Program Type
Academic programs
Work-based learning programs
Ages Served:
12-18 Years
19-25 Years
Overview
Brief Program Summary: From its earliest beginnings, Marian University has had a legacy of
providing high quality educational opportunities to the community in which it lives. Founded in
1851, by the Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Indiana, Marian University’s Franciscan Values of
dignity of the individual, peace and justice, reconciliation, and responsible stewardship have
taught us to live out our heritage through service to our community. Project Build, a community
outreach arm of Klipsch Educator’s College, is one example of how Marian University community
initiatives are making a difference in the lives of our neighbors.
Through funding from the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, Project Build partners
with EmployIndy, local community centers and nonprofits to bring high quality educational
opportunities to adults living in Indianapolis’ lowest resource areas. Project Build intentionally
embeds itself in low resource areas working collaboratively with community partners such as
EmployIndy, Edna Martin Christian Center, PACE Recovery Resource Center, Flanner House,
Mary Rigg Neighborhood Center, Turner Housing, The Construction Roundtable Foundation, and
Hope Center Indy. Project Build and its partners deliver academic and occupational training
services where they are needed the most, helping community members earn their high school
equivalency diploma, obtain an industry recognized entry-level certificate in a high demand field,
or gain the literacy and math skills needed to enter postsecondary education.
Success Metrics: During Program Year 2020-2021, Project Build served 203 students with the
following results: 90% completed workforce development training including workplace readiness
skills; 72% earned industry recognized certifications; 71% earned High School Equivalency
Diplomas.
Demographics
Number Served & Racial Distribution:
Total Number of Individuals Annually Served
200
Black or African Americans Annually Served
64%
Hispanic or Latinos Annually Served
11%
Geographic Scope:
− Central Indiana Counties: Marion
− Additional/Other Areas of Focus: N/A
Resources
Annual Operating Cost: $500,000
Initial Start-Up Cost: $500,000
Contact Information
Organization Name: Marian University
Website: https://www.marian.edu/educators-college/community-outreach/project-build
Respondents Name: Judy Bardonner
Email: jbardonner@marian.edu