This year, we celebrate those who have made it possible for us to continue our important work despite the challenges faced during the current global crisis. Your gifts build our organizational resilience and provide hope and opportunities for children and their families across Indiana.
The Shafer Giving Plaza was dedicated on October 26, 2006, in honor and recognition of the generosity of the late Hamer D. and Phyllis C. Shafer. Phyllis Shafer joined the YOC Board of Directors in 1990 and was the embodiment of the Youth Opportunity Center’s vision to help troubled youth. Phyllis had a heart for kids. In her words,
“When I think about the kids placed here, I can’t help but feel that helping them is an important step in securing our community’s future.”
Phyllis’ years on the YOC Board and the Shafers’ generous gifts are enduring examples of the commitment to this organization’s potential impact on tomorrow’s youth.
The plaza is yet another example of the monumental differences the Shafer’s have made in inspiring future generations. It is dedicated to Phyllis and Hamer Shafer and to those caring individuals, families and groups whose gifts have helped the YOC pursue its mission.
The YOC Foundation annually hosts the Shafer Giving Society Luncheon to honor our donors and friends for their continued commitment to the Youth Opportunity Center mission and celebrate the legacy created by the late Hamer and Phyllis Shafer and all our generous donors.
“Awakening Potential” located within the Shafer Giving Plaza was a gift from Don and Donna Conner. Since 1971, the Conners’ have played both visible and behind the scenes roles through the evolution of the Delaware County Children’s Home to the Youth Opportunity Center of today. The Conners’ gift is a symbol of hope for our children. Their lasting words to children are, “We want to remind you that no matter the circumstances of your past, you have a future full of potential.”
