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A Few Words

About Step-Up

Step-Up, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit agency that opened its doors on January 1, 2003.

Step-Up, Inc. was founded in 2003 by two community members who saw the effects of HIV on their family, friends, and neighbors and decided to do something about it. One of them, Paula French, even lost her younger brother Steve to the epidemic in 1994. Although Step-Up has grown over the years, the principles we bring to our work remain the same. Step-Up is focused on improving the health of our communities by meeting our clients where they are. Step-Up, Inc. expanded from a two-person operation into a robust agency that provides prevention, education, care coordination, medical case management, and counseling to a wide array of members in our community.

We Provide Essential

Community Health Services

In our daily activities, we strive to help people generate personal wellness through getting tested, accessing and adhering to medications, having safe housing, adequate nutrition, and sound mental health.

Mission

Our mission is to provide comprehensive care and resources for wellness with dignity and care.

Vision

Our vision is to help the people we serve stabilize and thrive in their community.

Michael Martin Drain
President and CEO

A Message From Our CEO

I am honored to address you as the new President and CEO of Step-Up, Inc. It is with immense pride and excitement that I share with you the incredible accomplishments we have achieved together in the past year.

First and foremost, our commitment to excellence and service expansion has been realized through the strategic growth of our team. I am thrilled to announce that we have successfully expanded our staff to meet the increasing service needs of our community. This accomplishment is a testament to our dedication to providing the highest quality support to those who rely on us for assistance.

One of our most significant achievements is the impressive 71% retention rate in housing and employment for the individuals we serve. This milestone reflects the effectiveness of our programs and the commitment of our team to empowering individuals to build stable and fulfilling lives. I commend my team for their dedication to this crucial aspect of our mission.

Our continued efforts to build strong community partnerships have yielded remarkable results. We have seen a substantial increase in collaborations with local organizations, businesses, and government agencies. These partnerships not only enhance the scope of our services but also contribute to the creation of a more comprehensive and interconnected support system for our clients.

Step-Up, Inc. continues to take the lead in the field of reentry by expanding its reach by establishing a presence in nine correctional facilities. This expansion enables us to provide INPEP training and peer support to incarcerated individuals, facilitating their successful reintegration into society. This accomplishment is a significant step forward in our ongoing mission to break the cycle of incarceration and empower individuals to lead meaningful and productive lives.

In addition to our correctional facility expansion, Step-Up, Inc. has continued to make a positive impact within our community. We proudly provided services to 823 individuals living with HIV, offering a diverse range of programs tailored to address their unique needs and challenges. This accomplishment reflects our commitment to making a tangible and lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.

In 2025, INPEP ECHO Expanded to Edinburgh and Heritage Trails Correctional Facilities. The program now operates in 12 facilities around the state and has certified over 400 peer educators in the Indiana Deptartment of Correction.
Awarded the Mental Health of America 2025 Bell Seal Award
Step Up officially opened its clinic on October 9th through a partnership with IU Positive Link. The launch included the introduction of the PrEP program and the opening of an onsite IU Virtual Clinic, expanding access to essential health services.
Through a partnership with the Health Care Education and Training, Inc. (HCET), Step-Up began implementing the Power Through Choices program, providing comprehensive sex education to system impacted youth.

2025 Highlights

Welcome To Our New Place
Step Up is proud to welcome clients and community partners to our new space located on the second floor at 4755 Kingsway Drive. This expanded location allows us to provide more comprehensive, accessible services in a welcoming and supportive environment.
The SSP program reached over 1,000 individuals, facilitating more than 700 direct interactions and 2,000 referrals to care. Through street outreach, the team distributed 8,928 risk reduction supplies and established 5 new community partnerships, expanding access to services across Marion County.
HepLink expanded access to our homeless neighbors. Thirty percent referred to Care Coordination achieved the cure. This includes three who completed treatment through only street medicine for the first time ever.

2025

Year In Review

Step Up’s  2025  Annual Report

We are privileged to work alongside dedicated community partners who are fundamental to our mission. The support and commitment of these partners enable us to deliver high-quality services to our community. Through collaborative efforts and shared goals, we ensure that every individual receives the support and opportunities they deserve. We are grateful for the continued dedication of our partners, as it enhances our ability to make a meaningful impact.