Development of a comprehensive plan for the City of Indianapolis, Indiana

The membership and participation within Indianapolis Challenge (I-Challenge) has increased significantly over the past year through diversification of both members and organizations. We have developed into a well balanced countywide-represented coalition. This local action plan for the Indianapolis Challenge represented a culmination of efforts and support of the group by major institutions within Marion County. Groups offering support include the following: the Mayor's Office, the State Prosecutor's Office, the Community Service council, the united Way of Central Indiana, Marion County Justice Agency, the Greater Indianapolis Council on Alcoholism and Fairbanks Hospital.

Through their research, the Funding Committee, in conjunction with the Planning and Development Committee, were able to make known the needs of the community.

One major finding is that there is a moderate effort of coordination taking place in Marion County. Many of the major institutions have acquiesced in the I-Challenge mission by necessity; I-Challenge reviews grants to ensure consistency with the local comprehensive plan for the Department of Mental Health and the Department of Justice substance abuse funds.

The data from Marion County is insufficient and agencies have trouble addressing the needs of the community. This is particularly true of those agencies depending on public monies and whose primary mission is to serve the poor. I-Challenge is developing a county-wide strategic plan which will determine the actions necessary to meet the needs of the city.