Thanks to the efforts of an area nonprofit, quarterly meetings of the Keystone Monon Neighborhood Association (KMNA) have resumed and will continue throughout 2019. The group’s future was in flux last October, when president MaryAnna Ferris announced her resignation.
Geri Louis of Freewill Outreach Ministries led the January meeting. Her group, a 501c3 nonprofit operating out of Restoration House of Hope church, will spearhead future gatherings.
Louis said it made sense for Freewill to step up because her organization has been a part of the neighborhood for 16 years and the want to continue the discussion that community meetings allow. She said volunteers from Freewill offer a music ministry in the neighborhood at American Village,1790 E 54th St., and also provide mentoring at men’s and women’s prisons.
Gregory Garrett, neighborhood advocate for the mayor’s office, told attendees that the Keep Indianapolis Beautiful has an event planned for April 20. KIB volunteers will work alongside neighbors to plant trees, pick up litter, and beautify public spaces. Keystone Monon is no stranger to beautifying public spaces. For the last four growing seasons, the Keystone Monon Community Garden at Arsenal Park, 1400 E. 46th St., has offered neighbors the chance to apply for a raised garden bed to grow fresh produce and flowers. Applications for space are available here. New gardeners will be assigned after February 15.
KMNA meetings take place quarterly in January, April, July and October. The next meeting is Thursday, April 18 at 6:30 p.m. at Ace Preparatory Academy, 5326 Hillside Ave.
– Lindsay Conner
KMNA Spring cleanup Saturday, April 20th from noon-3 p.m. Meet at The Refinery/Black Circle Brewery @ 2201 E 46th St, 46205 at 11:45. Gloves, trash bags and water provided by Keep Indianapolis Beautiful and Kroger. Trucks, shovels, rakes or any other tools to share are needed. See y’all at the cleanup!