You can make a difference!
The name “Starfish Initiative” was selected because we are making a difference in the lives of youth, one at a time.
We can only work with a handful of promising students, but we can make a difference in their lives, and ultimately
in the future of our community.
The Starfish Story*
There was a young man walking down a deserted beach just before dawn. In the distance he saw a frail old man.
As he approached the old man, he saw him picking up stranded starfish and throwing them back into the sea. The
young man gazed in wonder as the old man again and again threw the small starfish from the sand to the water.
He asked, "Old man, why do you spend so much energy doing what seems to be a waste of time?"
The old man explained that the stranded starfish would die if left in the morning sun.
"But there must be thousands of beaches and millions of starfish!" exclaimed the young man. "How can you make
any difference?" The old man looked down at the small starfish in his hand and as he threw it to the safety of
the sea, he said, "I made a difference to this one".
*Adapted from The Star Thrower by Loren Eiseley(1907-1977).
Why invest your philanthropic dollars in Starfish Initiative?
Because your donation will make possible the dreams of some of the most resilient
and promising youth in Indianapolis’ economically disadvantaged communities.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q: With so many worthwhile programs in our community, why should I invest in Starfish Initiative?
A: The Starfish Initiative is a sound investment of your philanthropic dollars for three main reasons:
our Scholars, our program design,and the return on your investment.
- Although facing risks, our young Scholars already possess the resilience and hope they need to become
promising leaders of tomorrow.
- Our program is unique in that it provides both social support and increases cultural capital. Each of these are
essential to sustained opportunity and achievement beyond college graduation.
- By investing in the lives of our Scholars today, we impact the future of our community in years to come.
Q: Why does Starfish Initiative need my support?
A: Your investment is needed so that no Scholar is denied their dreams of high school succes and college access.
Funds raised through individual donors will support the John R. Voigt Scholars Fund and our operational expenses.
The John R. Voigt Scholars Fund will provide direct assistance with a range of education-related expenses including
books, lunches, transportation, field trips and extracurricular activities
and college application fees.
Q: How many Scholars is Starfish Initiative working with?
A: We accept approximately 100 new Scholars annually. We are currently working with a total of 100 Scholars and their
families.
Q: How can I support Starfish Initiative?
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