Preventing Homelessness Through Mentoring

"Be the change you wish to see in the world"

2011-11-07T14:39:00.000-08:00

In the last two years, nineteen year old Tia has aged out of the foster care system, begun working on her college degree, become a mother for the first time, lost her housing, then moved into her own place for the first time with no furniture and few resources. We matched Tia with Henecia in a mentoring relationship in January 2011.

We recently asked Henecia to write about her experience mentoring Tia through Trusted Mentors. This is what Henecia had to say:

""The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will." Vince Lombardi."

"I've often used this quote when I've prepared for various stages of my life. I've even used the quote to inspire and motivate others. However, my experiences with Trusted Mentors have provided a true meaning of those words for me and have fueled my passion to help those who desire to help themselves. As I reflect on the amazing will of my mentee and the mentor/mentee relationship, two words come to mind: Mutualism & Impact."

"In science, mutualism describes a symbiotic relationship in which both organisms benefit from the relationship. I remember when I told my family that I had decided to become a mentor with Trusted Mentors, everyone had a similar response. They all expressed that with my varied life experiences, education, international travels and time served as a military police officer, I would be an inspiration for my mentee."

"However, as it turns out, it is she who has inspired me. So many people assume that the mentor is the one who inspires; but the tenacity, hope and determination of my mentee, Tia, inspires me every day."

"From the moment I met her, I have been influenced by her enthusiasm, optimism, diligence and determination. Tia epitomizes the concept that it doesn't matter how you start, hard work and endurance can overcome any obstacle."

"I have found that mentoring is the personification of Gandhi's famous quote, "Be the change you wish to see in the world." It is through mentoring that an avenue is provided to impact the world, one person at a time. Every life experience can be used to positively impact others."

"As our relationship grows daily, I am excited about the amazing opportunities that lie ahead for Tia and I. My life has definitely been enhanced by my participation with Trusted Mentors, and I would recommend being a mentor to anyone who wants to make a difference in their community."

If you would like to learn more about our organization, becoming a mentor, or supporting us financially, please visit our website: www.trustedmentors.org

Donate to Trusted Mentors Today!

Or contact Jeri Warner: jwarner@trustedmentors.org; 317-985-5041.

Bags2Riches Save The Date

2011-08-03T09:18:00.000-07:00

Join us September 9th, 2011 from 6:30-8:30 PM for the 2011 Bags2Riches Gala!

Come enjoy food, fashion, and entertainment!

The True Face of Homelessness

2011-06-13T09:49:00.000-07:00

The True Face Of Homelessness

As a not-for-profit professional, I am new to the homeless prevention side of things. So over the course of the last six months I have been trying to wrap my head around the TRUE face of homelessness. What is the reality, not the stereotype, of the homeless? How does it happen? How do people end up on the streets?

People have many preconceived notions about what the face of homelessness is; I know I did. The stereotype is the dirty person on the street shaking a cup or pushing a shopping cart filled with their possessions; the man or woman under the bridge sleeping on a cardboard box. We usually assume there is some sort of alcohol or drug problem, some level of laziness or mental instability that caused these people to get there.

Last week I had a friend that, for all intensive purposes, was homeless for a week. He did not end up sleeping in his car or on the streets because he had friends and family in the city, and a stable job. However, his circumstance got me to thinking that if he did not have a support system around him, and a couple of circumstances had changed, he could have found himself sleeping in his car; or as Chris Farley on Saturday Night Live so eloquently liked to put it, “Sleeping in a van, down by the river!”

What if he were in a different city with no friends or family around? What if his car broke down and he couldn’t make it to work and got fired? What if he had a criminal history and couldn’t find another job quickly in this economy? What if he started drinking more due to the stress and got arrested? His possession in storage got seized and sold because he couldn’t pay for the storage unit?

Now all of a sudden this average man is in a city with no family, no transportation, no job, few possessions, and quickly dwindling options. What can he do? What would you do? Does the average person know how to survive this?

This is the reality that many lower income families and individuals face. Usually living paycheck-to-paycheck with little or no healthcare, few if any family or friends with the resources to fall back on; many people are just a few bad circumstances away from being homeless: the loss of a job, an unexpected illness, a death in the family, etc. This is how an estimated 7,000 people find themselves homeless here in Marion County (Indianapolis, IN) every year; up to 1500 on any given night.

Working families staying in hotel rooms long term because they have an eviction on their record so no one will rent to them; people sleeping in their cars because they have no family or friends that can take them in.

This support system is the small thin line that separates many of our citizens from having a bed to sleep in, a roof over their head, and a place to take a shower, from those on the streets.

So the next time we see someone on the streets, let’s not assume we know what they’ve been through, or why they are there. Let’s not assume that if we were placed in their circumstances that we would make better choices. We never know what would happen until we’re in that situation.

It turns out, the true face of homelessness may not be that much different from our own.

Networking Event - Empowerment & Eggs

2011-03-23T11:28:00.000-07:00

Trusted Mentors, Inc. will be holding their first annual Empowerment & Eggs professional networking breakfast on Thursday, April 28^th, 2011 from 7:30-9:00 a.m. at Conseco Field House.

Empowerment & Eggs will feature three speakers that many local business people and entrepreneurs will recognize; including:

Michael (Mickey) Maurer, Chairman of the Board for the Indianapolis Business Journal Corporation;
Ali Sales Roach, co-founder of Compendium Blogware; and Kemba Smith Pradia, nationally recognized and award winning speaker, and founder of the Kemba Smith Foundation.

The theme of Empowerment & Eggs is the power of mentoring in the lives of adults. Over 70% of executive level business people say that they have had a mentor in their lives that has helped them achieve their goals.

Trusted Mentors’ mission is to provide volunteer mentors to adults at-risk of homelessness, ex-offenders re-entering society, and young adults aging out of the foster care system. In 2010, 86% of the adults in Trusted Mentor’s program remained house; while 81% of ex-offenders remained out of the prison system. Trusted Mentors is the only organization in Indianapolis that provides mentors for at-risk adults.

Businesses interested in sponsoring Empowerment & Eggs can do so at levels ranging from $500-$5,000. Individual tickets can be purchased for $40. All proceeds will go directly to Trusted Mentors to fulfill our mission of preventing homelessness through the power of mentoring.

For more information, to purchase sponsorships, or individual tickets, contact: Jeri Warner, 317-985-5041; jwarner@trustedmentors.org.

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About Trusted Mentors, Inc.: Founded in 2003 as a result of the Indianapolis Blueprint to End Homelessness, Trusted Mentors uses the power of mentoring to help stabilize the lives of adults at-risk of homelessness, ex-offenders re-entering society, and young adults aging out of foster care. We are one of the first organizations nationally using this model for homeless prevention and ex-offender re-entry, and the only organization in Indianapolis to provide mentors to at-risk adults. Since 2003, over 80% of adults working with Trusted Mentors have remained housed while in their program. www.trustedmentors.org; @Trustedmentors

The Power of Mentoring

2011-01-28T08:49:00.000-08:00

~The Problem~

In January 2010, a documented 908 men, women and children were on the streets or in shelters in Indianapolis; with a 58% increase in the number of homeless families from the previous year. Homelessness has a deep impact on the physical and emotional health of the adults and children who experience it, which goes far beyond the obvious reality of not having a place to call home. Marion County spends up to 6 million dollars per year on the chronically homeless in health and criminal justice costs.

In 2009, 5,668 ex-offenders were released from Indiana’s prisons and jails into Marion County, at an annual cost of $27,000 per offender. Studies have shown that employment is the #1 factor attributed to re-offending; 85% of new offenses take place when the individual is unemployed.

~A Part of the Solution~

In 2003, the City of Indianapolis unveiled the Blueprint to End Homelessness. This ten year plan set the goals of increasing supportive housing, expanding prevention services, and moving the focus from emergency responses to lasting solutions.

The Blueprint to End Homelessness outlines mentoring as one of the key strategies to achieving the goal of ending homelessness in Indianapolis; and the numbers have proven that the Power of Mentoring is effective.

In 2010, Trusted Mentors supported 85 mentoring relationships, with 86% lasting more than 6 months. Program participants had the following results:

86% remained housed while in the program,
75% procured and/or maintained employment,
46% worked toward advancing their education,
71% decreased their social alienation and/or strengthened family relationships,
81% of ex-offenders remained out of the correctional system, with only 2 committing new offenses.
109 children were affected by the stabilization of their parent/s

As you can see, the presence of a mentor in the life of someone at risk of being homeless has a profound effect. As 2011 begins, we are proud of the successes that we have had over the past year, and look forward to the relationships that we will help build in the coming year.

If you would like to learn more about our programs, or are interested in volunteering, please do not hesitate to Contact Us; or visit Our Website.

Learn the Power of 1 on 1-11-11

2011-01-06T07:03:00.000-08:00

Learn the Power of 1 on 1-11-11. One person can make a difference.
1 Mentor matched with 1 Mentee for 1 hour once a week for 1 year. Please join us for a 1-hour Information Session on Tuesday, January 11th at Noon to 1:00 PM or 6:00-7:00 PM.

Accomplishments from our June Recognition Night

2010-06-23T11:55:00.000-07:00

Mentees, mentors, and staff enjoyed dinner, and a presentation by Ginger, a mentor, on Positive Habits for Positive Results. This was followed by a presentation of Recognition Certificates.

Marquita is recognized for positive parenting and her continued success with attending her training classes.

Pam: For accepting a mentor as one tool to move forward in her life.

Renu has opened up her life to her mentor as she works on building a life for her and her daughters.

Tracy has worked very hard to find and maintain a job and support her daughter, which is very tough. She has to think ahead and juggle a lot.

Sharrone is on the Dean's list again. Also although she has had recent challenges, she has maintained her finances, studying with the PWG group on Financial literacy.

Terrence: I would like to recognize Terrence for his determination and discipline in working hard to finish school and working hard in college, and also currently excelling in his role as a manager. He is a responsible young man who has a stellar future ahead of him.

Terry graduated from Ivy Tech.

Michelle has maintained a positive attitude and done positive things in her life.

Camien completed her first semester at Ivy Tech with great grades. She is already enrolled in summer semester and working too!

Kaylee: For obtaining employment!

Chilynn: I would like Chilynn to be recognized for persevering through hard times and not giving up. She has been going through a lot lately but she continues to keep her head up and to stay focused on her children's needs.

Betty: For beginning a mentoring relationship as part of rebuilding her life.

Orathay: For opening her life to a mentor as she works toward self-sufficiency.

Pamela: For beginning a mentoring relationship as a tool to being even stronger.

Alan: For being very persistent in job hunting to find full-time work.

Happy Fathers Day

2010-06-14T11:13:00.000-07:00

Father’s Day is quickly approaching. Did you know that 70% of juveniles in state operated institutions come from fatherless homes?
Being a father is a significant bond, created out of love and instruction that a dad gives to his children. The role of a father comes with many challenges and sometimes a father could use a support network to assist with those challenges. Having a relationship with a mentor is certainly a unique way an individual could receive that needed support.
Trusted Mentor’s provides an opportunity for fathers who are re-entering the lives of their families after incarceration to have a mentor within our community. Working with other community organizations we receive referrals on individuals who would like positive mentoring relationships to help them achieve their goals for stabilizing their lives. It’s been our experience that if we can stabilize the life of the parent, the children involved have a direct benefit.
Being in a mentoring relationship is an opportunity to provide tools that help another person realize the potential they have in themselves. By definition, a mentor can be best described as a “wise and trusted friend”. Did you know that 70% of all corporate executives in our country have had mentors at some point in their lives?
While we work with both male and female referral’s, this Father’s Day we are reaching out to the community for more male mentors who desire to make a difference in the lives of other fathers in their community. Currently, we have 5 fathers referred by partnering organizations who are waiting for mentors. You can visit our website at www.trustedmentors.org for information on how to become a mentor.

2010-05-20T10:39:00.000-07:00

Thank You

2010-05-06T09:22:00.000-07:00

From a veteran volunteer at Trusted Mentors, Jason: "I'm so glad I found your flyer in the coffee shop that day. Volunteering at Trusted Mentors over the last 3 years has been great! I'm excited about what Trusted Mentors is doing and am happy to have been a part."

Thanks to volunteers like Jason, we are making a difference! Won't you join us? Become a mentor and help an at-risk adult on their journey to stability. Visit www.trustedmentors.org to get involved!

Access Pass/ Discounted Admissions

2010-04-14T14:01:00.001-07:00

The Access Pass Program offers discounted admissions to the Children's Museum, Conner Prairie, Eiteljorg Museum, NCAA Hall of Champions and the Indiana Historical Society for Hoosier families receiving TANF, Hoosier Healthwise and Hoosier Works assistance. Anyone who receives the benefits of these state programs is eligible to receive an Access Pass Card.

The Access Pass allows families to visit these great educational attractions for just $1 per family member per visit. To apply, visit the box office of any of the Access Pass institutions to fill out and application. Be sure to bring: Your Hoosier Works card or Hoosier Healthwise card and a state issued ID.

To learn more about the program, please visit the Children's Museum website here.

Invisible People

2010-04-14T13:53:00.000-07:00

Mark Horvath, was once homeless and knows the pain of being ignored, avoided and shunned. Today, he uses his video camera to capture the stories of "invisible people", men and women who are homeless and the organizations who are trying to help them. By posting these raw stories on his vlog, he is trying to connect us to these men and women who are living with the pain and stigma of not having a home.

Visit Mark's Invisible People website and watch some of his very moving videos.

Thank You

2010-04-13T08:29:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who donated to the Stay at Home to Help Others Stay Housed Fundraiser! With $4,873 donated and $849 coming from the Calvin Fletcher Coffee House, your donations were doubled with a $5,000 donation by The Piatek Institute. Thank you!

The winner of the home portrait is Gwen Woodard! Gwen's name was selected to win a portrait of her home by local artist Judy Byron.

As always, your donations are essential to our mission of helping people remain housed. Last week, we matched Matthew, a young adult in the Connected by 25 program. He’s an IUPUI student and working towards a strong future, after faced with many challenges while growing up. His mentor will help him achieve his goals of succeeding in business and life. Please continue to help us make a difference. Donations are always accepted on-line or can be sent to our offices, 872 Virginia Ave, 46203.

Foster Kids Face Tough Times After 18

2010-04-07T10:20:00.000-07:00

NPR features a story today on the struggles young people face after leaving foster care. Connected by 25, an agency that has partnered with Trusted Mentors for mentoring services, was also profiled for their work with at-risk young adults.

For 8 years, researchers have followed roughly 600 young adults who aged out of the system. The study finds that at age 23 or 24, former foster care youth are more likely than their peers to be: Unemployed, Homeless, Pregnant, Convicted of a crime and Uneducated.

To listen or read the story click here.

Thank You for the Tip!

2010-04-07T07:45:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Calvin Fletcher Coffee Company and its patrons! The tips added up in March and made a big difference at Trusted Mentors. The $849 is helping people remain housed!

Please be sure to visit Calvin Fletcher Coffee Co.(615 Virginia Avenue)and remember your tips benefit a great cause each month!

Help Bring Us Home!

2010-03-30T09:31:00.000-07:00

As March nears an end, so does Trusted Mentors' Stay at Home fundraiser. Help us reach our goal of $5,000 by March 31. We have raised over $4,300, but we need your help to take us to our goal!

Thanks to a $5,000 matching grant, your donation will be doubled until March 31!

Give today and help someone like Tamara:

She Wants to Do It Differently!
Tamara grew up in foster care. She has been independent since 18. Now a mother with young children, Tamara's a part-time student at Ivy Tech and working to provide a stable life for the next generation. She is waiting to be matched with a mentor- someone who can help lead her there.

You can donate online. All donations are tax deductible.

Jeri and Sawyer Enjoy an Evening at Home to Help Others Stay Housed

2010-03-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

Jeri and Sawyer during their "Stay at Home" evening. Kick back one night this month and remember those struggling to remain housed. Send a photo of your "Stay at Home" event to bhannon@trustedmentors.org

State Prison Population on the Rise

2010-03-17T06:04:00.000-07:00

The Indiana State Prison population rose 5.3% last year, while the national average dipped by 0.4%, the first time since 1972. Indiana's violent crime rate has fallen, but the prison population has continued to swell more than 4% each year. The findings are outlined in the March 17 edition of the Indianapolis Star.

Today, just under 30,000 people are incarcerated in Indiana. Most of them will return home and they will need assistance turning their life around. Over 5,000 ex-offenders will return to Marion County this year. Trusted Mentors is helping by providing these men and women with mentors who can listen, encourage and guide as they begin a new journey.

To read the Indianapolis Star article, click here. If you have an interest in mentoring an ex-offender, please contact Bryan at 317-985-5041.

Stay at Home Update

2010-03-11T11:29:00.000-08:00

So far, Trusted Mentors has raised over $1,600 for the "Stay at Home" Event. We need to raise $3,400 more by March 31st to take advantage of the $5,000 matching grant donation!

Help us out. Help us prevent homelessness. While you enjoy a nice evening at home this month, please think of those who may not have a home, or are struggling to keep their home. Think of Trusted Mentors and our work to help the disadvantaged and at-risk in our community.

You can donate now by clicking here. Or you can mail your donation to:

Trusted Mentors
872 Virginia Avenue
Indianapolis, IN 46203

Thanks for all you do!

P.S. Don't forget to send us a photo of your "Stay at Home" evening. We'll be sure to post it on the blog!

Cup O' Joe Benefits Trusted Mentors

2010-03-03T10:30:00.000-08:00

Looking for a new, trendy coffee spot for your morning routine, or afternoon wake up? Visit the quaint, non-profit Calvin Flethcher's Coffee Company, nestled in a convenient location on Virginia Avenue at the edge of Fountain Square. When you visit, be sure to tip the barista! All tips this month will be donated to Trusted Mentors.

To learn more about Calvin Fletcher Coffee Co., visit their website or stop by and order yourself a good Cup of Joe at 615 Virginia Avenue.

Stay at Home to Help Others Stay Housed

2010-03-03T10:25:00.000-08:00

We are inviting you to stay HOME

Home - where memories are created

Home - where a family shares meals

Home- where you relax after the struggles of a busy day

Home - where you stay warm during this cold and snowy winter

When? Any Night in March, 2010

While you enjoy an evening in the warmth of your own home, help others stay housed. Make a donation to Trusted Mentors, and make a difference in the lives of people overcoming homelessness and poverty.

Your financial support helps mentors support people at-risk for homelessness. Last year, 90% of our mentees stayed housed! In 2010, we are looking forward to greater achievements in preventing homelessness.

Donate today, and double your impact. Your contribution will be matched dollar to dollar - with a $5,000 matching grant. Donate before March 31!

Please tear-off and complete your donation form below. Return the form and your check (made payable to Trusted Mentors).

Or, make a secure donation on-line at www.trustedmentors.org/invest

All contributors will be entered to win one custom home portrait created by local artist, Judy Bryon (www.ivyandarches.com). This prize, valued at $200, includes an 8X10 illustration, matted to fit an 11x14 frame (not provided) and a set of 20 note cards. (The winner must provide photographs of his/her home).

March Training Dates

2010-03-03T08:01:00.001-08:00

Mentor training dates for the month of March have been set. Please join us to learn more about Trusted Mentors and how you can become a mentor to an at-risk adult. Help prevent homelessness, help an adult rebuild their life- Become a Mentor!

Tuesday, March 9th (Part A)
6-8pm
Lynhurst Baptist Church
1250 S. Lynhurst Drive

Monday, March 22nd (Part B)
6-8pm
Trusted Mentors
872 Virginia Avenue

Hope to see you this month!

New Referring Agency: Welcome AIC!

2010-03-02T12:38:00.000-08:00

The American Indian Center (AIC) is an organization that promotes the empowerment of American Indians and Alaska Natives in Indiana to achieve personal, social, cultural and economic growth that enhances the quality of their life. AIC is also working to promote the mutual understanding and respect among Indian and non-Indian people in our community.

AIC has been helping Indiana's Native population since 1992 through job readiness programs, resume and interview skills, transportation assistance, work clothes, job placement, health outreach, tuition assistance, and other programs.

Beginning in March Trusted Mentors will begin providing mentors to individuals at the American Indian Center. We are pleased to have AIC on board and look forward to working with them to promote the well-being of Native Americans in our community.

To learn more about AIC, please visit their website. If you are interested in mentoring please contact Bryan at bhannon@trustedmentors.org

B2R Planning Committee

2010-02-24T09:09:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe, but Bags 2 Riches is less than 7 months away! September 24th, 2010!!

We had our first planning committee meeting last week and we look forward to a great event this year! Thanks to everyone who has signed on to help with the planning committee. We already have some dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers who will make this year's event very special.

If you have an interest in volunteering at B2R, want to make a handbag for the competition, want to recruit friends to make a handbag, or wish to join the planning committee, please email me at bhannon@trustedmentors.org

Mentor Training

2010-02-24T09:06:00.000-08:00

Please join us tonight for our Mentor Training (Part B). 6-8pm at Immanuel United Church of Christ, 402 E. Prospect Street. Learn how you can join us in our fight to prevent homelessness in Indianapolis!

We can always use more volunteers. Please call Bryan at 985-5041 for more details.

Homeless in the 'Burbs--It can Happen to Anyone

2010-02-16T13:48:00.000-08:00

Homelessness in rural and suburban America is straining shelters this winter as the economy founders and joblessness hovers near double digits – a "perfect storm of foreclosures, unemployment and a shortage of affordable housing," in one official's eyes.

"We are seeing many families that never before sought government help," said Greg Blass, commissioner of Social Services in Suffolk County on eastern Long Island.

"We see a spiral in food stamps, heating assistance applications; Medicaid is skyrocketing," Blass added. "It is truly reaching a stage of being alarming."

The federal government is again counting the nation's homeless and, by many accounts, the suburban numbers continue to rise, especially for families, women, children, Latinos and men seeking help for the first time. Some have to be turned away.

"Yes, there has definitely been an increased number of turnaways this year," said Jennifer Hill, executive director of the Alliance to End Homelessness in suburban Cook County, Illinois. "We're seeing increases in shelter use along the lines of 30 percent or more."

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's annual survey last year found homelessness remained steady at about 1.6 million people, but the percentage of rural or suburban homelessness rose from 23 percent to 32 percent. The 2009 HUD report, which reflected the 12 months ending Sept. 30, 2008, also found the number of sheltered homeless families grew from about 473,000 to 517,000.

Greta Guarton, executive director of the Nassau-Suffolk Coalition for the Homeless on Long Island, led a recent group of about 40 volunteers to scour vacant lots and industrial parks for this year's HUD survey; results are expected in several months.

"One of the things that we've noticed is a lot more unsheltered, mostly men who claim this is the first time they've been homeless, who indicate that it's due to a loss of wages or loss of job, because of the economy," Guarton said.

**To read the full Associated Press article, Suburban Homeless: Rising Tide of Women, Families, 16 February, 2010. please click here.

Training Canceled/ Rescheduled

2010-02-09T09:09:00.000-08:00

The mentor training for February 9th has been canceled due to inclement weather, including snowfall, high winds and drifting snow.

We will offer Part A of the training on February 16th from 6-8pm. Training will be held at Trusted Mentors' office, 872 Virginia Avenue. Part B remains scheduled for February 24th, 6-8pm at Immanuel UCC, 402 E. Prospect St.

If you have any questions, please contact us at bhannon@trustedmentors.org or call the office at 985-5041.

Thank you for your understanding. Be Safe!

February Trainnig Dates

2010-02-03T07:48:00.001-08:00

Interested in learning more about Trusted Mentors, or how you can get involved as a mentor?

Please join us in February to learn how we are making a difference in our community and how you can join our efforts! We always have a need for new volunteers, and currently we have a need for men who are willing to become a trusted mentor. Hope you can join us!

Tuesday, February 9th, 6-8pm
Trusted Mentors Office
872 Virginia Avenue
(Part A)

Wednesday, February 24th, 6-8pm
Trusted Mentors Office
872 Virginia Avenue
(Part B)

A New Referring Agency--Connected by 25

2010-02-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

Connected by 25 is an initiative of United Way of Central Indiana with a mission to ensure that foster care youth are educated, housed, financially stable, employed and connected to a support system by age 25. Trusted Mentors and C25 have partnered to recruit and train volunteers to mentor the young adults in the C25 program!

Beginning in 2010 C25 will begin referring young adults to Trusted Mentors. These young people will be matched with a mentor who will be there to be supportive as the mentee works to secure housing, find a job, establish financial literacy, or advance their education.

Young people leaving the foster care system are an at-risk population who will benefit from the strength of a mentor.

One in five emancipated youth will be homeless

Only 50% will have a high school diploma or G.E.D.

Nearly 50% will be unemployed

25% will be arrested or incarcerated

Connected by 25 and Trusted Mentors are working to help emancipated youth overcome these challenges.

To learn more about Connected by 25 visit their website

Help Us Celebrate!

2010-01-27T10:18:00.001-08:00

Trusted Mentors invites you to to join us at our Open House on Wednesday, January 27th to celebrate our new offices and new location! It's a great chance to learn about Trusted Mentors, network with board members and staff, and have some great food and drinks!

Stop on by between 4:30pm and 7:30pm. We are located at 872 Virginia Avenue in Fountain Square.

Thanks to our event sponsors:

Bingham McHale
Sweet Temptations Catering
Sun King Brewery
Calvin Fletcher Coffee

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

2010-01-18T12:19:00.000-08:00

Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. A day for all of us to work to improve lives, bridge social barriers, and move our nation closer to the “Beloved Community” that Dr. King envisioned. Today is a day of service, but we don't have to stop there. We can resolve to make this a year of service and make a real difference in our community!

Begin today. Continue the work. Make a difference. Volunteer!

Off the Streets and Giving Back

2010-01-14T10:35:00.000-08:00

Jimmy Battle grew up in foster care. He made some bad choices, sold drugs and spent time in prison. But with the help of a D.C. non-profit and the guidance of a mentor he was able to turn his life around. Now he returns the favor. He mentors young men who are "struggling" in the community and he shares with them what he has learned. Jimmy leads by example, showing young men that they have more choices than they might realize and that they must have discipline in the face of adversity.

Read Jimmy's story by clicking on the link below.

http://views.washingtonpost.com/leadership/guestinsights/2010/01/mlk-off-the-streets.html

January Training is Moving

2010-01-06T09:48:00.000-08:00

January 2010 mentor training dates will still be held on the 13th and 25th at 6pm. However, the trainings will now take place at Immanuel UCC, 402 E. Prospect St. instead of Trusted Mentors office.

We currently have more signed up for the 13th training than we can accommodate at our office (a good thing!).

If you have any questions, please feel free to call 985-5041.

Dear Trusted Mentors

2009-12-29T08:24:00.000-08:00

"I would like to thank you for your services. Most of all I am thankful for my mentor for helping me realize that I am someone and not a nobody."

This is what we recently received from "Larry", a man who moved into his first apartment at the age of 50. His mentor has changed his feeling that he's a No-body. The support of his mentor has helped Larry remain housed, live independently and give back to his community after being homeless in Indianapolis.

Larry went on to write that his mentor makes him feel "positive" about his life and his progress and most of all he helps him feel "happy and at-peace."

How important is a mentor? In a recent survey of adults who had a mentor from Trusted Mentors, 86% responded that having a mentor reduced loneliness and increased their confidence! Having a friend to talk to and having personal confidence are of vital importance to the success of at-risk individuals.

Mentoring works. Just ask Larry.

Jail Release Just the Start on the Road to Redemption

2009-12-15T07:57:00.000-08:00

Click on the link below to read the story of one man who made the tough decisions, formed the support network and regained the trust necessary to rebuild his life after incarceration.

Life after incarceration is rarely easy. But with determination and a little support, a better life is possible.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/12/15/jail-release-just-the-sta_n_389499.html

January Training Dates

2009-12-14T13:27:00.000-08:00

January Mentor Training Dates have been scheduled. The January training will be held at the Trusted Mentors office, located in Fountain Square, 872 Virginia Ave.

Mentor Training and Orientation Seminar

Wednesday, January 13 2010
6-8pm

Monday, January 25 2010
6-8pm

Please join us to learn more about how you can prevent homelessness in Indianapolis!

Annual Thank a Mentor Celebration.... January 20, 2010

2009-12-09T09:08:00.000-08:00

Trusted Mentors will hold its annual Thank a Mentor Celebration on January 20, 2010 at Immanuel UCC. The celebration is always held during the week of National Thank Your Mentor Day (January 22nd).

We are pleased to have Mark Nicholson join us to share the story of his journey from homelessness to successful lawyer. Mark will discuss the importance that his mentor played in that journey. It is a truly inspirational story and we hope you can join us for an evening of celebration! Dinner will be served.

As we start a new year, it will be good to hear Mark's story and reflect on our own lives and remember who has helped us through our own struggles. It is also a great time to commit to helping someone else!

For more information, please email Bryan at bhannon@trustedmentors.org

Number of Homeless Students Increases

2009-12-02T09:20:00.000-08:00

The number of homeless students in Indiana has increased 12% over the last two school years according to a report released today from the Indiana Youth Institute. During the 2008-2009 school year, there were nearly 8,500 homeless students, up from 7,500 during the '05-'06 school year. It is estimated that 29,000 Hoosier children of all ages are homeless!

Students who experience homelessness are at a big disadvantage compared to their peers. It harms them academically and places a harmful stigma that can affect them for a lifetime.

Homelessness is a serious issue and it can happen to anyone. The economic downturn has put many more families at risk of homelessness. Trusted Mentors is working in Central Indiana to help the people most at-risk of homelessness. Join our efforts as we mentor adults at-risk of homelessness. By helping them, we can help save their children.

Visit our website to learn more.

Mentor Training and Orientation

2009-11-30T12:29:00.000-08:00

Trusted Mentors is holding a mentor training and orientation seminar on November 30 and December 14th from 6-8pm at IUCC (402 E. Prospect St.). Please join us to learn more about becoming a volunteer mentor and preventing homelessness in Indianapolis. Check back often for more dates. They are held monthly. For more information, please call 985-5041.

Mentor Training and Orientation

November 30
December 14

6-8pm

Immanuel UCC
402 E. Prospect St.

A Success Story

2009-11-24T10:32:00.000-08:00

In June 2009 Sandy, an ex-offender, was referred to Trusted Mentors from a local agency working to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women in our community. When Sandy was referred she was employed full-time and working toward her goal of owning her own business.

Days after her referral, she was matched with her mentor, Teresa, a local small business owner. Teresa has offered her insights and experiences as a small business owner to help Sandy develop a business plan; she has also been there for Sandy as she works to rebuild her life after incarceration. Sandy says that Teresa has helped her remain positive and focused on the future.

Facing poverty, unemployment, and a criminal record, Sandy could have given up. Instead, through focus, hard work, a positive attitude, and the insights of a mentor, she has set herself up for success.

Great Job, Sandy! And Thank You, Teresa!

Trusted Mentors at Indianapolis Peace Institute

2009-11-17T08:27:00.000-08:00

Please feel free to stop by the Indianapolis Peace Institute on Thursday, November 16th from 12-1:30 for "Networking with a Soul." Trusted Mentors will be there to present our agency and talk about the issue of homelessness and how it impacts our local community.

The Peace Institute is a great resource in the Indianapolis community. They hold their brownbag networking events on the 3rd Thursday of every month! You can visit their website here.

Join Us During National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week

2009-11-09T06:32:00.000-08:00

What better time to join the efforts of Trusted Mentors than during National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week (November 15-21)?

On November 16th, Trusted Mentors will be at the IUPUI Service Fair located at the Campus Center, Rm CE148. Join us to learn more about Trusted Mentors and all the other city-wide efforts to fight hunger and homelessness!

On November 17th, Trusted Mentors will hold a Mentor Info and Training Seminar, from 6-8pm at Immanuel UCC (402 E. Prospect St.). Come learn about becoming a mentor to someone at-risk.

There is no better awareness than prevention, so join us as we work to prevent homelessness in Indianapolis.

To learn more visit our website www.trustedmentors.org or call 985-5041.

Just a Reminder

2009-11-02T12:11:00.000-08:00

If you have been using the www.trustedpartnersindy.org web address to access Trusted Mentors' homepage, please note that you must begin using www.trustedmentors.org, as most of you have.

The former address will expire so, be sure to bookmark Trusted Mentors under www.trustedmentors.org

Thanks for stopping by!

Recognizing Accomplishments

2009-10-28T06:17:00.001-07:00

Trusted Mentors celebrated Recognition Night on October 26. We had a wonderful meal, supplied by Knights of Columbus, a delightful speaker, and enjoyed hearing the accomplishments of mentees over the last few months.

Linda shared the story of Sharrone, her mentee. In recent months, Sharrone has excelled in advancing her goals. She has re-established her nursing license, reduced debt, received job offers in the nursing field, and shared her story at the annual Bags 2 Riches Gala!

Sharrone has put her life on a great path and has set herself up for success! Congratulations, Sharrone! Keep up the good work--it's inspiring!

Fountain Square "Scare in the Square"

2009-10-21T10:33:00.000-07:00

Trusted Mentors is located in the beautiful neighborhood of Fountain Square and we encourage you to bring your kids to Fountain Square on Halloween! Over 400 kids will converge on the Square on October 31 for trick-or-treating and "Scare in the Square" To learn more visit www.discoverfountainsquare.com

Scary Thought for Halloween!

2009-10-13T08:27:00.000-07:00

Halloween is just around the corner! It's a time of season for scary stories, scary costumes, and scary movies! But here is a scary statistic that rings true during all seasons:

45,000 families in Central Indiana are one paycheck away from becoming homeless! That is frightening!

Trusted Mentors is working to help some of those families by providing them with mentors that are there to be supportive as they strive to avoid the vicious cycle of homelessness.

Mentor Training at IUL

2009-10-13T08:20:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone!

On Monday night Trusted Mentors held a training and info seminar at Indianapolis Urban League. We had a great space provided by IUL. Thanks, Kevin and Pambana! We also had a great turnout! You can join us next week, Monday, October 19 from 5:30-7:30 at IUL for Part B of our two part training series.

Come learn about the populations that Trusted Mentors serves and what you can do to help individuals at-risk of becoming homeless. Pass the word along!

To learn more call Bryan @ 317-985-5041 or email bhannon@trustedmentors.org

Bags 2 Riches

2009-09-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Bags 2 Riches is in the books! Many thanks to Healing Arts Indy and JP Parker Flowers for providing us with some wonderful space.

Thank you to our sponsors, supporters and attendees. We also wish to thank all of our handbag designers. Thank you for your time, effort, and donation. There were many great handbags this year and they were a big draw.

You can check out all the great handbags at www.bags2richesindy.org.

Last, but certainly not least, thank you to all of our great volunteers. The event was possible because of you. All of your hard work and many hours made Bags 2 Riches 2009 a special event. Whether you sat on the planning committee, modeled a handbag, or broke down a table, your effort was invaluable.

Thank You Wal-Mart Foundation

2009-09-22T10:17:00.000-07:00

We would like to thank the Wal-Mart Foundation for its generous financial support of Trusted Mentors and our mission to prevent homelessness in Indianapolis! Because of Wal-Mart's donation and others like it, we are able to continue our work for a better community. Thank you!

Trusted Mentors and Indianapolis Urban League

2009-09-21T07:50:00.000-07:00

Trusted Mentors is happy to announce that it will hold its October trainings in conjunction with the Indianapolis Urban League. IUL has provided valuable community services to minority men and women in our community for nearly 40 years. Their services have helped the disadvantaged gain economic and social equality within the Indianapolis community. And we are proud to be partnering with the IUL this month to recruit and train new mentors that will help individuals at-risk of homelessness.

Trusted Mentors, partnering with Indianapolis Urban League, will work to provide mentors to the truly at-risk, including ex-offenders and other individuals that face obstacles to a healthy, sustainable life.

Join us on October 12 and 19 from 5:30-7:30 at IUL, 777 Indiana Ave., 46202 to learn more about how you can get involved and help your community!

September's Lunch Hour Training

2009-09-14T12:29:00.000-07:00

Thursday, September 17 is the last lunch-hour training taking place at Bingham McHale. If you missed the first two, you can still stop by Bingham McHale (10 W. Market St.) on 9/17 from 12-1 pm to learn more about Trusted Mentors and what you need to do to get involved! Learn how you can help reduce homelessness in our community and get a free lunch!

B2R, Handbags and Another Sponsor

2009-09-14T12:17:00.000-07:00

You can view the top ten bags at www.bags2richesindy.org The judges have selected the 10 best handbags, now it is your turn to vote for your favorite, or the "Most Original." There are some beautiful, unique, and well-designed bags this year! You can purchase votes online. Remember all proceeds benefit Trusted Mentors and our mission to prevent homelessness. If you join us at the Gala you could also leave with your own unique handbag.

Bags2Riches is on September 25. Invites have been sent out and posters are being displayed. We invite you to our annual fundraiser. You can purchase tickets online, or give us a call at 985-5041. We have also added an additional sponsor for the event. The delicious Iozzo's Garden of Italy joins Shapiro's, Greek Islands, Sun King Brewing, National Wine and Spirits, Mallow Run Winery, Goldman Jewelry, Donna Rice Photography, National Bank of Indianapolis, JP Parker Flowers, Healing Arts Indy, Citizens Energy, IBJ and Drall Performance Solutions as a sponsor for this years event!

With all of these great sponsors, it has to be a good event! Join us. Donate to a worthy cause and have some fun!

Odds and Ends

2009-08-27T07:52:00.001-07:00

We finally received our new brochures yesterday! They have been long awaited for our volunteer recruitment efforts. If anyone is interested we would be happy to give you a handful to pass along to friends or coworkers. Remember: we always need new volunteers!

Bags2Riches is quickly approaching. We still need a few volunteers for the gala and fashion show. It is going to be a great evening and if you would like to volunteer you can get in for FREE! Food, prizes, games, fashion, art.... you name it and we've got it. To learn more visit www.bags2richesindy.org

We are also very excited about our September training(s). We are trying a new approach. We will offer a training series downtown during the noon hour. The dates are September 8, 10 and 17 at Bingham McHale. This is a great opportunity for anyone who works downtown, but also would like to learn more about how they can get involved in our effort to prevent homelessness. The best part is that lunch will be provided! To learn more about the trainings or RSVP email Bryan at bhannon@trustedmentors.org

Remember: spread the word, share your suggestions and stay in touch!

August Training and Info Seminar

2009-08-18T07:05:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! On August 27th, Trusted Mentors will offer a Training and Info seminar for all individuals interested in making a difference and preventing homelessness. The training will offer more information on becoming a volunteer mentor and how you can make a difference in the life of an at-risk adult.

Join us on August 27 from 5:30-8:30 @ North United Methodist Church (38th and Meridian) We will have refreshments available and a bunch of good information.

Blog Indiana 2009

2009-08-18T07:01:00.000-07:00

I attended the Blog Indiana 2009 Non-Profit Summit on Friday. It was a wonderful event that featured great speakers and bright ideas. Trusted Mentors is continuing to improve our social networking and blogging capabilities. If you have any suggestions, please don't hesitate to offer them. We want to keep you updated about our organization, our mission, and our successes, so let us know if you have any ideas on how to keep you better informed!

Recognition

2009-08-10T11:27:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday evening we celebrated the accomplishments of many individuals. Lee continues to excel and is beginning his second semester at IUPUI. Ivory has found a job and has a 4.0 GPA, and Lisa is close to owning her own home. All of these mentees have accomplished many great things, and we are proud of them. We are also very proud of the volunteer mentors who have been there to help them and encourage them as they take the next step!

Recognition Night

2009-08-03T10:18:00.000-07:00

Recognition Night is coming up. Join us on August 5th as we celebrate the accomplishments of mentors and mentees. Dinner will be served and a guest speaker will talk to us about communication skills. For more information contact bhannon@trustedmentors.org.

Location Change

2009-07-16T13:39:00.000-07:00

The location for the July training has changed. We will now be having the monthly training at Immanuel United Church of Christ (402 Prospect St., 46225), not at Homeless and Reentry Helpers.

Date: July 29
Time: 5:30-8:30
Place: Immanuel UCC

July Training Seminar

2009-07-07T07:30:00.001-07:00

Our July Mentor Training is scheduled for Wednesday, July 29. Attend this training if you would like to learn more about Trusted Mentors and what you can do to help prevent homelessness in our community.

Date: July 29
Time: 5:30-8:30
Place: Homeless and Reentry Helpers, 3936 Pendleton Way, 46226

Moving!

2009-06-30T07:02:00.001-07:00

Trusted Mentors is moving to a new location. We have outgrown our current office space and needed some room to expand. Our new location is 872 Virginia Ave. in Fountain Square. We will be posting pictures of the new place soon!

June Mentor Training

2009-06-17T08:53:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars! We will be holding our next training seminar for interested volunteers on Tuesday, June 23 at the Knights of Columbus on Thompson Road. Come join us to find out how you can make a difference in preventing homelessness. Anyone interested in becoming a mentor, or learning more about the Trusted Mentors program is welcome to join.

What: Training Seminar
Where: Knights of Columbus, 511 E. Thompson Rd., Indianapolis, IN
When: 5:30
Why: To prevent homelessness one person at a time!

2009 Homeward Bound Walk

2009-06-17T08:39:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who came out to support Trusted Mentors at the 2009 Homeward Bound Walk on June 14! Whether you walked, donated money, or helped collect funds your support is greatly appreciated.

Though it was a gray, overcast day we were able to dodge the rain showers and spirits remained high!

Don't forget that donations will be accepted until the end of the month at www.homewardboundindiana.org Even if you have already given, pass the info along to a friend and let them know about this worthy cause.

Thank you again!

April Mentor Training

2009-03-25T07:47:00.000-07:00

Trusted Mentors' next training will be on Wednesday, April 22nd, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Old National Bank Community Room, 6135 N. College Avenue. Come join us to find out how you can make a difference in preventing homelessness. For more information, contact Candice at 985-3468 or candice@trustedmentors.org.

Mentoring Inspiration

2009-03-17T05:33:00.000-07:00

Interested in reading about others' mentoring experiences? Check out The Soloist, by Steven Lopez, or Same Kind of Different As Me, by Ron Hall and Denver Moore. The Soloist is an account of how Mr. Lopez, a Los Angeles "Time" journalist befriends and informally mentors a homeless man. The other book is a mentor's and mentee's description of how their relationship developed over time.
Both books describe many experiences similar to those mentors and mentees with Trusted Mentors. The rewards and challenges of mentoring are well described.

Recogntion Night Rescheduled

2009-03-03T11:27:00.001-08:00

Our January Recogntion Night and 5th Anniversary has been rescheduled for Tuesday, April 28th. The speaker will be Mr. Joe Cooper, a formerly homeless, illiterate man who has overcome many obstacles to be an employed, literate, and stable member of our community. We'll have a delicious meal provided by Second Helpings and recognize our mentees for all that they've accomplished. Come join us! From 6:30-8:00 p.m. at Immanuel United Church of Christ, 402 E. Prospect Street, 46225. FMI contact Candice at 985-3468 or candice@trustedmentors.org.

2009-03-02T12:13:00.000-08:00

Our next training is scheduled for Monday, March 23rd from 5:30-8:30pm at Immanuel United Church of Christ, 402 E. Prospect, 46225. Any one interested in knowing more about mentoring for Trusted Mentors is welcome to join us.

Homeward Bound Walk is coming on Sunday, June 14th at 2:00pm. Go to http://www.homewardboundindiana.org/ for more information.

5TH ANNIVERSARY AND THANK A MENTOR DAY

2009-01-27T15:46:00.000-08:00

Our 5th Anniversary and Thank a Mentor Day was cancelled, so we'll share our message on the blog. Thank you to all the mentors, present and past, who helped us reached this important milestone.! It's your commitment that makes the difference.

We celebrate our new name ... "Trusted Mentors"

Our name says what we do.... we mentor

We celebrate our new tagline: Trusted Mentors.. stabilizing lives, preventing homelessness tells more about what we do. We work with 12 different agencies, with a wide variety of people. Not everyone has been homeless, but for some it is a reality and for others it is a risk to be faced.

Trusted Mentors has been awarded a City Crime Prevention Grant. Not everyone we mentor has been in prison, but for some it isa reality and for others it is a risk to be faced.

At Trusted Mentors, we come together to stabilize lives....

to learn from each other...

to build strengths ... so that the risk of homelessness is decreased and the risk of being in the criminal justice system is lessened ....

so that the ability to live independent, self-sufficient lives is realized to the best of our abilities.

THANK YOU MENTORS!

2009-01-12T11:40:00.000-08:00

Trusted Mentors 5th Anniversary & Recognition Night

Please join us to
* Celebrate our 5th anniversary
* Observe National Mentoring Month
* Enjoy a meal by Second Helpings
* Hear an inspiring story of overcoming difficulty
* Recognize mentees & mentors

Guests are welcome.
Date: Tuesday, January 27th Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Immanuel UCC, 402 E. Prospect Street
Contact: Candice Brisson Monteith, 985-3468,
candice@trustedmentors.org
Speaker: An inspirational and motivational speaker, Mr. Joe Cooper, is formerly homeless, illiterate and addicted. Now he's employed, literate and a homeowner. Come be inspired by his story!

2009-01-03T14:09:00.000-08:00

Hello!
Welcome to Trusted Mentors blog! We will be using this to keep you informed on mentoring training, Homeward Bound Walk, Bags 2 Riches, and many more events held by Trusted Mentors.

Thank you for your time and help in stabilizing lives and preventing homelessness.

Jeri and Candice