Fifteen years ago, Kathryn* came to Shepherd’s women’s group with few of the skills she would need to break the cycle of poverty for her family.

“Kathryn wanted more for her daughters.”

In addition to coming to Shepherd herself, Kathryn put her children into Shepherd programs as well, and learned how to give them a better life. The volunteers at Shepherd supported the family as they built skills and grew in understanding how systems worked, so that Kathryn could help her daughters find opportunities. The children grew up to attend college, and now have stable jobs of their own.

“Now she gives that same support to the neighborhood.”

Kathryn now shares what she has learned with her neighbors as a volunteer with Shepherd’s food pantry. Her faith and determination are a source of encouragement for other Shepherd volunteers and staff as well as our neighbors in need.

“Her granddaughter is hearing those stories of hope.”

Kathryn’s granddaughter attends Shepherd Academy, and we see the fruit of the second generation continuing to build the ten assets for a foundation of health and well-being. Shepherd works through families to build up the community, serving and growing together in faith and hope.

You can help Shepherd build up families in Indianapolis through your time, gifts, and donations. Together, we’re breaking the cycle of poverty in Indianapolis.