The
foundation was established as a charitable trust in 1992 by James F. Ackerman,
a local entrepreneur and philanthropist. Established under the laws of
the State of Indiana, the foundation welcomes and considers grant proposals
from eligible organizations which are tax exempt under the United States
Internal Revenue Service Code section 501(c)(3).
The foundation was organized to receive gifts and grants of money and property
of every kind. As an Indianapolis
based organization, grants are made predominately to central Indiana organizations as
well as a few national medical research institutions. Specifically, the
foundation focuses on Indiana
cultural institutions and organizations benefiting health and human services,
community development, and education. Grant requests will be considered for
both operating fund purposes as well as capital campaigns. The foundation
does not make grants to individuals.