OrthoIndy Foundation is celebrating over $10 million in grants to organizations throughout the state who make a significant impact in the health, mobility and overall well-being of individuals and their communities. These are some of their stories.
Back on My Feet combats homelessness through the power of running, community support, and essential employment and housing resources. At the heart of their mission is the belief that everyone deserves a second chance to rewrite their story.
The generous support from the OrthoIndy Foundation has been pivotal, enabling them to reach individuals in desperate need of hope and a new start. This partnership has fueled their ability to offer more comprehensive programs, directly impacting those like Mike, an Indianapolis alum whose life has been profoundly changed.
Mike’s Story of Hope and Recovery
Mike’s journey from homelessness to hope encapsulates the essence of their mission. Living on the streets, caught in a cycle of recovery and despair, Mike found in Back on My Feet a family that encouraged him to envision a brighter future. “When I first joined Circle Ups, it was amazing,” he recalls. The support and dedication of volunteers played a crucial role in Mike’s transformation, assisting him with resume building and job search, and igniting his passion for giving back.
Today, Mike is a beacon of hope in the community, actively volunteering and celebrating four years of sobriety. His story is a testament to the power of support, community, and the second chances they strive to provide. “You have to give away what you’ve been given to keep your sobriety,” Mike reflects, embodying the spirit of service that drives our mission.
A Partnership That Moves Lives Forward
The OrthoIndy Foundation’s multi-year commitment has been more than financial support; it’s a partnership that empowers Back on My Feet to make a lasting impact. It has allowed them to plan for the future with confidence, expanding their reach and deepening their programmatic offerings. Over the next three years, they aim to support 291 members, secure employment for 207, and actively engage 98 alums, ensuring they receive the support needed to turn their lives around.
In 2023, they exceeded their projections significantly, reaching 187 new members against a goal of 92 and securing employment for 123 members, well above the goal of 66. This achievement showcases the effectiveness of their programs and the dedication of their team and volunteers. The previous period’s success, with 85 active alums members engaging with the programs and over 400 touchpoints recorded, underscores the transformative impact of their initiatives.
With the continued support of the OrthoIndy Foundation and their community of volunteers and donors, they can offer more individuals the chance to change their narrative. Support makes a world of difference, helping them provide the essential encouragement and opportunities needed for those taking their first steps toward a new life.
Additional Quotes
“Be open-minded about the possibilities and the process. It’s not easy to get up that early to go for walks or jogs, but there are a lot of resources and opportunities. And it feels good to take care of yourself and bond with other people.” — Jeffery, Back on My Feet Indianapolis Alum
“Keep showing up. Back on My Feet keeps showing up for you. Keep showing up for them. Commit to them, and they will be there for you like they have been for me for years now.” — Aaron, Back on My Feet Indianapolis Alum
The OrthoIndy Foundation
In December of 2012, OrthoIndy established and funded the OrthoIndy Foundation, whose Mission Statement reads as follows:
The mission of the OIF is to improve mobility and function, specifically for the residents of Central Indiana –with a particular emphasis on veterans and the elderly– by benefiting the end users to increase self-sufficiency, promote wellness, and improve the quality of life for those affected by orthopedic issues.
Since it’s founding, OrthoIndy Foundation has been there for hundreds of people. Learn more about the foundation here, and learn how you can contribute and become a volunteer by clicking here. You can read more of our success stories here.
