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.” Read more

Give help, hope to newly unemployed

The ability to provide for our families is not something we should take for granted. Many of our fellow Hoosiers are struggling to make ends meet in light of rising job loss in our state. So much so that we’re expecting an additional 15% increase in requests for assistance this year due to unemployment alone.

So to continue “doing the most good”, The Salvation Army’s Midwest Headquarters has reallocated some endowment funds to make $3.45 million available in what we’re calling Hoosier Help for Hardship grants. Through this program, your neighbors in need will be able to get assistance with utilities, housing expenses and groceries.

But, in order to receive one of these $18,000 grants, each community must raise a $9,000 match of funds for a total of $27,000 of available assistance. And here’s how you can help.If just 900 of us could give at least $10 each, we’ll make our $9,000 match goal! Read more