Impact

Walking alongside neighbors. Building a stronger southeast side.

For over 50 years, Southeast Community Services has stood as a trusted anchor on the southeast side of Indianapolis—helping individuals and families build stability, grow opportunity, and pursue their goals. From one-on-one coaching to community-wide change, our work is grounded in relationships, dignity, and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive.

“At our community center, we’re not just building programs, we’re building futures.”

Peggy Frame, Executive Director

By the Numbers

Every year, SECS partners with hundreds of neighbors to create lasting change. Here’s what that looks like:

  • 600–800 individuals and families served annually
  • 73% of coaching participants created a long-term financial plan
  • 24% increased their monthly income by an average of $1,173
  • 23% improved their credit score by 50 points or more
  • 90% of neighbors say they feel heard, supported, and respected
  • 6,000+ pantry orders fulfilled annually
  • 120+ households served weekly through food pantry programs
  • Hundreds of neighbors supported through employment coaching, HSE/GED preparation, and ELL classes

In the Community

Recent Partnerships

IndyEast Economic Mobility District

The IndyEast Economic Mobility District (EEMD) is a joint partnership with Southeast Community Services, John Boner Neighborhood Centers and Edna Martin Christian Center. The vision for the district is to create a vibrant, inclusive and welcoming district in which all families have access to the tools, resources and opportunities to achieve economic mobility and build intra- and intergenerational wealth.

Individual with a calculator

Guaranteed Income Initiative

The IndyEast Guaranteed Income Initiative (IGII) is a program of the IndyEast Economic Mobility District. The program gives neighbors $500 a month for 18 months — with no restrictions on how the money is used. In return, participants are asked to complete a series of interviews and surveys about their experience.

50+ Years of Community Leadership

Founded in 1972 through Mayor Richard Lugar’s office, SECS began as a hub for essential services in southeast Indianapolis. Over the decades, we’ve adapted, expanded, and remained deeply rooted in our mission to serve, strengthen, and support our neighbors.

We’ve been there through economic shifts, public health crises, and changing neighborhood needs—always showing up with care and consistency.