Fun Facts on Youth Mentorship
A growing body of research shows that youth with a consistent, caring adult outside the home experience have increased self-esteem and confidence, reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, and greater overall life satisfaction. According to MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership, young people with a mentor are 55% more likely to attend college, 46% less likely […]
Mentor/Mentee Spotlight:Hannah Ray
For this edition of our newsletter, we’re honored to highlight our Director of Programs — and resident superstar mentor — Hannah Ray. Hannah is the lead designer of the Urban Hope Indy mentorship curriculum, a framework built on the 7 dimensions of wellness and a trauma-informed approach. Her intentional and detailed system echoes through every […]
Mentors Support Families During SNAP Benefit Delays
During the recent federal government shutdown, families across Indianapolis felt the strain of paused SNAP benefits. For the youth and caregivers we serve, these interruptions were a crisis, not just an inconvenience. When food assistance stopped, the families we serve that already carefully stretch every dollar were unsure how they would provide their next meal. […]
Mentoring through Music:A New Partnership with Cornerstone Church
Urban Hope Indy is excited to announce a growing partnership with Cornerstone Lutheran Church, a collaboration that is already expanding opportunities and support for the youth and families we serve. Perhaps the most exciting part of this partnership is Cornerstone’s recording studio, a professional, fully equipped space where our youth are exploring music, creativity, and […]
The Hoop Bus Pulls Up for Indy Youth
This summer, Urban Hope Indy partnered with Hoop Bus and Puma Basketball — bringing an unforgettable energy to our community. Led by former WNBA #2 draft pick and leadership development expert Chantelle Anderson, the Hoop Bus transformed PE into a mix of social-emotional learning and play. Youth learned principles like “attitude of gratitude” and “teamwork […]
Mentor Spotlight: Chase Brown
Every mission needs unsung heroes, and Chase Brown is one of ours. Week after week, Chase pours wisdom, encouragement, and energy into the youth of our Basketball Club, instilling respect, compassion, and discipline through the game. But his impact stretches far beyond the court — Chase is a steady presence at our group mentorship event, […]
Al Durham Joins the Urban Hope Indy Board
We are thrilled to welcome Aljami “Al” Durham to our Board of Directors. Al is a proud alum of Indiana University Basketball, where he etched his name in Hoosier history by scoring over 1,000 career points for the iconic program – a feat that has been accomplished by less than 3% Indiana players since their […]
A Fresh Look for Urban Hope Indy
This past year has been one of growth, new initiatives, and deeper impact — so it felt right to refresh our brand identity to reflect the moment. Over the summer, we’ve been working closely with world-class designer Ben Loiz to capture who we are and where we’re going through design. Old vs New Logo Our […]
Introducing “Art as Empowerment”
This fall, Urban Hope Indy is launching Art as Empowerment — an 8-week artist residency that gives 20 youth from East Indianapolis the tools of creativity, healing, and self-expression. In partnership with MELI (More Equality, Less Ignorance) — a Black-owned Indianapolis fashion and social impact brand with national caliber — students will have the unique […]
UHI Basketball Club
Basketball Alchemy Comes to Urban Hope Indy! Starting April 13, 2025, the Urban Hope Basketball Club will bring a transformative experience to 6-12 Indianapolis youth (ages 12-16), led by Strategic Advisor Gabe Hilt. Inspired by his book Basketball Alchemy: The Gold Standard of Maximizing Your Basketball Potential, this 8-week journey is more than basketball—it’s a […]
