New Beginnings Program
The Indianapolis Urban League’s New Beginnings Program helps individuals living in Marion County or surrounding counties, age 18 and older transition from public assistance, incarceration, unemployment, or underemployment and/or currently receiving SNAP benefits or food assistance to self-sufficiency earning a livable wages.
New Beginnings offers workforce development workshops over a two-week period covering topics ranging from goal setting, diversity in the workplace, utilizing social media, resume and cover letter writing to interviewing, and job retention strategies. After successfully completing the program, participants graduate and receive priority job placement assistance with our Preferred Employers, and is eligible to be referred to any other training programs or receive intensive supportive services from the Indianapolis Urban League.
A successful program completer (one who has completed the 10-day training program, 4 hours each day) will have demonstrated a willingness and desire to complete an intensive work readiness program to improve their employability skills and knowledge. Mastering these skills will help them seek, secure, and retain employment, which increases their chances to become self-sufficient.
Active program participants and program completers who successfully complete the New Beginnings Program are eligible to utilize the Indianapolis Urban League Computer Lab to update resumes , cover letters, communicate with prospective employers, complete online applications, and other job search activities.
Successful program participants and program completers are also eligible to seek admission into the following Indianapolis Urban League Workforce Development programs and services:
- Indianapolis Urban League Training Works Program
- Center for Working Families (CWF)
- Urban Family Engagement Program
- Preferred Employer Program
NEW BEGINNINGS INFORMATION SESSIONS AND WORKSHOPS
New Beginnings Information Sessions are hosted in-person from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm at the Indianapolis Urban League, 777 Indiana Avenue. To view the 2026 calendar and register, click here.
For more information on the Workforce Development Program or assistance with registration, call (317) 693-7603 between 8:30 am- 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
Terrance Builds a New Future
Terrance Edwards was determined to build stability for his wife, five children, and growing family. After overcoming obstacles, he earned his CDL and access to a fresh start with help from the Indianapolis Urban League.
A Fresh Start: Terrance Edwards returned home to Chicago from incarceration, determined to build stability for his wife, five children, and growing family.
Finding C1: Referred by a friend to the Indianapolis Urban League, he enrolled in C1 Truck Driver Training and pressed forward despite a personal loss and his daughter having a hospital stay during his first week.
The Challenge and Triumph: With his wife and instructors by his side, Terrance overcame the toughest test, the right-hand parallel park, and passed. He teared up when he learned he earned his Class A CDL license! Now a Red Hat graduate, Terrance is exploring new job opportunities. His story is proof that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.
Help more people like Terrance find financial stability, donate to support training and wraparound services today.