Who are we?
Lieutenant Jason Marceaux
, Vincennes University Police Department
Hello there! I'm Jason Marceaux. Explore our first blog post to learn about our humble beginnings. Allow me to introduce myself—I'm a devoted husband, a proud father of three, and a seasoned public servant with nearly two decades of experience in the field of law enforcement. My professional trajectory has encompassed diverse roles, spanning juvenile corrections, adult corrections, and service as both a Deputy Sheriff and a Police Officer. I assist my current department with specialized firearm training along with specialized medical training.
Beyond my professional roles, I find joy in woodworking, embarking on R/C car adventures with my son, cheering on my oldest daughter in softball, and appreciating the imaginative culinary creations crafted by my youngest daughter.
My unwavering desire to assist those who can't help themselves, particularly children in need, has always been a driving force for me. I firmly believe that God has called me to use my talents for His purpose, leading to the creation of Dream Builders of Indiana. With your help and support, I am confident that we can truly make a meaningful difference in the lives of children lacking adequate support. Join me on this journey to create a positive impact in the lives of local children.
Matt Perry, Princeton Police Department and Air Force Veteran
Hello everyone. I’m Matt Perry. Throughout my life, I have always found passion for helping others. Whether it has been serving around the world with the Air Force, assisting with humanitarian aid in the Air National Guard, or my career with the Princeton Police Department, I truly believe there is no better service in our life than helping others in times of need. Outside of work, I am a husband who has a variety of hobbies to include sports, motorcycles, hunting, and traveling.
I grew up as a child in a low-income household where I learned the value of a one-dollar bill. Seeing my parents struggle both physically and emotionally day after day while sacrificing their own personal comforts has made an impact on my life unlike any other. Those experiences have greatly influenced my passion to serve others and be thankful for the opportunities in my life now.
As an adult, I was able to travel the world while in the military. I saw children both in the US and worldwide who are struggling to have simple pleasures most take for granted. Cultures are vastly different, but the struggles stay the same. One of these we rarely think about, but something we all take comfort in as a child, is a safe sleeping space. Our very own bed.
Our youth at home are struggling in the same ways, but how can we help?
Then Jason approached me with an idea. Dream Builders. This is more than a bed.
This is a sense of security for a child.
This is giving kids something they can proudly call their own.
This is service to the youth in our community.
With a little help, I know we can make a difference in the lives of children. My own life experiences have taught me that the smallest act of kindness can change the perspective of someone’s outlook on life. Now, we can take part in something much greater than ourselves. It’s time to build dreams.
Sheriff Bruce Vanoven, Gibson County Sheriffs Office
Sheriff Bruce Vanoven and his wife Patty are lifelong residents of Gibson County. Bruce’s career in law enforcement has spread over two decades where he has received recognition and awards for his actions in the line of duty. Most notably Sheriff Vanoven was awarded the Gibson County Sheriff’s Office Merit Award for his actions in investigating the Pike County Triple Homicide in 2006. Currently Bruce is the elected Sheriff of Gibson County, but he continues to serve his department not only as an administrator, but as a Senior Law Enforcement Training Board Instructor who is specialized in Emergency Vehicle Operations.
Sheriff Vanoven comes to Dream Builders Of Indiana with the experience of serving on multiple previous not for profit boards including Uncharted International, an organization that reached the least reached in 10/40 window, The Isaiah 1:17 Project, an organization that helps children transitioning into the foster care system, and the Broadway Players, an organization that strives to bring a quality theater experience to the Gibson County area. A constant through Bruce’s service to not for profit organizations is their focus on children. When asked why he feels so strongly about Dream Builder of Indiana he stated “When you change a child’s world you set them up to change their world. Dream Builders focuses on a basic, but essential need of every human… The need for rest. Partnering with Dream Builders just makes sense!”
Lieutenant Derek McGraw, Deaconess Police Dept.
I have 20 years of experience with the Princeton Police Department, where I spent the last 8 years serving as Chief of Police. Currently, I am a Lieutenant with the Deaconess Police Department. Throughout my career, I have taken on various roles, including serving as a School Resource Officer (SRO) and a forensic interviewer. I also initiated the Cops Connecting with Kids program in Princeton and led several initiatives to raise money for the Cops for Kids Christmas shopping program. Additionally, Beyond my professional responsibilities, I have been elected to the County Council and actively participate on several civic boards within our community.
When I heard about Dream Builders of Indiana, I immediately recognized how my extensive background in grant writing could support their mission. Having dedicated the past 25 years to helping local youth in various capacities, I saw this as a perfect opportunity to further contribute by ensuring children have a safe place to sleep.