50 Years of Philanthropy: The Impact of Corporate Giving at CICOA

In 2024, CICOA proudly marks its 50th anniversary! Fifty years passes by quickly, but reflecting on the past is truly meaningful. What were you doing 50 years ago? It is hard for me to believe that I started kindergarten in the 1973-1974 school year, as CICOA was forming as the Area Agency on Aging for Central Indiana.

Looking back on the past and scrolling through memories from yesteryear fills me with nostalgia and joy. Those moments shape us, and for me, they’ve been an integral part of the journey that has brought us to this incredible milestone.

A Milestone Celebration

This milestone 50th anniversary for CICOA is a testament to our enduring commitment to making life better for countless seniors in Central Indiana. The journey has been filled with challenges, triumphs and the unwavering support of our community. As we embark on this celebratory year, I’m thankful for those who have made our mission possible and those who continue to push forward the work of CICOA.

Major Donor Giving: A Trio of Support

In a series of three blogs, I’ll look at different areas of major donor giving that have accelerated our growth and impact over five remarkable decades.

When it comes to major donor giving, we recognize the crucial role of individual donors, grants and corporate giving. At the CICOA Foundation, each pillar contributes uniquely to our ability to fulfill our mission. In these blogs, I’ll delve into the intricate tapestry of major donor support, starting today with corporate giving—an often underestimated powerhouse in the realm of philanthropy.

The Impact of Corporate Giving

We should highlight the spirit of generosity that many local companies exemplify by giving cash and in-kind contributions, as well as grants and gifts made by corporate foundations. The Giving USA 2023 charitable report reveals that corporate giving increased by 3.4% in 2022, totaling an impressive $29.5 billion. While this constitutes around 6% of all giving in the U.S., it’s essential to acknowledge the profound effect it has on charitable causes. Corporate giving goes beyond mere financial contributions; it reflects a shared commitment to community well-being and social responsibility.

Corporate Giving at the CICOA Foundation

For the CICOA Foundation, corporate giving is not just a statistic; it’s a significant force, constituting approximately 15% of our annual gifts—well above the national average. The support we receive from companies in Central Indiana is highly valued, and these companies demonstrate by their actions that they believe in and support our mission. Throughout the year, we make concerted efforts to ensure our corporate sponsors receive the acknowledgment they deserve.

Corporate giving at the CICOA Foundation goes beyond transactional relationships; it’s about building a community of like-minded organizations dedicated to a common cause. It elevates the needs of seniors and caregivers and highlights the larger philanthropic goal of making Central Indiana a better place to live, work, play and age in place!

Bridging Gaps and Making a Difference

Generous corporate support plays a pivotal role in bridging gaps that public funding does not cover. I often emphasize to our staff that while tax dollars are crucial, they are limited, restricted and don’t always align with the evolving needs of our community. This is where the open hands and supportive hearts of corporate donors make a difference. They become integral partners, enabling us to reach further and achieve more in our mission.

Golden Past & Diamond Future

Celebrating 50 years is not just about the past; it’s about the present and the future. The journey, though long, is marked by the wonderful people and companies that have made it worthwhile. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, we envision a future where the mission of CICOA reaches an even larger audience.

This monumental year isn’t just about commemorating a golden past; it’s about laying the foundation for a compelling vision of a diamond future. We believe that what we do matters—for our treasured seniors, their caregivers and individuals of any age with a disability. The future is bright, and we continue to be grateful for the incredibly generous corporations that enable us to achieve our goals and provide care for thousands of individuals across Central Indiana.

As we celebrate this significant milestone, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our supporters, donors and corporate partners. Your unwavering commitment has been the driving force behind our success, and together, we look forward to many more years of making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve. Here’s to 50 years of generosity, and to the bright, diamond future that lies ahead!