Elevate Indy October Newsletter

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Author
Elevate Host
Published on
October 30, 2026

Creating Experiences That Transform Lives

At Elevate, we’re igniting dreams and expanding possibilities.

We know that every child is inherently valuable and capable of success. Unfortunately, we also know that not every child has the opportunity to discover their full potential.

By opening doors to first-time experiences, from adventure trips to career exploration, we’re showing students that anything is possible.

This month, we’ve shared unforgettable experiences with our students such as:

  • Our senior trip to Nashville with our friends at Dream Alive
  • Vision trips with the Latina Welding Guild & the Indy Cycle Specialist
  • A visit to the pumpkin patch
  • A fall break visit to the University of Cincinnati
  • And so much more!

Every experience with Elevate is unique — just like our students. But every experience is a chance to connect, grow, and potentially open the door to a future they never knew was possible.

Our Elevate Indy Advocates

Thank you to all of our Vision Breakfast sponsors for helping us create an outstanding event!

Your generosity gave us the chance to celebrate our seniors, look back at how far we’ve come, and share our vision for the future of Elevate. We are grateful that you spent this morning with us, and we hope that you left feeling inspired by our incredible students.

The future of Elevate wouldn’t be possible without your support. Thank you for believing in our mission and for helping us lift up the next generation of our city.

Help us transform more lives in our 2026-2027 school year by donating to our year-end appeal. Your support can help us reach our $150,000 goal so we can continue opening doors to opportunity for our students.

Scan the QR code below to donate today.

Advocate Alerts: How You Can Engage With Elevate

Will you help us empower the next generation?

Here are a few of our upcoming engagement opportunities to connect with an Elevate student and be part of their journey toward success.

  • In-Class Speaker Series: Inspire our city’s future leaders with your unique insights and experience. Nov. 11th @ Purdue Polytech HS Broad Ripple; Nov. 12th @ Arsenal Technical HS
  • Site Visit: Experience the unique classroom experience as Elevate students develop crucial life and character skills for the future. Nov. 18th @ Purdue Polytechnic High School Broad Ripple Campus; Nov. 19th @ Arsenal Technical High School
  • Alumni Packing Party: It’s almost the holidays and we need your help to show our love to our Elevate alumni. Join us at the Impact Center to pack care packages that show our alumni that they aren’t facing life’s challenges alone.
  • Turkey Bowl: Join us as we develop skills like teamwork and sportsmanship while deepening our mentor relationships through shared experience.

Staff Spotlight: Jerilyn Blackmon

What is your role at Elevate?

I am an associate Teacher-Mentor through AmeriCorps at Purdue Polytechnic High School Broad Ripple and Micro Lab.

How long have you been part of the Elevate family?

Four months on the 15th of October.

What part of your role resonates with you the most? In other words, what is your “why?”

While teaching leadership skills, offering college & career classes, and taking students on adventures are all important, building meaningful relationships with them is a big part of why I do this work. I also set a daily goal to bring joy and laughter to the students I serve. By being my authentic self, I help students feel comfortable being uniquely themselves, both inside and outside of the classroom. That’s a big reason I chose this field: to bring new experiences, joy, and genuineness to every space.

Which pillar of Elevate’s mission (mentorship, accredited classes, S&A, College & Career, Alumni & Family Support) speaks to you the most?

The Sports & Adventure pillar resonates with me the most, along with the College & Career component of Elevate’s mission. Given my active background, it’s incredible to be part of Elevate offering students engaging, fun experiences they might not otherwise try.

What is something you’re looking forward to in the new Elevate school year?

I’m looking forward to building relationships with the students at PPHS. I’m also excited to see, plan, and experience more of what Elevate will bring and the opportunities we’ll provide for our students. I also look forward to the ongoing growth I will experience in this position through professional development.

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