INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Neighborhood Resource Center (INRC) recently announced that it has recognized four organizations for their efforts in 2020 to support neighborhoods and improve equity and access in Marion County.
Pathways over Pogue’s (POP) received the Collaborative Spirit Award. In its 15th year, the Collaborative Spirit Award is presented annually to a community project that celebrates unique partnerships across a neighborhood.
Pathways Over Pogue’s was created in 2017 to restore the Nowland Ave. bridge on the Near Eastside that connects Spades and Brookside Parks. The historic bridge, which was built in 1903 and has fallen into significant disrepair, is a key connector for Near Eastside neighbors and three neighborhood schools. POP volunteers activated quickly, raising funds, cleaning up and maintaining the bridge, recruiting volunteers, and researching ways to complete the Pogue’s Run Trail.
Through a number of fundraisers, more than 255 donors have raised more than $165,000 to restore the bridge. The project’s partners represent Near Eastside neighborhoods, philanthropic organizations and corporate entities, many of which have dedicated financial and other resources to support POP’s efforts. Ultimately, POP envisions an active park atmosphere that is a community connector while spurring redevelopment in the area.
The award’s selection process involved INRC and previous award recipients. Pathways Over Pogue’s also will receive a small cash award. INRC now will nominate POP for a national award from Neighborhoods, USA (NUSA).
INRC also is recognizing three additional organizations with the “Good Neighbor” award for their efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic and their work to lift up equity and access throughout the city. These recipients are:
• Sahm Restaurant Group. Sahm’s Satellite Kitchen temporarily expanded Second Helpings’ capacity beyond the limits of its production facility during the COVID-19 crisis. Sahm’s and the Big Lug Canteen family used its capacity to prepare meals for homebound low-income seniors and families who were faced with hunger during the pandemic.
• Near Northwest Faith Partners, Flanner House and Near Northwest Community. When the pandemic struck, faith partners, not-for-profits, and neighbors quickly came together in Riverside and across the Near Northwest side. The Near Northwest community, Flanner House and Near Northwest Faith partners delivered hot meals and creatively met the individual needs of residents, from mental health support, employment opportunities and important community connections.
• Immigrant Welcome Center, Natural Helpers. The need for services across immigrant and refugee communities intensified when the coronavirus pandemic hit. The Center and its 14 year-old Natural Helpers program were ready, activating fellow non-profits and working with community centers and activist groups to ensure our community’s immigrant and refugees were supported during this challenging time.
