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Dear friends,
February has been a month of intentional recognition of Black History. As we all know, black history is American history. The theme of Black History Month 2025 is 'African Americans and Labor,' exploring the multifaceted contributions of Black workers throughout history.
The need to learn and grow from our American history is never lost on me, as a Caucasian male who serves the mission of an organization predominantly investing in under-supported students of Indianapolis, more than 93% of whom come from communities of color. Being on a continual journey of listening and learning from our donors, students, and staff, regardless of their cultural history or heritage, has only made me a better version of myself, more capable of serving this city and state.
I always hope to be giving to the organization more than I’m receiving. However, the rich diversity in the Elevate Indy board, staff, and students keeps me in a state of deep learning. I am grateful to be a lifelong learner in an organization full of servant leaders and students committed to becoming the best version of themselves.
At the heart of our work as a community development-driven organization is harnessing the power of life-on-life mentoring that prepares the next generation of community leaders.
February has already been full of life-on-life mentoring moments. Hundreds of high school students are growing in essential character qualities by supporting 3rd-4th grade students’ weekly growth in literacy attainments. Firsthand, I’ve seen the mentoring pics, heard the stories, and visited classes at IPS partner schools around the city.
I’ve learned deeply from seeing the investment of mentors and the deep struggle of many of our students as they strive forward. Tears of sadness and joy have been shed this month. I have talked with many alumni and current seniors as they thirst for the support of safe, trusted adults in our community to open doors and invest in them.
I hope you will take intentional time this month to recognize, honor, and grow in American history. We each have a role to play in sowing seeds of civic health and growth that cultivate an equitable and just society for all.
If it’s been a while, or perhaps you never have, join me in an upcoming site visit at Elevate and learn about the impact you’ve been making as a friend of Elevate.
Click to save your spot today.
Serving with you,
Aaron Story
CEO & President, Elevate Indianapolis