Faith, Legacy & Purpose: The Palmers on Nonprofit Leadership in Indianapolis

In this inspiring episode of the Senior Home Companions Podcast, host Kirstin McCarthy continues her conversation with Dave and Cindy Palmer—founders of Purposeful Design and Heart Change. Their story is one of surrender, faith, and endurance as they’ve grown two powerful nonprofits in Indianapolis. They open up about how they stay spiritually grounded, how faith shapes their marriage, and what legacy they hope to leave behind. From folding diapers to transforming communities, their journey offers practical wisdom for anyone longing to serve with purpose.

Staying Grounded in Faith

Running a nonprofit can feel like navigating Class V whitewater rapids. The Palmers stay centered by stepping away for spiritual renewal and committing to personal growth in Christ. “If we’re both growing in the Lord, there’s a chance we’ll be better spouses and leaders,” David shares. That spiritual foundation helps them handle pressure without relying on their own strength.

David adds, “Our job is to be faithful to the ones God brings. He’s responsible for the results.” This mindset not only grounds them but fuels longevity in ministry.

Advice for Couples Called to Serve

“Start with prayer,” David says. “Ask God where He’s working—and join Him there.” He recalls how his own journey began with volunteering at a crisis pregnancy center. “It started with folding diapers,” he laughs. “But it was all preparation for what was to come.”

Cindy adds, “You were built for something significant. Listen to that tug. You are needed, and there are things only you can do.”

Redefining Success in Ministry

For Purposeful Design, success means more than job placement—it’s about life transformation. “We see people go from hopeless to hopeful, crisis to stability, survival to thriving,” David explains. The organization now trains over 250 individuals annually, with 200 moving directly into employment. Even more powerful, 85% of the nonprofit’s budget is covered by sales of furniture handcrafted by their graduates.

Heart Change defines success through restored identities and healthy families. “We’re going deeper into trauma work and early childhood intervention,” says Cindy. “We want every child to start school ready to thrive.”

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

Purposeful Design is investing in process improvements, systems, and empowering staff while expanding their reach. Heart Change is focusing on workforce development, deeper trauma care, and breaking generational poverty.

“You have been built for moments of divine significance. Don’t miss them.”

— David Palmer

Get Involved

• Visit Heart Change Ministries or contact Cindy at c.palmer@heartchangeindie.org
• Learn more at Purposeful Design or reach David at d.palmer@pdindy.com
• Volunteer, tour, or donate to support lasting change in Indianapolis

Come see the work for yourself—you might find your own story of significance waiting to unfold.