At Dayspring Center on Indianapolis’ north side, Vanessy Cortes takes on multiple roles. One of her favorite aspects of the job is using her passion for writing to assist homeless children. Cortes, as a development coordinator, secures donations, manages marketing and social media, and tells the stories of the families at the center through grant writing. “I have always had a desire to write,” she said. “At Dayspring, there are countless stories to share, and I was drawn to the storytelling element of philanthropy.”
Dayspring Center: A Haven for Homeless Families
Dayspring is an emergency shelter that operates 24/7, providing the essential needs of food, clothing, and shelter. Case managers work closely with each family to develop a plan to address the root causes of their homelessness. The center also has specialized programs for children. Camp Discovery, a six-week summer camp, offers activities that help children cope with their situations. “The main goal of our camp is to make these kids feel like children again,” Cortes said. “Their curiosity and childlike wonder return. They can temporarily set aside their circumstances.”The camp includes field trips to museums and interactive activities at the shelter. For Cortes, serving the families, especially the children, makes her job meaningful. “Just witnessing the emotional resilience in these kids is what keeps me motivated,” she said. “It is crucial to have a strong community supporting these kids.”Shelter and Case Management Program
Families staying at the shelter regularly meet with case managers to take the necessary steps to overcome their current situation. This program provides essential support and guidance to help families regain stability.Children’s Services Program
This program focuses on improving the lives of children by providing them with tools and resources to support their academic and emotional well-being. Camp Discovery, a six-week summer program, is an extension of this program. It offers enriching experiences such as horse therapy, field trips to museums, and other recreational activities. These activities help children develop and grow.Follow-Up Care Program
After families transition from the shelter to permanent housing, the follow-up care program provides continued support and resources. This ensures that they have the necessary assistance to maintain their new living situations.Dayspring Center serves a significant number of people. In 2024, the Shelter Program served 69 households (90 adults and 128 children), and the Follow-Up Care Program served 67 families (67 adults and 81 children).Dayspring’s number one need is monetary donations. Due to limited government funding, the majority of its operations depend on individual donors, foundations, and corporate partners.There are several ways to get involved and assist families at Dayspring Center. Volunteering is one of the most impactful ways. Seeing the work firsthand often inspires individuals to become long-term supporters. Sponsoring special events and donating in-kind contributions, such as clothing, food, and household essentials, are also greatly appreciated. Becoming a monthly donor, with a contribution as small as $30 per month, can make a significant difference.During the Season for Sharing campaign, your gift can make a big impact on the lives of Central Indiana youth. This year, Season for Sharing is partnering with the Summer Youth Program Fund to support high-quality programs for more than 80,000 Marion County youth. To contribute, visit indystar.com/ocdonate or mail a check to: Central Indiana Community Foundation, Attn: Season for Sharing, 615 N. Alabama St. Suite 300, Indianapolis, IN 46204. Since IndyStar covers all fundraising and administrative costs, 100% of your gift will go directly to Central Indiana agencies.About Dayspring Center:Phone: (317) 635-6780Address: 1537 N. Central Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46202Website: www.dayspringindy.orgContact Jake Allen at jake.allen@indystar.com. Follow him on Twitter @Jake_Allen19.READ MORE