In this episode of the First Day Podcast, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D. is joined by Elizabeth Lynn, the Project Director for the Lake Institute on Faith and Giving at Indiana University's Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. The discussion centers on the dynamic relationship between faith and philanthropy. The Lake Institute's primary focus is to explore how faith commitments and values inform charitable giving and how these patterns of giving shape both faith communities and broader societal actions.

Elizabeth explains the Lake Institute conducts research, supports other organizations in their research efforts, and offers educational programs aimed at helping leaders engage their constituents in faithful giving and generosity. They recognize the evolving nature of faith and giving, with many religious institutions rethinking how they utilize their resources, including property and endowments. To address this, they have launched the "Story Shelf," an online resource library containing stories of faith communities reimagining their resources, forging new partnerships, and engaging in creative acts of generosity. These stories serve as inspirational tools for religious leaders to spark imagination and foster discussions on how they can align their resources with their values.

The podcast also touches on various stories available on the Story Shelf, such as a Lutheran congregation in Washington, D.C., partnering with a Jewish congregation to share their space and an Episcopal Church in Cincinnati using part of its endowment to support local social entrepreneurs. These real-life examples showcase how faith communities are adapting to changing circumstances and aligning their resources with their values. The Lake Institute's Story Shelf is a valuable resource for religious congregations and organizations seeking inspiration and new approaches to philanthropy and generosity.

To access these stories and learn more about the Lake Institute's work, you can visit their website at https://philanthropy.iupui.edu/institutes/lake-institute/index.html.