A HISTORY OF PHILANTHROPY

Edmund Burke Ball’s estate gift of $3.3 million provided the bedrock of what officially became the Ball Brothers Foundation on November 19, 1926. The five brothers—George, William, Frank, Lucius and Edmund—shared a belief that philanthropy is more powerful than charity. They looked for ways to enhance the quality of life in the Indiana community that became home to their glass-manufacturing business in 1888. In the Foundation’s second year in existence the board made grants exceeding $1 million, more than double that of the first year. To support the effort, family members sold parcels of land, invested in the stock market, donated a private art collection, named BBF as beneficiary of insurance policies and made bequests in their wills. These practices have continued into the 21st century.

The current mission of the Foundation is identical to its 1926 mission. Grants made today reflect the founders’ priorities. Among the founders’ earliest interests, for example, were educational initiatives. Today, these interests live on through grant commitments that support a continuum of educational opportunities promoting learning from birth through college and career.

BBF continues to mature and evolve, always guided by timeless Ball family values:

• Generosity—embracing a philanthropic spirit
• Stewardship—modeling fiscal responsibility
• Effectiveness—setting an example of good citizenship
• Leadership—encouraging civic involvement
• Integrity—exemplifying fairness, trust and respect
• Communication—advocating transparent exchanges of information

A Legacy Etched in Glass: The Ball Brothers in Muncie

from Ball State Student Media on Vimeo.