IndyBar Record Spring 2026

Community Empowerment

BY ROBERT ADAMS, INDIANAPOLIS BAR ASSOCIATION

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ince its inception in 2011, the Community Empowerment Grant has served as a powerful catalyst for both philanthropy and service within the Indianapolis legal community. Established by the Indianapolis Bar Foundation, the grant was designed to amplify the impact of donor contributions while creating meaningful opportunities for members of the Indianapolis Bar Association to give back through pro bono work. Originally launched as the Impact Fund Grant, the program was renamed in 2020 to better reflect its broader mission: strengthening communities by advancing access to justice. Today, the Community Empowerment Grant remains a cornerstone of the foundation’s work, supporting initiatives that align with its commitment to philanthropy, education, and service across Central Indiana. Each year, the grant directs funding to local organizations that are making a tangible difference. In 2025, the foundation awarded $35,000, continuing its tradition of investing in programs that expand legal access and empower underserved populations. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and government entities, with funded programs required to not only support the foundation’s mission but also create opportunities for Indiana attorneys to engage in pro bono or modest-means service. One recent example of the grant’s impact is its support of Exodus Refugee , a nonprofit dedicated to assisting refugees with their legal needs as they resettle in Indiana. Facing rapidly shifting immigration policies, the organization has seen a growing demand for legal services among humanitarian immigrants. “The last few months have been a time of dramatic change in immigration law,” said Rachel VanTyle, Director of Legal Services at Exodus Refugee. She noted that evolving policies and challenges to due process have intensified the need for legal assistance. With funding and volunteer support from the Indianapolis Bar Foundation, Exodus Refugee is developing a volunteer-based legal intake system, including an electronic form to help assess client needs and guide volunteers, along with training resources to expand community involvement. This initiative will help

ensure more individuals can access legal support while also introducing more Central Indiana professionals to immigration law.

Beyond financial support, the grant represents a bridge between the legal profession and the community. It encourages attorneys to contribute their time and expertise where it is needed most. The Indianapolis Bar Foundation, the charitable arm of the Indianapolis Bar Association, has been serving the community since 1986 and distributes nearly $150,000 annually to support law-related needs across Indianapolis.

Applications for the 2026 Community Empowerment Grant are now open and will be accepted through 11:59 p.m. on May 1 . Organizations interested in advancing justice and building stronger communities are encouraged to apply.

Visit IndyBarFoundation.org to learn more and apply today!

Top: Representatives of the 2025 Empowerment Grant Recipient: Exodus Refugee Bottom Right: Empowerment Grant Recipient, Indiana Legal Services, with 2024 IndyBar Foundation President Travis N. Jensen and Board Member Enrique Flores, Jr.

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