Feb/120
United Way wins award for Best Places to Work in Indiana
United Way of Central Indiana was honored for the second consecutive year, with the 2012 Best Places to Work in Indiana award. United Way was one of 70 companies to receive the award, and one of four nonprofit organizations.
Nancy Ahlrichs, vice president of talent management and diversity, United Way of Central Indiana
Nancy Ahlrichs, the vice president of talent management and diversity at United Way, said, "From the moment that I arrived in November 2007, I knew that United Way of Central Indiana could be an award winner as a Best Places to Work! It has been my stated goal and also part of our work plan to pursue the award. I knew it would take us a few years to win, but it is worth it to apply, even if we don't win."
The statewide program was created in 2006 and is a project of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, BizVoice®, Inside INdiana Business, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)-IN State Council, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation and Best Companies Group. The list consists of 39 companies in the small/medium-sized list and 31 companies in the large-sized list. United Way is in the small/medium-sized category.
An employee survey was worth 75 percent of the evaluation, while 25 percent of the evaluation was based on workplace policies, practices and demographics. "Four years ago, we decided we had to do a better job of retaining and rewarding United Way's caring and competent staff. It is pleasing to know that the steps we have taken are working. And it is a delight to receive public recognition for what so many of us have known for a long time: United Way is a great place to work," said United Way of Central Indiana, President and CEO, Ellen Annala.
The award has strengthened United Way in several ways, especially the staff. "As a result of winning we expect to have more, higher-quality job applicants. Our staff will have more positive interactions out in the community. And we will come to the positive notice–for a new reason–to our donors," said Ahlrichs.
United Way will be recognized on May 3 at the 2012 Best Places to Work in Indiana Awards Dinner. The dinner will be coordinated by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.
For more information on the Best Places to Work in Indiana program, visit www.BestPlacestoWorkIN.com.
—Katie Rethlake, communications intern, United Way of Central Indiana
Feb/120
Celebrate Black History Month: 100 Black Men impacts Indianapolis
It's an organization that serves more than 700 youth through mentoring-based educational programs. They have 130 dedicated members, with diverse backgrounds and experiences. They are 100 Black Men of Indianapolis.
100 Black Men of America was formed in 1963, and the Indianapolis chapter was established in 1984. Their goal is to strengthen youth developmental programs and the collective partnerships with communities and schools, and positively impact the mental, physical, moral and spiritual development of young people. The organization has six key programs that impact the community. Those programs include: the African-American History program, Beautillion Militaire, Scholastic Sports Academy, Summer Academy and a financial literacy program.
Executive Director, Murvin Enders, said, "We don't put more emphasis on one program in particular. We emphasize all of the programs because they're all effective for young people, especially if they participate in multiple programs as they grow into a young adult. If they participate in more than one of the programs, we feel we've really made an impact."
Of those programs, Enders said, "Beautillion Militaire is an outstanding program for college preparation, and last year, 135 students enrolled in the Summer Academy program, and 50 students were on the waiting list. Students wanted to be a part of the program, but we didn't want to compensate their quality learning experience for a small staff."
Last year's Beautillion Militaire Scholarship dinner
100 Black Men continues to improve and grow their programs. Their team-mentoring program currently serves fifth and sixth-grade boys, but the staff is working to also include second and third-graders. "Long-term commitment is what we need. We want younger men involved because they're closer in age to the students. We're looking to recruit college mentors, and current members can prepare them for mentoring the younger students," said Enders.
There are several upcoming events for 100 Black Men. The African-American History competition will be on March 10, 2012, at the Indiana Historical Society. On March 12, students will share their financial literacy portfolios at the competition at the University of Indianapolis. On Saturday, March 24, the Beautillion Militaire Scholarship dinner will be held at the Marriott. Support 100 Black Men and Indianapolis youth!
A girls basketball team from the Scholastic Basketball program
— Katie Rethlake, communications intern, United Way of Central Indiana
Feb/120
On the Move
Each month, we'll post updates about United Way and our agencies. There's (nearly) always something going on!
United Way news
- Guy Hayes, an 18-year employee, has completed a three-year Connected by 25 grant that funded the Education Success Program (ESP) and has resigned to pursue opportunities outside United Way of Central Indiana. We wish him well!
Agency news
- Marina Keers is the new executive director of Hendricks County Senior Services. Long-time director Beth Ann Leach will retire at the end of June but will stay on board until then for the transition.
Feb/121
Celebrate Black History Month and learn about United Way’s Diversity Leadership Circle
"We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their color." — Maya Angelou.
United Way of Central Indiana is celebrating Black History Month by recognizing the impact diversity has on our community. One particular program that has made an impact, is United Way's Diversity Leadership Circle (DLC). DLC, first named the Minority Key Club, was first formed in 1985, by businessmen Bill Mays and attorney Fay Williams. The group was formed to demonstrate the impact of charitable giving by African-Americans, and was one of the nation's first minority giving programs in the United Way network. The purpose of the program is to recognize diverse leaders in the community for their volunteer efforts and financial support, and to encourage increased giving among the population.
The DLC supports United Way of Central Indiana by connecting with diverse populations and providing volunteer support. United Way serves nearly 210,000 African-Americans and their families. Out of 99 human service agencies, 11 report that over 80 percent of their clients have identified themselves as African-American.
The program started with only 11 participants who contributed a little more than $13,000 to the campaign. By 2006, the program had 373 members, and by 2009, the campaign topped $1.25 million. In May 2009, Charles Young, Associate Director, proposed the new name, Diversity Leadership Circle. It was expanded to include all people of color and demonstrates that United Way recognizes and appreciates Central Indiana's ethnic diversity. "My hope is that we will grow our people and funding by getting more involved. We're small, but focused," said Young.
Young has been involved with several ethnic events including: Asian Fest, Race of all Races and Soul, Sushi & Salsa. He also attended Indiana's African-American artist event, Art & Soul 2012, last weekend.
—Katie Rethlake, communications intern, United Way of Central Indiana
Feb/120
Public policy update: second half of session is underway
The unofficial second half of the 2012 session of the Indiana General Assembly is underway. At this point, all bills that have been passed by their initial chamber are being considered by the second chamber - being heard in committee hearings and ultimately by the entire chamber. Over 750 bills were originally filed in the House and Senate and about 250 bills remain active. Some bills have already been passed by both chambers and signed into law including House Bill (HB) 1001, Employee's Right to Work, and Senate Bill (SB) 4, Human Trafficking.
Two bills that United Way of Central Indiana supports - HB 1136, which will formally recognize the Registered Ministry Advisory Council, and SB 268, which will establish an early learning advisory committee of the Indiana Education Roundtable - have been passed by their original chamber. HB 1136 will be heard in the Senate's Health and Provider Services Committee on Wednesday, February 15. SB 268 hasn't yet been given a hearing in the House yet but it has been assigned to the House Committee on Education and we're hopeful that it will be heard soon. Other bills of interest that are still under consideration are HB 1149, that prohibits smoking in public places statewide and HB 1376, which provides additional one-year funding for the State's full day kindergarten grant. The House and Senate have a few more weeks to pass bills out of committee and through each chambers - the legislative session will wrap up by March 14.
With all of the activity in the General Assembly it's important to look for ways to meet your legislator and talk to them about issues that are important to you. You can go here to find out which legislators represent you at the Statehouse and in Congress. Also, many counties, cities and towns offer "Third House" events where you can meet your legislator. The Indiana Association of United Ways has a listing of these events posted here. There are still a few scheduled for the remainder of the legislative session in Central Indiana. They're a great way to meet your legislator and talk to them about issues that matter to you!
--Laura Smoots, director, public policy, United Way of Central Indiana
Feb/120
Emerging Leaders learn from the best: David Resnick
Editor's note: In January, United Way's Emerging Leaders had the pleasure of hearing from David Resnick at their quarterly Leadership Lunch. Read on for Katie Hammer's recap of the lunch and summary of David's presentation.
For our January Leadership Lunch, we were joined by David Resnick, managing partner of Katz, Sapper & Miller (KSM) and United Way of Central Indiana board chair. Since David is an Indy native, we were excited to get his perspective on how to lead, serve and get the most out of our awesome city. In his role as managing partner at KSM, David oversees the operations of the firm…big job! Keep in mind, though, that David started out at KSM in 1982 and worked his way towards the managing partner role for 18 years. Needless to say, we want to hear how he got there!
When we asked David to share his six tips for being a great leader, here’s what we got:
Treat everyone with respect and equal importance
When David was a young professional at Katz, Sapper & Miller, he met a young loan officer at the bank across the street from his office. He spent some time getting to know her and even referred her some business over the years. Eventually, that loan officer became the bank president…moral of the story? Always treat everyone you meet with respect and equal importance!
Be humble
As in the case of many leaders, David has a lot of things to be proud of. He’s worked his way up to lead the firm he started his career in, he serves on the boards of numerous organizations, he gives back to the community is a big way. Despite all of that, David puts the utmost importance on being humble. He suggests focusing on what is still to be done instead of all of the great things that you’ve already accomplished.
Have a great sense of humor
As an accountant, David is well aware that he doesn’t have the reputation of being the most interesting person in the room. That being said, he tries his best to beat that stereotype by always putting his funniest foot forward. When addressing a big, serious crowd, David states that the best way to kick off your remarks is by engaging the crowd in laughter. So the next time you have an important pitch to make, stop, take a deep breath and let your best joke fly!
Realize that good people attract good people
You’re an awesome employee, right? David’s stance is that great people have great friends, and hopefully those great friends are looking for a great place to work. For that reason, KSM makes it a point to offer incentives to employees who refer their friends to the firm. The result? A firm full of hard-working young professionals...who are lucky enough to have their friends close by. If your employer doesn’t offer an incentive program, suggest it! You’ll have a favorite lunch buddy close by and your friends will owe you big time!
Always err on the side of the employee
In his role, David is often called upon to make difficult decisions. When he is caught in a tough situation, he says that it’s most important to sit back and think about what would be best for his employees. By thinking about each issue from an employee’s perspective, David can be sure that he is ready to address backlash or back in the love that his employees send his way.
Listen to the conversation
Being in a leadership role can be tough, especially when there are tough calls to make. David says to step back, listen to the conversation, hear people out and make sure that you are on point with their opinions. Then, take some time to build a consensus around the issue. Form a committee or a task force, ask employees to toss their opinion into the ring. Once you know where the group stands, use that consensus to move the issue forward. You’ll do so with the support of others and the knowledge that you’ve considered all of the information.
As always, our group finished up with some great questions. Here’s just a few:
How do you make an impact once you get involved with an organization?
As someone who serves on nine (NINE?!) boards, David is well versed on how to make an impact. He suggests that you go into the experience ready to speak up, ask questions and challenge the status quo. Most importantly, never be afraid to make your mark on an organization and bring your strengths to the table…they’ll be glad that you did!
What is the most important thing to keep in mind when leading a company?
In his time as the managing partner at Katz, Sapper & Miller, David says that the most important thing he’s done is to maintain an entrepreneurial mindset. Even if you are leading (or working for) a large company, be willing to take risks, to act quickly and to keep your employee in mind.
What great words of wisdom! Thanks again, David! We can’t wait for our April Leadership Lunch, featuring Scott Wise, owner of Scotty’s Brewhouse and Thr3e Wise Men! Keep an eye on our calendar and make sure to register!
--Katie Hammer, senior manager of donor relations and
Emerging Leaders program manager, United Way
Feb/120
12 grillmasters, 2,500 bratwursts per hour and one Big Taste
What rides on 18 wheels, weighs 53,000 pounds and releases a mouth-watering aroma in the air? It's the world's largest touring bratwurst grill. The Johnsonville Big Taste Grill made an appearance in Indianapolis on February 2, to satisfy hungry football fans during Super Bowl XLVI week.
The grill traveled to Marsh Supermarkets in Carmel and Zionsville to benefit United Way of Central Indiana. United Way employees and volunteers served bratwursts for $1.50 and all proceeds were given to the organization. The Zionsville location raised $1,101 and the Carmel location raised $832.
Thank you Johnsonville Brats, for supporting United Way and curbing appetites!
The Johnsonville Big Taste Grill at Marsh Supermarket in Zionsville
United Way employees, Amy Hammerle (left), Volunteer Engagement & Youth as Resources Coordinator and Boone County area director, Jill Troha, in front of the Big Taste Grill
—Katie Rethlake, communications intern, United Way of Central Indiana
Feb/120
I LIVE UNITED in Hamilton County by teaching my child the importance of giving back
Kids can take so much for granted these days, whether it’s the next iPhone, iPad, Xbox, or Wii game. Technology has somehow taken over, with few days left of being a kid and playing outside all day.
And yet, there are so many children in the world who have never even seen these games or devices, let alone played with them. This is why I think it’s so important to ground our children in values that will last a lifetime, and ensure we create another generation of giving back to follow in our footsteps.
This is what I’m trying to do with my daughter, Ashley. She’s 10, need I say more? Through United Way, I’ve given her experiences that have really opened her eyes to life outside of the "Carmel bubble."
Ann Matheis and Ashley Matheis
Here are some of the things we have done together:
- We helped paint a Born Learning Trail in one of the Westfield Schools, which helps children learn on the playground.
- We signed up needy children into the Early Reader’s Club, which sends children age appropriate books under the age of 6, so they can focus on reading by kindergarten.
- We delivered Christmas gifts through United Christmas Service to a grandmother in Noblesville who wanted to give her new granddaughter something for Christmas, as well as gifts for the rest of the family, when they wouldn’t be receiving anything if it wasn’t for us.
Through these experiences, I think my daughter has learned four key concepts about giving:
- Learning comes in many different ways. Simply painting letters on a sidewalk can spark learning or creativity in a child who may never see that at home.
- It’s not only about giving money. Giving your time can really make a difference in someone else’s life. Ashley really enjoyed signing up the kids to get them free books and to see the delight in the parents’ faces when they realized they were getting free books.
- Not everyone is as fortunate as we are. A few simple Christmas gifts can really brighten someone’s day. When she saw the tears in the grandmother’s eyes when we delivered the gifts, Ashley realized how much it meant for them to have something at Christmas.
- It feels great to help others! Like most of us, Ashley can get caught up in her world and what she wants. But I think these experiences in what it means to LIVE UNITED have instilled the value of giving and how great it makes you feel when you can help others.
Consider United Way and its programs as a resource for getting your children involved in giving back. Do it now! They grow up too fast!
--Ann Matheis, Hamilton County Advisory Board, United Way
Editor’s Note: Ann Matheis a member of United Way's Hamilton County Advisory Board. She represents Ingersoll Rand and is the Schlage Brand Director. Ann and Ashley also volunteer at Northview Church in Carmel.
Feb/120
Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP supports unique afterschool student programs
Where can you find a martial arts program, talented dancers and Cub and Girl Scout troops? Ralph Waldo Emerson Elementary School students would say "just hang out after school!"
Thanks to funding provided by Taft Stettinius & Hollister law firm in Indianapolis, these IPS students are able to participate in a variety of afterschool programs—some being offered for the first time at the school.
Taft implemented the afterschool programs last September, and on Friday evening, January 27, the proud students showed parents, the law firm's employees and program coordinators what they've learned. The showcase began with a flag presentation from Cub Scout Troop 58, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Along with the Cub Scouts were Ralph Waldo Emerson’s Girl Scouts, selling their renowned assortment of cookies at a table in the gymnasium.
Following the Pledge of Allegiance, Iibada Dance Company director, Sabra Logan, introduced the student dance team. The dancers were trained by instructors from the Iibada Dance Company, an African and modern dance company for children. The girls danced in colorful pink and purple costumes to the song, "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" by Shakira. The mission of the Iibada Dance Company is to encourage self-discipline, positive self-esteem and cultural enrichment through the art of dance.
"I liked learning how Africans talk. I thought it was Spanish at first, but it sounded weird. The really cool part about it was learning about how they dressed," said student dancer, LaDawn.
Ralph Waldo Emerson Elementary School dance students perform their African dance routine. Students were taught by instructors from the Iibada Dance Company.
Students from the Impact Martial Arts program took the floor next, led by director, Larry Stiers. After the performance, five students were awarded with yellow belts. Although students were excited about the awarded improvement, they were just happy to be learning and having fun.
"My favorite thing I've learned is how to spin around and kick at the same time," said first-grader and yellow belt recipient, Jalen.
Stiers said, "The kids are more disciplined now than when they came in. They used to come in and run around, and now they come in and find their spots. It's been a great experience for me, too. More than anything, this practice teaches them discipline and respect."
Activity directors and coordinators saw great improvement from the children, and parents in the audience sat proudly as they watched the kids perform. Craig Roberts, a parent of four children, said, "It's (the afterschool program) teaching my kids stuff that I can't necessarily teach them. I want my kids to be well-rounded, and I think it's a great thing to have at this school, especially in this area of the city."
One thing is clear: Taft’s relationship with United Way and this IPS school is a win for the students, their parents, and the community.
Ralph Waldo Emerson students showcase their martial arts routine. The students were led by Larry Stiers, the director at Impact Martial Arts.
View more photos of the event
—Katie Rethlake, communications intern, United Way of Central Indiana
