On today’s special nonprofit episode I sat down with Kelly Coker, CEO of Brightlane Learning, and Claire Brosman, Vice President of Marketing and Communications.

Brightlane Learning is an Indianapolis-based nonprofit providing personalized academic support and mentoring to students experiencing homelessness and housing instability.

Our discussion dives into the challenges faced by these students, the solutions Brightlane Learning has implemented, and their goals for 2026 and beyond.

Kelly and Claire emphasize the importance of community collaboration, including partnerships with organizations like Wheeler Mission and A Longer Table.

If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast.

You are going to learn about:

• How Brightlane Learning Impacts the Nearly 5,000 Homeless Youth in Marion County

• Brightlane Learning’s Community Partners and Success Stories

• The Critical Role of Volunteers in Helping Fulfill Brightlane Learning’s Mission

Thank you to our partner:
Elements Financial

Check out these great clips from the show:
01:36 Guest Introduction: Kelly Coker and Claire Brosman, Brightlane Learning
02:56 Understanding Homelessness and Housing Insecurity
06:09 Impact on Education and Student Performance
07:31 Personal Stories and Connections to Brightlane Learning
13:28 Collaborations and Community Partnerships
16:40 Brightlane Learning's Approach and Success Stories
36:26 The Importance of Personal Connections and Consistency
41:04 Focusing on Student Growth Over Proficiency
41:38 Tracking Student Goals and Benchmarks
42:04 Celebrating Student Success and Alumni Connections
42:50 Community Support and Volunteer Impact
45:08 Brightlane Learning's Future Plans
47:25 Volunteer Opportunities and Community Involvement
49:46 Inspirational Story: Overcoming Adversity Through Wrestling
55:13 The Importance of Community and Mentorship
57:17 Why We Love Indiana
58:23 Addressing Misconceptions About Homelessness
01:07:08 Hidden Gems and Community Collaboration in Indiana