Empowering Indiana’s Adult Learners Since 1976
At LARA Educational Opportunities, we’re driven by a profound belief: access to education is crucial for building safe, thriving communities. Since 1976, we’ve been at the forefront of providing free, high-quality educational programs to adult learners across Indiana, supporting both native residents and immigrants from 46+ countries.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower adult learners through education, enrich lives, and strengthen communities.
Our Vision
Our vision is that every Hoosier has access to educational resources and job opportunities.
Our Core Values
Access to Education
We believe that education should be accessible to all, regardless of life circumstances, culture, age, or ability. We strive to break down systemic barriers that prevent people from achieving their educational and career goals.
Community Empowerment
Our programs equip individuals with the skills needed to improve their lives and contribute to the well-being of their communities.
Diversity + Inclusion
Representing 46+ countries and 25+ languages, we provide an inclusive environment where people do more than learn—they build life-long friendships.
Commitment to Excellence
We take pride in delivering quality education, which has earned us the Program of Excellence designation from the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. This prestigious award honors programs that excel in student academic achievement, career training, high-demand wage training, and high school equivalencies earned.
Lifelong Learning
We encourage continuous learning, offering opportunities for adults to improve their skills, achieve certifications, and pursue meaningful careers.
Collaboration
We work closely with students, employers, and community partners to create pathways for success, building a network of support that strengthens our shared future.
Empathy + Support
We provide a compassionate, understanding environment, recognizing the unique challenges that our students face and offering personalized support to help them succeed.
Our Impact
423,178 adults in Indiana aged 18-64 lack a high school diploma. Our free High School Equivalency Programs are designed to help these individuals enhance their earning capacity and achieve their greatest potential.
High School Equivalency graduates can expect an average annual income increase of $8,400.
Additionally, Career Training Certifications lead to a 24% boost in median income. We help students lay the groundwork for building generational wealth.
That’s why education isn’t just about today’s communities. It’s about our collective future.
Success Stories
Our students inspire us daily to keep doing this work. They’re true heroes.
Meet Selina.
Selina’s path to success was not easy. When she became a mother during her junior year of high school, she had to leave school to focus on raising her daughter. But Selina was determined to get her degree.
A year later, she discovered LARA and began working toward her High School Equivalency Diploma with two young children in tow.
Our staff helped Selina achieve her academic goals, of course, but they also supported her by watching her children while she attended classes.
In January 2022, Selina received her diploma, a moment of immense pride for her and our team.
She reflects, “I was on cloud nine. All the teachers were excited with me. They made me feel like I was a part of their family.”
Selina’s own family continues to drive her forward. “Seeing my daughter’s excitement made me want to go further. I can’t give up,” she says.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Free education empowers people to transform their lives. At LARA, we’re committed to making a lasting impact for our communities.
Together, we can foster economic growth, reduce unemployment, and create a more vibrant, resilient Indiana.
Be a part of our movement.
