Nonprofit organizations play a vital role in strengthening the social fabric of a community. And even the most mission-driven organizations need strong internal systems, effective leadership, and reliable infrastructure to thrive. That’s where capacity building comes in.

Foellinger Foundation’s Capacity Building grants support Allen County nonprofits at critical moments in their organizational development. These grants help organizations improve governance, upgrade technology, develop staff, refine strategy, improve program impact, and ultimately, serve their communities more effectively and sustainably. Capacity Building grants provide the resources needed to turn thoughtful planning into meaningful, lasting improvements.

At Foellinger Foundation, our work is rooted in the passions and values of the Foellinger family. Oscar and Esther Foellinger instilled in their daughters, Helene and Loretta, a deep commitment to civic involvement and active concern for the well-being of their community. Together, Helene and Esther co-founded Foellinger Foundation in 1958 to ensure those values would live on.

Since 1972, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana (BBBS NEI) has been helping children reach their potential through professionally supported one-to-one relationships between adult volunteers, known as "Bigs," and young people, called "Littles," ranging in age from 6 to 22. Serving communities across 10 counties in northeast Indiana and two in southern Michigan, their programs foster positive relationships that have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of young people, particularly those from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds.

The Allen County Public Library (ACPL) Summer Learning Program celebrates science, play, arts, reading, and more by inviting youth, adults, and families from Allen County to compete in reading challenges and participate in activities to win prizes. This year’s program runs from June 1 to July 31, 2025.