Getting Ahead is 16 weeks of intensive engagement within a nurturing educational setting, guided by experienced facilitators. Participants, referred to as "investigators," are encouraged to examine their own experience of poverty and analyze community issues contributing to it. Each session is supplemented with a $25 gift card incentive, accompanied by dinner and childcare services. Furthermore, biweekly groceries aid in building their pantry resources.

Facilitators steer investigators through a comprehensive self-assessment of their existing resources, empowering them to reinforce these assets on their path toward self-sufficiency. Getting Ahead empowers individuals struggling with poverty by equipping them with helpful concepts, tools, and relationships to effect positive change in their lives and their communities.

All programs are free of charge unless indicated.

The Poverty Simulation offers a powerful, three-hour immersive experience through role-playing, shedding light on the daily realities faced by families and individuals residing in or near the poverty line in Indiana. Participants step into a simulation created to reveal the trials and tribulations of our neighbors struggling with the heavy task of providing for their households. There is a fee for this program.

The Community Food Experience is a dynamic 90-minute simulation where participants represent a neighbor facing a health challenge. They must navigate real-life obstacles, managing a tight budget while meeting nutritional needs. This immersive experience sheds light on the complexities of hunger and the impact of food insecurity on daily life. There is a fee for this program.

Can I Move Out is a workshop that empowers young adults to independently assess their readiness for independent living. Covering essential topics such as utility expenses, security deposits, household supply costs, apartment hunting, budget creation, affordable housing resources, SMART goal setting, and lease examination, participants gain comprehensive insight into the intricacies of moving out. Tailored to the level of student engagement, the workshop can be 60 to 120 minutes, allowing ample time for exploration and discussion of each topic.

Hard Choices is a versatile interactive game offering adaptability for both team-based and individual play, accommodating durations ranging from a quick 15 minutes to a more extensive 90-minute session.

Dive into the Survive poverty simulation, a fast-paced, tabletop experience where Smarties candies are your currency. Make critical social class decisions such as one candy for a homeless shelter, two candies for a basic one-bedroom apartment, or three candies for a two-bedroom with amenities. With eight categories and only 15 candies, can you strategize to make the best choices? Challenge yourself and see if you can survive! Finally, justify your resource selections through a lead discussion.

Through our partnership with Indy Hunger Network, Second Harvest offers Cooking Matters, empowering individuals with cooking skills and nutritional knowledge. This program addresses hunger and nutrition disparities while fostering self-sufficiency and confidence. Participants learn to make healthier, budget-friendly choices alongside qualified instructors. Taking home groceries to practice reinforces lessons and extends the impact beyond the class.

The THRIVE Network Coaching, funded by Heart of Indiana United Way, supports individuals living paycheck to paycheck despite being employed. Participants commit to financial and/or employment/education goals for their themselves and their families. THRIVE offers this free coaching with an average engagement of 18 months.

Navigating SNAP applications can be challenging, so Second Harvest’s SNAP Application Assistance Program is here to assist. We offer eligibility prescreening, application guidance, and helpful resources.

The Ally Program serves as a bridge between community members and graduates of the Getting Ahead program. Getting Ahead, a robust 16-week initiative, empowering participants, known as "investigators," to delve into their personal experiences of poverty and explore community issues related to poverty.

Through the Ally Program, investigators are paired with ally partners from the community, fostering a supportive network and facilitating resource-building opportunities. This program not only aids investigators in their journey towards self-sufficiency but also enables community members to deepen their awareness, empathy, and understanding of the impact of poverty within our community.

Ally partners in the program are volunteers from diverse backgrounds and economic levels, united by their shared commitment to supporting others on their path to self-sufficiency. While they do not offer financial assistance, allies provide invaluable emotional support and practical assistance through networking and resource-building efforts. Communication frequency and interaction methods are determined collaboratively between the ally and investigator, with activities varying based on individual needs and preferences.

In partnership with their ally, investigators embark on a journey towards self-sufficiency, nurturing a reciprocal relationship that facilitates the development of social capital within the community. Allies serve as guides and mentors, offering advice and accountability to help investigators achieve their goals. Together, they navigate challenges and celebrate successes, fostering a supportive environment conducive to growth and empowerment.