The India Benton Lesser Foundation
Accepts applications
The India Benton Lesser Foundation is a private foundation in Sarasota, Florida. In tax year 2025 it gave $32,718 in 16 grants; the typical grant was $1,100 and the largest $15,000. It accepts applications; its filing gives the instructions below.
From its IRS Form 990-PF for tax year 2025.
- Grants paid, 2025$32,718
- Number of grants16
- Typical grant$1,100
- Largest grant$15,000
- Assets$58,621
- New grantees63%
Giving in 2025 was down from $55,760 the year before.
63% of its 2025 grantees had not received a grant from it the year before, a sign it is open to new organizations.
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $38,340 | 17 | $108,997 |
| 2024 | $55,760 | 18 | $100,073 |
| 2025 | $32,718 | 16 | $58,621 |
How to apply
| Contact | Carter Bates 438 Cotton Ave, Macon, GA 31201 |
|---|---|
| Phone or email | (478) 749-9921 |
| What to submit | Written request indicating need for aid and assistance. |
Foundation website IRS filings on ProPublica
What The India Benton Lesser Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 4 states, the most to Georgia.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 4 | $18,400 |
| Florida | 10 | $11,818 |
| Tennessee | 1 | $2,000 |
| Maryland | 1 | $500 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Davis Love Foundation | General | $15,000 |
| Artists Series | General | $3,600 |
| Solo Parent Society | General | $2,000 |
| Children First | General | $1,500 |
| Holiday House SRQ | General | $1,500 |
| SE Guide Dogs | General | $1,500 |
| Rescue Mission of Middle Georgia | General | $1,200 |
| YMCA of Athens | General | $1,200 |
| FL Westcoast Symphony | General | $1,000 |
| Boys & Girls Club | General | $1,000 |
| State College of Florida | General | $1,000 |
| Wesly Glen Ministries | General | $1,000 |
| American Cancer Society | General | $500 |
| Humane Society | General | $368 |
| Big Brothers Big Sisters | General | $250 |
| SPCA | General | $100 |
Officers and trustees
- India Benton Lesser
- Bruce W Lesser
- Steve Lesser
- Carolyn Severson
Questions people ask
Does The India Benton Lesser Foundation accept grant applications?
Yes. Its latest IRS filing says it accepts applications.
How much does The India Benton Lesser Foundation give?
$32,718 in tax year 2025, across 16 grants, with a typical grant of $1,100.
Who runs The India Benton Lesser Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists India Benton Lesser (Trustee), Bruce W Lesser (Trustee), Steve Lesser (Trustee) and Carolyn Severson (Trustee).
What does The India Benton Lesser Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly arts and culture, youth programs and faith communities.