The Charity Organization Society of Indianapolis

The Charity Organization Society of Indianapolis was founded in 1879 after Reverend Oscar McCulloch invited Reverend Gurteen to speak to the Indianapolis Benevolent Society. Both Reverends advocated for Indianapolis philanthropy to switch to a scientific and non-religious charity approach. Rev. Oscar McCulloch, Mayor Caven, and four businessmen founded the Charity Organization Society of Indianapolis (COS) and elected McCulloch as president. IBS and COS became co-operating charity organizations creating the largest nonprofit social service in Indianapolis. McCulloch served as the leader of the Church of Plymouth in Indianapolis, where the organization was headquartered.

Initially, its membership consisted exclusively of men; over time, women became actively involved in its charitable efforts. Women were particularly dedicated to advancing the compassionate agenda. The Charity Organization Society operated with a constitution of guidelines and relied on donors to strengthen and expand its initiatives. The organization established committees and appointed investigators that assessed cases to determine where assistance was needed. Their evaluations prioritized efforts deemed urgent and identified individuals or groups considered ‘worthy’ of support. Member of COS were often from important families and connected men and women through similar civic and moral ideals. The value system assigned to those in need by COS spoke to the rich and middle class who supported self-independence and good behavior.

The Charity Organization Society assigned value based on contributions to society and themselves as a person in need. Charity came in many forms whether through donations or projects. In partnership with a local farmer one charity project planned by the Charity Organization society was to grow potatoes and then give them to the poor.