First Lady Karen Pence Awards $52,500 to 57 Organizations from Across Indiana

Indianapolis – First Lady Karen Pence hosted the seventh reception for grant recipients of the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation at the Governor’s Residence on Tuesday, where she awarded $52,500 to 57 organizations and charities that serve Hoosier families and children across the state.

“When Mike was elected Governor, I was overwhelmed with requests from so many worthy organizations to get involved in their efforts,” said First Lady Karen Pence. “However, it quickly became clear that I couldn’t be at every event, nor could I champion every cause. That is why I, along with a team of dedicated board members, started the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation as a way to shine a light on the organizations across Indiana who lift up our communities and make our state strong.”

First Lady Karen Pence started the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation in August of 2013 as a way to recognize organizations and charities across the state. At the inaugural First Lady’s Luncheon held in April 2014, the Foundation awarded its first major grant of $100,000 to the Art Therapy Program at Riley Hospital for Children. The following year’s luncheon recipient, Feeding Indiana’s Hungry, received a grant of $65,000, which supports food banks and food pantries in all 92 counties. Last year, $100,000 was awarded to the Indiana Bicentennial Commission for an interactive “Treasures of the Statehouse” display at the Indiana State Library. Throughout the year, the Foundation will award smaller grants to organizations across the state.

“Whether helping a child develop a love for reading or supporting families in need or encouraging a child to go further in the arts, these organizations are the backbone and the heart of our communities,” said First Lady Karen Pence. “They represent the very best of what it means to be a Hoosier, and we thank them for their service.”

Tuesday’s reception was the seventh reception since her inaugural lunch in April 2014.

First Lady Karen Pence presented a check to each organization ranging from $500 to $1,000 in grant money from the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation. Representatives from each of the following organizations were on hand to receive their award and recognition:

The Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation is a 501 (c)(3). The First Lady receives no compensation. Donations are tax deductible. Learn more about how to make a donation or request a grant on the Foundation’s website at: www.IndianaFirstLadysCharitableFoundation.org