Lake Institute on Faith & Giving

Exploring the faith & giving connection

Lake Institute on Faith & Giving fosters a deeper understanding of the dynamic relationship between faith and giving through research, education, and public conversation.

As part of the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, Lake Institute serves as a trusted bridge between research and practice, across religious traditions and institutions, and within philanthropic practices both old and new. Through this work, Lake conducts and translates research, equips leaders through courses and resources, and convenes partners to strengthen the practice of generosity encouraging deeper dialogue at the intersection of faith and giving across traditions and communities.

Lake Institute also produces Insights, a bi-weekly e-newsletter for the religious community and fundraisers of faith-based organizations.

Find out more about Insights

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Educational opportunities

Lake Institute offers learning opportunities to deepen your understanding of faith-based giving, religious fundraising, and generosity through two primary courses: the Executive Certificate in Religious Fundraising and Cultivating Generous Congregations.

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Resource library

Lake Institute’s Resource Library collects and curates a wide range of resources that can help deepen understanding and practice at the intersection of faith and giving. Search by keywords or browse by themes to find current research, leadership insights, inspiring stories, discernment guides, theological reflection, and more.

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Public conversation

Lake Institute on Faith & Giving offers two annual public events: the Thomas H. Lake Lecture and the Lake Distinguished Visitor Program. Noteworthy scholars and practitioners are invited to share their research, professional expertise, and personal giving stories.

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Research

Faith and philanthropy is a small but growing field. As part of the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, Lake Institute conducts research and utilizes the great work that’s also being done in the field. Lake translates this research into practical tools and strategies that are explored in their educational offerings.

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