OUR RESULTS

After 5 years in the UP Program Sarah Hughes redeemed her points for $1,600 to go towards a car.

You may recall, her brother Jonah accomplished the same feat in 2021! We’re extremely proud of their dedication to the program and their hard work to saving their points for the future.

MJ McColl: "Love in Action"

For eight years, MJ has grown up through the UP™ Program at Kokomo Urban Outreach. What began as a place for mentorship and structure has become so much more—a community, a source of hope, and a reminder that kindness still thrives.

“Kokomo Urban Outreach is more than a program—it’s a lifeline. Children are told ‘You matter. You are important. You can dream big.’ Adults are treated with dignity. Families find belonging.”

MJ’s heartfelt words remind us what’s at the core of UP™: love in action. With every job, every smile, every lesson in responsibility and work ethic, we’re building confidence, hope, and a stronger Kokomo—together.

Keith - "From Lost to Found"

At just 14, Keith has lived through more than most adults ever will—homelessness, addiction, and deep emotional pain.

“I hated myself… so I thought others would too. But the UP™ team didn’t give up on me.”

After three years in the program, Keith says UP™ gave him family, hope, and the tools to rebuild. From working alongside mentors to earning points through meaningful tasks, Keith has gained more than skills—he’s gained confidence, faith, and a future.

“I don’t know where I’d be without UP™. They showed me that life can be better—and that I matter.”

Ralph became part of the program nearly seven years ago and has since become a self-reliant adult. Hear it from him directly by clicking the video below.

Shaterra first joined the UP™ Program as a young child and has spent several impactful years growing through our program —and now, at 19, she came back to visit and share how the program helped shape her into the young woman she is today.

“One of the biggest accomplishments that I've made in the year of 2025, that's benefited from this program—even not being here—is my patience, and my ability to sit, listen, and accept advice, regardless if I like it, need it, or don’t."

We love seeing the positive impact of the UP™️ Program! Recently, one of our amazing kids used her hard-earned points to buy a pair of shoes for her dad. This thoughtful gesture not only shows how our program encourages positive behavior but also highlights the love and kindness our kids have for their families.