11:15 - 12:00

Building Early Literacy Through Partnership:
Dolly Parton Imagination Library

The Springs Valley Education Foundation has proudly supported the Dolly Parton Imagination Library for many years. In this session, the librarian from the Melton Public Library in French Lick will share how the program works in their district and why it has been such a meaningful investment in their community.

We’ll discuss how this partnership has been successful, how foundations can support similar programs in ways that align with their capacity, and how early literacy initiatives can strengthen community relationships and organizational visibility.

Making Sense of Investments: Practical Options for Education Foundations

Investment options can feel overwhelming, particularly as foundations vary widely in size and available resources.

In this session, longtime Springs Valley Education Foundation President Todd Marshall, Enrolled Agent, will walk through how SVEF has diversified and managed its funds, including certificates of deposit, endowments, and partnerships with the Orange County Community Foundation, the Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF), and Springs Valley Bank and Trust.

We’ll discuss what approaches make sense at different stages, key questions to ask before investing, and how foundations of any size can approach financial stewardship with confidence and clarity.