INDIANAPOLIS — A program aimed at fighting crime and creating success for young Hoosiers is now hiring nearly 1,300 people for its summer program.
Project Indy began six years ago and has changed thousands of lives.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said not only is Project Indy creating job opportunities, but it's keeping youth busy and away from violence.
"It's an anti-crime program. It gives young people meaningful and positive things to do," he said.
More than 100 Marion County employers like Crew Carwash, partner with the city through Project Indy providing summer and full-time jobs.
"This program is beneficial on so many different levels," Hogsett said.
More than a paycheck is offered. Employees can get tuition assistance and learn life lessons.
"Learning soft skills like budgeting, time management, how to participate in job interviews, how to put a resume together," Hogsett said.
Around 13,000 Marion County residents between the ages of 16 and 24 have taken advantage of the program since it launched six years ago.
"Frankly, we would have had more than that had it not been for the pandemic but that's why we are hoping this summer will return to the pre-pandemic levels of employment that our young people are used to having available to them," Hogsett said.
Alan Wright is just one of the program's success stories.
"Realistically, I am only 24. I am not that much older than those I employ," Wright said.
What started as just a college job, helped shaped him into the person he is today.
"This has made an immense change in my life," he said.
This year, the city says it's easier than ever to apply or find a job participating in the program.
Applications are now available online at projectindy.net or you can text Project Indy to 317-659-9657.
"All people want is a chance. They want a chance to have a better life. They want a chance to move up and having a summer job provides so many opportunities," City-County Councilor Ali Brown, D- District 5, said.
-
Forensic and DNA analysis confirms identity of Fox Hollow Farm victim
Human remains discovered nearly 30 years ago at Fox Hollow Farm in Westfield, Indiana, have been positively identified as those of Roger Goodlet, the Hamilton County Coroner announced on Tuesday.
First American Nuclear “closed-fuel cycle” Nuclear Energy Park in the U.S.
First American Nuclear, a company that specializes in nuclear energy, announced plans to establish its headquarters in Indiana on Tuesday, projecting to bring thousands of jobs to the Hoosier State.
Washington Township passes continuing referendum for Avon Schools
The special election will determine whether Avon Schools can continue a property tax to support teacher pay and class sizes at a slightly lower rate than before
Madison County Sheriff's Department confirms deadly plane crash
The Madison County Sheriff's Department confirmed they are on the scene of an accident involving an aircraft on Tuesday afternoon.