Local entrepreneur Ken Thorpe today announced the creation of the Ken Thorpe Foundation through his website kenthorpefoundation.org. The philanthropic effort will focus on professional development opportunities for the most underserved youth in Marion County. Thorpe, a native of Indianapolis, has successfully led companies in the areas of retail, finance, construction, entertainment and health care. A graduate of Warren Central High School; as well as Indiana University, Ball State University and Indiana Wesleyan, it is his mission to share his experience and wealth with the next generation.
“I believe that regardless of one’s current situation, success is obtainable if given the right tools”, said Thorpe. The purpose of the Ken Thorpe Foundation is to provide youth with education, professional and mentoring opportunities to help them help themselves. Sometimes, all a person needs is encouragement and a platform. Our job is to provide both.”
Thorpe’s foundation will hit the ground running with the announcement of the A.R.T. of Excellence Scholarship Fund and Internship program. A.R.T., which stands for accountability, results and transcendence are three important characteristics Thorpe believes one must have to be successful.
$1,000 scholarships and paid work opportunities will be awarded to two seniors at Warren Central High School who have continuously improved their grades over time, are accepted to Ball State or Indiana University, and can best describe how accountability, results and transcendence contribute to their success.
The giving doesn’t stop here, Mr.Thorpe has Minority Business Entrepreneur Challenge
The Ken Thorpe Foundation, in partnership with the Indiana Minority Supplier Diversity Council, will conduct a “camp” to educate underserved college students about entrepreneurship and provide networking opportunities with local professionals. The Minority Business Entrepreneur Challenge will run for six weeks beginning summer 2014.
For more information about the Ken Thorpe Foundation and the A.R. T. of Excellence Scholarship Fund and Internship program, please contact Denise Herd at 317.796.0514
