National Mentor Month: How Indy-based organizations are changing lives

Mentorship just might be the key to connection. In 2023, a report from the U.S. Surgeon General stated a lack of social connection and community were contributing to the “loneliness epidemic” and declining health, well-being and success. However, organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana (BBBSCI), 100 Black Men of Indianapolis and Starfish Initiative are working to change that — through mentorship. “Those relationships are really powerful and make a huge difference in how well people are and then become a really strong foundation for what people can achieve,” said Darcey Palmer-Shultz, CEO of BBBSCI. BBBSCI provides mentors and experiences for youth 8-18 in Marion, Hamilton and Johnson Counties. They host events throughout the year, but once matched, mentor and mentee pairs are expected to meet up at least once a month — whether that’s to visit the Indy Zoo, attend a Pacer’s game, go to the movies or get pizza and do homework together. Mentors must commit to at least a year with their mentee, but some relationships can last up to 10 years (within the program) or longer. “There’s so many relationships that we build out through program participation that it really strengthens both the...