The Power of Perseverance: MJ McColl Receives the Traeshawn Weaver Scholarship
Many in our community remember Traeshawn Weaver, the remarkable young man from the UP™ Program who lived with Jeff and Chris Newton before his passing. Traeshawn was facing a terminal illness, but he never let that define him. One of the most powerful questions he asked was:
“Is there a way for me to live on after I’m gone?”
That question sparked deep conversations and led to the creation of the Traeshawn Weaver Memorial Scholarship, an award given to students in the UP™ Program who graduate high school and pursue further education. It was Traeshawn’s dream to graduate — to show that even while battling a terminal illness, he could reach the finish line. His message was clear: If I can do it, so can you.
Yesterday, MJ McColl received this scholarship — carrying forward Traeshawn’s legacy of resilience and determination.
In MJ’s own words:
“Kokomo Urban Outreach is more than just a program, it’s a lifeline. It’s about love in action. It sees potential in everyone — and tells us, ‘You matter. You can dream big.’”
MJ represents everything Traeshawn hoped this scholarship would stand for — perseverance, purpose, and the belief that community can help young people rise.
This moment is a powerful reminder of why Kokomo Urban Outreach exists: to create opportunity, affirm worth, and build brighter futures — one student at a time.
This is Traeshawn’s legacy. This is MJ’s future. This is what your support makes possible.
With gratitude,
All of us at Kokomo Urban Outreach
Jeff Newton and Kareen Dunn hit the road to speak at Miami Correctional Facility
They were invited to share during the Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon—bringing stories of transformation, purpose, and the powerful impact of the UP™ Program at Kokomo Urban Outreach.
From once feeling invisible to now helping others find their voice, Kareen’s journey shows what happens when someone believes in your potential.
We’re proud to see UP™ leaders inspiring beyond our city limits!
Kokomo Urban Outreach Turns 20 in 2026!
Can you believe it? Next year marks 20 years of Kokomo Urban Outreach serving, loving, and transforming lives in our community. And we’re celebrating BIG!
We’re forming a 20th Anniversary Planning Committee to bring back some of the outreach events that made an impact over the years—Buddy Bags, neighborhood meals, Food to You, Baby University, Kidmo, the horse program, and more! We also want to create new events to celebrate with the community.
If you've ever:
Packed a Buddy Bag
Served a hot meal or in the food pantry
Helped with flood or tornado relief
Donated clothes, supplies, or finances
Painted, built, or prayed over this mission
Volunteered with any KUO outreach program
Then YOU are part of this story—and we need your help to plan this celebration!
Planning Kickoff Meeting
Tuesday, April 22
6:30 PM
Main Street United Methodist Church, 830 S. Main St.
Bring your stories, ideas, and heart. Let’s honor the past, celebrate the present, and set the stage for the next 20 years of Unleashing Potential™ in Kokomo!
Come ready to plan something amazing!
Let’s show Kokomo what 20 years of UP™ looks like—and what’s still to come!
Be a Rainmaker for UP™ Kids This April!
We’re launching 20 Champions, One Vision—a powerful way for YOU to make a lasting impact!
We’re launching 20 Champions, One Vision—a powerful way for YOU to make a lasting impact!
20 passionate supporters each raise $2,000
That’s just 20 friends donating $100
Together, we raise $40,000 to support UP™ Kids!
How Can You Raise $2,000?
Ask 20 friends to donate $100 each
Get 40 friends to give $50 each
Host a bake sale, car wash, or garage sale
Organize a trivia night or Facebook fundraiser
Skip dining out for a month & donate your savings
Get creative—every dollar makes a difference!
Your support helps provide mentorship, life skills, education, and opportunities for young people in our community.
Our Mission: We are committed to ensuring that every young person in Howard County has the education, work ethic, and life skills needed to transition successfully into a self-reliant adult.
Will you be one of our 20 Rainmakers?
UP™ Program Annual Celebration Marks a Night of Inspiration
Wednesday, March 5, we gathered for our annual UP™ Program Celebration, a special evening that brought together parents, guardians, and nearly 200 kids from both the UP™ Program and Mini UP™.
Wednesday, March 5, we gathered for our annual UP™ Program Celebration, a special evening that brought together parents, guardians, and nearly 200 kids from both the UP™ Program and Mini UP™. This year, the event took place in our new building at 830 S. Main St., a space that will soon become our permanent home. The sanctuary at Main St. United Methodist Church in Kokomo, which seats 700, was filled with energy and excitement as we celebrated the achievements of our incredible youth.
As we look ahead to the big move in the next year, we are also excited to transition our Mini UP™ program into our old building, giving our youngest participants a dedicated space to grow and thrive.
🏆 "Nothin' Gonna Stop Us" Award
This award recognizes the determination and commitment of kids who overcome challenges to attend the UP™ Program. Whether traveling by trolley, walking across town, or riding their bikes, these young participants show that nothing will stand in their way when it comes to learning and growing.
🏆 Mr. Gene's Generosity Award
Named in honor of Mr. Gene, this award celebrates a spirit of kindness, giving, and community support. It is awarded to kids who demonstrate a willingness to help others and contribute positively to their peers and program.
One of the most moving parts of the evening was the open mic session, where kids had the chance to share what the UP™ Program means to them.
Heidi Pruitt, Director of Communications at Kokomo Urban Outreach, reflected on the heartfelt stories shared by the students:
“Hearing the kids speak about their experiences and how UP™ has impacted them was truly inspiring. Their words were a reminder of why we do what we do.”
As we continue Unleashing Potential, Passion, and Purpose in the youth of Howard County, this celebration was a testament to the dedication of our kids, the support of their families, and the strength of our community.
Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make this event so special. Here’s to another incredible year ahead for the UP™ Program!
Kokomo Urban Outreach Announces New Leadership Structure
The UP™ Program at Kokomo Urban Outreach (KUO) has introduced a new leadership model designed to strengthen its mission and expand its impact in the community.
KOKOMO, IN – The UP™ Program at Kokomo Urban Outreach (KUO) has introduced a new leadership model designed to strengthen its mission and expand its impact in the community.
The KUO board of directors has established a three-person executive team to lead the UP™ Program, ensuring continued growth and long-term sustainability. This collaborative leadership approach brings together decades of experience to enhance program operations, community engagement, and strategic development.
Leadership Team
Jeff Newton – Director of Mission and Vision
As KUO’s founder, Newton will focus on strategic growth, securing resources, and casting a vision for the organization’s future. A recipient of multiple humanitarian awards, he has been a driving force behind KUO’s innovative outreach programs and community initiatives.
Deanna Ancil – Director of Administration and Development
Ancil, with a background in nonprofit leadership, oversees fundraising, donor relations, and organizational operations. She has played a key role in KUO’s work area initiatives and major development efforts.
Kareen Dunn – Director of Programs and Impact
Dunn leads KUO’s youth development programs, ensuring that students receive mentorship, workforce training, and life skills education. With firsthand experience in overcoming adversity, he works closely with program participants, staff, and community partners.
“Under this new structure, KUO will continue its commitment to empowering youth and families in Kokomo through life skills, education, and work ethic. A key part of this mission is The UP™ (Unleashing Potential) Program, which provides young people with hands-on job experience, financial literacy, and personal development opportunities. MiniUP™, a program for younger children, introduces the values of respect, responsibility, reliability, and readiness through early work experience and structured learning,” said Newton.
Media Contact:
Heidi Pruitt
Director of Communications
Kokomo Urban Outreach