Lilly Endowment aims to deepen and enrich the religious lives of American Christians by supporting congregations and their leadership. It focuses on ensuring congregations have leaders who are wise, faithful, and well-prepared, helps Christians draw on their theological traditions to face contemporary challenges and live their faith fully, and fosters public understanding of religion's role in civic well-being.
The grant program focuses on community development, aiming to enhance the quality of life in Indianapolis and Indiana. It supports a broad range of efforts, from strengthening neighborhoods and fostering economic, cultural, and recreational opportunities, to addressing at-risk residents' needs and promoting arts and culture. The Endowment makes grants to improve livability and safety, support intellectual capital, and boost community economic development resources. It also aims to build effective and sustainable human service organizations to create a supportive environment for overcoming food insecurity, homelessness, unemployment, domestic violence, and various disabilities. On a statewide level, it supports community foundations and United Ways, encouraging strategic collaborations to improve Indiana communities' quality of life and future prosperity. Nationally, it offers support for compelling causes consistent with its interests on an invitational basis, such as disaster relief and veterans’ affairs.