HEROES
A LETTER FROMJamie Boer
As I reflect on the incredible year-long journey of the Homefront Heroes Magazine, my heart is filled with gratitude. When we first envisioned this publication, we wanted to create something more than just a magazine—we wanted a platform to shine a light on the everyday heroes who make our community so special. Now, seeing it come to life issue after issue, I am overwhelmed with appreciation for the stories we’ve shared and the people who have allowed us into their lives.
Every single feature in our Homefront Heroes Magazine is a testament to the strength, kindness, and resilience of those around us. From first responders who put their lives on the line to teachers shaping the next generation, to small business owners who pour their hearts into our local economy—these stories remind us of what it truly means to serve and uplift one another. I am deeply honored to be able to tell these stories and celebrate these individuals who, often quietly, make our world a better place.
To our heroes—thank you for allowing us to share your journeys. Your dedication, passion, and selflessness inspire me every single day. Your stories deserve to be told, and I am honored to
be part of that process.
To our readers—thank you for supporting this mission. Your enthusiasm, your engagement, and your willingness to share your own stories with us fuel this magazine. Every time you reach out to tell us how a feature inspired you, we are reminded of why we do this work.
Looking ahead, I am filled with anticipation for the future of our Homefront Heroes Magazine and more excited than ever. By partnering with local businesses that offer support and special programs for our heroes, we aim to build a network of gratitude and reciprocity. This collaboration not only honors those who serve but also strengthens the bonds that hold our community together.
Jamie Boer Homes is also offering a percentage of our commission back to our heroes through the JBH ‘Heroes Give Back Program.’ This initiative is our way of thanking healthcare professionals, educators, military personnel, and others for their contributions to our community.
There are countless more heroes to celebrate and more lives to touch. We are committed to unearthing more
stories that inspire and uplift our readers into action. Our goal is to create a ripple effect, where tales of courage and kindness motivate others to contribute in their unique ways.
Homefront Heroes Magazine is not just about the stories we tell—it’s about the connections we create, the impact we make together, and the celebration of the human spirit. It’s about acknowledging the extraordinary within the ordinary and expressing profound gratitude for those who inspire us daily. As we turn each page, we are reminded of the boundless potential for goodness and the enduring impact of community. Together, we will continue to honor our heroes and share their stories.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Here’s to many more inspiring stories to come!
With gratitude, Jamie Boer
NOMINATE a HOMEFRONT HERO and they might be featured in an upcoming JBH Homefront Heroes Magazine
You make our communities a better place, and we’d like to make your home just as special. To all our hometown heroes—firefighters, police officers, medical personnel, teachers, and active duty and retired military personnel—thank you for all you do. We’re offering you an additional $2,000 in design options on any Indianapolis area move-in ready and tobe-built homes as part of our Hometown Heroes Rewards Program.*
MEET THE JBH TEAM
“Will’s
Moving to Indiana from England, team member Alison Shailes understands the stress that comes with moving.
“To me clients are for life, in building these relationships I believe communication and trust is key,” Alison said. “From the first time we meet, I will ensure my client has a complete understanding of the selling and buying process and I will listen to their specific needs and requirements throughout the whole process with my client’s best interests at heart.”
Among the initial members on the team is Zeke Mayberry. Zeke has high-level negotiating skills and specific expertise in selling new-construction homes, which allows him to give his clients the best value in all buying or selling transactions.
“I care deeply for my clients and I will do everything in my power to ensure that my clients have the smoothest experience possible,” he said. “My clients and their family will always get more when they work alongside me and the Jamie Boer Homes team.”
connections, and fostering mutually beneficial relationships-all of which I fully utilized in the
industry,” she said.
putting his clients first but also maintaining not
“Alex
“Everyone
DR. SANDEEP BATRA
Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics
INDIANA UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
A LIFE OF SERVICE
Dr. Sandeep Batra’s Dedication to the Future of Pediatric Cancer Care
Writer / Natalie Platt
Dr. Sandeep Batra’s guiding principles are reflected in his distinguished career as an Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics at the Indiana University School of Medicine. From 2016 to 2024, he served as Medical Director of the leukemia program at Riley Hospital for Children, where he played a key role in advancing care for young patients. As the institutional Principal Investigator for the Children’s Oncology Group and the Therapeutic Advances in Childhood Leukemia and Lymphoma consortium, he facilitates access to national clinical trials, offering hope to children battling leukemia.
Witnessing the resilience of his young patients has deepened Dr. Batra’s commitment to his work. “Most problems in life seem trivial compared to what these children and their families go through. Their strength is truly inspiring,” he says.
Under his leadership, Riley Hospital’s Pediatric Leukemia and Lymphoma Program has grown into the largest in Indiana, staffed by highly experienced specialists dedicated to providing cutting-edge treatment. “My research and clinical efforts focus on improving care for Hoosier children with leukemia, developing innovative treatments for relapsed cases, and collaborating on national and international research initiatives,” Dr. Batra explains.
Beyond his clinical and research
responsibilities, Dr. Batra is actively involved in community service. As a board member and medical advisor for Indiana Wish, he helps grant lifechanging wishes for children with critical illnesses, ensuring their experiences align with their medical needs. “My advocacy for cancer care and research has evolved naturally through partnerships with patients, foundations, and colleagues at IU and Riley,” he says. “Serving on the Indiana Wish Fund board allows me to bring medical expertise to a cause that brings joy to these children.”
Dr. Batra also co-chairs the Adolescent and Young Adults (AYA) working group within the Big Ten Cancer Research Consortium, a collaboration that accelerates cancer research by uniting leading universities across the country in research.
Looking ahead, he is excited about the expanding opportunities at Riley Hospital and Indiana University School of Medicine. “Since 2009, this journey has been both rewarding and transformative,” he says. “As part of a leading pediatric hematologyoncology division, I remain committed to advancing research, education, and compassionate patient care.”
Above all, Dr. Batra is grateful for the team surrounding him. “I’m honored to work alongside the most dedicated nurses, nurse practitioners, and staff at Riley,” he says. “They are not only the best at what they do—they have the biggest hearts.”
Do good and make a difference.
A life of service is a life well lived.
- SANDEEP BATRA
JENNIFER WHITTICKER
Teacher
MARY CASTLE
ELEMENTARY
SHAPING YOUNG MINDS
How Jennifer Whitticker is Inspiring the Future with 3D Technology
Writer / Melissa Gibson
Jennifer Whitticker started working at the Boys and Girls Club and volunteering for student organizations in college. That passion led to her pursuing a teaching career.
Always interested in learning something new and exposing students to skills they’ll need in the future, Whitticker found something last year that piqued her interest. “I have a neighbor who was showing me all these cool things with a 3D printer. I always thought it was very complex and even when a 3D printer was available at school, I never really saw them being utilized,” Whitticker said. “My neighbor took about 30 minutes to show me. I thought it was just awesome. I bought myself one and started playing with it, realizing all the cool things I could make.”
She applied and was awarded a Creative Impact Grant by the Lawrence Township Metropolitan School Foundation to purchase a 3D printer for her fifth-grade classroom at Mary Castle Elementary.
There is no curriculum available just yet, but Whitticker is finding unique ways to expose her students to this trending technology.
“We’ve printed a brain and animals in science. We’ve integrated the printer in math and figured out how many fidgets we can make with a roll of filament. We’ve solved problems. Our custodian was carrying a bag of trash bags. We created a hook on the side of his trash can for the bags. Right now, we’re working on a prosthetic for someone who is missing fingers,” Whitticker said She’s even taught her students what to do if something goes wrong during the printing process.
“We’re learning as we go, and I’ve encouraged the class to find creative ways to incorporate the 3D printer into our lessons, whether in math, humanities, or other subjects. The excitement is incredible—whenever I bring up the 3D printer, the room falls silent, and I have their full attention,” Whitticker said.
Bringing technology into the classroom is Whitticker’s passion. She knows how important it is to keep her students upto-date and offer access to products and ideas they can use in the future.
It’s not just young people though. Working with teachers and staff, she also serves as an e-coach at the elementary school.
right now, I’m working on our STEM recertification as a school,” Whitticker said.
In the future, she hopes more educators can lean into updated technology and find ways to implement them in the classroom.
However, she’s not doing it alone. Whitticker is thankful for the support the school system has shown and she’s grateful to her husband Will, a realtor with Jamie Boer Homes.
“Teachers don’t make a lot and with his support, I’ve been blessed that he’s the breadwinner and I’m able to purchase a 3D printer, along with all the other ideas I’ve had over the years for my classroom,” Whitticker said.
Beyond the educational aspects of technology in the classroom, Whitticker wants to empower students to find ways they can help others and learn how they can use their knowledge and experience to create a better world.
“We work with technology in the school and help teachers with different online platforms. It looks different every year. For example,
“I want my students to remember what they did in the classroom. My vision is 10 or 20 years from now, they might not remember me, but they will remember their experience working with these printers,” Whitticker said. “That’s where their excitement started with technology and being able to design whatever it may be. It’s opening up this world for them and exploring their options.”
EXCLUSIVE HOMETOWN HEROS DISCOUNTS
Medical Personnel, First Responders, Veterans/Military, Hamilton County Employees, and Noblesville School Employees are all eligible. (Must show proof of employment (badge.ID to redeem in-club)
Chat and savor a complimentary
HONORING OUR HEROES ONE HOME AT A TIME
At Jamie Boer Homes, we honor those who serve our community – healthcare professionals, educators, military personnel, and more. With our “Heroes Give Back Program,” you receive a portion of our commission when you buy or sell a home with us. It’s our way of giving back to those who give so much.
Recent heroes that benefited from the JBH “Heroes Give Back Program”
Working with Jamie was an exceptional experience from beginning to end. She truly took the time to understand our needs and preferences, guiding us through each step of the buying process with her evident expertise and market knowledge. Her insights were invaluable, helping us make informed decisions with confidence.
Jamie’s communication was fantastic; she was always available to answer questions, provide updates, and offer advice. Her negotiation skills were outstanding, securing us the best possible deal. Thanks to her efforts and the JBH “Heroes Give Back Program”, we were able to purchase the home of our dreams. Jamie and her team’s commitment to making a positive impact through their “Give Back” program highlights their dedication not only to clients but also to the community.
Overall, working with Jamie was about more than just buying a home; it was about building a relationship based on trust and mutual respect. Jamie’s dedication to her clients and community shines through her unique Give Back approach. We wholeheartedly recommend Jamie to anyone seeking an outstanding and impactful real estate experience.
Matt R. (Retired Police Officer) & Michelle R. (Nurse)
Please take advantage of our JBH Heroes Give Back Program. We want to help make your next real estate transaction more affordable for you!
Jamie Boer, Realtor
JONATHAN TANGARA Student
FISHERS
HIGH SCHOOL
JONATHAN TANGARA A Leader in the Making
Writer / Natalie Platt
His smile. His personality. His dedication to doing whatever it takes. That’s what Jonathan Tangara is known for. A senior at Fishers High School, Tangara has demonstrated exceptional dedication to academics, athletics, and community service, leading to his nomination to the United States Military Academy at West Point. In November of 2024, U.S. Representative Victoria Spartz announced Tangara’s nomination, highlighting his outstanding qualifications and commitment to serving his country.
Tangara’s family has played a huge role in shaping who he is— both of his parents served in the Army, which instilled in him the importance of resilience, responsibility, and selfless service. One parent is an officer and the other is enlisted, which has given Tangara a unique perspective on both sides of military leadership.
“It reinforced how important humility and thoughtfulness are when making decisions as a leader,” he says. “Both of my parents have been extremely supportive of my ambitions and have opened my eyes to different perspectives and styles of leadership. I am proud of their service. My siblings also keep me grounded and remind me of the importance of perseverance, no matter the challenge.”
Tangara is involved in multiple organizations, including the Fishers Armed Services Commission, Chess Club, Tutoring Club, the Mayoral Youth Academy, and the National
Honor Society. Through these, he’s had the chance to serve his community in different ways—whether it’s supporting veterans, mentoring younger students, or engaging in civic leadership initiatives. Each experience has helped shape his understanding of service and leadership.
The Fishers Armed Services Commission’s (FASC) purpose is to further the goal of becoming a community in which military service is honored and recognized as a key component of Fishers’ vibrancy.
FASC is how Tangara met one of his mentors, Eddie Rivers. Rivers, the son of an Army officer himself and a 1980 United States Military Academy at West Point graduate uses his role through FASC to advocate what West Point is— and what it has to offer— to high school students. He’s been recruiting within the Indianapolis community as a volunteer for 30 years— with two West Point applicants coming from FASC in the last two years.
“Jonathan is a leader—he’s all smiles and he’s as calm as can be on the football field,” Rivers says. “He’s got that smile, that determination, and has earned his spot. He’s the kind of person and leader you want to follow.”
Rivers says he feels so strongly about informing students about West Point and doing everything he can to prepare them through a steadied process because of a teacher he had in high school— one who introduced West Point to him and helped him through the admission process.
His other mentor is Fishers High School head football coach Curt Funk.
“Coach Funk was one of my earliest supporters— not just in my West Point application, but in football as well,” Tangara says. “He allowed me to play the varsity level and contribute to our team’s success, which helped shape me as both a player and leader.”
Tangara’s motivation, outside of his family and mentors, is his deep respect for service and leadership. Growing up in a military family, he’s always admired the values of duty, honor, and country that service members embody. He’s also drawn inspiration from historical military leaders like Napoleon, Caesar, and Churchill.
“Reading their biographies has fueled my desire to make a meaningful impact, both in my community and on a larger scale,” he says. “West Point represents everything I strive for—leadership, discipline, and a commitment to serving others. The academy and the Army will allow me to push myself to my limits, develop as a leader, and contribute to something greater than myself.
Tangara plans to pursue a career in medicine as an Army doctor, or, branch into the Infantry and become an officer in the 75th Ranger Regiment. If he eventually leaves the military, he hopes to serve in a three-letter agency and possibly start a career in politics.
A1980 West Point graduate, Eddie Rivers is a patriot personified. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Indiana War Memorial Foundation and is active in The Fishers Armed Services Commission, which works to identify young men and women who want to become commissioned officers in the military.
Rivers credits his time at West Point as a defining moment. “My education
COMMUNITY PATRIOT Eddie Rivers Works to Inspire Youth
included American History, World History, and Leadership shaped me to the point that I love serving veterans and mentoring youth to pursue military service,” he says. “Knowing the history of our service members has inspired me to honor those who served.”
Because the number is less than 1% of the population, those who served are true heroes and deserve recognition and support. At the same time, it’s important to acknowledge the number of officers retiring and seek out their replacements. “The Fishers Armed Services Commission was put in place by Mayor Scott Fadness to bring honor and support to Fishers-area veterans,” he says. “With this focus, the city is working with local school systems on youth outreach, enabling them to see the value in becoming service members themselves.”
FASC is how Rivers met Jonathan Tangara, a featured hero who is now bound for West Point.
Beyond the FASC, Rivers also gives back to his alma mater by sitting on the Board of Directors for the West Point Society.
“My goal is to inspire and mentor local youth to attend higher education, including striving for admittance to West Point or other military academies, if they prefer,” he says.
Rivers’ passion for the community is evident. He was previously awarded “Rotarian of the Year” by the Fishers Rotary Club, serves as co-chair for the annual Rotary Club Charity Golf Outing in June, and is Board Chairman for the Hamilton County Community Foundation.
WHY CHOOSE US
Working with UMortgage means access to more loan products and wholesale pricing alternatives. More choices driven by our expert team to answer all of your home loan questions. You will get personal attention to help you make the right decision, saving you time and stress.
UMortgage has quickly become a leader in the mortgage industry. Over 400+ loan products available to our clients, we are the one stop shop for all your mortgage needs.
First Responder, thank you for all you do
We believe in taking care of those who take care of us. That’s why COUNTRY Financial commits to helping first responders with Operation Helping Heroes grants, countless local donations and savings up to 15% on car insurance.
Thanking our local heroes
Our Occupational Discount* provides up to 15% savings on car insurance for any qualifying K-12 teacher, police officer, firefighter, paramedic or EMT. It’s one small way we want to give a huge thank you to our local heroes who do so much for us. Book an appointment today to learn more.
Timothy Bridges & Tim Osterbur
8800 North St. Suite #101B
Fishers, IN 46038
Tim.Bridges@countryfinancial.com
Tim.Osterbur@countryfinancial.com
317.436.4372
JAY EITELJORGE
Volunteer
MISSION 22
JAY EITELJORGE
A Man on a Mission, One Stride at a Time
Writer / Melissa Gibson
Jay Eiteljorge loves a challenge. In 2013, he found one he couldn’t pass up in Runner’s World magazine. Every winter from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, the publication put out a challenge for people to run at least one mile every day as a way to motivate folks as one year winds down and another begins. Eiteljorge decided to try it out and… it stuck.
Soon after, he saw a social media post listing runners who had maintained their streaks for over a year. He knew he wanted to be on that list.
Using the popular Strava app, Eiteljorge started tracking his streak. To date, he has surpassed 4,125 days of running at least one mile a day!
“It just got to the point where I haven’t had any reason or excuse to stop. I’ve had some illnesses and minor injuries but nothing that has prevented me from running,” Eiteljorge said.
His dedication to running pushed him to take on bigger challenges, including marathons. In early 2020, he signed up for one in St. Louis, but when the pandemic hit, he didn’t let it stop him. “I decided to run it on a track at Fall Creek Junior High School,” Eiteljorge said. “One lap of the track is about a quarter of a mile, and a marathon is 26.2 miles, so I went around 105 times.”
Throughout the day, friends brought water and food for Eiteljorge as he passed by. Others came out and ran a
few laps with him, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Although Eiteljorge isn’t a veteran himself, he takes every opportunity to support those who have protected our freedom.
In 2018, as a board member of the Fishers Running Club, a chance encounter led Eiteljorge to his passion: volunteering for the Mission 22 nonprofit.
“We had a guest speaker come out to the club after a run following Veterans Day,” he said. “I decided to join, and then a few months later, became an ambassador for the nonprofit. A year or so after that, they asked me to be a state leader.”
Mission 22 provides support and resources to veterans, from supplements to coaching and therapy.
“The ‘22’ is the average number of veterans who take their own lives every day. We want to show our veterans they are valuable members of society and help them with whatever they need,” Eiteljorge said. “After hearing all of these stories—some good and others not so good—I knew I wanted to share what they are doing at every opportunity.”
His commitment to Mission 22 is fueled by the stories he’s heard—some heartbreaking, others inspiring—but all reinforcing the importance of their work.
Since then, he’s completed the Berlin Marathon, raising $2,500 for Team Red White & Blue, a nonprofit dedicated to
aiding veterans. He’s also completed the Hennepin Hundred 50 Miler in Illinois.
“I thought it sounded cool to run a 50-miler in honor of my turning 50 in 2024. Once I committed to the Hennepin Hundred, I noticed the Air Force Marathon fell on the same date as one of my long runs. It had been on my list for a while, and I’m glad I was able to make it happen. It was my first Armed Forces race and was such a cool experience,” Eiteljorge said.
Between running and serving at Mission 22, Eiteljorge continues to fight to keep the streak alive.
“I’m just truly, honestly grateful that I’ve been able to continue this long. I haven’t been so sick or injured that I couldn’t run. I just appreciate the fact that I can do this and have been able to do it for so long,” Eiteljorge said.
Mission 22 will host a Hope Weekend at the Hoosier Horse Park in Edinburgh on September 12-14, featuring a rodeo, a ruck, and a 5K.The nonprofit will also host its annual Hope Gala, the largest fundraiser for Mission 22, on November 13 at the Biltwell Event Center in Indianapolis. Visit Mission22.com for more information.
Learn more, view our rates, and apply online at: or reach out to Sean today! elements.org/SKiely
NMLS: 425511
skiely@elements.org | 317-809-3888
Shelly Smethers Sales Representative
I have been given the opportunity of a lifetime to help others. Each year, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) launches its “Visionaries of the Year” fundraising campaign, and this year I was honored to be nominated as a candidate. I am writing today to ask for your support of LLS’s mission in its efforts to find cures for blood cancers and to assist patients and families as they battle this disease.
From Kickoff on February 27 to Grand Finale May 9, 2025 our team goal is to raise $200,000 which will go directly to LLS in support of its longstanding goal: a world without blood cancers. And if we raise $50K by the end of the campaign, we can connect our team’s name to an LLS-funded research portfolio to honor our efforts to help people with blood cancers. I am particularly passionate about patient education and support and will be representing this area of LLS’s mission during my campaign.
As I reflect on my journey and the motivation behind this cancer fundraiser, I am reminded of the strength and resilience I’ve witnessed in my mother and others I love as they faced their battles with cancer. Their struggles have inspired me to take action and contribute to a cause that means so much to me. By raising funds for cancer research, I hope to provide future generations with the resources and knowledge needed to find a cure, sparing them from the pain that previous generations have endured.
Money raised helps LLS, the largest nonprofit dedicated to creating a world without blood cancers, provide crucial support for blood cancer patients and their families. LLS is the leading source of free information, education, and support for blood cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, families, and healthcare professionals, including one-one-one support, financial assistance, clinical trial placements, and more. This is an organization that is making an impact with the dollars it raises, and I’m proud to be associated with LLS.
This is where you come in.
Please use the QR code or visit my campaign page at pages.lls.org/voy/in/indy25/jboery to make a tax-deductible contribution to LLS.
You can also mail your tax-deductible contribution to me at 7820 Timber Run Ct, Indianapolis, IN 46256. Please make checks payable to “The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society” and print VOY/Jamie Boer in the memo section.
All donations received will support LLS’s overall mission to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. I thank you in advance for supporting this incredible need. I’ll keep you posted on how the campaign goes. For now, I am grateful for your friendship and support.
Sincerely, Jamie
