About Us

It’s About Investing in Our Future

Our Mission

YMI actively engages Hamilton Southeastern School students by nurturing positive relationships with a caring adult mentor to inspire future generations and build a better community.

Our Vision

Every student in Hamilton Southeastern School District is supported by a caring adult mentor that inspires personal growth.

OUR VALUES

Empathy

We are compassionate, understanding, and supportive.

Dependability

We show up and do what we say we are going to do.

Inspiration

We are committed to service and relationships that inspires personal growth.

Inclusivity

We respect and welcome all people, value diversity, and are committed to making sure YMI mentoring is a safe place for all.

Integrity

We are honest, reliable, and ethical.

Our Programs

Youth Mentoring Initiative (YMI) is a school-based mentoring program, partnered with the Hamilton Southeastern School District, that seeks to empower youth through quality mentoring relationships. Volunteer mentors meet one-on-one each week with their mentee at their student’s school to develop a relationship, provide a consistent listening ear, promote positive and healthy life choices, and reduce risks associated with anti-social behavior and social isolation. YMI currently mentors at Hamilton Southeastern elementary, intermediate, junior high, and high schools, with additional offerings at FOCUS Day and Hamilton Southeastern Fishers Academy. 

History of YMI

YMI was created in 2008 (first as Community First Initiative) by Darren Heil as a way to bring the community around the local school district to create specialized mentor programs to meet the social and emotional needs of students. With limited resources and small counseling departments, schools and students benefit from community volunteers getting involved and playing a role in the growth and development of students.