As we look back on the past year, the words “Together, We Thrive” resonate deeply with everything we’ve accomplished at Amani Family Services. We are so grateful for the collective strength, resilience, and collaborative efforts that have defined 2025.
Leading with action
Amani officially launched the NALA (Naturalization and Legal Assistance) program, bringing vital affordable immigration legal services to Allen County and beyond.
Learn more:
The Allen County Commissioners proudly accepted the Certified Welcoming Designation during the 2025 Welcoming Fort Wayne Awards. This designation sets Allen County apart as the 1st locality in the State of Indiana to be nationally recognized for its commitment to welcoming and belonging.
Learn more:
COLLABORATING WITH CARE
Whether we were convening with regional education leaders in CAPET (Coalition Advancing Postsecondary Education & Training) working groups, participating in thoughtful conversations at Patchwork Indy’s Changing Landscapes Summit, or sharing vital resources at a bilingual job fair, Amani prioritized collaboration with local, regional, and statewide partners.
Growth in Welcoming
Amani and community partners hosted the 4th annual Welcoming Week, bringing together more than 600 participants to inclusive events from Sept. 12-21! Highlights included:
The kickoff Culture Fest event featuring local immigrant artisans and entrepeneurs alongside cultural performers and community organizations.
An interactive workshop teaching participants how to have tough conversations across differences.
An Ask An Attorney legal clinic hosted by NALA, Volunteer Lawyer Program (VLP), and the Immigration Network offering free legal consultations and resources.
The annual Welcoming Fort Wayne Awards, where a sold-out crowd celebrated this year’s recipients. Learn more about this year’s winner.
The Beat Goes On
Amani’s annual One Beat event was one for the books! Our incredible sponsors took the stage as lip sync bands to support our multicultural community. Congratulations to our One Beat Award Winners:
1st Place: DeHaven Chevrolet
2nd Place: 3Rivers Federal Credit Union
3rd Place: STAR Financial Bank
Judges' Pick: DeHaven Chevrolet
Crowd Favorite: STAR Financial Bank
Help From Our Friends
We gathered with our incredible group of volunteers in December to share our gratitude for their efforts throughout the year. The success of Amani’s partnership and events is greatly supported by individuals who give their time, talent and treasures to make a difference. This year, Amani named Catherine Martin the Volunteer of the Year!
Amani joined Cinema Center and YWCA Northeast Indiana for the Cinema For Good promotion, raising $1,257 from generous movie-goers! Learn more here.
A Phenomenal Amiga of the Year
Amani CEO Ewelina Connolly was named the Latinos Count Amiga of the Year at their annual Viva College! Scholarship Luncheon! Learn more here.