The Greene County 100 Club is appealing to local businesses and individuals for funding, and the group started its 2010 push with a recent presentation in Republic.
Treasurer Bob Hammerschmidt kicked off this year’s founding member drive and announced its $50,000 2010 fundraising goal during a March 16 breakfast with the Republic Area Chamber of Commerce.
The group, which provides financial support to the surviving family members of police officers and firefighters killed in Greene County, is trying to increase awareness by educating the public and seeking founding memberships – donations of $1,000 annually for five years – as well as through smaller individual donations.
The group also is building awareness with a Facebook page and appearances by club officers at seminars and local meetings.
Since forming in 2006, the organization has raised about $150,000, which it hopes to bring to $200,000 by the end of 2010, according to Hammerschmidt.
Organizers said the group responds immediately with money from its endowment.
“Our policy is to give a check for $5,000 within 24 hours to the family,” club President John Rush said.
The club has presented two checks, totaling $10,000, since forming, Rush said.
The ultimate goal is $500,000 for an endowment that would allow continued payments for mortgage expenses, student loans and other expenses, officials said.
Greene County Sheriff’s Department Officer Monte Ruby was attacked Aug. 2, 2008, as he helped Springfield Police Officers in the treatment of a criminal at Cox Hospital. Ruby died Aug. 6 from injuries in the attack.
Greene County Deputy Sheriff Gary McCormack was killed Oct. 6, 2007, in an automobile accident while responding to the scene of an accident.
“It is not a frequent occurrence but it is important for the community to do that,” said Rush of the club’s support.
Marisol International in Springfield is a founding member of the organization. “Springfield and Greene County has been my home for nearly 30 years,” said Mike Vogt, Marisol International managing partner. “It has been an outstanding place to raise a family and great environment for our corporate headquarters. … The company was moved by the opportunity to support our fire and law enforcement families that sacrifice so much to protect our quality of life.”
John Wanamaker, managing partner of BKD LLP’s Springfield, Joplin and Branson offices, said the reason for BKD becoming a founding partner was simple. “Our law enforcement and fire officials play a key and important role in safeguarding our community,” Wanamaker said of the “community heroes.” “Nothing can bring back their loved one, but knowing the community is there to help can bring some comfort.”
The country’s first 100 Club was created in 1952 in Detroit following a fatal shooting of a Detroit police officer. One hundred community members pooled donations for the officer’s widow and her unborn child.[[In-content Ad]]
