Community Driven
Sponsoring Books for Youth for 16 years

This statewide Indiana program provides 25 age-appropriate books in backpacks to Hoosier foster youth. Books for Youth is a partnership with the NFL Indianapolis Colts. During this season’s Books for Youth game day, a special on-field presentation was made at half-time to present books to an Indiana foster family (see photo at right).

Colts General Manager Chris Ballard and his entire family join the Books for Youth team to support Hoosier foster youth. An adoptive family, the Ballards are passionate about their support for foster youth.

“Many of these kids have little to call their own. Study after study proves reading is a key to lifelong success. If we can give these kids something of their own that also provides an educational opportunity, we’re providing an experience to help move foster children toward a successful adulthood. We’re inviting Colts fans to join us, and make a donation to support of Hoosier foster children,” says Cargo Services co-owner and CFO Steve Fugate.

Support Books for Youth click here.

Project Open House

Annually Cargo Services in partnership with the NFL Colts and Indiana Department of Child Services creates an Open House event for Indiana high school seniors who are foster youth. In 2022, Project Open House recognized 33 graduates from across Indianapolis. During the event each grad has their own space to celebrate with invited guests. All totaled 142 foster youth have participated in Project Open House over the last eight years. Each graduate:

• Receives senior picture package
• Makes a catering selection
• Creates personalized invitations for family, friends, neighbors, teachers
• Is recognized and receives a monetary gift to celebrate this milestone and help to fund their post-graduation plans