Shows
Homeward IndyEpisode 36 - Nancy’s Homeward Story: “Don’t give up hope.”Content note: This episode contains references to self-harm and suicidal ideation. Please be careful with yourselves. Hello, Homeward Indy Listeners, this is Elliot Zans, co-producer and occasional host. I want to personally welcome you all to the last and pinnacle episode of 2024. Today I am privileged to present a conversation between myself and my dear friend Nancy as she shares her experience of being homeless in Indianapolis. This episode is both an indictment of systems and institutions and a love letter to the community of compassionate people who exist within and beyond those systems. While Nancy’s sto...
2024-12-0355 minHomeward IndyEpisode 35 - Changing the Narrative: Elliot Zans and Abe Roll on The State of Homelessness in IndianapolisIs housing the key to help us build a more equitable society? In this episode of Homeward Indy you’ll gain critical insights into the state of homelessness in Indianapolis, directly from some of experts who are driving change. We're joined by Elliot Zans and Abe Roll from CHIP, the Coalition for Homelessness Intervention and Prevention, who share the motivations behind the first-ever State of Homelessness event that took place in June. This event aims to educate city and county officials, state legislators, and the public about the harsh realities of homelessness through by understanding the contributing factors behind th...
2024-10-1145 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 34 -From Survival to Advocacy: Tracy Clark and Erica Young on Combating Domestic Violence in IndianaHow does someone transition from being a survivor of domestic violence to becoming an advocate for others? Tracy Clark, Director of Supportive Services at Coburn Place, shares her powerful journey in this episode. Joined by Erica Young, Housing Program Coordinator with the Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ICADV), they provide an unflinching look at the escalating domestic violence crisis in Indiana. Tracy and Erica discuss their roles in providing critical support and housing for survivors, stressing the urgent need for more resources and the collaborative efforts required to address this overwhelming issue.The COVID-19 pandemic has cast...
2024-08-0545 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 33 - From Grief to Action: Justin Phillips and Breanna Baldwin on Overdose Lifeline and Harm ReductionImagine losing a loved one to addiction and channeling that grief into a mission to save lives. That's exactly what Justin Phillips did after the tragic overdose of her son, Aaron. In this poignant episode, we sit down with Justin, the CEO and founder of Overdose Lifeline, and Brienna Baldwin, the organization's Director of Harm Reduction. Justin's deeply personal journey led her to advocate for protective legislation that has saved countless lives, and to create a nonprofit dedicated to combating opioid addiction, and Bre's work in distributing naloxone and test strips across Indiana is a testament to their shared...
2024-07-1059 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 32 - Breaking Chains: Raymond, Lin, and Jeannie on Transformative Re-entry Support with PACEFeaturing:Raymond Powell, Pre-Release ManagerMelinda “Lin” Adkisson, Peer Coach &Jeannie Reed, Peer Recovery Services ManagerEver wondered how much impact a second chance can have on someone's life? Hear firsthand from Raymond Powell, Lin Adkisson, and Jeannie Reed, three individuals who have taken the resources and support from PACE (Public Advocates for Community Reentry) and turned them into transformative life changes. Ray, once a client, now works as a program manager, while Lin has progressed from facing justice involvement to becoming a Peer Coach and Food Service Manager with PACE's guidance. Jeannie also came...
2024-06-1856 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 31 - Healing Connections: Jessica Evans and Amanda Sparks on Nurturing Survivor Recovery with Allies MentorshipWhen the path to healing intertwines with the power of human connection, remarkable transformations can occur. Jessica Evans and Amanda Sparks from Allies Inc. join us to share the heartening strides they're making in supporting survivors of human trafficking. Their organization's approach is unique in its commitment to long-term, voluntary mentorship, which fosters a sense of family and belonging that many of these young individuals have sorely missed. Our conversation highlights the importance of authentic relationships, and how Allies' innovative programs are helping survivors navigate the arduous journey toward recovery and self-discovery.As we dig deeper into...
2024-05-141h 03
Homeward IndyEpisode 30: Introducing Bryan Ball - Project Manager at CHIP and the Newest Member of Homeward Indy PodcastWhen the staggering truth hits that 71% of families in Indianapolis shelters are Black households, it's impossible to ignore the call to action. Bryan Ball, our guest and newest member of the Homeward Indy team, shares his expertise and powerful mission to reshape this grim statistic. With the goal of slashing homelessness in the Black community by 35% come 2025, Bryan, a project manager at CHIP for priority populations, draws from his own experiences to illuminate the journey from shelters to stable living. Our conversation traverses the expanse of systemic barriers, emphasizing the need to switch from a crisis mindset to the...
2024-05-0141 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 29 - Rachel Biddle, Emily Grese and Holli Young of Step-Up, Providing hope and healing in HIV servicesThis week we have 3 incredible guests from Step-Up, a comprehensive HIV care and resource organization: Rachel Biddle, Emily Grese and Holli Young, who share the impactful ways they're changing lives. From innovative HIV case management to providing a sturdy bridge for those exiting incarceration, their stories are a testament to human resilience and the power of compassionate service.As we navigate the hurdles of life together, understanding how to holistically support those with HIV becomes imperative. Our guests unravel the intricacies of providing credit improvement, housing assistance, and job preparation, while also confronting the stigma and trauma s...
2024-04-1956 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 28 - Every Sacred Life: Sara Nowlin and Niki Wattson on Coordinating the 2024 Point-In-Time CountEach year, communities across the nation coordinate an annual, snapshot survey of citizens experiencing homelessness on a specific night in January. The Point-In-Time Count, or “PIT” Count provides communities with some information about who is experiencing homelessness, and also a unique challenge in how to go about finding those people.We are joined by CHIP Program Manager Sara Nowlin, and Horizon House Outreach Manager and PBSPO (Professional Blended Street Outreach) Coordinator, Nikki Wattson. Together, in collaboration with people across the Continuum of Care, they coordinated the 2024 Indianapolis Count. This conversation cuts through the complexities of homelessness, revealing the...
2024-04-0553 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 27 - Bridge to Stability: Sherif Cobb on Veteran Supportive ServicesHave you ever wondered about the path that leads a vulnerable veteran from battlefield trauma and instability to the civilian workforce? Veteran Career Coach Sherif Cobb shares her personal odyssey from disabled vet to becoming a trusted guide for fellow veterans as a at Easterseals Crossroads. From perfecting a resume to the final handshake after a successful job interview, each step is a leap towards stability and self-reliance. Sherif emphasizes the value of adapting and embracing modern job application processes, and the transformational power of building relationships that foster confidence and growth. Her own story mirrors the stories of those...
2024-03-1549 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 26 - Uncovering Discrimination: The Fight for Fair Housing with Erika Fotsch and Brady RippergerHave you ever felt the sting of injustice, that fleeting moment, or those arduous times where something doesn't seem right or fair? Meet Erika Fotsch and Brady Ripperger of the Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana, our esteemed guests who bring these subtle undercurrents of discrimination to the forefront. They provide us with a sobering look at how the fight for fair housing is far from over, despite the many strides we've made. From the challenges faced by those with disabilities to the nuanced 'discrimination with a smile,' this episode uncovers the ongoing battle for equality in the...
2024-03-051h 05
Homeward IndyEpisode 25 - The Compassion of Coroners: Chief Deputy Coroner Alfie Ballew on Dignity and ServiceOur latest episode welcomes Chief Deputy Coroner Alfie Ballew, whose empathic and dedicated approach to caring for Indianapolis decedents has changed the way we honor our dead. Alfie unravels the emotional and logistical tapestry of reconciling death with respect, sharing the Coroner's Office's collaboration with the He Knows Your Name Ministry to ensure no one in our community departs this world without recognition.Journey with us as we navigate the delicate process of relocating cremains, an endeavor that is as much about paperwork as it is about heart. Alfie and the team go to great lengths, employing...
2024-02-1553 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 24 - Care and Connection: Insights from Brightlane Learning's Karen Routt and Erin Haring-SwitzerHow often do we consider the quiet struggles of children who don't have a place to call home? This episode delivers an eye-opening conversation with Karen Routt and Erin Haring-Switzer of Brightlane Learning. Their dedication to serving the educational needs of Indianapolis's homeless youth shines through as they recount the organization's evolution from School on Wheels and its collaborative efforts with local shelters and schools. Their touching stories and the organization's unique approach to mentorship offer a sense of hope and stability for young learners amidst the chaos of housing insecurity. Homeward Indy takes pride in highlighting individ...
2024-02-0256 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 23 - Past, Present & Future: Lillian Herbers-Kelly on Horizon House & BeyondHomeward Indy kicks off the new year with an insightful interview with Lillian Herbers-Kelly, the Director of Housing at Horizon House. As a longstanding and integral part of the Indianapolis Continuum of Care, Horizon House operates as a day shelter and service center for neighbors experiencing homelessness. Beyond that though, Horizon House also oversees a street outreach team, case management, and a permanent supportive housing program. Lillian and Steve discuss existing programs, as well as some exciting new services and programs in the works, and the complex process of getting access to housing. Find out what the future has...
2024-01-1653 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 22 - To Witness Humanity: KT and TK Love of Indiana Nomad AllianceKick back and witness a new perspective with this week’s guests, KT and TK of the Indiana Chapter of Nomad Alliance. KT and TK have been showing up for our neighbors in a wide array of capacities, from basic needs outreach work to music and performance opportunities. As “free agents”, their unique and valuable approach to the Continuum of Care has them showing up frequently in City-County Council meetings and engaging with policy and advocacy in a refreshing manner. Steve, KT and TK discuss activism, and how to find the work that calls to you the most.KT...
2023-12-1450 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 21 - Love and Advocacy Beyond Life with Linda Znachko of He Knows Your Name MinistryContent Warning: Infant abandonment and death (non-graphic), death and after-death care, the process for unclaimed persons, and grief and loss processing. Please take care of yourself.As winter settles around us and the year draws to a close, please join us for a poignant and important discussion of what it means to advocate for our neighbors who have passed away without connection. In this episode, Steve speaks with Linda Znacho of the He Knows Your Name Ministry about her work to care for our community members after death. Linda has worked closely for many years with the...
2023-12-041h 02
Homeward IndyEpisode 20 - Staying Focused: Dr. Chelsea Haring-Cozzi on Housing SolutionsWe are thrilled to welcome Chelsea Haring-Cozzi, Executive Director of CHIP to feature in our 20th episode of Homeward Indy! Chelsea and Steve discuss the causes of homelessness, the importance of fostering a deep understanding of these causes in our communities, and the power of policy. This conversation provides critical insight into the long-term impacts of decisions made decades ago and the importance of decisions we make today. Tune in for a clearer picture of the systemic causes of homelessness and to learn what we all need to focus on to bring everyone home. Giving T...
2023-11-1854 minHomeward IndyEpisode 19 - Homeward Indy Halloween Special: NHSDC Haunted Housing & Health Partnerships Recorded in PhiladelphiaHello Homeward Indy Listeners, old and new! Join us from location in Philadelphia at the Fall 2023 National Human Sciences Data Consortium Conference! Steve and Elliot take the show on the road, make new friends, and host a spellcasting conversation about the ways housing and health (and health insurance!) partnerships are changing the landscape of homelessness services in multiple states. With two special guests, Shawn Baker, Senior Project manager for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Housing and Homeless Services division, and Kristopher Kuntz, Program Director of Housing and Homeless Strategy with Anthem Blue Cross. Tune in to he...
2023-11-021h 06
Homeward IndyEpisode 18 - "All Walks of Life”: A Conversation with Breanna Klink of Holy Family ShelterIn this compelling episode of Homeward Indy, we delve deep into the formidable challenges families face when grappling with homelessness. Our guest, Breanna Klink, the dedicated Program Director at Holy Family Shelter, shares her experiences and insights from aiding families from diverse backgrounds on their journey toward stable housing. At Holy Family Shelter, Breanna and her team assist families of all kinds, including many refugees and immigrants new to Indianapolis. Using an impactful translation service, Propio, the shelter goes above and beyond to bridge language barriers, ensuring every resident receives the support they need. Discover how Holy Family Shelter...
2023-10-1750 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 17 – Rabbi Aaron Spiegel of the Greater Indianapolis Multifaith Alliance (GIMA) is shining a bright light on our city’s eviction infectionWith keen insights and a compassionate perspective, Rabbi Spiegel delves into the root causes and far-reaching consequences of the alarming eviction rates that plague our community. Despite Indianapolis's relatively small size compared to many other cities, it ranks second in total evictions, only surpassed by New York City. GIMA serves as a unifying force, bringing together the diverse faith communities of Indianapolis to address this pressing issue collectively. By uniting their efforts and leveraging their shared values and social conscience, GIMA is making strides towards reducing housing evictions and creating a more equitable and just city for all residents.
2023-10-0257 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 16 - Faith, Community, and Motivation: Reflections from Eba’Nesha BowlesThis week’s episode is a unique first for our podcast, and we are so grateful and excited for this conversation with the incredible Eba’Nesha Bowles. Our last episode with Charlotte Cox of 91 Place allowed us to connect with Eba’Nesha, a 91 Place graduate who agreed to share some of her experiences. Facing challenges in her early years, Eba'Nesha found support in multiple places, including different organizations and community members across Indianapolis. This journey of relationships led to 91 Place, founded by her former case manager Jenna. This pivotal moment led to stability, paving the way for Eba'Nesha to secure...
2023-09-1540 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 15 - Finding Family: Charlotte Cox Speaks on 91 Place’s Transitional Housing ProgramJoin us for an eye-opening episode as we delve into the world of 91 Place, an innovative Indianapolis organization dedicated to supporting young adults aged 16 to 24 during pivotal life transitions. In this conversation with Charlotte Cox, the Director of Therapy at 91 Place, we uncover how this unique program offers more than just a roof – it provides a genuine home of empowerment, mentorship, and healing. Find out how you can become a community mentor to 91 Place residents and help them on their way. From fostering a sense of dignity to equipping residents for independence, this episode offers insights into a place th...
2023-09-0151 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 14 - Determination, Love, and Wisdom: A Conversation with Joy Jamison of Dayspring CenterDiscover the inspiring journey of Joy Jamison, a driving force behind Dayspring Center, an around-the-clock emergency shelter for homeless families. Joy and Steve explore the challenges families face, the transformative impact of community support, and Joy’s determination to not only end her own homelessness, but to carry that experience into her career of helping others. Learn about Dayspring Center's unique approach, inclusive of nontraditional families, and delve into the complex issues driving homelessness. Tune in for a powerful discussion on fostering critical thinking, breaking the cycle, and the importance of affordable housing. Joy's story and insights illuminate the pa...
2023-08-1751 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 13 - Community Care: Insights from Yanna McGraw of Indianapolis Public LibrariesThis week, join Steve for a fascinating conversation about the invaluable role of social workers within the Indianapolis Public Library System. Yanna McGraw, a licensed social worker who covers all 24 library locations, speaks on her work to create positive change in the lives of those facing adversity. Libraries serve our community in multiple ways, beyond being a repository of knowledge; they also provide a safe haven for the unhoused and individuals seeking critical resources. Yanna's expertise in providing access to social services, housing options, employment support, and mental health resources has been instrumental in creating . A...
2023-08-0452 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 12 - Creating Safe Spaces: Foundations for LGBTQ+ Youth with Levi Wagner of Trinity HavenJoin us on this episode of Homeward Indy as we dive into the transformative work of Trinity Haven, a remarkable organization supporting LGBTQ+ youth in Indianapolis. Our guest, Levi Wagner, shares insights into Trinity Haven's two distinct programs: the Transitional Living program and the Host Homes program (for which Levi is the Coordinator). In the Transitional Living program, youth aged 16 to 21 are provided with housing, education, employment opportunities, and essential youth development resources. Levi sheds light on the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, many of whom have experienced family rejection or have been removed from their homes. Discover...
2023-07-1457 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 11 - Neighbors First: Stories with Alli Christman of Englewood Community Development CorporationWelcome neighbors, to this week’s episode of Homeward Indy with guest Alli Christman of Englewood Community Development Corporation! Steve and Alli discuss the similarities and differences between property management and case management at one of Indy’s cornerstone Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) projects. Alli shares how her commitment to community care shapes her work and her personal life, where neighbors can be friends, and even family. Afterward, Steve and Elliot discuss the importance of connection, and share some ideas for making friends with your neighbors. https://englewoodcdc.com/
2023-06-3047 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 10 - “There’s Always Something Good”: Perspectives from Deagria Cook of Family Promise of Greater IndianapolisJoin us in this groundbreaking conversation with Shelter Case Manager Deagria Cook on her work with Family Promise of Greater Indianapolis, a non-profit organization providing diversion, emergency shelter and aftercare support for families experiencing homelessness. This episode is profoundly special, as Deagria shares her personal experiences of homelessness and the invaluable perspective it brings to her role. Through honest conversations, Deagria reveals the transformative power of personal storytelling and connection. Her passion for serving clients and the deep empathy she feels as she sees herself in every person who walks through Family Promise's doors is resonant. She shares how...
2023-06-1550 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 9 - Come Serve with Us: A Call to Community with Vickie Tyner of Food 4 SoulsJoin us for an uplifting episode of the Homeward Indy podcast as we sit down with Vickie Tyner, the Director of Food 4 Souls, a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to serving the homeless community and individuals experiencing extreme poverty in and around Indianapolis. Celebrating their remarkable ten-year milestone, Food 4 Souls brings compassion and practical support to those in need. Discover how their unique mobile outreach vehicle, a retrofitted school bus, acts as an anchor point, delivering nourishing meals, essential supplies, and fostering a sense of community. Vickie shares heartfelt stories of connection and collaboration with other organizations, emphasizing the power of...
2023-06-0150 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 8 - Renewing Hope: Empowering Homeless Veterans with April Vail of HVAFJoin us for a deeply moving conversation with April Vail, of HVAF (Helping Veterans and Families), as she illuminates her role and the organization's unwavering dedication to assisting those who have served our country. A Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) Case Manager, she brings firsthand experiences and insights into what it takes to help veterans regain stability. She also discusses the expansive housing and supportive services HVAF provides, bringing life-saving opportunities to those who need it most. April highlights the importance of addressing underlying issues that contribute to homelessness, and the pressing struggles faced by veterans with progressive men...
2023-05-2047 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 7 - Love Walks Alongside: Supporting Youth and Young Adults with Kelsie Stringham-Marquis of Outreach IndianaKelsie Stringham-Marquis, Outreach Indiana’s Director of Community Partnerships, discusses the organization's mission to equip and empower Youth and Young Adults (YYA) experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Outreach Indiana provides necessities such as shower facilities, laundry, hot meals, a clothing pantry, hygiene items, and group programming, all in a drop-in center model where anyone can show up. Kelsie emphasizes the importance of building relationships and creating a healthy power dynamic between service providers and clients. The episode highlights the power of love in action and the impact of Outreach Indiana's relational approach to transforming lives, as well as Kelsie’s jo...
2023-05-0259 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 6 - Becoming an Effective Board Member: Insights from CHIP Board Chair Scott SheehanJoin us as we sit down with Scott Sheehan, Chairman of the CHIP Board, to discuss his experiences as a board member for Horizon House and CHIP. Scott shares his insights on the importance of surrounding yourself with compassionate and intelligent people, and how this led him to become involved in the fight against homelessness. We dive into the role of CHIP as a backbone agency for the many organizations working to provide care and support to those experiencing homelessness in the community. Scott also highlights the importance of supporting and compensating those who work in the C...
2023-04-1854 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 5 - Unlocking Affordable Housing Beyond Crisis: Greg Stocking Speaks on Landlord Engagement and Collaborative ActionGreg Stocking, Vice President of Rental Assistance Programs at RDOOR Housing Corporation (formerly Merchant's Affordable Housing), talks with Steve about HomeNow Indy's efforts to expand affordable housing and engage landlords in providing rental subsidies. They discuss the significance of alignment and collaboration in crisis response, especially in the context of the pandemic era. Greg emphasizes the critical role of early decisions and resource allocation in saving lives and achieving long-term outcomes. In closing, Elliot shares a story that highlights the challenges and traumas involved in crisis response work, but also the value of authentic apologies and collaboration in making...
2023-04-0148 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 4 - Housing is a Human Right: The Damien Center, AIDS Services, and Beyond with Karsyn MohlerKarsyn Mohler, the Continuum of Care Housing Program manager at the Damien Center, reflects on harm reduction, navigating housing discrimination, his experiences in working with clients and explains the services and programs found in Indiana’s oldest and largest AIDS service organization. He also discusses his passion for helping the underdog and how his experience working with individuals with special needs led him to his current role. Karsyn shares his belief that housing is a human right and explains the impact that homelessness can have on individuals, including the use of substances as a survival mechanism. Tune in to he...
2023-03-1546 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 3 - Journey to Health and Home: Tawana Johnson and Theresa Patterson of Gennesaret Free ClinicsJoin us as we talk with Tawana Johnson and Theresa Patterson, two incredible women making a difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness and medical crises. Tawana shares her journey as a social worker, leading to her current role as the director of Health Recovery Homes. Theresa sheds light on the heartbreaking reality of people dying in tents on the streets and her drive to help them through her role as the executive director of Gennesaret Free Clinics. They discuss the importance of medical respite care, clean living environments, case management, and nursing care in helping those who...
2023-03-0140 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 2 - Kindness and Purpose: An Extraordinary Conversation with Housing Specialist Barb WilliamsJoin us in this episode as we sit down with Barb Williams, a housing extraordinaire with a true heart for ending homelessness. She shares her perspective on the system and her recent work with Merchant's Affordable Housing. Barb reminds us that there's always something we can do to help those in need, and she shares practical ways to make a difference. Listen in as we explore how kindness and purpose can change lives and make our communities stronger.Join us on the journey homeward by supporting and/or volunteering atMerchants Affordable Housing
2023-02-1445 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 1 - Breaking Down Barriers: A Conversation with Lindsay Leonhard of the Homeless Initiative ProgramJoin us for an enlightening discussion with Lindsay Leonhard, Entry Point Team Supervisor at the Homeless Initiative Program (HIP), as she shares her decade of experience working towards ending homelessness. Host Steve asks after the nuances of the Housing First philosophy, Coordinated Entry, and the crucial need for affordable housing for all. Lindsay sheds light on how HIP provides vital resources, and highlights the key elements that lead to a successful career in the field. From resource connections to quick thinking, tune in to learn how Lindsay and her team break down barriers and help people in crisis. Don't...
2023-02-0144 min
Homeward IndyEpisode 0 - Homeward Indy Introductions: Exploring CHIP and the Indianapolis Continuum of Care with Elliot Zans and Steve BarnhartIn the first episode of Homeward Indy, Host Steve Barnhart interviews Elliot Zans, the HMIS Technical Assistance Coordinator for CHIP and co-producer of the podcast. They share their backgrounds and how Steve's passion for helping those experiencing homelessness led him to CHIP, Elliot, and the creation of Homeward Indy. Elliot provides an overview of the Continuum of Care and explains how CHIP serves as the Backbone Entity, HMIS Lead, and Coordinated Entry System (CES) Lead. They discuss the important role that CHIP plays in partnering with media, policy initiatives, and various agencies to meet the needs of the community...
2023-02-0136 min