Read about our news and latest updates.

$140,000 Grant Award Winner

We've been awarded a generous grant from Impact 100 Southern Indiana, and we couldn't be more excited to share how it will make a difference in the lives of the children and youth we serve at Open Door!

With this grant, we will be able to:

• Upgrade Our Dorms

• Purchase Two New Passenger Vans

   

This grant is more than financial support; it's a testament to the power of unity and community. These changes are made possible through an Impact 100 Southern Indiana grant from the Women's Foundation of Southern Indiana, which is a component fund of the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana. Stay tuned as we embark on these transformative projects, and thank you for being a part of our journey. Together, we can continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of those who need it most.

Nonprofit Program of the Year Award

We are thrilled and honored to share the exciting news that we have been named One Southern Indiana and Centra Credit Union's Nonprofit Program of the Year. This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our incredible staff, who consistently show up and go above and beyond every day. Their commitment has truly made this achievement possible. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who took the time to cast their votes in support of our organization. This award not only belongs to us but also to the community that stands with us in our mission. Thank you for your ongoing support and belief in the positive impact of our work!

We are thankful we get to meet the most engaging and resilient children all the time; we are thankful we get to do exactly what we love to do by serving children; and we are thankful to have the opportunity to use all of our talents and creativity while doing this. We are thankful to have amazing staff, board members, and supporters who help us reach our goals, including everything from undeniable improvements in the lives of the children we serve to accreditation from CARF. Lastly, we are incredibly thankful to all of the youth we served in the past who stay in touch and remind us that our relationships are valuable to all of us!

Leah Pezzarossi

Executive Director

We've just launched our brand-new Instagram page, and we'd love for you to be a part of our online community! Follow us on Instagram to stay up-to-date with our latest updates, inspiring stories, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into our mission of empowering youth. Simply click the "Follow" button to join our journey and show your support for our cause. Your presence makes a world of difference, and we can't wait to connect with you on Instagram!

Get Credit on your Taxes

Indiana's Housing & Community Development Authority's (IHCDA) Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) is a program of the State of Indiana that provides $2.5 million tax credits annually to non-profit organizations like us, for distribution as a fundraising tool. The program was created by Indiana Code 6-3.1-9. NAP credits are worth 50% of the value of a donation/contribution made to us by you. This means that a $200 donation to us nets a $100 tax credit for you. If you would like to know more or donate and receive a tax credit, click the learn more button below.

$20,000 Gym Update for November

In the month of November, our gym's new epoxy floor has had time to fully cure and set. We are adding our final finishing touches to this project and we can't wait to reveal the final look! We are still waiting on some minor touches to complete the project. Our heartfelt appreciation goes out once again to The Caesars Foundation of Floyd County, as well as to our gracious donors whose invaluable contributions have propelled this project to its current success.

Staff Spotlight

Anita Mayfield

Child Care Worker

Anita is celebrating 10 years of service with Open Door Youth Services this month! Her nurturing spirit and genuine care have been a source of comfort and support for countless children under our care. Her decade of service is a testament to the positive impact she's made on our nonprofit family.

Service Spotlight

With a referral by the Indiana Department of Child Services or Juvenile Probation, children and families can receive various types of psychological testing. This testing can help to determine the right intervention for children as soon as possible, keeping them from being shuffled around between various programs. Dr. Tony Sheppard is a Certified Group Psychotherapist and has provided statewide training to direct care staff in youth self-harm and youth suicidality. He can provide:

• Screens for mental health diagnoses and personality traits that might contribute to problems.

• IQ testing that provides insight into the client's cognitive functioning level.

• Administration of clinical and parenting measures to determine parenting abilities.

• Trauma scales that assist in determining the potential impacts of past or suspected trauma.

Looking to Help Out?

We are proud to provide numerous opportunities for our community to make a positive impact through our organization. We offer a wide range of opportunities for both donations and volunteering, aiming to engage individuals who are passionate about giving back to their communities and vulnerable youth. By following the links below, you will find various ways to contribute, whether it be through monetary donations, in-kind support, or actively participating in volunteer opportunities. Together, we can create meaningful change and inspire a better future.

November Volunteer Opportunities:

Painting - Help spruce up our facility by painting various walls, trim, and doors that need some TLC.

Donation Drive - Hold a fundraiser for our facility or help collect donations of personal care items, office supplies, art supplies, etc.

Professional Services - Know of any professional carpet/floor cleaners or repairmen who are willing to donate their services for free? Contact us on our website or through the link below.

Get in Touch