The Fishers Century Club held its quarterly crowd-giving meeting March 10, where members heard presentations from three charitable initiatives serving veterans and protecting youth.
Representatives from two veteran-focused organizations addressed the group. Brian Wright spoke about Indy Honor Flight, which provides veterans with trips to Washington, D.C., allowing them to visit memorials built in their honor. Jared Hoss presented on Indy Vet House, which offers lodging and support for veterans traveling to Indianapolis for medical treatment at the VA.
The evening’s winning presentation came from Howard Burd, representing a new initiative from the Fishers Kiwanis Club called “Not Today.”
The program is designed to raise awareness among young people about the growing threat of online predators. Organizers say the initiative was inspired by tragic incidents across the country, including a recent case in the local community.
“Not Today” aims to reach youth where they spend much of their time — online. The initiative plans to use targeted marketing, digital outreach, produced content and partnerships with micro-influencers to educate young people about recognizing dangerous online behavior and encouraging them to report concerns to trusted adults or authorities.
The message resonated strongly with Century Club members, many of whom are parents and grandparents concerned about online safety for children.
After the winning organization was announced, the “Not Today” initiative asked that $500 of the evening’s funds be shared with the other presenting charities, Indy Honor Flight and Indy Vet House.
Moments later, first-time attendee Ned Campbell offered to donate $1,000 to replenish the shared funds so the winning organization would still receive full support.
Burd thanked the group for its support.
“We are thankful for the Century Club’s donation toward this project,” Burd said. “We’ve already met with local officials and public safety leaders who strongly support what we’re doing and have highlighted the need for it. These funds will allow us to market directly to young people and help prevent tragic situations before they happen.”
The Fishers Century Club is a men’s crowd-giving organization that meets quarterly to hear presentations from three charities before members vote to select a winning cause. All donations go directly to the selected nonprofit.
The group will celebrate its fifth anniversary at its next meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, June 23 at 5:30 p.m. Community members interested in networking and supporting local charities are encouraged to attend.