The Women's Fund of Central Indiana was established in 1996 after a group of female leaders had studied for years a disturbing trend in the community – many of our most critical problems fall hardest on women. Those problems included a high poverty level among area women, an increased teen pregnancy rate and a large number of women being subjected to domestic violence.

In addition to these compelling social indicators, these women also considered the lack of specific funding available to women- and girl-serving agencies and organizations, as well as the unique funding challenges they face.

Before long, the solution became apparent in the creation of a women's endowment in central Indiana.

Thanks to substantial initial support from Lilly Endowment Inc., The Indianapolis Foundation, and some individuals, the Women's Fund has become a reality.

To read the history of Women's Fund in a special publication, click the cover provided to the left.