Thriving Neighbors: Sharing the ThriveFunds Mission, Generating Awareness, and Supporting Donor Education

In this episode, we host an inspiring conversation with Julie Petr, Executive Director of Dress for Success Indianapolis, and Marion Muthama, Career Pathways Navigator Program Manager. We explore how professional certifications like the CMAA can be life-changing, and the vital role donors play in making these opportunities possible.

In this episode of Thriving Neighbors, we’re joined by Alex Horowitz, Director of The Pew Charitable Trusts’ Housing Policy Initiative, for a deep dive into the realities—and possibilities—of housing in America. He explores why homeownership is inaccessible to many working families, the growing burdens renters face, and how outdated systems—like restrictive zoning, burdensome building codes, and costly permitting processes—are blocking progress in too many communities. But it’s not all grim.  

On this episode of Thriving Neighbors Podcast, we bring you the incredible, real-life journey of Bettiana "Betty" Cassimir—a powerhouse of resilience, faith, and determination. From the vibrant streets of Haiti to the heart of Indianapolis, Betty's story is one of strength, sacrifice, and unwavering love. As a devoted single mother, dedicated church member, and hardworking personal care assistant, she knows what it means to hustle while holding onto hope. Betty opens up about the challenges of losing her mother at a young age, stepping up to care for her siblings, and navigating the trials of starting over in a new country.

In this episode, Corey Parchman, a former NFL player and current entrepreneur, speaker, educator, and philanthropist, discusses how the Fathers & Families Center helps men in the community become better fathers for their children with the help of ThriveFunds. He shares intimate details about his upbringing, his road to becoming a philanthropist, his direct involvement with Fathers & Families, and the impact the Center has on the community. Corey also highlights the importance of ThriveFunds' accessibility to hardworking people at different stages of life and emphasizes that Thrive allows donors to know exactly who they are supporting.

In this episode, we speak with Kathleen Estrada, a ThriveFunds's case manager who works directly with clients through the John Boner Neighborhood Center. She speaks on what brought her to this type of work and the success of the people supported by the John Boner Neighborhood Centers and ThriveFunds.Learn more at www.thrivefunds.org.