In 2016, Indiana will celebrate 200 years of history as a state. Indiana’s Bicentennial Celebration aims to honor our state’s history in a modern way that engages all 6.5 million Hoosiers and leaves a lasting legacy for future generations. This month, the Indiana Bicentennial Commission launched an endorsement process to promote and support external legacy generated by community partners and organizations across the state. Projects are required to meet one of the following criteria: culturally inclusive; creating a legacy for the future; celebratory; and engaging and inspiring to youth and young adults.
“From the day we were tasked to lead this important project, we have encouraged communities and groups from across the state to think about ways they can contribute to our state’s Bicentennial. These projects will strive to leave a lasting legacy in honor of Indiana’s 2016 Bicentennial,” said former Lt. Governor Becky Skillman, former Congressman Lee Hamilton and First Lady Karen Pence in a joint statement. To find out endorsement requirements and process, please access the Indiana Bicentennial Commission’s Application for Endorsement form here.
The state has also identified $20 million in state funding to support the Bicentennial Nature Trust (BNT) and the Lilly Endowment contributed an additional $10 million grant. The BNT was created to preserve and protect important conservation and recreation areas throughout Indiana by matching donations of land or dollars. Property acquired with this fund will become part of the public trust to ensure that the land is protected for future generations of Hoosiers to use and enjoy. The BNT is designed to encourage local participation, so each project requires a 1:1 match. Individual project grants are capped at $300,000 and may only be used for the acquisition of land. The match could be provided by a community foundation, local non-profit or philanthropic organizations, or private and corporate donors. For more on the BNT guidelines, click here.
Looking for ways your organization can create a lasting legacy? Contact Transform Consulting Group today, we can help!
