The event celebrated employers and organizations creating inclusive workplace practices, while raising funds to support opportunities that connect talent with good jobs across Marion County.
INDIANAPOLIS — On Thursday, Mayor Joe Hogsett, EmployIndy, the Office of Minority and Women Business Development, community leaders, and over 70 local employers gathered at the 25th Annual Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards to recognize employers who are leading the way in creating inclusive and supportive workplaces. This year’s event took place at the Grand Hall in Union Station at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, with over 450 in attendance.
This event celebrates the work of supporting accessible pathways to quality careers for Indianapolis residents, with proceeds benefiting EmployIndy programs that support job-readiness training, soft-skill development, postsecondary persistence, work-based learning, and access to quality employment.
“EmployIndy is honored to join the City of Indianapolis in recognizing organizations that are leading by example in creating equitable access to career opportunities,” said Ken Clark, president & CEO of EmployIndy. “When employers and community partners invest in people and their potential and remove barriers so everyone can benefit, we create a workforce that is prepared to thrive and meet the needs of our region and its people.”
As the event celebrated its 25-year history spanning three mayoral administrations, former mayors Bart Peterson and Greg Ballard joined Mayor Joe Hogsett at the podium to reflect on why the celebration was created and how Indianapolis has remained committed to expanding opportunity and accessibility, recognizing talent, and ensuring every resident can contribute to the community’s success.
In total, five awards were given at this year’s event with unique focuses including celebrating the quality of services delivered by community-based organizations, excelling in youth employment, and diversity in workforce and leadership.
This year’s award winners are:
The Community-Based Organization Workforce Impact Award was awarded to Fathers and Families Center, for their approach that goes beyond employment, providing wraparound support that includes job and skilled-trades training, case management, and mental health and substance use counseling.
The Dr. Polter Excellence in Youth Employment Award was awarded to EM Company, Inc for their belief in investing in young adults as the future of their company, providing opportunities for formal training, mentorship, coaching, and career counseling to help them grow in their chosen fields.
The Diversity in Workforce Award was awarded to Morning Light for their intentional work to remove barriers that can prevent residents, particularly those from underrepresented communities, from entering careers in healthcare.
The Diversity in Leadership Award was awarded to Community Research and Resource Center for making diversity foundational to its mission, with Black and women leaders at the helm and a commitment to ensuring historically underserved communities have equitable access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
Sam H. Jones ‘Best of the Best’ was awarded to Black Onyx Management for their investment in diverse communities through access to capital, ongoing support for Black entrepreneurs, and philanthropy that strengthens Black-led organizations across Indianapolis.
Individuals who are interested in supporting opportunities that connect talent with good jobs across Marion County through EmployIndy can learn more and donate online.
More than 2,800 job openings available through a year-round employment platform connecting Indianapolis youth to opportunity
INDIANAPOLIS – March 18, 2026—This morning, Mayor Joe Hogsett, EmployIndy, and employer partner AMC Theatres kicked off the summer hiring season by announcing a hiring event for the movie theatre locations across the city. Project Indy is currently offering 2,894 unique job openings for young people across Marion County, spanning 257 different positions from 174 active local employers. Through its online platform at projectindy.net, young people can easily connect with employers in their community who are hiring.
“With yet another year of Project Indy comes another fantastic opportunity for young people to gain real-life work experience and earn respectable wages,” said Mayor Hogsett. “Not only does this program set them up for success, but it also ensures that they have a safe, productive way to spend their free time this summer. Project Indy represents a win for our youth, the City, and employers across Indianapolis.”
Project Indy was launched in 2016 by Mayor Hogsett alongside EmployIndy, the Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee (GIPC), and the Marion County Commission on Youth (MCCOY). Since its launch, 20,656 young people in Marion County have registered on the Project Indy platform to connect with employment opportunities and explore career pathways with local employers.In total, 354 employers have participated in the platform since 2016.
While many people associate Project Indy with summer jobs, the platform operates year-round, connecting young people ages 16–24 with part-time, full-time and seasonal employment opportunities across Marion County.
Youth ages 16–24 can get started using Project Indy’s virtual job board by simply texting “ProjectIndy” to 317-659-9657. This easy-to-use online platform utilizes text messaging to recruit and onboard job seekers. It also includes a location-based tool that works to connect youth to nearby opportunities as well as filtering job opportunities by interest. Once registered, job seekers can easily apply to any of the hundreds of open positions by providing a few pieces of basic information.
By hiring in-school and out-of-school youth throughout Marion County, local employers provide employability skill development and job-readiness training, playing an important role in training our future workforce. Programs like Project Indy also help connect young people to positive opportunities that support long-term success.
“At EmployIndy, our goal is to connect young people to opportunity while helping employers build strong talent pipelines for the future,” said Ken Clark, president and CEO of EmployIndy. “Through Project Indy, young people gain valuable work experience while local employers connect with motivated young talent across our community.”
EmployIndy, which administers Project Indy, will continue promoting the platform through face-to-face recruiting at Indianapolis-area high schools, targeted social media campaigns and participation in youth hiring fairs. The organization also works closely with community organizations and workforce partners to ensure young people across Indianapolis are aware of and able to access available opportunities.
In 2018, EmployIndy, in partnership with the City of Indianapolis and the Indy Chamber, launched Job Ready Indy, an online employability skills program designed to help young people build the workplace skills needed for career success. When an individual completes one of the online courses, a Job Ready Indy badge appears on their Project Indy profile, notifying employers that they have demonstrated key workplace readiness skills.
Employers interested in hiring youth can sign up to be a Project Indy partner through the Project Indy platform.
Ken Clark is now leading organization’s efforts to expand access to quality jobs and workforce training in Marion County
INDIANAPOLIS — Today, December 8, 2025, EmployIndy, Marion County’s Workforce Development Board, announced Ken Clark as its new president and CEO. Effective December 8, Clark succeeds Marie Mackintosh who has led the organization under Mayor Joe Hogsett and his administration since October 2022. Clark joined EmployIndy in June 2023 as executive vice president of finance and administration. In July 2025, he was named the executive vice president of programmatic operations, where he led strategy, delivery and performance of the organization’s workforce development portfolio.
During Clark’s time with EmployIndy, he has guided the organization’s finance, human resources, and technology functions. He managed a $26 million budget, developed and implemented key performance indicators to strengthen accountability across teams, and redesigned operational processes to ensure compliance with federal, state, local and philanthropic workforce funding requirements. His systems-building work has helped serve as the operational backbone of EmployIndy’s programmatic impact.
“I feel incredibly grateful to be taking the helm at EmployIndy in this pivotal time.” said Clark. “We make a real difference in our residents’ lives at every stage of their careers, from young people in school exploring career paths all the way to reskilling late-in-career adults who need a new path to support their families. Our work is at the center of our community. The hope that comes with a new career opportunity—and the pride that comes with the ability to support yourself and your family—is a powerful mission we get to serve.”
By 2031, 72% of jobs in the U.S. will require education or training beyond high school according to Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce. Yet only 43% of adults in Marion County hold an associate degree or higher.
In EmployIndy’s most recent program year, 7,478 residents connected with personalized career coaching, training, and supportive services—either directly or through community partnerships—to improve their qualifications and meet the need of today’s job market. In addition to supporting jobseekers and community organizations, EmployIndy has built relationships with more than 1,200 Indianapolis employers through programs like Talent Bound and its Good Wages Initiative.
“Ken brings a rare combination of financial expertise, operational leadership, and passion for public service,” said Elizabeth Rovazzini, EmployIndy’s board chair and president of B&W Plumbing and Heating. “His steady leadership has already strengthened EmployIndy from within, and we’re excited for him to build on that foundation as president and CEO. Our board is confident he will guide the organization forward with vision, accountability, and heart.”
Clark brings more than 15 years of relevant experience to this role. Prior to joining EmployIndy, Clark served as the city controller and director of the office of finance and management for the City of Indianapolis and Marion County, where he oversaw the city’s finance, procurement, HR and real estate functions. In this role, he led major job-quality advancements for 7,000 municipal employees, including more than $15 million in salary adjustments to create more equitable and competitive compensation. Clark also managed the allocation of $597 million in federal recovery funds, supporting community services and workforce development initiatives during a period of unprecedented need.
Earlier in his career, Clark held multiple executive roles at the Information Services Agency, including chief information officer, chief operating officer, and chief financial officer. He led citywide technology modernization efforts, improved IT customer satisfaction from 73% to 90%, and reshaped the agency’s funding model to support sustainable investment in digital infrastructure. His leadership contributed to the City of Indianapolis receiving the Mira Award for Corporate Innovator of the Year and earned him the Indianapolis Business Journal’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of the Year Award in 2018. Clark received a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University Bloomington and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Southern Indiana.
INDIANAPOLIS – 26 July 2023 – EmployIndy, Marion County’s Workforce Development Board, is thrilled to announce that Ken Clark has accepted the position of executive vice president, finance and operations where he will lead all aspects of the organization’s financial, administrative, operational and human resources strategy, systems and protocols. In this role, his leadership will drive the organization towards operational excellence in service of EmployIndy’s strategic goals and efforts to serve underrepresented residents with transformational workforce development services that advance economic mobility.
“With Ken’s track record of optimizing financial performance, building high-performing teams and driving operational efficiencies, we’re excited to have him join the team and contribute to our important mission and vision,” said Marie Mackintosh, president and CEO of EmployIndy. Ken comes to EmployIndy from the City of Indianapolis & Marion County, where he spent over 3 years as the city controller and director of the office of finance and management. Ken has tremendous experience leading IT operations and finance in his previous roles, most notably chief information officer and chief financial officer at the Information Services Agency (ISA), including running IT strategy and operations that support the city’s departments as well as leading the restructure of the IT expense and revenue models. Ken’s work at the ISA earned the city and himself the Mira Award for Corporate Innovator of the Year and the IBJ’s CTO of the Year award in 2018.
“I am excited to continue supporting the City of Indianapolis in this new role with EmployIndy. Witnessing EmployIndy grow their services and support our community through the economic turmoil of the pandemic and subsequent recovery has inspired me,” said Clark. “I look forward to furthering their vision of preparing Marion County residents for the workforce to secure livable wages and grow in careers while meeting employer demand for talent.”
Clark joins the organization shortly after the announcement of its 2023-2025 Strategic Plan, grounded in four primary interventions: Career-Connected Learning, Coaching and Training, Talent Connection, and Job Quality. This plan will serve as the guiding commitment to Marion County while EmployIndy continues to be responsive to the evolving education, training, and career needs of the ecosystem as its workforce leader and intermediary.
Innovative Modern Apprenticeship Program Grows, Offering Local Businesses a New Way to Build Talent Pipelines
Indianapolis, IN – October 15, 2024 – With talent shortages continuing to challenge businesses across Central Indiana, a growing number of employers are turning to the Modern Apprenticeship Program (MAP) as a strategic solution to close the skills gap while developing a workforce prepared to meet future demands.
The EmployIndy program pairs high school students with local employers, providing hands-on work experience while students earn experience and industry credentials. As the demand for skilled labor rises, MAP is helping employers take a proactive role in developing young talent before they even enter the job market.
Today, EmployIndy hosted a workshop for community employers at Tinker House Events to discuss how MAP can meet their workforce needs. The event featured panel discussions and small group sessions, showcasing success stories and providing practical steps for getting involved in the program.
“Employers are not just hiring for today’s roles. Through MAP, they’re building a workforce for the future,” says Marie Mackintosh, President & CEO of EmployIndy. “Employers have the unique opportunity to shape and grow the next generation of skilled workers, ensuring they are building the skills for long-term career success.”
Employers like the Indianapolis Airport Authority, OneAmerica Financial, and Plastic Recycling Inc. are already seeing results from their participation in MAP. Mario Rodriguez, Executive Director of the Indianapolis Airport Authority, emphasizes the program’s value: “It’s a no-brainer. This program is what everybody has been asking for.”
Local Economy Impact
As more industries face staffing shortages, particularly in high-growth, in-demand fields like Information Technology, Business Operations, Finance, and Advanced Manufacturing, the MAP model is becoming an essential tool for Indianapolis businesses to remain competitive. The program not only helps fill immediate roles but also ensures that employers can cultivate future talent pipelines—an investment that benefits both employers and the local economy.
According to the National Skills Coalition, industries across the state are experiencing a growing skills gap, especially as older workers retire. The combination of a growing skills gap and low labor force participation will continue to be a critical challenge to growing Indiana’s economy. Programs like MAP provide a solution by giving high school students practical experience, preparing them to step into skilled positions immediately upon graduation.
For media inquiries or to schedule an interview with one of our featured employers or apprentices, please contact Sam Hanes at [email protected].
Anthony Parish, a graduate of YouthBuild Indy, honored with 2024 YouthBuild AmeriCorps Spirit of Service Award
INDIANAPOLIS, AUGUST 15, 2024 — Anthony Parish, a graduate of YouthBuild Indy, has been nationally recognized for his outstanding leadership through service. Parish, 23, was selected from thousands of members across the country to receive one of four awards given out by YouthBuild USA for their annual Spirit of Service Awards. The winners were announced at the State of YouthBuild USA AmeriCorps and Member Award Presentation on August 15. Parish was selected to receive the Member of the Year award for his commitment to personal growth and serving the Indianapolis community.
YouthBuild Indy, an EmployIndy led training program, offers young people the opportunity to obtain industry certifications, develop job readiness skills, receive adult basic education preparation, and hands-on paid work experiences. Parish came to YouthBuild Indy with the goal of completing his education and beginning a career in construction, determined to create a better future for himself and his family. That determination continued while overcoming personal challenges, and renewed itself afterward, speaking to his strength and commitment to personal growth. While in the program, Parish earned his high-school equivalency, National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) certifications and Carpentry 1 certification, demonstrating his dedication, aptitude and desire to begin his career.
“Being an AmeriCorps member has helped shift my mindset,” Parish said. “Before I was just thinking about the day and how I would be able to take care of myself and my family at that time. Now, I am always thinking about what’s next for the future and not just day to day. I am setting goals for myself, learning how I can achieve them and taking the steps to get there.”
Staff members cite his leadership and supportive nature as valued contributions to the program. Being one of the first participants in the program to earn his NCCER certification, Parish would help his peers study and quiz them ahead of testing. Always willing to lend a hand, he even provided fellow students with rides as they made their way to the YouthBuild Indy facility or external construction site. When additional work was required for a home rehabilitation project during winter break, Parish decided to go to the worksite every day to help complete the project. This level of dedication allowed him to forge a deeper professional connection with the construction trainer and opened the door for his Carpentry 1 certification. With a strong work ethic and a desire to transform his life through service, Parish embodies the values of the YouthBuild AmeriCorps program.
“Anthony has demonstrated his dedication to the program, capability in jump-starting his career, and giving back to peers and future generations,” said Yolanda Mattox, Community Partnerships Manager at YouthBuild Indy. “Anthony’s success not only benefits him but also serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. His journey showcases the transformative power of education, training and community support in overcoming obstacles and achieving one’s goals. We are so proud of him.”
YouthBuild USA has been an AmeriCorps grantee since AmeriCorps’ inception in 1994. Since then, YouthBuild USA has enrolled more than 51,000 AmeriCorps members who have generated millions of direct service hours, including developing or repairing thousands of units of affordable housing for low-income individuals and families. More than 13,000 YouthBuild AmeriCorps members have earned their high school equivalency and a total of $43 million in Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards.
Approximately 2,148 YouthBuild AmeriCorps members in 59 programs across 26 states build affordable housing and provide community healthcare, conservation efforts, recycling and sustainability, computer infrastructure, and child development services for individuals and families. Over the next year, YouthBuild AmeriCorps members will provide more than 750,000 direct service hours and will build at least 240 units of affordable housing for low-income individuals and families.
YouthBuild USA is the nonprofit support center for a global network of more than 280 local YouthBuild programs in 15 countries, with 223 programs in 47 U.S. states and territories and 61 programs in 14 other countries. With love and respect, YouthBuild partners with opportunity youth to build the skillsets and mindsets that lead to lifelong learning, livelihood and leadership. Responding to the urgent need for knowledge, training and opportunity, YouthBuild primarily serves young people who lack a high school diploma and financial resources.
“While transforming their lives through service, YouthBuild AmeriCorps members become the leaders they were always meant to be — and that our world needs,” said John Valverde, president and CEO of YouthBuild USA. “We are so proud of Anthony, whose example reverberates across the county. YouthBuild is honored to partner with him in his journey.”
INDIANAPOLIS – Aug 6, 2024 – EmployIndy is excited to announce that Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) in Indy will be expanding this Fall, including new programs at two Marion County high schools and six Marion County middle schools.
JAG Indy is a state-affiliated program, based on a national model, that aims to keep young people in school through graduation and provide career-connected learning experiences that will lead to career advancement opportunities, or enrollment in a postsecondary institution that leads to a rewarding career.
“EmployIndy is excited to expand JAG Indy’s reach throughout Marion County, providing career-connected learning opportunities for more students in our region,” said Marie Mackintosh, President + CEO of EmployIndy. “The experiences and skills gained through JAG play a critical part in our young people making informed career choices after high school.”
The program’s expansion is a result of the continued success in achieving outcomes for students. JAG Indy recently achieved the National 6 of 6 award for both Multi-Year and Alternative Education programs. This award is achieved by meeting six graduation, further education, and employment standards set by the national organization. Having achieved this designation for the 9th year running, JAG Indy’s multi-year programs boasted a 98% graduation rate as well as a 75% full-time positive outcome rate, with the latter highlighting the percentage of students that entered full-time employment and/or further education.
“We were thrilled to have recently been awarded the 6 of 6 designation from JAG National,” said Erika Seydel Cheney, VP of Career Connected Learning at EmployIndy. “The hard work from our team, our JAG Specialists, and our JAG students was deservedly recognized and will give us added confidence as we expand this year.”
JAG Indy’s expansion in the high school space will include new programs at both Irvington Preparatory Academy and Victory College Prep. Expansion into the middle school space will include new programs at three Washington Township middle schools (Eastwood, Northview, and Westlane) as well as new programs at three IPS middle schools (H.L. Harshman, Broad Ripple, and William Penn). In addition to these new programs, JAG Indy will add an out-of-school youth focused JAG program within YouthBuild Indy, an EmployIndy led construction training program.
To get involved, students and parents are encouraged to contact their school’s administration office to connect to their JAG Specialist. Learn more about JAG Indy by visiting www.employindy.org/youth-services/jag.
INDIANAPOLIS – June 29, 2024 – EmployIndy proudly recognized 17 modern youth apprentices who are part of the first graduating cohort of the Modern Apprenticeship Program (MAP) as well as introduced a new fourth cohort of apprentices and employers participating in the program at the 2024 Modern Apprenticeship Signing Day event.
MAP, a three-year program, connects Marion County high school students with local employers, providing a path toward discovering passions and developing skills to help them thrive in growing and in-demand industries including healthcare, information technology, education, business operations, financial services, and more.
During their time in the program, each graduating apprentice from the first cohort earned their high school diploma, an hourly income from their employer, college credits, industry certifications and credentials, and first-hand, relevant job experience—multiplying their options after graduation. The new fourth cohort of 17 apprentices, selected from over 250 applicants, will begin the program in their junior year of high school, splitting their time between the classroom and the workplace.
“The Modern Apprenticeship Program is unique in its ability to provide students with hands-on job experience and an opportunity to earn money, college credit, and professional connections,” says Marie Mackintosh, President + CEO of EmployIndy. “Our first graduating cohort is a diverse group of young people who have wonderfully modeled the path forward and we’re excited to see our newest cohort follow their example.”
As a talent strategy and the highest-caliber experience offered through Talent Bound, EmployIndy’s career-connected learning continuum, MAP helps employers tap into diverse talent pools—building strong talent pipelines to meet both short- and long-term staffing needs. The program creates a structure for employers and educators to be part of workforce solutions while removing barriers, so all Marion County students have equitable access to career-ready training and jobs in high-demand fields.
“As educators, we work hard to provide life-changing education and opportunities,” said Dr. Rebecca Daugherty-Saunders, Director of College and Career Readiness for the MSD of Wayne Township. “Through MAP, we’ve seen students draw real connections between their high school coursework, postsecondary credentials, and work experience, helping them to shape their career path and future.”
The event also provided several graduating apprentices with an opportunity to share their experiences and encourage the incoming cohort. Having gained valuable insights and industry experience during their time in the program, these apprentices can confidently move forward in navigating the next step in their career path.
“I think MAP did a lot to build my confidence, independence, and problem-solving abilities,” said Nicholas Graves, a third year graduating apprentice serving as a Staff Accountant at the Indy Chamber. “It has solidified my professional goals and provided a strong foundation that directly applies to my career in accounting.”
The Modern Apprenticeship Signing Day event, taking place annually, marks the beginning of the apprentice-employer journey as the students sign a formal certificate of acceptance for their positions. As part of this commitment, the employer will mentor and support the student as they navigate an in-demand role within their respective organization. During the 3-year experience, EmployIndy, Marion County’s workforce development board, actively supports apprentices, employers, and general programmatic outcomes for Modern Apprenticeship.
INDIANAPOLIS – May 9, 2024 – This morning, Mayor Joe Hogsett, the Office of Minority and Women Business Development, EmployIndy, and over 50 local employers gathered at the 23rd Annual Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards to recognize organizations who demonstrate inclusivity in the workplace and are dedicated to supporting diverse individuals and continuing progress in our community. This year’s event took place in-person at the Culinary and Conference Center at Ivy Tech Community College, with over 400 in attendance to hear local leaders share their experiences and best practices for progressing diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace.
This event places a special emphasis on the importance of supporting youth employment in Marion County as proceeds go to support Project Indy, an initiative developed by Mayor Joe Hogsett in 2016 and housed within EmployIndy. Through Project Indy’s virtual platform that utilizes text messaging to recruit and onboard job seekers, nearly 18,000 young adults in Marion County have been connected to work experiences that build their employability skills and allow them to explore new career fields.
“My congratulations to all of this year’s Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Award winners,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “We extend this recognition each year because diversity is one of our city’s greatest strengths – and embracing that diversity, ensuring every resident has the opportunity to participate in our growth and success, benefits our whole community.”
A new award was added to this year’s event; the Excellence in Service Community-Based Organization (CBO) Award. This award celebrates a non-profit community-based organization that provides excellent and inclusive workforce development services to Marion County residents and employers.
In total, seven awards were given at this year’s event with unique focuses including celebrating the quality of services delivered by community-based organizations, impact of youth apprenticeships, good wages and employee support, excelling in youth employment, diversity in leadership, and a focus on workplace culture.
“EmployIndy is excited to partner with Mayor Hogsett and the City of Indianapolis to recognize organizations who have proven their commitment to equitable practices in hiring, leadership, quality jobs, culture, and service delivery,” said Marie Mackintosh, president & CEO of EmployIndy. “This year’s new award for Community-Based Organizations aligns with our strategic focus on building capacity among our ecosystem partners to ensure quality career coaching and employment services are delivered across Marion County.”
Award recipients at this year’s event are as follows:
“Excellence in Service Community-Based Organization (CBO) Award” was awarded to Keys2Work for their provision of excellent and inclusive workforce development services to Marion County residents and employers.
“Dr. Mechelle Polter Youth Apprenticeship Employer of the Year” was awarded to Indianapolis Airport Authority for their dedication to providing high school students with a positive trajectory to actively pursue a career by providing valuable, paid apprenticeship opportunities that complement their traditional coursework.
“Choice Employer” was awarded to Citizens Energy Group for offering all full-time employees a good wage of $18 an hour and benefits and embodies the traits of a “Choice Employer,” by creating a work environment that focuses on supporting Career Pathways, Culture and Diversity, and Employee Resources.
“Excellence in Youth Employment” was awarded to Arcamed LLC for their commitment to offering youth and young adults in Indianapolis an opportunity for their first job and embraces a culture that promotes the personal growth of those individuals through mentoring and advancement.
“Diversity in Workforce” was awarded to O’Neal Manufacturing Services who, in the past year, successfully implemented best practices to support workforce diversity.
“Diversity in Leadership” was awarded to Morales Group Staffing who cultivates an atmosphere of growth, particularly when considering upper-level diversity as well as actively supporting a diverse organizational culture.
“Sam H. Jones ‘Best of the Best’” was awarded to Indy Equity Collaborative for exemplary performance in all aspects of diversity.
Individuals who are interested in supporting youth employment in Marion County through Project Indy can donate online at www.employindy.org/mcod-donate. More information about Project Indy can be found at projectindy.net.
Indianapolis – March 7, 2024 – This morning, Mayor Joe Hogsett, EmployIndy, and partners kicked off the summer hiring season by announcing the 2024 edition of the Project Indy summer jobs initiative at Victory Field. Project Indy is currently offering nearly 2,450 available positions from over 100 local employers on its online platform at projectindy.net, which makes it easier than ever for young people to get connected to employers who are hiring.
“We’re excited to welcome the Indianapolis Indians and Victory Field into the Project Indy family of youth employers,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “Since 2016, thousands of young people and hundreds of local employers have used this tool to find and fill the jobs that support a more prosperous and qualified Indy workforce.”
Project Indy was launched in 2016 by Mayor Hogsett alongside EmployIndy, the Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee (GIPC), and the Marion County Commission on Youth (MCCOY). Since its launch, Project Indy has empowered nearly 17,500 young adults in Marion County by providing work experiences that build their employability skills and allow them to explore new career fields. During that time, over 350 employers have posted open positions on the portal.
Youth ages 16-24 can get started using Project Indy’s virtual job board by simply texting“ProjectIndy” to 317-659-9657. This easy-to-use online platform utilizes text messaging to recruit and onboard job seekers, includes a location-based tool that works to connect youth to nearby opportunities, and also allows for filtering job opportunities by interest. Once registered, job seekers can easily apply to any of the hundreds of open positions by providing a few pieces of basic information.
By hiring young adults throughout Marion County, local employers provide soft-skill development and job-readiness training, playing an important role in training our future workforce. Employers, such as new Project Indy partner Indianapolis Indians, benefit by creating a talent pipeline for their business or industry.
“Hiring young people is key to our success and we feel Project Indy is going to benefit us a lot in that effort,” said Business Operations Manager at the Indianapolis Indians, Sarah Haynes. “Some of our key leaders got their start in part-time or internship positions here, and we look forward to sparking career interest in our new hires.”
EmployIndy, which administers Project Indy, will continue promoting the virtual platform through face-to-face recruiting at Indianapolis-area high schools, targeted social media campaigns, and presence at local youth hiring fairs. In 2023, over 700 young people in Indianapolis were connected to job opportunities through Project Indy.
“Project Indy is one of our Career-Connected Learning initiatives within EmployIndy that ensures young adults are prepared for success in the 21st-century economy,” said EmployIndy President + CEO, Marie Mackintosh. “Additionally, Project Indy gives employers the opportunity to modernize their recruitment strategy through discovering, hiring, and developing the right talent.”
In 2018, EmployIndy, in partnership with the City of Indianapolis and the Indy Chamber, launched Job Ready Indy, an online employability skills program focused on providing the soft skills needed to succeed in the workplace. When an individual completes one of the online courses, a Job Ready Indy badge will appear on their Project Indy profile – notifying an interested employer that they are deemed by EmployIndy and the Indy Chamber as someone who demonstrates the “job-ready” skills important to the workplace.
Employers interested in hiring youth can sign up to be a Project Indy partner here. Youth interested in joining the Project Indy platform can get started by simply texting “ProjectIndy” to 317-659-9657 or visiting projectindy.net.
INDIANAPOLIS – February 22, 2024 – EmployIndy is grateful for the continued support of Lilly Endowment Inc. to sustain and improve EmployIndy’s Youth Employment System (YES) to effectively address education and employment disparities for Opportunity Youth–youth and young adults between the ages of 16 and 24 who are not in school and not working–in Indianapolis.
According to Measure of America’s Youth Disconnection in America Tool and 2021 American Community Survey data, there are roughly 25,200 Opportunity Youth in Central Indiana, with 15,800 of these disconnected youth residing in Marion County. Youth can become disconnected from education and employment for various reasons such as inadequate access to job training, homelessness, involvement with the justice system, and lack of familial support.
The new $5.5 million Lilly Endowment grant will help EmployIndy strengthen its partnership with community-based organizations that are central to how YES Indy provides guidance and resources to low-income, out-of-school young adults in Marion County so they can set and reach their educational and employment goals.
EmployIndy launched a new three-year strategic plan in 2023, with a focus on scaling four quality interventions that have impact across all populations to address equity and opportunity gaps in education and employment. These interventions include Career-Connected Learning, Coaching + Training, Talent Connection, and Good Jobs. EmployIndy has braided state and federal funding with philanthropic funding to expand and strengthen the delivery of YES Indy quality career navigation services both directly and in partnership with community-based organizations who are essential to this work. These services include developing effective outreach through the Re-Engagement Center (REC) model, providing employability and industry skills trainings, and offering valuable work experiences and job placements.
“We are grateful for Lilly Endowment’s support of our strategic efforts to provide young adults with more opportunities to prepare for sustainable employment,” says EmployIndy President & CEO Marie Mackintosh. “These funds will enable us to continue to expand and enhance the efforts of youth-serving organizations in our community who are re-engaging and supporting those disconnected from school and the workplace.”
In addition to supporting YES Indy network community organizations (see full list below) that directly provide youth services, EmployIndy will invest these grant funds into three key strategies to increase youth engagement with high-quality services:
Open an additional YES Indy Re-Engagement Center (REC) in the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood;
Add two new YES Indy providers to the network; and
Increase wages for all YES Indy provider staff to establish a baseline for Good Wages across the network.
Over the past twenty years, the Lilly Endowment, Inc. has provided support that has enabled more than 8,000 Opportunity Youth to enroll in EmployIndy youth employment services.
To deliver YES Indy services, EmployIndy selects community-based organizations through a competitive procurement process. Our current network of providers include:
Learn more about YES Indy services or connect to a YES Indy service provider at yesindy317.org.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – February 8, 2024 – This morning, over 100 Indianapolis high school juniors and seniors met at Martin University for the Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) Indy Regional Career Development Conference. Each student utilized the employability skills they have learned in their JAG classrooms over the course of the past year, competing in challenges such as launching entrepreneurship plans, developing chapter marketing campaigns, providing creative solutions, demonstrating employability skills and critical thinking, and more.
The JAG Indy program prepares students for the workforce by introducing them to employability skills and different industries, employers, and work experiences.
“It’s amazing to see the hard work that our JAG Indy students put in throughout the year, and then bring to this competition,” said Erika Cheney, Vice President of Career-Connected Learning at EmployIndy. “The career readiness skills and creativity on display here today point to a bright future for our workforce.”
The Regional JAG Indy Career Development Conference is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their skills, with the top individual from each competition qualifying to attend the State JAG Career Development Conference taking place in March 2024. In addition to recognizing these students’ successes, five individuals were nominated by their JAG Specialist as outstanding senior candidates, an award recognizing select high school seniors who have gone above and beyond in community involvement and are viewed as leaders among their peers.
“I’m thankful for everyone who supported me during this process. As I prepare for the state competition, l am committed to working even harder,” said Mariska Ogutu, outstanding senior from Ben Davis High School. Mariska was named Region 12’s JAG Outstanding Senior for 2024 and will compete for the top honor against the other eleven workforce development regions in the State.
This year’s keynote speaker, NBA and WNBA Host/Emcee and Global Brand Marketer, Olivia West, shared inspiring words with students as she set the stage for an outstanding day of competition and collaboration.
Indianapolis Deputy Mayor Judith Thomas also contributed greatly to the students’ experience with remarks and took the time to congratulate every winner at this year’s award ceremony.
This event was also successful because of our sponsors, including Gold Level Sponsor WM who has generously supported the Jobs for America’s Graduates program in Marion County.
“With Ken’s track record of optimizing financial performance, building high-performing teams and driving operational efficiencies, we’re excited to have him join the team and contribute to our important mission and vision,” said Marie Mackintosh, president and CEO of EmployIndy. Ken comes to EmployIndy from the City of Indianapolis & Marion County, where he 
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The program’s expansion is a result of the continued success in achieving outcomes for students. JAG Indy recently achieved the National 6 of 6 award for both Multi-Year and Alternative Education programs. This award is achieved by meeting six graduation, further education, and employment standards set by the national organization. Having achieved this designation for the 9th year running, JAG Indy’s multi-year programs boasted a 98% graduation rate as well as a 75% full-time positive outcome rate, with the latter highlighting the percentage of students that entered full-time employment and/or further education.
The JAG Indy program prepares students for the workforce by introducing them to employability skills and different industries, employers, and work experiences. 
“I’m thankful for everyone who supported me during this process. As I prepare for the state competition, l am committed to working even harder,” said Mariska Ogutu, outstanding senior from Ben Davis High School. Mariska was named Region 12’s JAG Outstanding Senior for 2024 and will compete for the top honor against the other eleven workforce development regions in the State.