Blog - Peace Learning Center

4 10, 2022

Board Member Spotlight – October 2022

Brandi Metzger2022-10-04T09:40:04-04:00October 4th, 2022|Tags: board member, volunteer|

Meet Tom Mould Please provide 2-3 sentences about yourself (where you work/go to school, hobbies) I am a professor of Anthropology and Folklore at Butler University. Outside the classroom, my favorite way to unplug is to lose myself backpacking for days at a time, or in a good book. What is it about PLC’s work that appeals to you? I love the mission of the PLC to situate peace and justice at the center of everything we do. Working with youth as well as adults helps ensure that the work PLC does is introduced early, and reiterated throughout our lives. After all, working towards peace, equity, and justice is an on-going process that requires constant effort and vigilance. I also appreciate that so much of the work is process and strategy driven. PLC’s work is eminently applicable and relevant. Sometimes in higher ed we can get caught up in abstract principles that are important to consider but difficult to apply. PLC puts research to practice in powerful, useful ways that never lose sight of the very real, very complicated, and very flawed world we live in without ever losing hope that we can make that world a better, more just place to live. What kind of work are you doing with PLC? I’m new to the board and still finding my way around, but I’m part of the Culture, HR and Equity group working on the strategic plan to

30 09, 2022

Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month 2022

Brandi Metzger2022-09-30T12:54:47-04:00September 30th, 2022|Tags: awareness, community, education, indianapolis, Mindfulness, Social and Emotional Learning, social justice|

Peace Learning Center joins the nation in celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 - October 15). We believe this country is made greater by the culture, history, and contributions of Hispanic Americans. In this blog we have included 1.) a brief explanation of terms, 2.) local groups whose work center the Hispanic community, and 3.) local events where we can join others in celebrating this special time! 1. Terms Hispanic refers to people of Spanish-speaking origin. “Hispanic” is an ethnicity. The term was adopted in the 1970s by the U.S. government to try to classify people from Latin America under a common identity (NPR). Under federal policy, Hispanic is not a race. However, many multiracial Americans consider their Hispanic background as part of their race (Pew). Latino (grammatically masculine) or Latina (grammatically feminine) refers to people residing in the U.S. who are of Latin-American descent (NPR). Some use Latinx or Latine as gender-neutral terms. “Brazilians are Latino because the country is located in Latin America. But Brazilians aren’t considered Hispanic because the country’s primary language is Portuguese. Meanwhile, Latinx identity brings together people in South and Central America, who may share a history of Spanish colonization, but that category isn’t defined by having Spanish-speaking ancestry,” (Vox). 2. Local Groups La Plaza OUR MISSION: La Plaza strengthens Central Indiana by advocating and preparing Latino students for educational success and by connecting Latino families to health and social services. OUR

9 09, 2022

Celebrating 25 Years of Peacemaking

Brandi Metzger2022-09-09T13:46:01-04:00September 9th, 2022|

Peace Learning Center was surrounded by friends, family, and community members on Saturday, August 27th to commemorate 25 years since our founding. Support from the community resulted in more than $50,000 raised to support youth in Indianapolis. The event was made possible by funding from: Efroymson Family Fund CNO Financial Group Eskenazi Health Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum Citizens Energy Group Christian Theological Seminary Indianapolis Airport Authority Epsilon Xi Glick Philanthropies Pacers Sports & Entertainment Additional support for the event provided by: Butler University Subaru Automotive of Indiana Earth Charter Indiana Among those present for the celebration included Americorps alums who served at PLC. One Americorp alum, Dee Radford, recalled how the social and workforce skills she taught youth at PLC became applicable in her nonprofit work after Americorps. "Thank you for the opportunity to allow me to express myself and bring other people into this realm of peacefulness," Rad said. Jessica Brand, board member, emphasized the importance of our mission and vision. Founder and CEO Tim Nation explained Peace Learning Center's advocacy for restorative disciplinary actions in schools built on “love and respect” rather than “fear and intimidation.” "What we’ve been trying to do is work directly with young people to teach them how to have healthy relationships. And how to deal with conflicts and differences,” Nation said. Deputy Mayor Judith Thomas presented the PLC team with a proclamation, on behalf of Mayor Joe Hogsett, declaring August 27th, 2022

9 09, 2022

Board Member Spotlight – September 2022

Brandi Metzger2022-09-09T13:32:24-04:00September 9th, 2022|Tags: board member, volunteer|

Meet Bernard Mickle Please provide 2-3 sentences about yourself (where you work/go to school, hobbies) Chicago Native who is an Indy transient. Proud graduate from Indianapolis Public Schools. Took my talents to Indiana University, where I graduated with a degree in Social Work. I have served over 15 years in urban community engagement work. Currently serving as the Office of Public Health & Safety Chief Violence Reduction Officer, Program Manager. My hobbies are hanging out with my wife and 2 children, working out and getting time with my friends. What is it about PLC’s work that appeals to you? PLC diversity/inclusivity work that engages in prevention appeals to me the most. Being that I was impacted by the work of PLC as an elementary student truly played a part in changing my life as a young person. What kind of work are you doing with PLC? I want my personal and professional experiences to serve as an asset to our board. With that being said, I hope to impact programming and be a connector for PLC. Can you tell us a memorable experience or something you have learned during your time with PLC? Being that I am new, my most memorable experience was the board orientation. Learning more in depth about PLC and all the work that we are doing was amazing. PLC has been a change agent that has proved its value in how it adapts and changes

14 06, 2022

Meet Director of Community CARE, Anita Jackson

Brandi Metzger2022-06-27T16:09:21-04:00June 14th, 2022|Tags: PLC staff|

Meet Anita Jackson, Director of Community CARE* *Community, Advocacy, Reconciliation, and Engagement Let’s start with the easy stuff – give us a sample of your professional background and experience. My academic background is in education. I got my Bachelor’s degree in Education from IUPUI and taught for about 4 years. I recently returned to IUPUI to pursue my MPA in Nonprofit Management. In my 11 years of nonprofit experience, I have held direct-service and leadership positions. Some of the organizations I have worked at are the Brightwood Community Center, YMCA of Greater Indianapolis, Eskenazi Heath, Families First, and Catholic Charities Indianapolis. What brought you to PLC? It’s always been a dream of mine to work at PLC. I became familiar with PLC as a teacher and was impressed with the conflict resolution programs and curriculum. The Director of Community CARE position was appealing to me because it would allow me the opportunity to build community collaborations and provide an opportunity for young people to be more successful in their school endeavors. What are you most excited about in your new role? There are so many things I am looking forward to doing in this role. I am most excited to collaborate with other agencies like Reach for Youth, the Boys and Girls Clubs, Edna Martin Community Center, and external partners on this project. What’s your idea of a perfect day? My perfect day would

23 05, 2022

Volunteer of the Month – May

Brandi Metzger2022-05-24T15:42:24-04:00May 23rd, 2022|Tags: volunteer, volunteer of the month, volunteering|

Kay Tawney "About 8 years ago, I retired from the healthcare field. My time is spent reading, gardening, travelling, and enjoying the birds who come to my feeders. In this time of conflict in our country and in the world, PLC's mission as a catalyst for peace, equity and justice is severely needed. I am proud to do my part in small ways that help administration contribute to that cause. It's been wonderful to watch spring unfold at Eagle Creek." Kay, Peace Learning Center thanks you for helping us strive towards our mission.

21 04, 2022

Board Member Spotlight – April 2022

Brandi Metzger2022-05-01T14:09:23-04:00April 21st, 2022|Tags: board member, volunteer|

Meet Robin G. Jackson, M.A. Please provide 2-3 sentences about yourself (where you work/go to school, hobbies) I am a Doctoral Candidate in Urban Education Studies, in the IUPUI School of Education. I am also a Doctoral Research Assistant at the Midwest & Plains Equity Assistance Center (MAP Center). My current hobbies include binging true crime/horror shows, documentaries, and podcasts. You know. To relax. What is it about PLC’s work that appeals to you? My own work with the MAP Center involves assisting in providing technical assistance to state and local education agencies across a 13-state region—which encompasses guiding our partners through developing antiracist and anti-oppressive practices to better serve all students, but minoritized students in particular. PLC’s work is in this wheelhouse, which is what drew me in. I appreciate the ongoing work PLC is willing to do to ensure they are honoring its vision of becoming an anti-racist organization. Anti-racism is a journey, not a destination. I believe this sentiment is understood, lessons are learned and internalized, and the discomfort is welcomed. What kind of work are you doing with PLC? I have been a board member since Spring 2019. I bring with me criticality and a repository of equity-centered resources—both that have been afforded to me through my Doctoral training, in conjunction with an immersion in scholarship and technical assistance at the MAP Center. Can you tell us a memorable experience or something you have learned

11 03, 2022

Meet Director of Development, Joe Gunn

Brandi Metzger2022-03-11T17:29:08-05:00March 11th, 2022|Tags: PLC staff, SEL, Social & Emotional Learning|

Let’s start with the easy stuff – give us a sample of your professional background and experience. I have over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. I’ve worked in youth development, fundraising, disability services, and advocacy. I’ve also served on many advisory committees and a few boards of directors. My first nonprofit job was at CYO Camp Rancho Framasa in Brown County. I did a little bit of every program for the organization over the years, but my favorite job was supporting youth with disabilities. The programs there are designed to ensure all children are fully included in all aspects of the program. I also recently finished a Master of Public Affairs in Nonprofit Management from IUPUI. It was great to take my past nonprofit experience and connect it to theory and best practice. I also made sure to keep a critical eye on norms in the sector that do not support diversity, equity, justice, and inclusion. What brought you to PLC? I first heard about the Peace Learning Center through my good friend Kelly Hannon. She attended Peace Learning Center programs while in high school and reconnected with PLC as a high school educator pursuing a master’s degree at IUPUI. I connected with their organization and did a presentation for PLC staff on disability diversity, equity, and inclusion with my previous nonprofit employer, accessABILITY. After finishing my master’s degree, I was looking to

11 03, 2022

Meet Grants and Communications Manager, Brandi Metzger

Brandi Metzger2022-03-11T17:24:17-05:00March 11th, 2022|Tags: PLC staff, SEL, Social & Emotional Learning|

Let’s start with the easy stuff – give us a sample of your professional background and experience. I have been a writer for as long as I can remember. I earned a Bachelor’s in creative writing from Oberlin College in northern Ohio. My professional journey has been very diverse: copywriting, research, animal caretaking, environmental stewardship, teaching, film and live-show production assistantship, and a few other hats. My service as an AmeriCorps Public Ally instilled a sense of confidence that I could be a leader in my community. I am passionate about finding creative ways for us all to understand the beautifully complex world around us. What brought you to PLC? Having experienced its programming in my youth, I was already a fan of PLC’s work. I believe PLC is an environment in which I can continue the work I love (bringing people together for the common good) while also gaining a wealth of peaceful practices that will serve me wherever I go. What are you most excited about in your new role? I am looking forward to maintaining and strengthening the relationships between PLC and its internal and external communities through effective communication. What’s your idea of a perfect day? A picnic and walk with my cat in a wide-open field in the morning, writing a funny script in the afternoon, and talking with friends under the stars long into the night. If we pushed play

4 03, 2022

Join Our Team, Community Care

Jay Horan2022-03-04T14:42:48-05:00March 4th, 2022|Tags: PLC staff, SEL, Social & Emotional Learning|

Please send cover letters and resumes to Lisa Jones at Ljones@peacelearningcenter.org Job Title: Director of Community CARE Status: Full Time - Exempt Reports to: Associate Director Salary: $45,000 - $55,000 annually Primary Function/Purpose: Intentional advocacy activities through community, advocacy, reconciliation, and empowerment will help to achieve systemic change while expanding PLC’s impact. Advocacy creates a cycle of support for PLC’s direct service offerings through its program pillars. In this cycle, advocacy not only uplifts the voices of clients but increases PLC’s visibility in many different spheres of influence, allowing for innovative ideas, new funding streams, and media visibility. Position Responsibilities: • Be able to work with Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and other government and community organizations. • Be able to effectively work with Marion County Superior Court Juvenile Justice System, including Parole and Probation Departments. • Effectively interact with all levels of socio-economic communities. • Support Associate Director in additional duties as requested • Cross train PLC Program Facilitators in family programming • Ensure completion of monthly reports and evaluations from participants in programs and community meeting outcomes. • Develops a yearly Peace Education Conference in collaboration with the Associate Director. • Facilitates SEL, Equity, and Restorative Practices workshops. • Build strong relationships with contacts and other potential clients • Employ appropriate and respectful behavior management skills with those served • Continuous development of new knowledge and improvement