Meet our founder
Discover the inspiring journey and vision behind Something Good 4 The Hood Inc, a faith-based non-profit dedicated to making a difference in Indianapolis.
Our inspiration: A calling to serve
Our Story
Something Good 4 the Hood was birthed from a desire to serve people who were often overlooked.
The vision began with feeding individuals experiencing homelessness with our church one Sunday each month, under the leadership of Bishop Kim E Graves. Family, friends, and church members came together to provide food and fellowship. We later hosted our first Thanksgiving Day meal for people in need.
With the help of God and donations we continued serving our community on Thanksgiving Day for 3 years until we no longer had a place available to host the event.
But the vision did not end.
The desire to serve remained.
Something Good 4 the Hood Inc was also connected to the ministry work of the late Pastor Gerald L. Graves, who began his ministry under the name Something Good from the Hood with a mission to simply - Help Someone
I believe God gave me the vision for Something Good 4 the Hood Inc. because there are people in our communities who need more than a meal. They need to know that someone cares and there is hope!
They need a place where they can come without shame.
They need encouragement when life has become difficult.
They need resources when they don't know where to turn.
And sometimes, they simply need someone to say:
“You matter.”
That is why we continue moving forward with the vision of creating a permanent home for this work.
In addition to providing meals and emotional support, we recognize the importance of education and skill development in breaking the cycle of poverty. Our initiative aims to offer workshops and training sessions that empower individuals with new skills, fostering self-sufficiency and resilience. By equipping our community members with the tools they need to thrive, we hope to not only address immediate needs but also pave the way for a brighter future for all.
At Something Good 4 The Hood Inc, our mission is to bring hope and practical support to individuals and families in need within the inner neighborhoods of Indianapolis. We believe in building stronger communities, one act of kindness at a time.
In addition to these essential services, we are committed to fostering a supportive community that encourages personal growth and resilience. Through workshops, mentorship programs, and community events, we aim to build connections among participants, empowering them to share their experiences and learn from one another. This holistic approach not only addresses immediate needs but also cultivates a sense of belonging and hope, enabling individuals and families to thrive in all aspects of their lives.
— Founder, Something Good 4 The Hood Inc
From struggle to strength: A personal journey
Born to a mother battling addiction, our founder was adopted and raised by a loving family who provided stability and care. As a mother of six, she personally navigated struggles to provide basic necessities for her children, raising them in what is now known to be the most crime-ridden zip code in Indianapolis 46218. This lived experience fuels her passion to ensure others know there is hope and to never give up. Her journey underscores the profound impact of support and the power of resilience.
In addition to her personal struggles, our founder is a staunch advocate for community empowerment. She believes that fostering strong community ties is essential for breaking the cycle of poverty and crime. By creating programs that encourage collaboration among residents, local businesses, and organizations, she aims to build a supportive network that not only addresses immediate needs but also promotes long-term growth and stability. This commitment to community-driven solutions reflects her understanding that change often starts at the grassroots level, inspiring others to take an active role in transforming their own neighborhoods.