Struggle Made Us, Inc

Struggle Made Us, Inc. is an Indianapolis-based nonprofit organization established in 2020 to support the social and emotional development of young people, strengthen social capital, and advance educational equity. Through its flagship program, Struggle University, the organization provides trauma-informed mentoring and mental health education for youth ages 6–18. The program prioritizes students of color, particularly Black youth, while maintaining an inclusive environment where every participant feels heard, affirmed, and respected.

Struggle University creates safe, supportive spaces where young people can identify and discuss trauma, develop healthy coping strategies, and build meaningful relationships grounded in trust and accountability. Through facilitated group discussions, restorative practices, personal reflection, mentorship, and leadership activities, participants strengthen their self-awareness, emotional regulation, communication, resilience, and conflict-resolution skills. Youth learn to recognize harmful patterns, process difficult experiences, manage stress and anxiety, and draw upon their peers and community as resources for healing.

Funding is needed to sustain and expand Struggle University programming so that more Indianapolis youth can participate at no cost. Grant funds would support trained facilitators and mentors, curriculum and program materials, participant recruitment, program evaluation, transportation, educational and cultural experiences, and graduation activities. Funding would also provide wraparound assistance including groceries, clothing, school supplies, college tours, application fees, and other essential resources—that helps remove financial and practical barriers affecting participating youth and their families.

This investment would allow Struggle Made Us to serve additional youth, establish more community-based program sites, strengthen post-program support, and create more opportunities for graduates to become peer leaders. By combining mental health education, practical coping tools, mentoring, and community support, Struggle University equips young people with the relationships, confidence, and skills they need to heal, grow, and thrive.