Discussion guide and stipends available to communities to hold conversations about Indiana’s future 

Nonprofit organizations can apply for a $100 stipend to host a film screening and community discussion about the past, present and future of Indiana. In celebration of Indiana’s Bicentennial and its Next Indiana thematic initiative, Indiana Humanities collaborated with WFYI Public Media to create a special episode of the documentary film series Hoosiers: The Story of Indiana. Entitled “The Next Indiana,” the episode captures the unique moment in 2016 as Hoosiers look back and celebrate the state’s rich history, as well as look forward and imagine Indiana’s future.

A companion discussion guide, created by Indiana Humanities, is available to the public for free and can be downloaded at www.indianahumanities.org/filmdiscussion. It includes tips for starting conversations, finding great facilitators and leading meaningful discussions.

“The film is a great jumping off point for thoughtful, open-ended and imaginative conversations about Indiana’s future,” said Keira Amstutz, president and CEO of Indiana Humanities. “You’ll meet people from across the state who are committed to making their communities better and they’re hopeful about the future. We think the remarkable and inspiring stories are worth talking about with friends and neighbors.”

Hoosiers: The Story of Indiana explores Indiana’s 200-year history through the descendants of ordinary Hoosiers who lived through extraordinary times. Hosted by historian Dr. James Madison, the four-part series dives into Indiana’s most pivotal moments. The Next Indiana episode features Hoosiers who are taking on today’s biggest challenges—changes in industry and agriculture, population growth and decline, planning for a high-tech future—so that their communities are more resilient and prepared for the future.

“We at WFYI are proud to offer the insightful documentary, Hoosiers: The Story of Indiana, as a window into the history of our state and its people. The final episode, The Next Indiana, in particular, truly lends itself to dialogue about what we want for Indiana’s next chapter. We look forward to the conversation,” said Clayton Taylor, vice president of television production, WFYI.

Schools, libraries, community centers and other tax-exempt organizations interested in hosting a public screening of episode four of Hoosiers: The Story of Indiana and subsequent discussion can apply for the $100 stipend to pay for items like food and beverage, a room rental fee, or for a facilitator. Awarded organizations will also receive a copy of “The Next Indiana” episode to host the public screening and discussion between Sept. 1 and Dec. 31, 2016. Stipends will be awarded on a rolling basis and awarded to communities based on criteria outlined in the application. To apply to host a program and receive a stipend, visit www.indianahumanities.org/filmdiscussion.

The film will run on public media stations across the state this fall; check local listings for dates and times.