Together, we can catalyze opportunities and futures that will lift up Indianapolis not only today — but in generations to come.
Text 'MLKCENTER' to 44-321 to donate.
Our Neighborhood
The MLK Center is the heartbeat of southern Butler-Tarkington and Crown Hill — west and southwest of our building. We also serve neighbors in Mapleton-Fall Creek and Meridian Kessler. Since our founding nearly 50 years ago, we have focused on serving our neighborhood.
Today we fulfill our mission to create a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve through quality, multi-generational programs that build community, invest in youth, empower families, advocate for our neighbors, and provide a peaceful space to connect.
Our holistic programs reach all ages and concentrate on youth and teens, anchored by our commitment to James Whitcomb Riley School 43, one block from our center.
We play a vital role in bridging gaps and creating common threads between our diverse neighbors. At the MLK Center families can access new opportunities, follow their path, and find stability. We provide a hub for our neighbors to gather, dialogue, create, problem solve, socialize, and interact with each other to promote unity and cohesion.
Our Work Makes a Difference
200+ youth participated in reading, leadership and employment programming.
level by
After school students participating in Read to Lead improved reading levels by 33%.
Of 65 teens who have participated in the Teen Work Crew since 2017, an astounding 97% have avoided arrest.
“Help me make sure that MLK Center is around for another 50 years like it was for me when I attended summer camp here.”
The Programs We Provide
Community Building
Best Buy Teen Tech Center
Tarkington Teen Work Crew
Youth Literacy
Family Success
Midtown-Get-Around
Support Our Work
We invite you to join us in impacting lives and make an investment in your community, as we education youth, empower faimlies and build community.
Our initial total goal was $2.2 million! With construction savings, the actual cost is $2.084,758.
When we raise $1,000,000 we can get a $1,000,000 matching grant from The United Way of Central Indiana Capital Committee. We’re nearly there. Your support will go a long way.
You can make a one-time gift or a monthly donation that will continue to support our needs in the future. You can also make a multi-year pledge that will count toward our United Way match.
MLK Center is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization: #23-7415846
Our brochure gives all the details about this building renovation project:
