The mission of the Sherman and Marjorie Zeigler Foundation is to improve the Quality of Life for the citizens of Muncie, Delaware County, and the State of Indiana through the development and funding of projects that facilitate the enhancement, conservation, and appreciation of the natural and horticultural beauty of our public spaces, as well as the development and funding of celebrations, festivals, and cultural events that promote the appreciation of such beauty and the community.

 

Projects and activities eligible for Foundation funding can include such things as the planting of trees, shrubbery, flowers, and other plants, in parks, recreational facilities, and other public areas. They may also include the conservation, preservation, and maintenance of natural areas, as well as the development, beautification, maintenance, preservation, and support of parks and recreational facilities. To foster civic pride and accomplishment, the Foundation may also support the creation and/or maintenance of historical exhibits and landmarks, as well as celebrations, festivals, concerts, and cultural events.

 

The Sherman and Marjorie Zeigler Foundation gives preference to projects that focus on the City of Muncie and Delaware County, Indiana when selecting beneficiaries of its grants and/or activities. No funds will be granted for projects outside the state of Indiana. Projects are generally restricted to public properties or to private properties open to the general public (e.g., museums, hospitals, community centers). While not a requirement, the Foundation also looks with favor on grant applications which propose leveraging the requested funds with those of other funding sources or matching funds. Grants should generally be for amounts in excess of $2,000 in order to ensure that the requested funds are for projects that will have a substantial impact on the designated community.

 

The Sherman and Marjorie Zeigler Foundation awards grants only to organizations and institutions which have received 501(c)(3) designation by the Internal Revenue Service. We do not provide funding for individuals and/or scholarships. Further, we are a “project-focused” foundation and generally do not provide funding for studies, classes, seminars, or retreats. Similarly, we also do not provide funding for an organization’s regular operating expenses or capacity-building.  The Sherman and Marjorie Zeigler Foundation will not provide financial or other support for religious or church-related organizations and/or activities, choirs or choral groups, or athletic sports of any kind.

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