In support of mentoring programs for fatherless youth
The Asian Indian Women’s Organization (AIWO), presented a check for $41,400 to The Outlet, its partner agency for 2020 on September 9, at the non-profit’s 12th Street Center in Springfield IL.
AIWO’s fundraising gala originally planned for September 25 being cancelled this year on account of the pandemic, the organization has focused its efforts on finding ways to help The Outlet meet its COVID-19 needs. Thanks to the funds raised by AIWO, The Outlet has been able to meet the food needs of its families with a Drop-Off Meal drive, and to continue connecting with mentees via updated audio/visual technology. The boys have thus made progress towards academic and personal goals despite school closures and continued to do so through the summer.
“The problem of fatherlessness and its psychosocial and economic fallout on our youth is real and self-perpetuating. As per the US Department of Education and quoted by NPR, roughly 39% of students first through 12th grade grow up in fatherless homes, are twice as likely to drop out of school and four-times more likely to be poor. The Outlet needs to be commended for addressing the crises and changing the narrative for so many of our youth; by reinstating self-belief and providing them the tools and inspiration to be their best selves. AIWO is thankful to its supporters for their generous donations that have allowed The Outlet to continue supporting their mentees especially during these challenging times.” – Sammi Mander, President AIWO.
About AIWO – Founded in 1991, AIWO is an all-volunteer, women’s non-profit organization (www.asianindianwomensorganization.com) that supports the efforts of local charities and promotes civic engagement through community service and cultural exchange. Prominent amongst AIWO’S initiatives is INDIA NIGHT, a gala hosted by the organization every two years to provide a platform to local charities and raise funds for the cause served by them.
“INDIA NIGHT offers a peak into India’s vibrant culture and exotic foods and has in the past generated over $450,000 for non-profits like the Ronald McDonald House of Charities, HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital and Mercy Communities amongst others. We hope the coming year sees a return to normalcy so that we can go back to doing what we do best and lift up our community, one cause at time” – Aruna Mathur, Founder & Board Chair, AIWO.
About The Outlet – A 501(c)3 non-profit, The Outlet offers mentoring programs to fatherless youth aged 8-22. Founded by Michael Phelon and Michael May, the organization is driven by their mission to help disadvantaged youth develop the capacity and skill sets to make responsible life decisions and to hold meaningful spiritual and ethical values. Since its inception in 2005, The Outlet has altered the lives of countless youth on their way to becoming successful men by providing life coaching, vocational training, college readiness and career development through group sessions and one-on-one counselling.
