In 2012, our three founders, who were just 17, 18, and 22 at the time, were volunteering at a local after-school program on the east side of Indianapolis. When that program suddenly closed its doors, they knew a gap was being left behind, and they couldn’t ignore it. Fueled more by heart than by a formal plan, they decided to start a program of their own. They always say they were too naïve to know how hard it would be, and that’s probably the only reason it worked out

They had no funding, limited experience, and barely any idea how to run a nonprofit, but they had heart. And that heart led them to action. They launched a grassroots program with what they had, utilizing local libraries, parks, and any free space they could find to gather students, play games, read books, and continue the relationships they’d started.

They were young, and in many ways, they grew up alongside the program. As the kids got older, so did they. They learned, adapted, and built Like a Lion one relationship, one summer, and one after-school day at a time. What started with a handful of students has now grown into a full-fledged organization, but the heart of it remains the same: show up, stay consistent, and remind every child they are deeply known and fiercely loved.

Today, Like a Lion is a thriving, relationship-driven program serving students through our after-school program and summer camp. What began as a small idea has become a trusted presence on the east side of Indianapolis. It is a place where kids are known by name, supported in their educational journey, and surrounded by caring relationships. We now run out of Otterbein United Methodist Church, which has become a second home to many of our students. After more than a decade of showing up, we’ve seen the long-term impact of our program firsthand—from students graduating and heading to college to kids who started with us as first graders returning as volunteers and eventually serving on staff. Like a Lion has grown into something we’re incredibly proud of, and we’re just getting started.