Fred “Bud” Tucker, Jr. (1918-1994) was more than an American businessman and real estate broker who served as the owner and CEO of the F.C. Tucker Company from 1958 to 1986. He was one of the visionaries who are known for leading development and revitalization efforts in downtown Indianapolis.
For Bud, it was more than just creating value for himself. He believed in giving back to the Indianapolis community through civic responsibility.
As he once wrote, “pay civic rent for the space you occupy. This credo is a measure of what we all do to “pay back” the advantages afforded us by community, state, and nation. Everyone needs to be a participant in the great effort to improve one’s surroundings and to literally make the place better than the way one has found it. But to join and participate for only business reasons destroys the fun of helping out and eliminates the goy of giving. Serve for the sake of giving!”
In these summer months, it’s a good time to really look around our community and evaluate our role in making it a better place. Whether you are new to the Indy area or a lifelong Hoosier, here are a few things that might inspire you:
Start Local and Small
Giving back doesn’t have to mean a huge time or financial commitment. Small acts—like picking up litter on your block, mowing an elderly neighbor’s lawn, or offering to babysit for a single parent—add up to a big impact. Even greeting neighbors helps build trust and a sense of community.
Volunteer for Community Events
Indianapolis hosts incredible opportunities to get involved throughout the year. The Indy Neighborhood Resource Center and Keep Indianapolis Beautiful (KIB) run regular clean-ups, tree plantings, and block parties where volunteers are always welcome.
For example, during events like Great Indy Cleanup or the Circle City Classic Parade, you can sign up to volunteer with logistics, setup, or hospitality teams—perfect for meeting people while making a difference.
Support Local Charities and Nonprofits
Look for organizations addressing causes you care about. Love animals? IndyHumane regularly need foster families and help at adoption events. Passionate about hunger relief? Gleaners Food Bank and Midwest Food Bank always welcome volunteer groups.
Attend Civic Meetings and Speak Up
A cornerstone of civic responsibility is participating in local government. Attend your neighborhood association, HOA, or city council meetings to stay informed and advocate for changes—whether it’s traffic calming, improved lighting, or more green spaces.
Indianapolis has Mayor’s Neighborhood Advocates—a free resource connecting residents with city services and helping communities organize.
Mentor Youth or Support Schools
Helping students succeed is one of the most powerful ways to invest in your community’s future. Local programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana or Indy Reads offer volunteer opportunities to tutor or mentor kids and teens.
Look for “Pay It Forward” Moments
Opportunities to pay it forward pop up every day: paying for the coffee of the person behind you, offering a ride to someone in need, or sharing your professional skills—like helping someone polish a resume or prepare for a job interview.
Celebrate Community at Local Festivals
Events like CarmelFest, Indy’s Fourth Fest, and the Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration bring people together to celebrate shared culture and pride. Volunteering at or attending these events supports local businesses, nonprofits, and artists, all while strengthening community bonds.
Final ThoughtGiving back and fulfilling your civic responsibility doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether through volunteering, staying informed, or simply spreading kindness, you’ll enrich not only your neighborhood but your own life as well. I’ve tried my best to live my life by making my community better by donating my time or money to the world around me. And remember—every small act of generosity or civic engagement plants a seed for a stronger, more connected Indianapolis.