(BRAZIL) – Indiana sheriffs and deputies used Giving Tuesday to kick-off sales of commemorative ornaments to benefit a Chaplain’s Fund for at-risk kids at their Youth Ranch.
Donations of $100 are being sought statewide to accumulate monies to help teens living in poverty with expected spiritual, clothing and hygiene needs when they visit the Youth Ranch ― now under development in West Central Indiana.
“Wooden cowboy boot ornaments, which are made in the U.S.A., will be engraved with the donor’s name and hung forever on our ‘Hoosier Hearthside Tree’ in the Lodge & Conference Center,” said John Layton, retired sheriff of Marion County and president of the ISYR. “Visitors ― young and old alike ― will always know who generously kicked in for our Chaplain’s Fund in 2019.”
Putnam County Sheriff and ISYR Vice President Scott Stockton said experience has taught the sheriffs that often teens come to summer camps without needed items as simple as toothbrushes and socks. “Our Chaplain’s Fund is designed to compassionately yet quietly provide these items, so our disadvantaged teens can focus on the education and recreation our Youth Ranch will have to offer.”
ISYR Secretary and Grant County Sheriff Reggie Nevels said, “We want our Youth Ranchers to learn about personal safety and first aid, dangers of drugs and alcohol, bullying and cybercrimes, firearms safety, K-9 and drone training. We also want them to enjoy swimming, hiking, fishing, canoeing and horseback riding. They can’t do that very effectively if they feel different or ill-equipped.”
Layton said the $100-per-ornament fundraiser will set aside funds to be used by ISYR along with discounts from nearby merchants.
“Our goal is to raise $5,000 this holiday season to prepare for youth day-visits next summer and beyond.”
To make tax-deductible donations, readers may send their checks to: Indiana Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch, c/o Chaplain’s Fund, 5325 N. State Road 59, Brazil, IN 47834.
A note should be enclosed as to how the 2019 commemorative ornament should be engraved. Up to 12 characters are possible.
