UIndy News

The University of Indianapolis is one of 25 Indy-area businesses and organizations recognized this month by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana for its commitment to youth mentoring in 2012.

UIndy President Robert Manuel receives a plaque from Darcey Palmer-Schultz, CEO of BBBSCI.

BBBSCI honored its top corporate partners for creating environments that encourage employees — as well as students and faculty, in the case of UIndy – to dedicate 4-6 hours each month for an entire year to spend time with a local child. With a total of 15 volunteers making that commitment last year, the university was among just 11 local organizations that provided 10 or more “Bigs” to the mentoring program, alongside such names as Eli Lilly & Co., Roche Diagnostics, the State of Indiana and the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office.

“It says a lot about these companies that their employees give back to the community in such a meaningful way,” said Darcey Palmer-Schultz, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana. “Our mentors change kids’ lives for the better, forever – improving academic achievement, helping them avoid risky behaviors, and building their self-confidence and vision for their own positive futures. We’re thrilled and grateful for the support of the Central Indiana corporate community.”

For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana, visit www.bebigforkids.org.