Areas Served: All of Marion County
Organization Address: 1648 Sheldon Street, Indianapolis, IN 46218
Age Groups/Grades Served: 11 – 21 years old, all genders

The Felege Hiywot Center (FHC) has a deep-rooted history of community collaboration and is committed to promoting health, nutrition, and youth development through evidence-based programming. Through our Tiered Multi-Year Framework, we equip young people with the resilience, integrity, and empathy needed to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams.

In the fall of 2023, a tragic incident shook our community when KIPP high school students witnessed the killing of a 15-year-old by another youth. This heartbreaking event reinforced the urgency of engaging students in meaningful discussions about the causes, effects, and solutions to violence in our neighborhoods. After surveying over 350 students, KIPP youth leaders identified three key factors contributing to youth violence: lack of engagement, mental health challenges, and food insecurity/education. Their findings emphasized that youth involvement is critical to fostering positive social determinants of health.

FHC supported these young leaders as they developed their own priorities for the Martindale Brightwood Quality of Life Plan. With guidance from our team and community advocates, they successfully secured a dedicated Youth Engagement section in the plan—the first of its kind. This achievement highlights the power of youth leadership and the importance of listening to and supporting young people as they work to build a stronger, safer community.

Programs & Services

• Youth-Led Violence Prevention Initiatives
• Gun violence awareness and prevention projects
• Youth-driven film production exploring the causes and impact of violence
• Public art murals promoting peace and community unity
• Podcasts and multimedia platforms amplifying youth voices on violence reduction
• Community Engagement & Empowerment
• Youth leadership in the Martindale Brightwood Quality of Life Plan
  
• Advocacy for positive social change through youth-led initiatives
  
• Food Security & Sustainability
• Cooking classes that teach nutrition and culinary skills
• Farm-to-table programs providing fresh produce to pantries and families
• STEM education integrated with urban farming experiences
  
• Mentorship & Personal Development
• Mentors of Color program providing one-on-one support for students
• Leadership training to empower youth as changemakers

At FHC, we believe in the power of young people to shape the future. By providing opportunities for leadership, creative expression, and community engagement, we are working alongside them to build a brighter, safer, and more inclusive future for all.