Indianapolis, IN (Tuesday, December 10, 2024)– The African American Legacy Fund of Indianapolis (AALFI) is making significant strides in its initiative to support youth mental health and well-being. As part of its $50,000 grant opportunity, AALFI has completed a rigorous selection
process to identify organizations making a lasting impact on African American youth, ages 11 to 18, in Central Indiana. After hearing from the three finalists, the Murphy Mentoring Group, Why Aren’t You Smiling, Inc., and Struggle Made Us, the selection committee named Struggle Made Us as the 2024 Mental Health and Well-being grant winner.
“This initiative is a critical step in addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by African American youth. At AALFI, we are proud to partner with organizations that bring culturally sensitive and impactful solutions to these pressing issues,” said Larry Smith, Advisory Board Chair of AALFI. “Together, we aim to create meaningful change in the lives of our young people and the broader community.”
Struggle Made Us, led by CEO Aaron Green, developed Struggle University. This program builds community for youth by fostering healing through the creation of safe spaces, discussing traumas, and exploring ways to navigate them. In a group setting, they form bonds that allow participants to hold each other accountable and rely on these established connections as motivation during their most challenging moments. In 2024, Struggle University impacted 353 youth and has more than 11 community and school partners. Struggle University will use this grant to expand its reach, serve hot meals, and add more support for parents of children in the program.
A total of 21 organizations applied for this year’s grant. Applications were carefully reviewed by a dedicated team of 11 volunteer members. The committee used criteria including the organization’s mission connection to mental health, understanding of community needs, alignment with the target population (Black youth ages 11–18), demonstrated past impact, and proposed future impact of the organization.
To learn more about AALFI and how you can help support their cause, visit www.aalfi.com.
About AALFI
The African American Legacy Fund of Indianapolis (AALFI) is a collective philanthropic initiative that strives to improve life-affirming outcomes for African Americans in Central Indiana. Through donor cultivation, charitable investments, and community partnerships, AALFI is committed to building a legacy of equity and opportunity. Learn more about the African American Legacy Fund of Indianapolis (AALFI) at www.aalfi.com.
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Lesley Gordon, Email: lesley@blackonyxmanagement.com
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