BACI and Community Partners Break Ground on Sports Courts and Parking Facilities at International Community Center
A Major Milestone Toward “Creating a HOME FOR ALL” in Indianapolis
INDIANAPOLIS, September 9, 2026 — The Burmese American Community Institute (BACI), joined by community partners, funders, elected officials, families, and supporters, celebrated a major milestone today with a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of multi-purpose sports courts and parking facilities at the BACI Campus – International Community Center on Bluff Road in Indianapolis.
The groundbreaking marks another important step toward realizing BACI’s vision of “Creating a HOME FOR ALL”—a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant community campus where children, youth, families, seniors, newcomers, and residents from all backgrounds can come together to learn, grow, connect, and thrive.
The new sports facilities will provide much-needed recreational opportunities, promote healthy lifestyles, encourage youth development, and strengthen community connections. The project includes multi-purpose courts designed to accommodate basketball, tennis, volleyball, and other recreational activities, along with additional parking to improve accessibility for community members and visitors.
Community Leaders Celebrate a Shared Vision
The ceremony brought together distinguished elected officials, civic leaders, community partners, and supporters who shared remarks celebrating the milestone and reaffirming their commitment to building a stronger, healthier, and more inclusive community.
Distinguished speakers included:
- Indiana State Senator Cyndi Carrasco, who shared remarks recognizing the importance of community investment and opportunities for children and families. Watch Remarks on YouTube.
- Jordan Gathers, Deputy Mayor of the City of Indianapolis, who joined the celebration and expressed support for the development of welcoming community spaces. Watch Remarks on YouTube.
- Michael McKillip, United Way of Central Indiana, representing a key community partner supporting BACI’s continued growth and development. Watch Remarks on YouTube.
- Dr. Virginia A. Caine, MD, Director and Chief Medical Officer of the Marion County Public Health Department, who joined community leaders in celebrating the project and its potential to promote health and well-being. Watch Remarks on YouTube.
- Martin Baier, President and CEO of The International Center, who joined the celebration in support of BACI’s vision of an inclusive and thriving community. Watch Remarks on YouTube.
Community elders, faith leaders, families, community organizations, donors, and friends also participated in the celebration, reflecting the broad partnerships and collective commitment that have made this milestone possible.
Building a HOME FOR ALL
Speaking at the ceremony, Elaisa Vahnie, President and CEO of BACI, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the many individuals and organizations whose generosity, leadership, and partnership have helped advance the campus development initiative.
“We are deeply grateful to all our donors, partners, and community members who have believed in this vision and contributed to making this journey possible. Your trust, encouragement, generosity, and partnership have brought us to this important milestone,” said Vahnie.
He also emphasized BACI’s broader vision of creating a welcoming and inclusive campus that will serve generations to come, bringing together people of diverse backgrounds through education, recreation, cultural engagement, and community development.
“Thank you for believing in this vision, walking alongside us, and being part of this journey. We look forward to continuing to build a stronger, more welcoming community together,” Vahnie added.
A Lasting Investment in the Community
The sports courts and parking facilities represent an important phase of BACI’s long-term International Community Center development initiative. The approximately 12-acre campus is envisioned as a vibrant hub for education, youth development, recreation, health and wellness, cultural activities, and community engagement.
Through this initiative, BACI seeks to create a lasting community asset that strengthens connections across generations and cultures while expanding opportunities for children, youth, and families throughout Central Indiana.
BACI extends its sincere appreciation to United Way of Central Indiana, its funding partners, public officials, community organizations, donors, and countless individuals whose continued commitment and generosity are helping turn this shared vision into reality.
About the Burmese American Community Institute
Founded in 2011, the Burmese American Community Institute (BACI) is a nonprofit organization based in Indianapolis dedicated to building a thriving, self-sufficient, sustainable, and integrated community through education, employment, advocacy, and comprehensive community services.
Guided by its vision, “Education for All, a Stronger Community,” BACI has served more than 35,000 individuals and continues to expand opportunities for newcomers, immigrants, refugees, and the broader community.
Through its International Community Center initiative, BACI is working with partners and supporters to create a lasting “HOME FOR ALL.”
Media Contact
Burmese American Community Institute (BACI)
Info@thebaci.org
317-731-5537
