At IndyHub, we are driven by the simple yet powerful idea that #PeopleMaketheCity. It’s why we’ve imprinted the phrase on t-shirts, posters, koozies, frisbees and stickers. It’s why you hear us say it at every event, presentation or meeting. And it’s why our number one priority is to connect, engage and empower the people that make this a great place to live, work, play and plant roots.
When Molly Chavers, alongside some extraordinary community leaders, banded together and launched IndyHub 15 years ago, they set out to make Indy a thriving and welcoming city for young leaders. They wanted to spotlight and fortify the arts and culture, channel people to experiences and leadership opportunities and ultimately grow an important population of young doers and change makers.
Since those early days, when IndyVolved was just a handful of nonprofits and a few dozen 20- and 30-somethings, Indianapolis has transformed into a world-class and growing city, sparked by an entrepreneurial spirit and can-do attitude. Now, across every sector and in every neighborhood in Indianapolis, young and talented residents are stepping up as innovators, non-profit and civic leaders, board members, volunteers, and advocates. And with every hour served or opportunity seized, they are shaping our city for generations to come. (Not to mention, we now add close to 3,000 20- and 30-somethings each year).
As we look to the next 15 years, we know that our work is far from over. We must do more to connect, engage, and develop a diverse and inclusive network of leaders. We must be committed to impact, deepening connection to our city, and increasing the attraction and retention of talent. And we must do everything we can in the ongoing pursuit – forged by our founders – to make Indianapolis America’s most welcoming, thriving, and empowering city for young leaders.
Our team, volunteers, board members, and partners are up to the task. For the transplant looking to get plugged in to their new home, we’re here to provide social good happy hours, one-on-one meetings, and intentional introductions to the people and organizations that make our city special. For the home-comer, intern, and soon-to-be college graduate, we create experiences that explore neighborhoods, our sports scene, and other amenities, showcasing how vibrant a city Indy has become. And for the emerging leader, we provide the educational opportunities and leadership development to help them carve out their impact and secure their seat at the table.
And 15 years in, we’re just getting started.
When I moved to Indianapolis just over 10 years ago, I was on my own. Aside from some family nearby, I knew no one and – outside of a job teaching middle school language arts – had no connection to my new home. It was in those early cups of coffee, invitations from kind and connected people, and curated opportunities to explore Indy that I was immediately hooked. Within two years, I was helping on City Council campaigns. A year later, working for Congressman Andre Carson. And now, with only a decade under my belt, I have the privilege of beginning my second term on the City-County Council and championing our emerging leaders as President of IndyHub. In most communities across the country, that timeline doesn’t happen. But Indy believes in young people. Indy knows that #PeopleMaketheCity.
I’m certain, over 15 years, IndyHub has left a mark on many of you who are reading this. From connecting people to one another, to opportunities, to causes and everything in between, we’ve lived up to our name. And as we kick off this milestone year for our organization, we want to hear your stories.
I encourage you to share any moments where IndyHub has played a part in your experience in our city. Maybe you’ve exhibited at IndyVolved for the past decade. Perhaps you met your significant other at an IndyHub Happy Hour. Or we connected you to an organization where you now serve as a board or committee member. Share your stories on social media with #IndyHub15!
Thank you for making Indy what it is. And we look forward to the work ahead.
Want to be a part of pushing this work forward for the next 15 years? Make a $15 donation to The IndyHub Foundation through PayPal or Venmo (@indyhub).
Blake Johnson is President of IndyHub and an elected member of the Indianapolis City-County Council. In his spare time, Blake enjoys spending time with his wife Natalie and their two, wildly spoiled dogs, Jack and Jamison. @IndyBlakeJ
