Marian University has partnered with Hope Center Indy to offer free adult education programs to the Southside community through Project Build, a program led by the Fred S. Klipsch Educators College that provides diverse groups of adults with the educational and career training opportunities they need to improve literacy, numeracy skills, and advance their careers. The classes are taught at no cost through a grant from the Indiana Department of Workforce Development to adults 16 and over, who have left high school and do not have a college degree.

“Marian University's Project Build is fortunate to have many outstanding community partners throughout Indianapolis who join us in our efforts to bring high-quality teachers and programs to their neighborhoods,” said Judy Bardonner, Ph.D., director of the Center for Community Learning. 

Hope Center Indy, a non-profit organization located on the Southside of Indianapolis, focuses on supporting the recovery of women exiting human trafficking, addictions, and other life-dominating issues. With funding from the Indiana Department of Workforce Development and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act grants, Project Build will be able to offer High School Equivalency and certification classes at Hope Center Indy’s “Hope to Rise” center. Classes can hold eight to ten people and will take place Mondays and Wednesdays, 5-8 p.m. The center will also soon begin offering industry-recognized certifications such as Microsoft and IT Fundamentals once there is enough interest.

“We provide high school equivalency exam preparation classes, English language learning classes, math, reading, and language skill up for college readiness, training in Microsoft Office and digital literacy for certification exams, and classes to upskill the community for college and career advancement,” said Dr. Bardonner.

Marian University has also partnered with many organizations and programs around Indianapolis including Edna Martin Christian Center, Flanner House, Public Advocates in Community re-Entry, Mary Rigg Neighborhood Center, Turning Point Community of Scholars, The Indiana Construction Roundtable Foundation, THA Construction, Code Black Indy, B4UFall, The Blue Umbrella, The Indiana National Guard, Martindale Brightwood Community Development Corporation, Stand for Children, and EmployIndy, to bring free instruction to adult learners.

“Strong collaborations with great partners allow Marian University's rich resources to flow to the community,” said Dr. Bardonner. “We are fiercely committed to improving the quality of life for Hoosiers through education and career training.”