Indianapolis Foundation announces new plan focused on equity

The Indianapolis Foundation announced a five year strategic plan this week. The Equity Imperative 2030 plan seeks to improve equity in the city by focusing on four key issues: housing, economic equity, health, and the environment.

The organization said its goal is to make Indianapolis the most inclusive and equitable community in the nation.

“[We want] to ensure that Indianapolis is a place where everyone no matter their place, race, or identity can live and thrive,” said Board President Molly Wilkinson.

The Indianapolis Foundation uses grant funding to support local nonprofits that work to improve neighborhoods and quality of life. In addition to giving out grants, the organization said it will also engage in public policy development and help develop community leaders.

The new plan aims to improve housing equity by partnering with nonprofits to give people access to safe, affordable housing, and by advocating for policies that reduce homelessness and minimize evictions.

It seeks to address health equity by continuing to fund organizations that address the root causes of violence through its elevation grants program. The organization said it will also work to improve youth mental health by investing in groups that focus on access.

The new plan prioritizes racial equity by focusing on historically marginalized communities. Some disinvested neighborhoods in Marion County often include people of color and immigrants.

The Indianapolis Foundation also unveiled a new logo and announced an increase in its average grant size, from $35,000 to $75,000.

WFYI has received funding from the Indianapolis Foundation in the past.