Children Receive Strong Start They Deserve Thanks to Legacy Supporters

For Mona Stephens, supporting young children has always been deeply personal.

A former elementary school teacher, Mona moved to Indianapolis from Colorado 13 years ago and quickly found her way to Early Learning Indiana through a neighbor involved with the organization’s Auxiliary. Drawn to ELI’s mission to ensure children throughout Indiana are empowered with essential knowledge and skills to thrive in kindergarten and beyond, she joined the auxiliary in 2018 and has remained a dedicated volunteer and donor ever since.

“I feel so strongly about the importance of birth-to-five years,” Mona said. “So many good things can happen for children during that time if they’re in the right environment.”

If young children and their start in life matter to you, then supporting Early Learning Indiana is a worthwhile investment. You know those resources will be well used and well shepherded
Mona Stephens, Former Elementary Teacher and Longtime Supporter, Early Learning Indiana Auxiliary

Today, Mona volunteers weekly at Day Early Learning Lilly Family Center, where Thursdays have become a special routine for both her and the children. When she arrives each week, she’s greeted with hugs and excited smiles from children who know exactly when “Miss Mona” will walk through the door and leave for lunch.

Her role is simple but meaningful: reading, playing, helping with art projects and supporting teachers however she can. Sometimes that means supervising messy activities or cleaning brushes so teachers can spend more time engaging directly with children.

“Watching their development is incredible. Some children come in barely able to communicate beyond crying or laughing, and then you watch their speech grow and their confidence build,” Mona said.

She also believes strongly in expanding access to quality care across Indiana, especially in childcare deserts where families have few options. ELI’s statewide work is another reason the organization is near and dear to her.

Through both her annual giving and decision to include ELI in her legacy plans through the Next Century Legacy Society, Mona knows her support will continue to help children, families and educators for generations to come.