This week, join Steve for a fascinating conversation about the invaluable role of social workers within the Indianapolis Public Library System. Yanna McGraw, a licensed social worker who covers all 24 library locations, speaks on her work to create positive change in the lives of those facing adversity. Libraries serve our community in multiple ways, beyond being a repository of knowledge; they also provide a safe haven for the unhoused and individuals seeking critical resources. Yanna's expertise in providing access to social services, housing options, employment support, and mental health resources has been instrumental in creating . As Yanna shares her experiences from her work at the library, and previous work with other service agencies, listeners will gain insights into the challenges faced by the unhoused and those struggling with mental health issues. She skillfully navigates the complexities of food insecurity, toxic relationships, substance abuse, and the intricacies of the mental health system with compassion and understanding. Beyond her direct impact on patrons, Yanna's dedication extends to training librarians in effective interactions with individuals facing hardships in the library setting, fostering a culture of inclusivity and support. Tune in to witness the power of community connections and how social workers like Yanna are building bridges of compassion, resilience, and hope within public libraries. Indianapolis Public Library Website: https://www.indypl.org/ 

Join us on this episode of Homeward Indy as we dive into the transformative work of Trinity Haven, a remarkable organization supporting LGBTQ+ youth in Indianapolis. Our guest, Levi Wagner, shares insights into Trinity Haven's two distinct programs: the Transitional Living program and the Host Homes program (for which Levi is the Coordinator). In the Transitional Living program, youth aged 16 to 21 are provided with housing, education, employment opportunities, and essential youth development resources. Levi sheds light on the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, many of whom have experienced family rejection or have been removed from their homes. Discover how Trinity Haven's host homes, where young adults aged 18 to 24 are matched with supportive community members, offer a nurturing environment for growth and stability. Levi also highlights the importance of diversity among host homes and how you can get involved. Prepare to be inspired by Trinity Haven's mission to create safe, affirming spaces and empower the next generation through a model of radical hospitality. Afterward, Elliot shares some of their own experiences of supporting young adults in a similar capacity and encourages listeners to learn more about hosting. Website:  http://www.trinityhavenindy.org

Welcome neighbors, to this week’s episode of Homeward Indy with guest Alli Christman of Englewood Community Development Corporation! Steve and Alli discuss the similarities and differences between property management and case management at one of Indy’s cornerstone Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) projects. Alli shares how her commitment to community care shapes her work and her personal life, where neighbors can be friends, and even family. Afterward, Steve and Elliot discuss the importance of connection, and share some ideas for making friends with your neighbors.  https://englewoodcdc.com/ 

Join us in this groundbreaking conversation with Shelter Case Manager Deagria Cook on her work with Family Promise of Greater Indianapolis, a non-profit organization providing diversion, emergency shelter and aftercare support for families experiencing homelessness. This episode is profoundly special, as Deagria shares her personal experiences of homelessness and the invaluable perspective it brings to her role. Through honest conversations, Deagria reveals the transformative power of personal storytelling and connection. Her passion for serving clients and the deep empathy she feels as she sees herself in every person who walks through Family Promise's doors is resonant. She shares how she looks for “something good” in every situation and imparts hope to the families she serves. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact of supporting families experiencing homelessness and beyond, with true empathy. Family Promise of Greater Indianapolis Website: https://www.fpgi.org/ 

Join us for an uplifting episode of the Homeward Indy podcast as we sit down with Vickie Tyner, the Director of Food 4 Souls, a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to serving the homeless community and individuals experiencing extreme poverty in and around Indianapolis. Celebrating their remarkable ten-year milestone, Food 4 Souls brings compassion and practical support to those in need. Discover how their unique mobile outreach vehicle, a retrofitted school bus, acts as an anchor point, delivering nourishing meals, essential supplies, and fostering a sense of community. Vickie shares heartfelt stories of connection and collaboration with other organizations, emphasizing the power of building relationships and providing our un-homed neighbors with choice and abundance. Learn about the transformative impact of providing not just sustenance, but dignity and a sense of belonging to those who often feel forgotten. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that highlights the remarkable work of Food 4 Souls and the difference they are making one Sunday afternoon at a time- and find out how you can join them as a volunteer!https://food4souls.org/volunteer.html

Join us for a deeply moving conversation with April Vail, of HVAF (Helping Veterans and Families), as she illuminates her role and the organization's unwavering dedication to assisting those who have served our country. A Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) Case Manager, she brings firsthand experiences and insights into what it takes to help veterans regain stability.  She also discusses the expansive housing and supportive services HVAF provides, bringing life-saving opportunities to those who need it most.  April highlights the importance of addressing underlying issues that contribute to homelessness, and the pressing struggles faced by veterans with progressive mental illnesses. She also shares her unwavering commitment to enhancing veterans' lives holistically, from fostering connections with family members to identifying what brings them joy and renewed hope. In closing, Steve and Elliot discuss concrete ways you can help to support your neighbors, and advocate for policies and programs that can bring our veterans home at last.  HVAF website: https://www.hvafofindiana.org/  Indiana Legislators link: https://faqs.in.gov/hc/en-us/articles/115005226348-How-do-I-contact-my-State-Senator-or-Representative-#:~:text=You%20may%20contact%20the%20Indiana,site%20regarding%20state%20government%20issues. 

Kelsie Stringham-Marquis, Outreach Indiana’s Director of Community Partnerships, discusses the organization's mission to equip and empower Youth and Young Adults (YYA) experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Outreach Indiana provides necessities such as shower facilities, laundry, hot meals, a clothing pantry, hygiene items, and group programming, all in a drop-in center model where anyone can show up. Kelsie emphasizes the importance of building relationships and creating a healthy power dynamic between service providers and clients. The episode highlights the power of love in action and the impact of Outreach Indiana's relational approach to transforming lives, as well as Kelsie’s journey in the field. In closing, Steve and Elliot discuss the innovative nature of providers who work with Youth, and some challenges that face Transitional Housing programs. Join us on the journey homeward by supporting and/or volunteering at Outreach Indiana. 

Join us as we sit down with Scott Sheehan, Chairman of the CHIP Board, to discuss his experiences as a board member for Horizon House and CHIP. Scott shares his insights on the importance of surrounding yourself with compassionate and intelligent people, and how this led him to become involved in the fight against homelessness. We dive into the role of CHIP as a backbone agency for the many organizations working to provide care and support to those experiencing homelessness in the community. Scott also highlights the importance of supporting and compensating those who work in the Continuum of Care space and the need for more funding and mental health support for those in the field. In addition, we discuss the mindset and skillset required to be an effective board member, including the importance of understanding the long-term strategic plan of the organization and using "we" instead of "they" language. In closing, Elliot and Steve unpack the 5 tenants of the Collective Impact framework.  If you're interested in learning more about how you can become an effective board member and the work being done to combat homelessness in Indianapolis, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Join us on the journey homeward by supporting and/or volunteering at CHIP.

Greg Stocking, Vice President of Rental Assistance Programs at RDOOR Housing Corporation (formerly Merchant's Affordable Housing), talks with Steve about HomeNow Indy's efforts to expand affordable housing and engage landlords in providing rental subsidies. They discuss the significance of alignment and collaboration in crisis response, especially in the context of the pandemic era. Greg emphasizes the critical role of early decisions and resource allocation in saving lives and achieving long-term outcomes. In closing, Elliot shares a story that highlights the challenges and traumas involved in crisis response work, but also the value of authentic apologies and collaboration in making things right for clients. Overall, this interview underscores the importance of trust, rapport, and common goals in navigating crises and serving communities effectively. Join us on the journey homeward by supporting and/or volunteering at RDOOR Housing Corporation.

Karsyn Mohler, the Continuum of Care Housing Program manager at the Damien Center, reflects on harm reduction, navigating housing discrimination, his experiences in working with clients and explains the services and programs found in Indiana’s oldest and largest AIDS service organization. He also discusses his passion for helping the underdog and how his experience working with individuals with special needs led him to his current role. Karsyn shares his belief that housing is a human right and explains the impact that homelessness can have on individuals, including the use of substances as a survival mechanism. Tune in to hear this insightful conversation about the importance of housing and equity for all. Join us on the journey homeward by supporting and/or volunteering at the Damien Center.