Meeting #2 Was For The Heart
Talk about a fantastic meeting. Our second meeting of 2024 was inspiring and heartfelt. With 30 members in attendance, it did not reflect the 8 nominations that were submitted! Several members mentioned that this meeting was one of the most impactful that we have had. Not because of the nonprofits nominated, but of the heartfelt speech by Board President, Mr. Harmless, Russellville Community Center President, Darrell, and prayer from Terry Hood for Chuck Shroder.
Chuck Schroder was a founding member of our organization and a champion for our county. Our most recent presentation recipient, Putnam County Special Olympics, was presented by Chuck during our first meeting of 2024. Chuck was unexpectedly diagnosed with late-stage 4 leukemia last month. Although the fight was strong, Chuck passed away on Friday, July 12th. As we share the highlights from our meeting and continue to make a BIG impact in our community, please keep Chuck’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.
Darrell reflected on the impact our donation has had on the Russellville Community Center since receiving it during our 3rd meeting of 2022! As a long-time activist for the Russellville Community, Darrell reflected on his life, at Russellville Elementary School, and the memories the community has made in the building. Our donation of $10,200 was well received by the community and they used the funds for a matching grant to repair the weather-worn roof of the building. For a small community, Russellville was able to raise $125,000! Now that the roof has been repaired, they can continue renovation projects to keep the community center a thriving venue!
For the business side of our meeting, Mike revisited the impact we have had in our community since the organization’s founding in 2015. We have awarded $450,400 to 28 different nonprofit organizations! Through our endowment, we have awarded $19,926.00 to local projects and organizations under the direction of the Putnam County Community Foundation Community Grants Fund! If that is not a BIG IMPACT, then we don’t know what is!
Of the 8 nominated organizations, we were able to use our new nomination process! The organizations selected to present during meeting number 2 were Greencastle Scouting, Park Fest by the Greencastle Civic League, and The Putnam County Humane Society. For the “new” draw method, there is a possibility to nominate an organization for the following meeting. The 2 organizations that WILL present during the 3rd meeting are the Putnam County 4H Fair Association and the Putnam County Non-Food Pantry!
First up to bat was Daniel with the Putnam County Humane Society.
Daniel told a great story of a pup that he found with a broken leg. He immediately took it to the humane society. Daniel was amazed at the care and compassion the pup received, even though his chances of survival were slim. The dog, sadly, passed away shortly after receiving care. Daniel’s story was inspiring to many of the members who could associate the care received for a pet. His goal was not to necessarily win the big check but to promote the outstanding service the Humane Society displayed for an animal that had a very unlikely chance of surviving.
Second, Vince presented for Park Fest by the Greencastle Civic League!
Park Fest is a weekly event throughout the summer at Robe Ann Park. The annual estimated cost of Park Fest is $2700. This budget is solely to pay the artists/bands that perform at the park on Tuesdays throughout the summer. With a donation from 100+ Men, Park Fest could continue for the next 4 years without the annual stress of finding funding. Vince also noted that anyone interested in upcoming performances to read the Banner Graphic for Park Fest Updates!
Last, Tom presented Greencastle Scouting.
Greencastle Scouting is the umbrella for Troop 999, Cub Scout Troop 99, and Boy Scout Troop 99, with kids ranging from Kindergarten to age 17. Tim informed the group that Greencastle Scouting will be hosting a “Breakfast For Scouting” event with Mayor Linda Dunbar on August 1st as a fundraising event and promotional event for the benefits of scouting! With the drastic increase in operating costs and scout fees, the scouts are struggling to maintain their packs and troops. While local fees have not risen, Covid has caused the cost for one scout to soar to $250 each! With a donation from 100+ Men, Greencastle Scouting would be able to upgrade dated equipment and increase their ability to provide financial assistance to scouts. Tim highlighted the lifelong benefits of having scout experiences and encouraged all of us to learn more about the projects and skills they teach!
The votes were tallied shortly after the end of his presentation. With an unmatched count, Greencastle Scouting was victorious! They received a check for $10,700! Both Park Fest and the Humane Society received $250 each. We eagerly look forward to our 3rd meeting on September 11th!
