Old National Bank Foundation 20 for 20 Grantee Profiles: Blue Jacket Creates New Pathways in Ft. Wayne Through Workforce Development
As part of its 20th anniversary celebration, and two decades of helping build stronger, more vibrant and prosperous communities, the Old National Bank Foundation in 2026 is donating a total of $20,000 to 20 nonprofit organizations throughout its nine-state footprint, including Blue Jacket in Fort Wayne, Ind.
For individuals facing barriers to employment, a meaningful job can be the first step toward stability, confidence, and a brighter future. Blue Jacket is helping make those opportunities possible through workforce development programs designed to connect people with the skills, support, and resources they need to succeed.
Overcoming employment barriers
Founded to address the unmet needs of individuals returning to the community after incarceration, Blue Jacket initially focused on helping those leaving jail and prison secure gainful employment. Over time, the organization expanded its reach to serve any adult facing barriers to employment, including individuals in recovery, people experiencing homelessness, and those living with disabilities.
Through its Blue Jacket Academy, participants receive soft-skills training, job placement assistance, ongoing coaching, and access to transitional employment opportunities. The organization's impact has been significant:
- Today, 88% of participants secure employment within three months of completing the program
- 82% remain employed one year later
By focusing on potential rather than past circumstances, Blue Jacket helps individuals build the confidence, skills, and stability needed to create lasting change in their lives.
A second chance becomes a success story
Over the years, Blue Jacket has helped countless individuals overcome obstacles and achieve personal and professional success.
One story that stands out began in 2009, when a man enrolled in Blue Jacket immediately after his release from prison. Through a connection facilitated by the organization, he secured a position at a small plastics manufacturing company.
What started as an entry-level opportunity became the foundation for a remarkable career. Through hard work and determination, he earned the trust of his employer and steadily advanced within the company. After reaching the highest position available, he pursued a new opportunity with a larger manufacturer, where he now serves as an executive vice president.
His success extended beyond the workplace. He became a homeowner, purchased a lake home, and helped support his three children through high school and beyond, including two who attended college.
Reflecting on his journey, he credits a simple but powerful act of support.
"All I needed was someone to believe in me and invest a little time."
His story demonstrates how access to opportunity, coupled with personal determination, can transform lives and create a lasting ripple effect for families and communities.
Supporting opportunity and independence
As demand for Blue Jacket's programs continues to grow, community partnerships play an important role in helping the organization expand its reach. Enrollment is now three times higher than it was just three years ago, increasing the need for resources and support.
Old National has helped Blue Jacket continue its mission through support of the Blue Jacket Academy and related workforce development programs.
“Old National has been a reliable steward of private support for organizations like ours that depend on community investment,” said Founder and CEO Darryl Whitenack. “Their support helps us provide the training, coaching, and employment services people need to successfully transition into the workforce, especially those facing multiple barriers.”
The Old National Bank Foundation values this partnership because it reflects a shared belief that opportunity should not be limited by circumstance. Through workforce development, coaching, and real-world employment support, Blue Jacket is helping individuals take meaningful steps toward independence while creating stronger communities throughout Northeast Indiana.
To learn more about Blue Jacket of Fort Wayne, click here.
Each year, the Old National Bank Foundation endeavors to fund as many initiatives that meet our funding priorities as possible across our footprint. For more information on grants or the Old National Bank Foundation click here.
