The Avenue Foundation (TAF), named to pay homage to the rich history and culture of Indiana Avenue in Indianapolis, was founded by Eric LeSure in 2021. LeSure’s vision is for TAF to help build racial and economic equity, and empower the Black community in Central Indiana to create generational wealth.

On Feb. 27, 2023, LeSure officially opened The Avenue Coffeehouse & Café at 6283 N College Ave in Broad Ripple. All proceeds from this business will support TAF. Learn more by visiting Facebook, Instagram or at theavenuecoffee.com.

Operative funding for the coffeehouse and TAF comes from, in part, St. Paul’s impact grants totaling $1.5 million over multiple years. Supplemental administrative support has also been provided by St. Paul’s and the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis.