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Deana Griffin, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Griffin will attend Ball State University to study social work. The […] Read More
Community Foundation Names Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2019 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Megan Jakubowicz, Riley High School, who will attend Purdue University; Veronica Navarro, Clay […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $189,500 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2019 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $189,500 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Challenge Grants. The Special Project Challenge Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its first Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Major New Senior Living RFP
For more than 15 years, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County’s Senior Living Initiative has supported high-quality programs and services that older adults need to be healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. In recognition of a major demographic shift occurring […] Read More
Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2019 Imagination Library Photo Contest. One winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $30 Million to Tackle Housing Crisis
The GIFT VIII awards will allow the Community Foundation to work with local and regional shareholders to build more homes, revitalize neighborhoods, and ensure economic development in our county and larger region. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $817,500 in Special Project Grants
Mishawaka Parks Foundation receives $200,000 toward Miracle League Field at Normain Heights Park. Additional recipients include Hope Ministries, Habitat for Humanity, Boys & Girls Clubs, and more. Read More
Foundation Announces $300,000 in Arts Grants
37 area organizations received more than $300,000 in arts grants from the Indiana Arts Commission. These grants support arts programming in six counties across northern Indiana. Read More
2024 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
Meet this year's cohort of Laidig Service Scholars, recipients of college scholarship funds and invaluable local internship experience with fantastic area nonprofits. Read More
Foundation Announces Recipients of 2024 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced Becca Kerley, Emily Newburn, and Elise Walker as recipients of the 2024 Boorda Scholarship. Read More
Foundation Announces Charles Martin Scholarship Recipient
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce Marcus Henderson as the recipient of the 2024 Charles Martin "Touch a Life" scholarship. Read More
WNIT Receives Major Venture Grant
In 2024, WNIT celebrated fifty years of public television across Michiana. They also received a Major Venture grant from the Community Foundation to help them plan for the next fifty. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $110,000 in Senior Living Grants
LOGAN, Saint Joseph Health System, and South Bend Heritage Foundation each received Senior Living grants during the spring 2024 cycle. Read More
Foundation Announces Currier Scholarship Recipients
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce William Schalliol and Casey Zielke as recipients of the prestigious Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. Read More
2025 Lilly Scholarship Process Opens for Applicants
The 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship application is now available in St. Joseph County through the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Performing Arts Series
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is thrilled to announce the return of its summer Performing Arts Series with two events this August at the Chris Wilson Pavilion. There's no better way to wind down a perfect summer evening than with art, music, and good friends out on the lawn. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $411,000 in Special Project Grants
Recipients include Reins of Life, Imami Unidad, Inc., LOGAN, South Bend Youth Hockey, University of Notre Dame, and YWCA North Central Indiana, Inc. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Celebrates Successful Conclusion of Leighton Award Campaign
Juan Constantino reflects on their time as Leighton Award winner, reflects on everything that's happened since, and looks forward to the next fifty years of community service. Read More
Foundation to Host Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
21st Century Scholars are invited to join program representatives and 21st Century Fellows on April 13 at the Community Learning Center to complete program steps, receive FAFSA help, and much more. Read More
Aaron Perri Joins Foundation as Vice President, Community Impact
“Aaron’s optimism and deep love for the South Bend Mishawaka area are well known,” says Rose Meissner, Foundation President. “I am delighted the focus of his vision, talent and experience will return to St. Joseph County. The tremendous impact he has already on improving our community will continue in to thrive in this new role.” Read More
Charitable Gift Annuities: The Gift That Pays You Back
Now is a good time for people over the age of 70 ½ to think about setting up a charitable gift annuity, and thanks to Lilly Endowment Inc., the impact of your gift is increased now more than ever. Foundation President Rose Meissner shares a little bit about how the process works. Read More
Imagination Library Delivers 600,000th Book
Fewer than five years after joining with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library to promote literacy for children and families in St. Joseph County, the Community Foundation was able to help deliver its 600,000th book in November 2023. Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 25 Years of Impact
It's been more than 25 years since the AACF was founded, and in the time since, the African American Community Fund has given more than $1.3 million to African American causes and organizations across St. Joseph County including Dismas House, the St. Joseph County Public Library, and the MLK Jr. Dream Center. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Applications Due March 7, 2024
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2025 (July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025) Arts Project Support (APS) grants. Applications are due Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Announces Grant Workshops
Indiana Arts Commission grants awarded through the Regional Arts Partnership are available to qualifying nonprofit organizations through a competitive application process. Learn more about upcoming opportunities and grant workshops. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $200,000 Senior Living Grant to enFocus
Funds to assist Greener Homes Retrofit program for South Bend seniors, which aims to lower utility bills and decrease carbon footprints. Read More
Community Foundation Announces $197,000 in Arts Grants
Eight area non-profits received ArtsEverywhere grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, The Music Village received $140,000 for a multi-year initiative to create a recording arts studio classroom. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2024 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2024 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $455,000 in Grants
Six area non-profits received Special Project grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, the Center for the Homeless received $125,000 toward building renovations and Women's Care Center received $125,000 toward construction of a new Mishawaka facility. Read More
Robinson Center Helps Keep Seniors Young
Like it did many places, the Covid-19 pandemic halted the day-to-day operations at the Notre Dame Robinson Community Learning Center. But especially for the Center’s senior adult audiences, the effects of the shutdown were felt more deeply. Seniors reported feeling loneliness, anxiety, and depression due to the prolonged isolation. Lu Ella Webster, Adult Programs Coordinator, knew that the 95 adults who participated in her programs were in need of human connection. Read More
Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County Wins 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County winner of its 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes BGCSJC for its unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community’s children. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023-24 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Forty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. These grants, which total over $317,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Winners of 2023 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced the recipients of this year’s Anita F. Boorda Scholarship for the Performing Arts: Grace Luce, Warsaw Community High School; Abigail Moody, Clay; and Nikolas Prathaftakis, Rochester Community School. Read More
2023 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Christian Jackson, Riley High School, who will study business administration and marketing at Indiana University Bloomington; Josephine Lawrence, Adams High School, who will study art education at Indiana University South Bend; Elliana Lemberis, LaVille High School, who will study engineering at Purdue University; Olivia Leonhard, LaVille High School, who will study biology at Trine University; and Aurora Nunez, St. Joseph High School, who will study biology and marketing at Holy Cross. Read More
Winner of 2023 Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Sydney Taylor as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Taylor will attend Butler University to study Speech Language Pathology. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $432,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2023 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $432,000 in grants funding to five local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
2023 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This six-event free series begins on July 22 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 26, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels April 24 and April 26, 2023
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 24, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. EST, and one grant review panel open to the public on Wednesday, April 26, at 10:00
a.m. EST. The public is invited to observe these panels through YouTube. Read More
Foundation Hosts Third Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its third free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, March 25, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, snacks and giveaways, and more! Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of the 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked for photos of enrolled children enjoying the free books they receive through the program. Read More
Imagination Library 2023 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, February 27, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 3. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2024 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2024 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces ArtsEverywhere Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
close to $200,000 to local nonprofit organizations in ArtsEverywhere grants. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2023 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $680,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $680,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Second Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its second free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, Dec. 3, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
Tonight’s Free SBSO Concert Moves Indoors
Because of the predictions for rain, we’re moving this evening’s South Bend Symphony Orchestra concert into the Adams High School auditorium. The concert begins at 7 p.m., and is free and open to the public. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022-23 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty-seven area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023. These grants, which total over $230,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Currier Scholarship Winner
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Levi Dickson (St. Joseph High School, 2020) as the 2022 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required fees, an allowance for books, and on-campus housing or an off-campus living allowance for up to six semesters at Purdue University. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $374,065 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
$374,065 to local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Senior Living grants are designed to support quality programs and services that local seniors need to remain healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
2022 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This five-event free series begins on July 30 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 27, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
2022 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Tristan Badia, Penn High School, who will attend Ivy Tech Community College; Lubabah Hassan, Penn High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington; Moriah Love, Riley High School, who will attend Alabama A&M University; and Peyton Shrader, Clay High School, who will attend University of Notre Dame. Read More
Winners of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Ann Okhiria and Nah’Shon Williams as the recipienta of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Okhiria will attend Indiana University Bloomington to study computer science, and Mr. Williams will attend Purdue University to study construction management. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $409,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $409,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, May 14, from 9 a.m. until noon, at the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete required program (SSP) steps, an employer fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 25, 2022
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 25, 2022. The panels will be held at 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
Imagination Library 2022 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2022 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, March 14, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 18. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2023 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2023 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Offers Free Guide to Planning Your Will
The Community Foundation offers the free "Provide and Protect: A Guide to Planning Your Will and Trust" on our website. In easy-to-understand language, this 24-page guide walks you through the process of collecting and organizing the information you’ll need to share with your attorney in order to create a will. You can download it at no cost. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $210,000 in Recent Grants
As part of its 2021 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $210,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students awarded the 2022 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Wins 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
La Casa de Amistad has won the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County's prestigious 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. Read More
Community Bids Fond Farewell to George Rickey’s “Space Churn”
On Tuesday, November 16, Space Churn with Octagon—a sculpture by world-renowned artist George Rickey—will be de-installed from its current location in the Studebaker Plaza in downtown South Bend, at the corner of Michigan Street and Jefferson Boulevard, and returned to the George Rickey Foundation Collection. Through the generosity of the George Rickey Estate, the sculpture’s term of loan was extended multiple times, allowing it to remain in South Bend for more than seven years. Read More
Performing Arts Series August 7 Event Cancelled
We’re sorry to announce that the opening performance for the 2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series—Southold Dance Theater, scheduled for this Saturday, August 7—has been cancelled. Read More
Community Foundation Announces IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022. These grants, which total over $234,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Since 1998, the Community Foundation has been a Regional Arts Partner for the IAC, overseeing the grants application and award process for St. Joseph, Elkhart, Fulton, Marshall, Kosciusko, and Starke counties in northern Indiana. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $540,000 in Recent Grants Cycle
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $540,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Foundation, Partners Encourage Enrollment in 21st Century Scholars
Wednesday, June 30, is a critical deadline for students who are eligible for free college tuition through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program, and the Community Foundation and our partners in the 21st Century Scholar Success Coalition want to be sure that families take advantage of this golden opportunity. Read More
2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
We're back! After a year's hiatus, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This three-event free series begins on August 14 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 28, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. Read More
2021 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Laidig Service Scholars are Kylie Blake, Mishawaka High School, who will attend Butler University; Adreyana Bryan, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; Ta’Nyi Reed, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; and Brianna Woods, Adams High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington. Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Kayla Mkandawire, St. Joseph High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Mkandawire will attend Loyola University Chicago to study neuroscience. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its third annual Imagination Library Photo Contest. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $305,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $305,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. Recipients include Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County, Cultivate Culinary School and Catering, Potawatomi Zoological Society, Five Star Life, South Bend Rotary Charitable Foundation, Transformation Ministries, and the Robinson Community Learning Center. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 19, 2021
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 19, 2021. The panels will be held at 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of which will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
Community Foundation, Ivy Tech Host FAFSA Completion Event
In partnership with Ivy Tech Community College, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) assistance event for area students as part of its 21st Century Scholar Success Initiative, an effort to dramatically increase the number of local low-income students who achieve well-paying jobs in our region by completing post-secondary degrees through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Offers Grant Workshops, Office Hours
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2022 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 4, 2021, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2021 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
CFSJC Receives $4,066,025 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Large-Scale Community Leadership Grant of $4,066,025 through the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. The grant will support the 21st Century Scholar […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $200,000 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Community Leadership Grant of $200,000 as part of the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. This grant will support the implementation of […] Read More
Community Foundation Supports OneMoreVoice.com
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce are partnering to support a new statewide initiative to help people register to vote, learn about candidates, and show up to vote in November. In […] Read More
Community Foundation, SBSO Cancel Aug. 29 Concert at Chris Wilson Pavilion at Potawatomi
Because of the risks presented by the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Symphony Orchestra have made a joint decision to cancel the August 29 concert planned for the Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards FY2021 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2021. These grants, which total over $203,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Amaani Lee, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Lee will attend the University of Notre Dame to study biology. […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2020 Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2020 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Rebecca Mattson, Penn High School, who will attend Butler University; Lorei Munoz, Washington […] Read More
Meissner Receives 2020 Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka Award
Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka has announced that Rose Meissner, president of the Community Foundation and a member of Leadership Class 20, is the organization’s 2020 Distinguished Alumna. Kristine Hilger, executive director of Leadership, says that Meissner exemplifies the organization’s values as […] Read More
Coronavirus Response: Community Foundation Grants $45,000 to REAL Services, Food Bank Partnership
UPDATED 2/22/20: The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced a second $45,000 grant to REAL Services, which will sustain this program through the month of May. In response to the tremendous need created by the current coronavirus crisis, […] Read More
Resources for Local Nonprofits During the Coronavirus Crisis
We know that our local nonprofit organizations are facing unprecedented challenges during the current coronavirus crisis. Many have questions about loans and grants available through the new federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act, as well as potential […] Read More
2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of […] Read More
Community Foundation Commits $200K to United Way’s COVID-19 Fund
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has committed $200,000 to the United Way of St. Joseph County’s recently announced COVID-19 Response Fund. During this crisis, nonprofit organizations in our community can apply to the fund for grants to respond […] Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Apps Due March 5, 2020
The deadline for local arts organizations to apply for Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) grants awarded through the Regional Initiative Grant (RIG) program is Thursday, March 5, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. EST. The IAC’s Regional Initiative Grant program provides funding in order to […] Read More
Community Foundation Presents Free Grant Proposal Workshop
In its role as a regional partner of the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present a grant proposal workshop in late January. This free workshop is designed for nonprofit arts organizations and other […] Read More
Community Foundation Names 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 20th Anniversary
The African American Community Fund—a family of 23 endowed funds held within the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County— marks its 20th anniversary this year with an exhibit that chronicles the history of the fund and celebrates its accomplishments. The […] Read More
2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence Goes to SB Symphony
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named the South Bend Symphony Orchestra winner of its 2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes the Symphony for its strong leadership, artistic quality, and commitment to broadening its impact […] Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panel on Wednesday, April 29
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Wednesday, April 29, 2020. The panels will be held at 9:30 […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $1,550,000 in Major Senior Living Grants
As part of its Senior Living Initiative, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded a total of $1,550,000 to three different local nonprofit organizations that support local seniors and their caregivers. The recipients are: REAL Services ($750,000, payable […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $3 Million Challenge Grant to Support Library Project
In support of its $10 million commitment to the expansion and renovation of the St. Joseph County Public Library’s downtown Main Library, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a major challenge grant from the Judd Leighton Foundation. […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards IAC Regional Arts Grants
Twenty-nine area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2020. These grants, which total over $214,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2019 Currier Scholar
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Nicholas Casetti (Penn High School, 2018) as the 2019 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required […] Read More
2019 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
SHORT SURVEY: Click here to let us know what you think about the series—and what you’d like to see in 2020! For the tenth consecutive year, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Deana Griffin, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Griffin will attend Ball State University to study social work. The […] Read More
Community Foundation Names Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2019 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Megan Jakubowicz, Riley High School, who will attend Purdue University; Veronica Navarro, Clay […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $189,500 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2019 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $189,500 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Challenge Grants. The Special Project Challenge Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its first Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Major New Senior Living RFP
For more than 15 years, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County’s Senior Living Initiative has supported high-quality programs and services that older adults need to be healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. In recognition of a major demographic shift occurring […] Read More
Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2019 Imagination Library Photo Contest. One winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $30 Million to Tackle Housing Crisis
The GIFT VIII awards will allow the Community Foundation to work with local and regional shareholders to build more homes, revitalize neighborhoods, and ensure economic development in our county and larger region. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $817,500 in Special Project Grants
Mishawaka Parks Foundation receives $200,000 toward Miracle League Field at Normain Heights Park. Additional recipients include Hope Ministries, Habitat for Humanity, Boys & Girls Clubs, and more. Read More
Foundation Announces $300,000 in Arts Grants
37 area organizations received more than $300,000 in arts grants from the Indiana Arts Commission. These grants support arts programming in six counties across northern Indiana. Read More
2024 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
Meet this year's cohort of Laidig Service Scholars, recipients of college scholarship funds and invaluable local internship experience with fantastic area nonprofits. Read More
Foundation Announces Recipients of 2024 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced Becca Kerley, Emily Newburn, and Elise Walker as recipients of the 2024 Boorda Scholarship. Read More
Foundation Announces Charles Martin Scholarship Recipient
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce Marcus Henderson as the recipient of the 2024 Charles Martin "Touch a Life" scholarship. Read More
WNIT Receives Major Venture Grant
In 2024, WNIT celebrated fifty years of public television across Michiana. They also received a Major Venture grant from the Community Foundation to help them plan for the next fifty. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $110,000 in Senior Living Grants
LOGAN, Saint Joseph Health System, and South Bend Heritage Foundation each received Senior Living grants during the spring 2024 cycle. Read More
Foundation Announces Currier Scholarship Recipients
The Community Foundation is thrilled to announce William Schalliol and Casey Zielke as recipients of the prestigious Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. Read More
2025 Lilly Scholarship Process Opens for Applicants
The 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship application is now available in St. Joseph County through the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Performing Arts Series
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is thrilled to announce the return of its summer Performing Arts Series with two events this August at the Chris Wilson Pavilion. There's no better way to wind down a perfect summer evening than with art, music, and good friends out on the lawn. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $411,000 in Special Project Grants
Recipients include Reins of Life, Imami Unidad, Inc., LOGAN, South Bend Youth Hockey, University of Notre Dame, and YWCA North Central Indiana, Inc. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Celebrates Successful Conclusion of Leighton Award Campaign
Juan Constantino reflects on their time as Leighton Award winner, reflects on everything that's happened since, and looks forward to the next fifty years of community service. Read More
Foundation to Host Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
21st Century Scholars are invited to join program representatives and 21st Century Fellows on April 13 at the Community Learning Center to complete program steps, receive FAFSA help, and much more. Read More
Aaron Perri Joins Foundation as Vice President, Community Impact
“Aaron’s optimism and deep love for the South Bend Mishawaka area are well known,” says Rose Meissner, Foundation President. “I am delighted the focus of his vision, talent and experience will return to St. Joseph County. The tremendous impact he has already on improving our community will continue in to thrive in this new role.” Read More
Charitable Gift Annuities: The Gift That Pays You Back
Now is a good time for people over the age of 70 ½ to think about setting up a charitable gift annuity, and thanks to Lilly Endowment Inc., the impact of your gift is increased now more than ever. Foundation President Rose Meissner shares a little bit about how the process works. Read More
Imagination Library Delivers 600,000th Book
Fewer than five years after joining with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library to promote literacy for children and families in St. Joseph County, the Community Foundation was able to help deliver its 600,000th book in November 2023. Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 25 Years of Impact
It's been more than 25 years since the AACF was founded, and in the time since, the African American Community Fund has given more than $1.3 million to African American causes and organizations across St. Joseph County including Dismas House, the St. Joseph County Public Library, and the MLK Jr. Dream Center. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Applications Due March 7, 2024
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2025 (July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025) Arts Project Support (APS) grants. Applications are due Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Announces Grant Workshops
Indiana Arts Commission grants awarded through the Regional Arts Partnership are available to qualifying nonprofit organizations through a competitive application process. Learn more about upcoming opportunities and grant workshops. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $200,000 Senior Living Grant to enFocus
Funds to assist Greener Homes Retrofit program for South Bend seniors, which aims to lower utility bills and decrease carbon footprints. Read More
Community Foundation Announces $197,000 in Arts Grants
Eight area non-profits received ArtsEverywhere grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, The Music Village received $140,000 for a multi-year initiative to create a recording arts studio classroom. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2024 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2024 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $455,000 in Grants
Six area non-profits received Special Project grants during the fall 2023 grant cycle. Among others, the Center for the Homeless received $125,000 toward building renovations and Women's Care Center received $125,000 toward construction of a new Mishawaka facility. Read More
Robinson Center Helps Keep Seniors Young
Like it did many places, the Covid-19 pandemic halted the day-to-day operations at the Notre Dame Robinson Community Learning Center. But especially for the Center’s senior adult audiences, the effects of the shutdown were felt more deeply. Seniors reported feeling loneliness, anxiety, and depression due to the prolonged isolation. Lu Ella Webster, Adult Programs Coordinator, knew that the 95 adults who participated in her programs were in need of human connection. Read More
Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County Wins 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County winner of its 2023 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes BGCSJC for its unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community’s children. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023-24 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Forty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. These grants, which total over $317,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Winners of 2023 Anita F. Boorda Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced the recipients of this year’s Anita F. Boorda Scholarship for the Performing Arts: Grace Luce, Warsaw Community High School; Abigail Moody, Clay; and Nikolas Prathaftakis, Rochester Community School. Read More
2023 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Christian Jackson, Riley High School, who will study business administration and marketing at Indiana University Bloomington; Josephine Lawrence, Adams High School, who will study art education at Indiana University South Bend; Elliana Lemberis, LaVille High School, who will study engineering at Purdue University; Olivia Leonhard, LaVille High School, who will study biology at Trine University; and Aurora Nunez, St. Joseph High School, who will study biology and marketing at Holy Cross. Read More
Winner of 2023 Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Sydney Taylor as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Taylor will attend Butler University to study Speech Language Pathology. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $432,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2023 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $432,000 in grants funding to five local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
2023 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This six-event free series begins on July 22 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 26, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels April 24 and April 26, 2023
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 24, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. EST, and one grant review panel open to the public on Wednesday, April 26, at 10:00
a.m. EST. The public is invited to observe these panels through YouTube. Read More
Foundation Hosts Third Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its third free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, March 25, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, snacks and giveaways, and more! Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of the 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked for photos of enrolled children enjoying the free books they receive through the program. Read More
Imagination Library 2023 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2023 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, February 27, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 3. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2024 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2024 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces ArtsEverywhere Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
close to $200,000 to local nonprofit organizations in ArtsEverywhere grants. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2023 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students offered the 2023 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $680,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $680,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Second Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host its second free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, Dec. 3, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, on the second floor of the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete up to eight required program (SSP) steps, a college fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
Tonight’s Free SBSO Concert Moves Indoors
Because of the predictions for rain, we’re moving this evening’s South Bend Symphony Orchestra concert into the Adams High School auditorium. The concert begins at 7 p.m., and is free and open to the public. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022-23 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty-seven area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023. These grants, which total over $230,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Currier Scholarship Winner
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Levi Dickson (St. Joseph High School, 2020) as the 2022 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required fees, an allowance for books, and on-campus housing or an off-campus living allowance for up to six semesters at Purdue University. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $374,065 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded
$374,065 to local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Senior Living grants are designed to support quality programs and services that local seniors need to remain healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. ArtsEverywhere grants to local arts organizations are designed to raise artistic quality, strengthen volunteer and staff leadership, enhance the capacity of arts organizations and the arts community, foster and support local talent, and inspire community pride. Read More
2022 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
This summer, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This five-event free series begins on July 30 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 27, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. All events begin at 7 p.m. Read More
2022 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Scholars are Tristan Badia, Penn High School, who will attend Ivy Tech Community College; Lubabah Hassan, Penn High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington; Moriah Love, Riley High School, who will attend Alabama A&M University; and Peyton Shrader, Clay High School, who will attend University of Notre Dame. Read More
Winners of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Ann Okhiria and Nah’Shon Williams as the recipienta of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Okhiria will attend Indiana University Bloomington to study computer science, and Mr. Williams will attend Purdue University to study construction management. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $409,000 in Grants
As part of its 2022 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $409,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. The Special Project Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban affairs; parks, recreation, and environment; health and human services, and youth and education. All nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Read More
Foundation Hosts Free 21st Century Scholar Success Fest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free 21st Century Scholar Success Event on Saturday, May 14, from 9 a.m. until noon, at the Community Learning Center in downtown South Bend. This 21st Century Scholar event, which is open to all, will include on-site opportunities to enroll in the program, complete required program (SSP) steps, an employer fair, program representatives and current Scholars to answer questions, ScholarTrack account support, and more! Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 25, 2022
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 25, 2022. The panels will be held at 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
Imagination Library 2022 Photo Contest
The deadline to enter our 2022 Imagination Library Photo Contest has now passed. But stay tuned to find out which ten photos have won special recognition! Two winners will be announced each day beginning on Monday, March 14, on the Community Foundation’s Facebook page and Instagram, and ending on Friday, March 18. Each winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
FY 2023 Indiana Arts Commission Grant Workshops
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2023 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 9, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Offers Free Guide to Planning Your Will
The Community Foundation offers the free "Provide and Protect: A Guide to Planning Your Will and Trust" on our website. In easy-to-understand language, this 24-page guide walks you through the process of collecting and organizing the information you’ll need to share with your attorney in order to create a will. You can download it at no cost. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $210,000 in Recent Grants
As part of its 2021 fall grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $210,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2022 Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County announces four students awarded the 2022 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for St. Joseph County, IN. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character and leadership. Read More
La Casa de Amistad Wins 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence
La Casa de Amistad has won the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County's prestigious 2021 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. Read More
Community Bids Fond Farewell to George Rickey’s “Space Churn”
On Tuesday, November 16, Space Churn with Octagon—a sculpture by world-renowned artist George Rickey—will be de-installed from its current location in the Studebaker Plaza in downtown South Bend, at the corner of Michigan Street and Jefferson Boulevard, and returned to the George Rickey Foundation Collection. Through the generosity of the George Rickey Estate, the sculpture’s term of loan was extended multiple times, allowing it to remain in South Bend for more than seven years. Read More
Performing Arts Series August 7 Event Cancelled
We’re sorry to announce that the opening performance for the 2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series—Southold Dance Theater, scheduled for this Saturday, August 7—has been cancelled. Read More
Community Foundation Announces IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022. These grants, which total over $234,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Since 1998, the Community Foundation has been a Regional Arts Partner for the IAC, overseeing the grants application and award process for St. Joseph, Elkhart, Fulton, Marshall, Kosciusko, and Starke counties in northern Indiana. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $540,000 in Recent Grants Cycle
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $540,000 to 18 local nonprofit organizations in Senior Living grants and ArtsEverywhere grants. Read More
Foundation, Partners Encourage Enrollment in 21st Century Scholars
Wednesday, June 30, is a critical deadline for students who are eligible for free college tuition through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program, and the Community Foundation and our partners in the 21st Century Scholar Success Coalition want to be sure that families take advantage of this golden opportunity. Read More
2021 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
We're back! After a year's hiatus, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will once again present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing Arts Series in the Chris Wilson Pavilion at South Bend’s Potawatomi Park. This three-event free series begins on August 14 and runs on consecutive Saturdays through August 28, featuring some of our community's best arts talent. Read More
2021 Laidig Service Scholarship Winners Announced
This year’s Laidig Service Scholars are Kylie Blake, Mishawaka High School, who will attend Butler University; Adreyana Bryan, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; Ta’Nyi Reed, Washington High School, who will attend Purdue University; and Brianna Woods, Adams High School, who will attend Indiana University Bloomington. Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Kayla Mkandawire, St. Joseph High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Mkandawire will attend Loyola University Chicago to study neuroscience. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its third annual Imagination Library Photo Contest. Read More
Community Foundation Awards $305,000 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2021 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $305,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Grants. Recipients include Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County, Cultivate Culinary School and Catering, Potawatomi Zoological Society, Five Star Life, South Bend Rotary Charitable Foundation, Transformation Ministries, and the Robinson Community Learning Center. Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panels on Monday, April 19, 2021
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host three grant review panels open to the public on Monday, April 19, 2021. The panels will be held at 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. EST. Read More
2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2021 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of which will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. Read More
Community Foundation, Ivy Tech Host FAFSA Completion Event
In partnership with Ivy Tech Community College, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host a free FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) assistance event for area students as part of its 21st Century Scholar Success Initiative, an effort to dramatically increase the number of local low-income students who achieve well-paying jobs in our region by completing post-secondary degrees through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program. Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Offers Grant Workshops, Office Hours
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2022 Arts Project Support (APS) and Arts Organization Support (AOS) Grants. Applications for both programs are due March 4, 2021, at 4:30 p.m. EST through the IAC’s online grant system. Read More
Community Foundation Announces Lilly Scholarship Offers
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2021 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
CFSJC Receives $4,066,025 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Large-Scale Community Leadership Grant of $4,066,025 through the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. The grant will support the 21st Century Scholar […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $200,000 Lilly Endowment Inc. Grant
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a Community Leadership Grant of $200,000 as part of the seventh phase of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VII) initiative. This grant will support the implementation of […] Read More
Community Foundation Supports OneMoreVoice.com
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce are partnering to support a new statewide initiative to help people register to vote, learn about candidates, and show up to vote in November. In […] Read More
Community Foundation, SBSO Cancel Aug. 29 Concert at Chris Wilson Pavilion at Potawatomi
Because of the risks presented by the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the South Bend Symphony Orchestra have made a joint decision to cancel the August 29 concert planned for the Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards FY2021 IAC Regional Arts Grants
Thirty area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2021. These grants, which total over $203,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Amaani Lee, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Lee will attend the University of Notre Dame to study biology. […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2020 Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2020 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Rebecca Mattson, Penn High School, who will attend Butler University; Lorei Munoz, Washington […] Read More
Meissner Receives 2020 Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka Award
Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka has announced that Rose Meissner, president of the Community Foundation and a member of Leadership Class 20, is the organization’s 2020 Distinguished Alumna. Kristine Hilger, executive director of Leadership, says that Meissner exemplifies the organization’s values as […] Read More
Coronavirus Response: Community Foundation Grants $45,000 to REAL Services, Food Bank Partnership
UPDATED 2/22/20: The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has announced a second $45,000 grant to REAL Services, which will sustain this program through the month of May. In response to the tremendous need created by the current coronavirus crisis, […] Read More
Resources for Local Nonprofits During the Coronavirus Crisis
We know that our local nonprofit organizations are facing unprecedented challenges during the current coronavirus crisis. Many have questions about loans and grants available through the new federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act, as well as potential […] Read More
2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2020 Imagination Library Photo Contest. There will be 10 contest winners, each of […] Read More
Community Foundation Commits $200K to United Way’s COVID-19 Fund
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has committed $200,000 to the United Way of St. Joseph County’s recently announced COVID-19 Response Fund. During this crisis, nonprofit organizations in our community can apply to the fund for grants to respond […] Read More
Indiana Arts Commission Grant Apps Due March 5, 2020
The deadline for local arts organizations to apply for Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) grants awarded through the Regional Initiative Grant (RIG) program is Thursday, March 5, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. EST. The IAC’s Regional Initiative Grant program provides funding in order to […] Read More
Community Foundation Presents Free Grant Proposal Workshop
In its role as a regional partner of the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present a grant proposal workshop in late January. This free workshop is designed for nonprofit arts organizations and other […] Read More
Community Foundation Names 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County celebrates four students awarded the 2020 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with four-year, full-tuition scholarships and a book stipend for the Indiana college or university of their choice. […] Read More
African American Community Fund Celebrates 20th Anniversary
The African American Community Fund—a family of 23 endowed funds held within the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County— marks its 20th anniversary this year with an exhibit that chronicles the history of the fund and celebrates its accomplishments. The […] Read More
2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence Goes to SB Symphony
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named the South Bend Symphony Orchestra winner of its 2019 Leighton Award for Nonprofit Excellence. The award recognizes the Symphony for its strong leadership, artistic quality, and commitment to broadening its impact […] Read More
CFSJC Hosts Regional IAC Grant Review Panel on Wednesday, April 29
Through its Regional Arts Partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC), the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will host two grant review panels open to the public on Wednesday, April 29, 2020. The panels will be held at 9:30 […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $1,550,000 in Major Senior Living Grants
As part of its Senior Living Initiative, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded a total of $1,550,000 to three different local nonprofit organizations that support local seniors and their caregivers. The recipients are: REAL Services ($750,000, payable […] Read More
Community Foundation Receives $3 Million Challenge Grant to Support Library Project
In support of its $10 million commitment to the expansion and renovation of the St. Joseph County Public Library’s downtown Main Library, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has received a major challenge grant from the Judd Leighton Foundation. […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards IAC Regional Arts Grants
Twenty-nine area organizations have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to support their arts programming from July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2020. These grants, which total over $214,000, were awarded through the IAC’s partnership with the Community […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces 2019 Currier Scholar
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has selected Nicholas Casetti (Penn High School, 2018) as the 2019 recipient of the Donald C. and Marion E. Currier Scholarship. This highly competitive award provides recipients with up to full tuition, required […] Read More
2019 Community Foundation Performing Arts Series
SHORT SURVEY: Click here to let us know what you think about the series—and what you’d like to see in 2020! For the tenth consecutive year, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County will present the award-winning Community Foundation Performing […] Read More
Winner of Charles Martin “Touch a Life” Scholarship Announced
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named Deana Griffin, Washington High School, as the recipient of this year’s Charles Martin “Touch a Life” scholarship. This fall, Ms. Griffin will attend Ball State University to study social work. The […] Read More
Community Foundation Names Laidig Community Service Scholars
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has named four St. Joseph County students as 2019 Jon and Sonja Laidig Community Service Scholars. This year’s scholars are Megan Jakubowicz, Riley High School, who will attend Purdue University; Veronica Navarro, Clay […] Read More
Community Foundation Awards $189,500 in Special Project Grants
As part of its 2019 spring grants cycle, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has awarded $189,500 to local nonprofit organizations through Special Project Challenge Grants. The Special Project Challenge Grant process encourages projects in community development and urban […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Photo Contest Winners
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is delighted to announce the winners of its first Imagination Library Photo Contest. The contest, which was open to any families currently participating in the Imagination Library program in St. Joseph County, asked […] Read More
Community Foundation Announces Major New Senior Living RFP
For more than 15 years, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County’s Senior Living Initiative has supported high-quality programs and services that older adults need to be healthy, safe, independent, and engaged. In recognition of a major demographic shift occurring […] Read More
Imagination Library Photo Contest
The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County invites families of children who are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in St. Joseph County to enter our 2019 Imagination Library Photo Contest. One winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift […] Read More