Earlier this year, two of Pepper’s young professionals, Project Engineer Elijah Reid and Intern Aaron Lott, co-founded the Society of Aspiring Minority Engineers (SAME). In collaboration with other members of the AEC community, SAME’s mission is to mentor minority high school seniors and college students from poverty stricken neighborhoods within Indianapolis through engineering and related trade school programs.

Community driven playground development for one of local Indianapolis Public Schools, #107 Lew Wallace Elementary. The goal is to create a safe space of joy and entertainment for students. Thank you to Nicholas Hayes for attending and participating in the development.

Our very own Josiah Hankerson and Larry Jones III taught to students about the importance of random acts of kindness and the spirit of given. Students distributed care packages filled with personal inspirational messages and gifts cards to individuals within the community. Seeing the joy both students and the community shared was completely impactful.

This year’s program will recognize the following individuals: Volunteer of the Year, Nonprofit Employee of the Year, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advocate of the Year, Emerging Leader of the Year. The community will also vote on a People’s Choice winner to be awarded during our program