Hand Raisers and Game Changers: 100 Heroes Week One

After months of waiting, the time is now here: The stories of United Way’s 100 Heroes have begun rolling out! Every Monday on United Way’s blog, we will share highlights from the stories of these hand raisers and game changers. Discover new stories each week on how these Heroes are making a positive impact on our community and why Central Indiana is such a great place to call home. To see all of the stories of United Way’s 100 Heroes, look here

Kionna Walker

Kionna Walker found that the most "troubled" students are the most creative, the best at their work and the most detail oriented. Kionna doesn't give up on them and neither should you. Read her story      

Jim Limp

Jim Limp may be 91 years old, but his age certainly doesn’t keep him from being an active volunteer. As a proud retiree of Eli Lilly and Company, Limp has been involved with community service for his entire life. Read his story      

Melissa Burgess

Melissa Burgess is a beacon of hope for #homeless individuals in #Indianapolis. She has spent the last 15 years helping those in dire need find the resources necessary to start a new chapter in life. Read her story      

Olgen Williams

“When we come together as a neighborhood and one community, we just get things done.” This is Olgen Williams' motto – one that has worked well as he’s helped reduce crime, violence, drug abuse and homicide in the #Haughville neighborhood and throughout Central Indiana. Let's get things done, Olgen! Read his story     

Diane Arnold

“I grew up with a sense of community and caring for other people’s needs, I’ve never known anything but that.” Diane believes that helping people is about giving them a hand up so down the road they have the capacity to lend a hand out and lift up someone else. Read her story      

Gary Oakes

Oakes first project began when he realized a vacant building in his town could be transformed and upgraded into a #homeless shelter. Earning United Way’s backing and over two million in Eli Lilly and Company grant money, Oakes’ efforts created 10 emergency apartments and 10 transitional apartments called WellSpring Center. Read his story    

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Women United: Leading the Charge, Inspiring the Change