We provide support by means of time, talent, and treasure to the library for critical operations and infastructure.
Financial - Through building strong relationships with donors we are able to provide funding to address costs that go beyond what public dollars provide. This funding helps to maintain the buildings and library grounds to protect their historical nature. It also provides critical updates to technology infastructure and professional development for staff and volunteers.
Grant Administration - As a non-public entity and separate organization, the Foundation has the means and expertise to provide assistance in securing and administering grants the library may not otherwise have access to. We work closely with library staff through every step of the grant process including finding grants, writing and securing them, and completing all follow up reports required.
Expertise - In addition to the library trustees, the Foundation's board and volunteers provide a wealth of knowledge and experience to the library staff, volunteers, and partner organizations. From grantwriting to library administration, historical reference, and beyond we provide support as advisors to protect the legacy and future of the library.
The Friends of Eckhart Public Library is a crucial organization with a long history of providing a grassroots volunteer base that allows it to hold community events to encourage readinga nd broaden the lbirary's user base in order to support the library staff and programming.
We have found there is a Venn diagram of supporters for both the Foundation and Friends allowing us to tap into additional support for the library in a different manner and with distinct purposes, without detracting from our vibrant Friends group.
While the Friends focus primarily on programming, the Foundation's purpose is sustainability and critical operations support. Our work ensures the library will continue to be a place literacy and learning, a place for all, for generations to come. We help to maintain the infastructure and operations so public dollars and the work of the Friends can serve the public.
Both organizations are vital to the long-term success of the library. Our three entities; the library, the Friends, and the Foundation, work closely to collaborate and provide the best support for our community as possible.
Supported by a grant from the Dekko Foundation for strategic planning, Zonker facilitated the board’s first strategic planning retreat, helping the board clarify its mission and goals and create a list of priorities. Below you can view the board's 3 year strategic plan and short term objectives created during this time.
To learn more about the board's work with Zonker, click here.
Over the next 3 years the Foundation plans to focus on these 3 areas. If you would like to learn more or provide support in any of these areas, please contact us.
Focus Area #1Create and implement a plan to increase donor retention through stewardship, resulting in increased endowment.
Focus Area #2Create and implement a marketing plan to raise community awareness and affinity.
Focus Area #3Understand and support the library's expanded vision for the teen library.
Over 2024 the Foundation plans to focus on these 5 initiatives. If you would like to learn more or provide support in any of these areas, please contact us.
Initiative #1Develop an annual campaign to engage donors and the community.
Initiative #2Create a plan for collaboration and communication between the Foundation, the library, and the Friends regarding strategic needs.
Initiative #3Create and implement a collborative volunteer recruitment and engagement plan with the Foundation, the library, and the Friends.
Initiative #4Strengthen the Foundation's infastructure through investments in office space, staffing, and marketing.
Initiative #5Develop a nominating process that ensures more voices are represented on the board of directors.
