It’s Possible Inc, is a dedicated nonprofit organization working to disrupt the cycle of criminal behavior and crime by providing comprehensive support for adolescents and young adults (ages {e.g., 13-26}) involved in or at risk of involvement in the criminal justice system. Rather than employing punitive measures that can exacerbate long-term outcomes, our programming emphasizes family, education, and self-improvement to empower young individuals in building positive futures. By establishing pathways for young people to acquire essential skills for success, we can concurrently reduce crime and cultivate stronger, safer communities.

Despite research indicating that adolescent brain development continues into one’s twenties, may jurisdictions persist in prosecuting young individuals as adults. A criminal record can create significant obstacles in employment, housing, and life long earning potential, thereby exacerbating the systemic challenges of poverty and racism that often lead to involvement in the legal system. This perpetuates a cycle of incarceration and recidivism, with many young people lacking the necessary resources, skills, and support systems to facilitate a successful transition back into their communities.

It’s Possible Inc provides a comprehensive, community -based approach designed to equip young individuals with the skills to direct their lives and futures. Our programs are founded on the principle that every young person warrants an opportunity to develop and flourish.

It’s Possible Inc was founded in 2006, born from the dedicated work I was doing in Foster Care and Youth Services, I identified a critical need within the community. I observed a cycle: Young people were returning to their neighborhoods from the Juvenile Justice System without the support needed to succeed, leading to high rates of recidivism. For these returning young individuals as well as those in the community exhibiting criminal behaviors, challenges such as housing, educational gaps, and limited employment opportunities often proved overwhelming. I developed a clear vision: to establish a community-driven organization dedicated to assisting justice-involved youth in finding hope and an alternative path forward.

Building the framework (2006-2019)

In its first few years, IPI operated on a small scale, relying primarily on dedicated volunteers and grassroots funding. Our initial program, “Fresh Start” provided mentoring and case management to a small cohort of offenders, helping them navigate the challenges of transitioning back into their communities. The program’s success—evidenced by the participants who re-enrolled in school or secured their first jobs—attracted the attention of local foundations.

Milestones:

2007: Secured our first major grant, allowing for the hire of a part-time social worker

2008: Partnered with local colleges to create internships for students as credit towards Social Work/Human Services degrees.

2011: Partnered with The Elkhart County Re-Entry Initiative, The Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department and The Elkhart County Probation and Parole Offices.

2013: Received a $10,000 grant from the Elkhart County Community Foundation to assist clients with transportation, rents and personal needs.

2014: Expanded the program to serve a larger cohort of clients, establishing IPI as a vital resource for reentry in the community.

2016: Receives a $20,000 anonymous donation to support client services and our Children of Incarcerated Parents Program.

2019: Phased out Adult Programs

2019-2023 (Covid all operations ceased)

Looking Ahead

It’s Possible Inc is now continuing its mission to provide hope and opportunity for justice-involved adolescents and young adults. By focusing on both social support and life skills, IPI is not only changing the lives of young people but also working to dismantle the systemic barriers that prevent them from reaching their full potential. The organization’s history is a testament to the power of community, compassion and the belief that every young person deserves a second chance.

I would like to take this opportunity to give a Special thanks to Former Elkhart County Sheriff Brad Rogers and current Elkhart County Commissioner Brad Rogers: Words are often inadequate to express my joy for your advice, friendship, moral support and trust. Life has it’s trying moments, but it’s caring people like you Sheriff Rogers who make those trying moments more valuable. For all that you have done I say and It’s Possible Inc, gives you a Big Thank You.

Bill D. Anderson Jr
CEO/President

Our first graduating class and pictured with are Pastor Bryant Bacon of the Mount Calvery Babtist Church in Niles, Michigan and Mary Cross our first Employment Specialist.

Thank you to our Program Donors!

Bronze Donors:

• The Mennonite Foundation, Inc– Elkhart, IN
  C/O Mr. Mrs. David & Gloria Miller
• Talented Tenth Warehouse LLC– South Bend, IN
• Rick Daly – Flint Michigan
• Anthony Lasita – West Lake Hills, TX
• Charles Babcock – Lillian, AL
• Dr. Monica B. Swope, DDS Inc. – DBA Kingdom Family Dentistry – Cincinnati, OH
• Sherry F. McCowan – Inglewood, California 90302
• Pete Dickson – Gurnee, IL
• Kerry Arnold – Niles, Michigan
• Tim Bagley –  Los Angeles, CA
• Phillip Ross – Freedom, NH
• Geoff Westrich – Deerfield, IL

Silver:

• Mr. Geoff Westrich – Deerfield, IL
• Sweeney & Julian Law Firm – South Bend, IN
• Michael & Claire O’Grady – Chicago,IL
• Wilma E. Srof – Goshen,IN
• John Archer – South Bend, IN
• Wayne & Arlene Randolph – Goshen, IN
• Marilyn & Jerry Hayden – Barrington, IL
• Four Winds Casino – New Buffalo, MI

Gold:

• Mr. Phillip Ross – Freedom, NH
• Myrl & Phyllis Nofiziger– Goshen, IN
• Robert Johns – Chicago, IL
• Ella Fonts – San Bernardino, CA
• Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Maims  – Lexington, KY

Platinum:

• Cindy McCall Insurance Agency
• Mr & Mrs Henry and Veiressa Davis – South Bend, IN
• Sweeney & Julian Law PC – South Bend, IN
• TALENTED TENTH WAREHOUSING LLC – South Bend, IN
• The Mennonite Foundation, Inc.
• JaVonte Walker
• Spencer Tate
• Earl Hemmings
• Jesus Martinez
• Clyde Jones
• Sri Shankaracharya
• Mark Longate
• Allen Davis
• Oscar Aguirre
• Willy Crawford
• Tim Richards – Mishawaka, IN
• Anthony V. Lasita – West Lake Hills, TX
• Michael & Claire O’Grady – Chicago, IL
• Dr. Kahn
• Margie & Ken Levandoski – Albuquerque, NM