Rosemary Stockdale highlights Shelton Heights community park success in Indianapolis

Under the warm glow of city hall lights, the Indianapolis City Council meeting on May 1, 2025, highlighted the vital role of community advocates and summer programs aimed at enriching the lives of local youth. The session kicked off with a tribute to Rosemary Stockdale, a dedicated neighborhood advocate representing Mayor Joe in Area 4, the Far Southwest Side. For nearly a decade, Rosie has served as a crucial link between residents and city government, ensuring that community voices are heard.

This month’s neighborhood spotlight shone brightly on Shelton Heights, a community transformed through resident activism. In 2016, local resident Debbie Parrish and her neighbors launched a campaign to eliminate an abandoned trailer park plagued by crime. Their efforts culminated in the creation of the Shelton Heights Community Park, a vibrant green space that not only serves as a recreational area but has also contributed to a reduction in gun violence, according to a study by Keep Indianapolis Beautiful. The park now stands as a testament to the power of community engagement and collaboration.

As the weather warms and summer approaches, the city is gearing up for its annual "Summer in the City" program, hosted by the Office of Public Health and Safety. Running from June 2 to July 18, this initiative offers Indianapolis youth aged 12 to 18 a chance to engage in a variety of activities at Municipal Gardens on the West Side. The program, which operates Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 3 PM, is completely free and includes lunch and transportation. Participants can look forward to programming that encompasses mental health, physical wellness, culinary education, and career preparedness. Those who commit to the entire summer will even have the opportunity to win back-to-school scholarships.

Additionally, the council reminded young residents aged 16 to 24 about Project Indie, a job placement initiative that still has openings for those seeking summer employment. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the City Council is committed to fostering community spirit and providing valuable resources for Indianapolis residents, particularly its youth. The future looks bright for those engaged in these programs, promising a summer filled with growth, learning, and community connection.