Former Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Bill Brooks was the featured speaker when Baxter YMCA kicked off its annual capital campaign breakfast.

Brooks and other speakers, including Tarrah Tucker, whose son was diagnosed with cancer and her family was given a membership during his battle, shared inspirational stories on how the YMCA has impacted them and their families.
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The breakfast, made possible by a donation from Indy Fresh, also served to expand the base of people who believe in the Y’s mission.

The new year has gotten off to a rousing start at Beacon of Hope Crisis Center with the addition of trauma therapy dog Echo and his handler, Lydia Wood, who also serves as a victim advocate.

Adding to the excitement is a donation from Bob’s Discount Furniture, which has supplied the center with furniture for its waiting, counseling and meeting rooms.

“We are thrilled to add Echo and Lydia to our team and are touched by the generosity of Bob’s Discount Furniture,” said CEO and Executive Director Sandra Ziebold. “Echo helps victims dealing with the traumatic dynamics of an abusive relationship or the aftermath of sexual assault. The new furniture allows clients to be comfortable while dealing with their struggles.”    

Wood is getting her masters in psychology and has experience training service dogs for victims suffering from post-traumatic stress. “Echo’s tenderness and genuine presence adds a peace and clarity of mind. He helps the victims we advocate for, through the good and the bad, and hopes for nothing in return,” she said. “Echo knows how you feel, feels it with you, and tries to make you feel better. He doesn’t just soak up your emotions, he empathizes with them.”
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Offering prevention, education, awareness and advocacy services and programs, the center, 6920 S. East St., 317-731-6131, serves an average of 75 individuals a month in need of domestic violence and/or sexual assault victim assistance.