Supporting Our Youth: Mentorship Program Cohort Success

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Shirley Louise Foundation Celebrates Unprecedented Success of Marion County Youth Mentorship Initiative

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – [2/10/19] – The Shirley Louise Foundation, a family-run organization dedicated to the principle of "Service-First. Community Driven. Family-Strong.," is celebrating the successful completion of its inaugural Youth Mentorship Program in Marion County, Indiana. The initiative, funded and organized entirely by the Foundation, successfully paired older professionals and retirees from the Indianapolis metropolitan area with elementary school-aged students to provide consistent guidance and support.

The program focused on foundational elements of character, literacy, and community engagement, connecting mentors with students for weekly sessions held within local school and community centers. Feedback from participating schools and parents has been overwhelmingly positive, with reports citing improved student confidence and academic preparedness.

Shirley Swanson, Founder and CEO of The Shirley Louise Foundation, shared her enthusiasm for the program’s immediate impact.

"Seeing this mentorship program thrive has brought me the deepest joy," said Ms. Swanson. "Our mission is to uplift the unsung individuals who better their communities, and that includes investing in both the wisdom of our dedicated professionals and the potential of our children. It is truly a profound experience to witness the fruits of hard work and selfless service."

Ms. Swanson emphasized that the program perfectly reflects the Foundation’s values, which are deeply rooted in work ethic, family, and equality for all. "We believe in the importance of strong character, and this initiative proves what is possible when generations commit to doing the right thing. To know that we have played a role in lighting the path for these young students is the greatest success we could ask for."

The Shirley Louise Foundation plans to expand the Youth Mentorship Program in the coming year, seeking to double the number of participating schools and mentors across Marion County.