JULY 2026 NEWSLETTER

TESTAMENT OF TIME THROUGH PERSEVERANCE

In 2022, Gibault’s Director of Marketing and Community Relations, Keith Madley, had the privilege of providing a campus tour to three former Gibault youth from the early 1990s. At that time, Keith served as their residential program supervisor. Steve Burrows, Samuel Grant, and Mike Plake each had different experiences and perspectives about their time at Gibault, however, they all agreed that Gibault had a positive influence on the men they became. Mike Plake shared more of his story including, “Before I went to Gibault, I was rebellious and dysfunctional. I had no goals. I was just existing and causing problems at school and in my community.” Growing up in Kokomo, Indiana, with limited support and guidance, Mike was admitted to Gibault in 1990.

Mike continued, “The thing that had the biggest effect on me while at Gibault was the college students who came to work with us. They were clean-cut, sharply dressed, and had goal-driven mindsets. I wanted to be like them, but I knew I wasn’t college material, so I focused on the military instead.” In 1991, Mike transitioned into the group home for the Gibault Transition Program. While in the program under Gibault’s care, he enrolled at Ivy Tech and earned 15 college credit hours.

One of Mike’s fondest memories from his time at Gibault was a canoe trip. “We partnered up and canoed down Sugar Creek, camping along the way,” Mike recalled. “We prepared our meals over an open fire and slept in tents. The best part was being with your friends.” Mike also enjoyed playing basketball at Hawthorn Park and Deming Park on weekends while participating in the Transition Program.

Mike credits Gibault with helping shape the mindset that led him to military service.

“Less than a year and a half after leaving Gibault, I joined the Marines and served for four years,” he said. “I even earned my Good Conduct Medal. I would say that’s the thing I’m most proud of since leaving Gibault.”

Mike’s twin brother, Matthew, had a different experience after leaving a residential facility around the same time Mike was discharged from Gibault. “My brother completed two stays at White’s Residential (now Josiah White’s),” Mike said. “We both returned home around the same time. He went back to the old crowd and got into trouble. However, when I joined the Marines, he followed my lead and ended up serving for 20 years. He earned his master’s degree and now works for the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Indirectly, Gibault played a part in that. Gibault saved me by redirecting my life, which inadvertently redirected his.”

Mike has enjoyed a successful career as a plumber and has maintained a lifelong passion for boxing. In fact, he competed in Golden Gloves boxing during his younger years. Mike and his brother excelled in boxing while serving in the Marines and were eventually inducted into the Marine Corps Boxing Hall of Fame. Through boxing, Mike had the opportunity to meet fellow inductees and legends of the sport, including Leon Spinks and Ray Mercer.

Like many people, Mike has experienced both highs and lows throughout his life. Today, however, he says things are going well. “My wife, Annette, retired a couple of months ago after 28 years of service in the U.S. Army,” Mike shared. “She’s very excited about the next chapter in our lives.”

Mike, Gibault wishes you, your wife, your brother, and your entire family the very best in the years ahead. It sounds like there are many more life-changing opportunities waiting for you. Thank you for sharing a glimpse into your journey and your time at Gibault Children’s Services. We know your story will inspire others and demonstrate the lasting impact that positive guidance and support can have on a young person’s life.

LEADERSHIP IS ON THE MOVE

President & CEO Michele Madley

Fund Development Director Melissa Reed

Gibault President/CEO Michele Madley has been on the move across the state of Indiana! Mrs. Madley was recently appointed by Governor Braun to the Behavioral Health and Human Servies Licensing Board for the State of Indiana.

Additionally, Mrs. Madley was chosen to be on the Indiana Rate Reform Project Team. This eight-member team consists of a provider, Gibault/Mrs. Madley, and additional seven members representing the Department of Children Services and Family and Social Services Administration.

Through Mrs. Madley's advocacy and diligent intent to sustain operations, Enhancing Residential Care for Children in Indiana, funded by the Lilly Endowment, has invited Gibault to apply to their grant opportunity for Indiana’s licensed residential care organizations. This funding is characterized to help improve operational capacity, facilities, and supportive programs for children.

Indiana Knights of Columbus Insurance presented Melissa Reed with a generous gift in support of Gibault children at their meeting of field agents. We look forward to future collaborations to drive both missions, providing life-changing opportunities and protecting families.

If any Indiana Knights of Columbus are interested in creating a legacy gift to Gibault, we urge you to have a conversation with your insurance agent.

Click the link below to learn more:

Stackowicz Agency | Knights of Columbus

Great time was had by all at the Garrett Golf Outing (K of C #1790) – thank you to all who participated and sponsored the event. We love and appreciate the support this tournament brings

to our children.

Knights of Columbus Council 560 asked Gibault to attend their meeting to discuss challenges the organization faces now and the future of residential care and how Gibault plans to stay relevant – many questions were raised which resulted in a very informative discussion! If your council has questions or concerns, please contact Melissa Reed at 812-298-3030 to schedule a visit. We love opportunities to give accurate details and receive firsthand feedback.

Vice President/Chief Operating Officer Rob Sturm and McKayla Cox, Director of Human Resources

Congratulations to Rob and McKayla on becoming a Certified Praesidium Guardian! Through this certification they have the ability to implement practices that lead to a safer environment and protect the children at Gibault Children's Services. Their continued commitment to abuse prevention is valued!

GIBAULT NORTHWEST CAMPUS PICKLEBALL GRAND OPENING

Are you ready to show your talent with a "Dink" controlled shot over the net and land it in your opponent’s "kitchen" during Gibault Northwest Campus Pickleball Grand Opening?

Join us on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 4:30pm(Eastern)to show our children the game of pickleball. The humor playful expressions will brighten their day!

Don't delay and RSVP today to melissa.reed@gibault.org or call

812-298-3030! This tournament play will be one to remember that will also include dinner!

ANNUAL GIBAULT SEPTEMBER EVENT

Gibault Family & Friends Picnic-Envoy Conference is scheduled for Saturday, September 19, 2026. Mark your calendars! Registration opens later this month with forms heading your way soon. Will you be attending?

GOLF OUTINGS TO BENEFIT GIBAULT

The 25^th Annual K of C Council 656 Golf Tournament will be September 13, 2026, with registration at 8:00am at Wildcat Creek Golf Course, 3200 Timber Valley Dr, Kokomo. Call Mike Courts 301-769-1148 or Butch Abney 765-437-2493 for more information.

The 32^nd Annual Charity Golf Outing K of C Council 6923 will be October 12, 2026, at 9:00am for registration at the Hawthorns Golf and Country Club, 12255 Club Point Drive, Fishers. For more information visit www.kofcgolfouting.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS - MARK YOUR CALENDARS

September 3rd

Fr. Campagna Birthday Celebration & Spaghetti Dinner

September 19th

Envoy, Family, and Friends Picnic

October 27

Northwest Campus Trunk or Treat & Chili Supper

November 17

Northwest Campus Friendsgiving Dinner

Gibault Children's Services Spring Appeal has kicked off to support new pickleball courts for the Terre Haute Campus. This will allow an extracurricular opportunity for youth to boost their treatment services! This addition will allow children to experience self-confidence, enhance focus, release energy,

and reduce stress.



Please consider a donation to support the installation of this new recreational area - a gift of any size helps! Click below:

Donate to Gibault | Support Youth & Family Services

Indicate Pickleball in the comment section to ensure your donation goes directly to the new Pickleball court. We greatly appreciate your support!

Providing life-changing opportunities for children, adults, families and communities.

GIBAULT.ORG