Lasallian Educational and Research Initiatives (LERI) has received a $1.25-million grant from Lilly Endowment, an Indianapolis-based, private philanthropic foundation. The funds will support Springtide Research Institute® in conducting a three-year research project to identify what is engaging Gen Z in America’s new religious and spiritual landscape. The research will begin on March 20, 2023.
Building on Springtide’s existing data set, this project will be a continuation of ongoing research on young people ages 13-25, to help adults caring for them to care better. Highlights of the project include:
- distributing a nationwide survey to faith leaders, along with convening a diverse group of expert practitioners to research demonstrated successful spaces,
- conducting a national survey of 5,000 young people from diverse faith-based groups,
- visiting organizations and spaces around the nation where young people say they are flourishing,
- exploring how project findings can be grounded in theology,
- designing frameworks for national distribution that can be adapted and applied within faith communities.
A nonprofit organization based in Minnesota, LERI is an expression of the Lasallian mission of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, establishing works in the service of young people. This parent organization includes Anselm Academic, Professor’s Choice®, Saint Mary’s Press and Springtide Research Institute.
About Lilly Endowment: Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based, private philanthropic foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly Sr. and sons J.K. Jr. and Eli through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. While those gifts remain the financial bedrock of the Endowment, the Endowment is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with the founders’ wishes, the Endowment supports the causes of community development, education and religion and maintains a special commitment to its hometown, Indianapolis, and home state, Indiana.