INDIANAPOLIS– A hand-made quilt can provide a feeling of caring and comfort almost as if you’re getting a hug from a loved one. Incarcerated individuals at the Indiana Women’s Prison (IWP) wanted to provide that care and comfort to the Indiana Youth Group (IYG). The incarcerated individuals hand-stitched a king-sized quilt featuring the IYG logo and colors. The quilt serves as a token of appreciation for all IYG does for the LGBTQ+ community in Indiana.
IDOC-Out Founder and Leader Eric Vanatti alongside IDOC Executive Director Kathy Griffin presented the quilt to IYG on August 12, 2021. IDOC-Out organized the donation.
“IYG does so many wonderful things for the community. It is an organization I wish I had available to me when growing up,” commented Eric Vanatti, founder of IDOC-Out. “IYG can assist our staff who may have children who are LGBTQ+ and LGBTQ+ youth who are being released that need resources.”
The stitching isn’t stopping with just one quilt. IDOC-Out will donate Another hand-made quilt stitched by the incarcerated individuals at IWP will be donated to IYG for its upcoming fundraising auction. Similarly designed with the IYG logo and colors, it will be available for purchase at the 21st Annual IYG Art Auction on September 11, 2021. For more information about IYG and the upcoming auction, please visit indianayouthgroup.org
IDOC-Out brings together employees with the Indiana Department of Correction who are allies of equality in sexual orientation and gender identity. IDOC-Out promotes an open and inclusive culture and safe space that empowers employees to bring their whole, authentic selves to work every day.
According to IYG web site, indianayouthgroup.org, “IYG MISSION: IYG creates safer spaces to foster community and provides programming that empowers LGBTQ+ youth and magnifies their voices. VISION: Our Indiana will have supporting, affirming communities where LGBTQ+ youth live vibrant, empowered lives. Indiana Youth Group (IYG) serves young people ages 12-24 who self-identify as LGBTQ+, as well as their allies. All programs and services are offered free of charge. IYG strives to provide safer spaces to build self-confidence, explore individualism, and develop friendships within the LGBTQ+ community. IYG promotes a space of acceptance, equity, and restorative practices. We also advocate for LGBTQ+ youth in schools, the community, and through family support services.”
