The Foundation celebrates and preserves Indiana’s natural legacy by raising funds to support the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and its programs.

We were established through the Indiana General Assembly in 1990. Even though we are not a 501(c)(3), your contributions are tax-deductible under section 170 (c)(1) of the IRS Code.

All funds required to operate the Foundation are either raised or generated through administrative services. We do not receive any funding from the State of Indiana.

No, donations and funds are managed separately from the State of Indiana.

The Foundation is a quasi-governmental entity, and because the IRS doesn’t recognize an official tax status for us, we are not required to complete a Form 990; however, we are a part of the State of Indiana’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and submit our financials to the Auditor of State every year. Additionally, we are subject to audits by the State Board of Accounts as if we were a state agency.

More than 90 percent of every dollar donated goes to Indiana DNR programs, and some programs receive 100 percent of donations. To learn more about the projects and programs that we have supported recently, visit https://www.indiananrf.org/projects/

We have two portfolio strategies with our investments. The first is a conservative strategy to preserve capital. It is geared toward one-time and short-term projects. The second is a more aggressive strategy that focuses on growth and long-term sustainability.

Board members are appointed by the Governor of Indiana as a bipartisan group. At least one member is appointed from each congressional district as listed under Indiana Code 14-12-1.

To view the list of current INRF board members, visit www.indiananrf.org/who-we-are/

To stay up to date with all of our projects, follow us on social media and subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter at the bottom of this page.

Interested in volunteering? Email [email protected] or call 317-232-4200 and speak with DNR staff to learn more.

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