United Way’s Human Services Professional Renewal Grant helps people bring fresh ideas, energy back to the sector
Steve Dillon, director of the Excel Center at Goodwill, loves his job. But even he admits, “It’s draining. I take on my students’ concerns and carry them with me every single day. I don’t want to stop working – I just don’t want to wear down.”
Thanks to United Way’s Human Services Professional Renewal Grant, Steve can take a much-needed break. This grant – made possible by the financial support of Lilly Endowment, Inc. – aims to provide opportunities to reinvigorate professionals so they can bring fresh ideas and energy back to the human services sector.
On Sept. 26, 2023, United Way of Central Indiana hosted Steve, his fellow recipients and their loved ones to celebrate their hard work and dedication to the human services sector, while also sharing in the excitement of their upcoming renewal activities.
Each recipient will receive up to $10,000 to engage in a variety of activities that provide them professional and personal renewal.
The recipients of this grant have big plans, from taking an eight-day Viking Ocean Voyage centered around practicing mindfulness to a “EuroTherapy” trip to learn how leading countries in the world address mental health. Steve will spend his renewal hiking the Grand Canyon and white-water rafting. He said it feels like he has already started his trip and has immersed himself in reading about and planning for the experience.
“We are thrilled to be able to support 29 human service professionals in their personal and professional renewal this year,” said Isaac Mervis, United Way’s organizational development director. “Given the physically, mentally and emotionally taxing nature of their work, renewal is critical for the health and well-being of human services professionals. With an average of 23 years in the sector and 12 years at their current organization, it is truly a privilege to reward these individuals for their unwavering commitment and remarkable contributions to the human services sector in Central Indiana.”
United Way of Central Indiana is grateful for the investment each recipient has made in our community, and we know their efforts are an important part of helping those in Central Indiana strive for a brighter future. It is our hope that through the Human Services Professional Renewal Program, our dedicated partners can relax, rejuvenate and continue making a positive impact on our neighbors for years to come.