Colts give back to local charities

Anderson, IN (courtesy of The Herald Bulletin)

The Indianapolis Colts make headlines wherever they go – especially when they moved training camp back to Anderson University. And the city of Anderson has been grateful for the positive exposure.

This week, the Colts and the city teamed up to put others in the spotlight – five local charities, including The Salvation Army. With input from city officials, Colts owner Jim Irsay chose five charities as recipients of a $25,000 gift to make a difference in Anderson. “In talking to everyone on our staff, they all say the welcome [back to Anderson] has been tremendous,” said Colts owner Jim Irsay (pictured at left). “The makeover at the university has made this so different than it was in the ’80s and ’90s. We can bring literal money to the city and economic impact. But we can also bring inspiration. We want to do what we can even though we feel the impact as well.”

“We like to be part of the community and show our appreciation,” said Irsay, during a brief ceremony at the Kardatzke Wellness Center at Anderson University after the team’s morning practice. “The economy here has been tough on jobs and tough on charities. From those who are given a lot is expected a lot.”

Anderson Mayor Kris Ockomon said the city had some say in where the money went. “We submitted the names of five organizations we felt were in great need of help,” Ockomon said. “They (the Colts) used three of our suggestions. They had two they wanted to include themselves. This helps these people continue to have hope.”

Five local nonprofits will share the $25,000 Colts’ donation equally

• Salvation Army
• The Christian Center
• The YMCA
• Anderson Black Expo
• Anderson Public Library

To access the article via The Herald Bulletin: http://heraldbulletin.com/breakingnews/x370355589/Colts-give-back-to-Anderson

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