 This May, Community Coordinator Barb Mohr, along with Janet Cordes and Margaret Lawrence, were invited to speak to fourth grade students at Eagle Elementary School in Zionsville, Indiana about Assistance League® of Indianapolis. Margaret's daughter is a fourth-grade teacher at the school. In the spring Eagle Elementary in Zionsville has a showcase event. This year the fourth graders chose to be influencers for a not-for-profit and selected Assistance League of Indianapolis over several other groups. Students researched the National Assistance League website, watched the video on ALIndy.org and read about the philanthropic programs that serve the Indianapolis community. The three ladies coordinated an hour-long presentation including student interaction. Students were asked questions about what they had seen and learned, and students responded with questions of their own. The students also learned about our Literacy Trial, which resulted in the students and their parents donating first grade books. The 74 fourth graders wrote inspirational notes to include in duffel bags that students participating in the program Operation School Bell receive. The cards were creative and encouraging. Later, Eagle Elementary had an open house on May 23 to encourage visitors to donate to Assistance League of Indianapolis. Member volunteers were invited to come and see what the students had done. Students constructed a website to inform their school community about Indianapolis Assistance League of Indianapolis and its caring and commitment to the Central Indiana area. Visitors to the site have access to a donation link. Assistance League of Indianapolis is grateful for the community support received from Eagle Elementary School.
 Attendees of Mission Possible: 2024, a fundraiser benefiting Assistance League® of Indianapolis, stepped up to make the wishes of those the organization serves, come true. Held April 18th, at the charming Daniel’s Family Vineyard & Winery, the evening was packed with fun for all participants. Guests began to enjoy the party as soon as they made their way to the rustic, yet elegant event space enhanced by a large crystal chandelier. After picking up nametags at the registration table, guests began bidding on 15 silent auction packages and dropping raffle tickets into plexiglass cubes in front of several varied items. In addition, 50/50 raffle tickets were also available. Some of the travel experiences included in the auction were a vacation week at one of five Vidanta Mayan Palace Resorts, one night at the Indianapolis JW Marriott and tickets to an Indianapolis Indians game, a Kenny Chesney concert in Nashville with hotel stay and dinner, plus a Cubs game along with hotel and theatre. A few of the other offerings were six tickets to Helium Comedy Club, dinner for eight prepared by a chef and a George McGinnis signed basketball. While they monitored the status of their bids, attendees enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres. As guests sat down to dinner, they were welcomed by Co-Chairmen Jenien Beach and Janet Simpson. Cathy Weimer, President of Assistance League of Indianapolis, thanked the group not only for attending but also for supporting the organization’s mission. Later, Past President Patricia Johnson spoke about the impact Assistance League’s philanthropic programs have on the community such as providing children with clothes that they need to attend school, giving a grieving or sick child or adult a teddy bear to hug, letting assault victims know someone cares by providing for them new warm clothing and offering friendship to a lonely adult. She concluded her talk by how proceeds from the evening’s fundraiser really could make the wishes of those served come true. The evening finished with music, line dancing and the announcement of raffle winners. Matt Moore, from Five Star Dance Studios kept the tempo lively and encouraged the participants with his instructions. Attendees knew that besides attending a wonderful party, they also enabled Assistance League of Indianapolis to continue its mission of caring and commitment to the Indianapolis community. Funds raised will enable the organization’s philanthropic programs to continue. Operation School Bell® which is comprised of Apparel, Shoes and Beyond the Bell has provided clothing to 74,677 students since opening in 1984 and donated 58,182 pairs of athletic shoes to children in need. ALI Bears has provided comfort and caring through the 26,904 bears that have been distributed since 1987. ALI Friends has enhanced the lives of an untold number of seniors and disabled adults and their families since 1990. Assault Survivor Kits® has distributed 18,399 kits and 23,759 undergarments since the program began in 1994. The wonderful event would not have been possible without the hard work of event Co-Chairmen Jenien Beach and Janet Simpson. Their committee included Andrea Arbore, Judy Barnes, Nancy Bennett, Adele Carr, Rosy Crowley, Kathy Detzler, Linda Froberg, Carol Gambrel, Sharon Gleason, Mary Gosling, Linda Groogan, Susie Hacker, Della Hall, Patty Johnson, Elly Johnston, Kay Kinder, Kathy Lengerich, Barbara Mohr, Susie Moore, Leslie Morgan, Linda Ranger, Barb Shankel, Karen Snider, Judy Tomke, Carol Valentine, Cathy Weimer, Kathy Wylam and Julie Yates. Assistance League of Indianapolis is grateful for the evening’s sponsors. Title sponsor was Judy and John Tomke. Platinum sponsors were Nancy Farris, Heart of a Man, Inc., Landa Foundation, Vickie and Jim Theis, plus Barb and Tom Zurek. Gold sponsor was Amy and Andrew Michie. Silver Sponsors included Sandy and Larry Speer, Patty and Ken Burow and Deb and Mike Myers. Bronze sponsors were Andrea and Rick Arbore, Linda and Terry Farias, Dina Graham, Merchants Bank, Barb and Pete Mohr as well as Leslie and David Morgan. In kind services were provided by Repro Graphix, Inc., and Five Star Dance Studios. All who attended can know that they have played a part in helping Assistance League continue their spirit of caring and commitment in the Indianapolis community. More information is available HERE. Although this fundraiser is over for another year, donations can be made at any time by clicking HERE.   Written by President Elect, Carol Valentine
Action Week 2024 is over! Let me tell you it was an incredible experience, an experience we’ve not had the opportunity to do for awhile. First I’d like to thank my wonderful committee, especially my talented puppeteers – Susie Main, Ruth Ann Arany, Janet Cordes, and Susan Noeller. The “roadies” that helped us set up and pack up were Barb Shankel, Patty Johnson, Susan Seet, Cathy Camp, and Laura Ellis. And Brenta Clem. The book sorters, sticker applicators, and general all around help were Linda Ranger, Claire Marshall, Pat Deyhle, and Barb Mohr. All these ladies were super helpful, on time, and cheerful, and for that I am grateful. I’d also like to say we donated books to and performed the puppet show twice at a wonderful little IPS school called Jonathan Jennings, IPS 109. After the books that had been donated by our members and community partners were properly stickered with our donation sticker, we delivered them to 109 on Tuesday, February 13. The rest of the books had been delivered by Scholastic to the school and were waiting for us in the library. The team worked fast, and the books were all ready on the library tables for the kids to choose 2 books. Kevin McMahon, the Principal of 109 had the kids in there by class on Thursday, February 15, when we arrived to perform. The students were so excited to receive the books, and they thanked us many times. In total, we donated 1,350 books to the school, half for the library and half for the students to take home. We were so happy we got to see the students picking out books, and we talked to them about reading and helped some of them pick out the perfect one. We performed the puppet show – Eddie and the Magic Buttons – for the kindergartners in the morning – they came in excited and left absolutely beside themselves with joy. One of the teachers said her mom would like to join a group like ours. Another teacher was nearly in tears because one of her students who is autistic spoke to Eddie the puppet – she had never heard him speak. In the afternoon we performed for the 1 st graders, who were equally excited, and good readers, too. This was a happy school – these kids are so lucky to go there, and we were so happy to be there, we smiled the whole time. We who have been members for a long time have nearly forgotten what it is to be with children, to hear their voices, and see their faces. I hope we can get back to it soon. Thank you to all the members who donated, and to National Bank of Indianapolis, who conducted a book drive for us and donated 168 books. We couldn’t have done it without you, and although the kids benefitted, we benefitted more because we got to see their enjoyment.All in all Action Week 2024 was a huge success, thanks to outstanding teamwork.  On Thursday, December 7, Assistance League® of Indianapolis hosted Jingle and Mingle! Holiday Luncheon and Style Show. Held annually, the fundraiser is a holiday tradition in the Indianapolis area. Proceeds benefit Operation School Bell® divisions of Apparel, Shoes and Beyond the Bell plus ALI Bears, ALI Friends and Assault Survivor Kits.
Jingle & Mingle! Is made possible by the efforts of many workers who spent hours inputing data, preparing for the silent auction, collecting reservations, making centerpieces, setting up and much more. Co-chairmen Adele Carr and Rosemary Crowley led an outstanding team of: Mary Reid, Event Treasurer; Sharon Gleason, Sponsorships; Vendors, Susie Main; Silent Auction, Cathy Camp & Brenda Goodrich; Silent Auction Buyers, Cindee Potterack & Kathy Kerr Wylam; Reservations, Kathy Lengerich; Invitation/Programs, Kathy Detzler; Decorations, Lynne Hurlbut; Style Show, Sandy Speer; Purse-a-Palooza, Susie Moore; Wreath, Laurel Burns & Jane Hoover; Raffle, Susan Kwiatkowski; PR/Posters, Kathy Kerr Wylam; Membership, Janine Bercovitz; Setup/Takedown, Risa Stockton & Adele Carr and One Cause/IT, Carol Gambrel & Andrea Arbore. As in past years, the Holiday Luncheon and Style Show was held at the Ritz Charles in Carmel. Guests enjoyed a silent auction as well as holiday shopping from Kits and Kaboodle Classic Toys, Zionsville Olive Oil, Secret Ingredient Boutique, Lucy Bug, Old Thyme Adornments and Pamela C. Newell Fine Art. Adding to the fun was a 50/50 raffle plus a raffle for a wreath decorated with $500 worth of gift cards. New this year was Purse-A-Palooza: gently used purses were offered for sale, each with bonus surprises inside. Three lucky buyers found $100 inside their purchase! Also for sale were poinsettias and table centerpieces. Once again, the support of community partners and sponsors aided in the success of the event. The Secret Ingredient Boutique organized the style show with clothes modeled by Assistance League member volunteers. Sharp Printing gave an in-kind donation by producing the programs. Sponsors included CarDon & Associates, Service Plus, Landa Foundation Inc., Lori Covert, Nancy Farris, Barb & Tom Zurek, Connie & Stephen Pollom, Sandy & Larry Speer, Vickie & Jim Theis, Carol & Keith Gambrel, Judy & John Tomke, Christy Corey, Sharon & Kevin Gleason, Sally & Alan K. Mills, Cathy & Matt Weimer and Kathy Kerr & Bruce Wylam, Assistance League of Indianapolis is grateful for the support of the businesses, organizations and individuals such as the luncheon attendees whose generous gifts allow our mission of caring and commitment to the Indianapolis Community. For more information on the organization’s philanthropic programs click here. To donate click here. Connecting at the Crossroads of America Assistance League® Regional Networking Conference10/10/2023
 Assistance League® of Indianapolis hosted a successful Regional Networking Conference, on Monday, October 2nd and Tuesday, October 3rd. The theme of the well-attended gathering was “Connecting at the Crossroads of America”. The conference was sponsored by Healthcare Initiatives, Inc. and Patterson Dental. Participants came from the chapters of Birmingham, Chicagoland West, Cincinnati, Kansas City, Metro Columbus, Mid Missouri, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Nashville, National Office, Southeastern Michigan, St. Louis, Triangle Area, Wichita as well as Indianapolis.
Co-Chairmen Susan Kwiatkowski and Trish Severns spent eight months organizing and planning the event. Together with their committees, they created an informative opportunity for attendees to renew acquaintances and make new connections. Hours of work went into finding an appropriate venue, crafting items for welcome bags, planning an interesting agenda, cooking for the Monday night dinner at the Kwiatkowski home, printing name tags, assigning break-out sessions and engaging speakers. In the afternoon of the first day of the conference, participants were divided in two groups which simultaneously took turns touring the AL Indianapolis chapter office and the Northbrook Warehouse that houses Operation School Bell® After explanations of the AL Indianapolis philanthropic programs, guests had the opportunity discuss their programs and how they operated. Many thoughts were shared, and hopefully some of the ideas discussed will prove useful for various home chapters. On day two of the conference, Cathy Weimer, President AL Indianapolis welcomed all and introduced the keynote presentation, “Connecting to Purpose and Building Belonging”. The interactive talk, given by Beth Perdue Outland, Vice President of Leadership Indianapolis, succeeded in waking everyone up for a day of informative presentations and breakout sessions. Outland was immediately followed by Peggy Cotter, AL Minneapolis/St. Paul and Barbara Condra, AL Kansas City who jointly spoke on “Approachable DEI”. During lunch, Sandy Ross, National President/Board Chair and Matt Zarcufsky, National CEO, spoke to the group. Prior to the afternoon’s breakout sessions, Karen Mollohan, AL Kansas outlined her chapter’s experience during her talk, “Basics of Bylaws Compliance Understanding State and Local Regulations”. Participants then attended sessions they chose when they registered for the conference. The presentations included, “Expanding Your Fundraising Capabilities”, “Membership- Making the Most of our Greatest Resource”, “Member Enrichment: The Value of Educational Moments at Regular Meetings”, “The Power of Marketing and Media for Non-Profits”, “Leadership Development: Barriers and Strategies” and “Roundtable Networking Discussion: Literacy and Scholarship Programs”. Breakout presenters enthusiastically shared insights regarding their topic. The majority of speakers were from AL Indianapolis and included: Amanda Congrove, contracted grant writer; Janine Bercovitz, VP Membership; Judy Tomke, Past President and current Policies Chairman; Barb Kulsrud, Lisa Plank, Literacy co-chair; Susan Seet, Literacy co-chair; Amber Pirtle, Advisory Council Member and Ann Marie Shambaugh, Advisory Council Member. Other presenters were Julie Singer, financial advisor and Board of Directors member of United Way of Central Indiana; Jane Marschner, AL St. Louis and Karen Altergott Roberts, Family Sociologist, Purdue University (retired). The members of AL Indianapolis sincerely welcomed the chance to show guests some famous “Hoosier Hospitality”. It is hoped that what was learned and the connections that were made will help regional chapters grow and enable them to continue to serve their communities. Attendees are looking forward to another networking conference in the future. On April 22nd, Assistance League members and guests enjoyed a night of kicking up their heels while supporting our philanthropic programs.
Everyone enjoyed the beautiful Eiteljorg Museum first floor exhibits, viewing the skyline of Indianapolis through the ball room window, and line dancing the night away. Attendees enjoyed the Silent Auction and 50/50 raffle, plus a delicious dinner. Five Star Dance Studio instructors were on hand to lead Line Dancing. All enjoyed kicking up their heels. Brian and Jill Hall owners of Repro Graphix, Inc. received the Star Award. The award is presented to an individual, organization or business who provides sustained support over time to Assistance League. Over $86,000 was raised that evening that included donations that were received until the end of May. Sponsors: Nancy Farris Landa Foundation: Mar and Antonio Galindez Susie and Bill Moore Connie and Dr. Stephen Pollom Judy and John Tomke Vickie and Jim Theis Deb and Mike Myers Patty and Ken Burow Jill and Brian Hall Barb and Pete Mohr Barb and Tom Zurek Ultimate Apparel Inc. Special thanks to: Joe Melillo, Emcee Laura Hakim IPS Washington Township Matt Moore, Five Star Dance Studios Repro Graphix, Inc. Be sure and save the date for 2024 Mission Possible on April 18th at Daniel’s Vineyard. Four hundred and fifteen guests enjoyed the annual Holiday Luncheon on December 1, 2022, at the Ritz Charles in Carmel.
Guests enjoyed shopping at our boutiques, bidding on silent auction items, catching up with old friends while meeting new ones, all hoping to be the lucky winners of the Gift Card Wreath and or the 50/50 Raffle. Guests had the opportunity to purchase a unique centerpiece designed by Clarie Marshall and Lynne Hurlbut with a literacy theme. Each centerpiece held a book for children from 1st – 5th grade. Attendees purchased the centerpieces and donated the book back to Assistance League for our literacy program. After lunch, our compelling program video enlightened participants on Assistance League’s philanthropic programs. The event concluded with a fun style show featuring fashions from The Secret Ingredient modeled by our own members. The event raised $75,250. An event like this could not be successful without the support of our amazing sponsors. Community Partners
Individual Sponsors
Boutique Vendors A polo match is always a great time for everyone to get together with their friends, pack a picnic basket, and enjoy an exciting event. Some bring tents and set up elaborate tables covered in light champagne and fine cheeses, while others simply sit on their tailgates and drink a refreshing, cold beer. A great evening of polo, family, friends, and food took place on September 30th in support of Assistance League of Indianapolis and Indiana Hands and Voice. The day's activities included a 50/50 raffle, Stick Pony Races, Divot Stomp, Sponsor Tents, and the polo games. Hickory Hall Polo Club - Est. 1992: Polo has been in the Indianapolis area for over 50 years where it was played along the White River, at Fort Benjamin Harrison, at Rancho Alegre in Zionsville, and most recently at Hickory Hall Polo Club. Hickory Hall Polo Club is the only outdoor Polo Club in the state of Indiana and is one of the top 5 largest in the United States. They pride themselves on giving back to the community with most of their matches benefiting a variety of Indiana nonprofit organizations. The Candy Man traditionally drops candy from a plane at the Polo event, but due to weather The Candy Man passed out candy to the kids in attendance. THE DIVOT STOMP - When the game broke at halftime, spectators marched onto the field to socialize and replace the mounds of earth (divots) that were torn up by the horses’ hooves during the game. This serves as a great time to meet new people, move around after the first half, and help keep the field safe and beautiful. Specia thanks to all the volunteers and Donna and Greg Chandler for the use of their property. The event raised $4,885.00.  On September 8th, Mother Nature kissed the earth to create a perfect day for golfing, which allowed our charity golf event to get off to a great start. Nearly 160 golfers showed up to participate in fun, games, networking, and most of all, raising money for our philanthropic programs.
Golfers started the day by registering and receiving an Assistance League logo backpack and JBL Hunt logo speaker. Golfers spent some time networking while enjoying a morning libation from the Ryan fire truck, along with coffee and muffins provided by Sandy Speer and Barb Hammer. The team of Barb Mohr, Karen Snider, Carol Gambrel, Karen Marie Taylor, Sharon Gleason, Anne Kinney, and Susie Hacker were busy bees selling raffle tickets for our wonderful prizes and the 50/50 raffle. Barb Kulsrud and Linda Groogan tipsy toed their way through the Tipsy Plinko game making sure all golfers got an opportunity to play. Our Marshmallow Queen, Susie Main with the assistance of Annette Donegan and Cindy Eiteljorg, kept a keen eye on the marshmallow that flew the farthest. Wheel of Prizes is always a big hit. Laura Ellis sorted the prizes into distinct categories so you could win big, or maybe just win a candy bar. Susan Kwiatowski kept a sharp eye on all the money that was coming in and Risa Stockton was our “Club House Manager” making sure all was well while volunteers were on the course. On the course the Happy Hour tents refreshed the golfers with a margarita or bloody mary created by our Assistance League “bartenders”, Cheri Gerdt, Doraine Pool, Cindee Potterack, and Tammy Hardy. This was the first year for Tito’s tent. Tito’s vodka and mixers were donated and Patty Burow, Laurel Burns, and Carol Joyce created some tasty drinks. Another new happening on the course was the addition of the golf cannon. Cindy Eitlejorg, Cathy Weimer, Annette Donegan and Anne Kinney, may not have heard the shot around the world, but they heard the shot around the golf course. Clarie Marshall and Kay Kinder ensured that no golfers positioned their ball so it would be closest to the pin. Lori Covert, Linda Froberg, Susan Noeller, and Barb Mitchell were anxiously awaiting a hole-in-one. Unfortunately, there were no winners. Barb Shankel and Lynne Hulburt expertly navigated the course and drove the volunteers to the destinations. Arni’s Pizza delivered a feast, and Karen Snider, Susie Hacker, Cheri Gerdt and Cathy Weimer happily served the golfers. Meijer once again provided lunch for all volunteers and golfers and we were busy packing them early in the morning. Rosy Crowley and Kathy Wylam oversaw the day’s events. We are so grateful to AECOM Hunt and their golf committee for all the hard work to make this event a success. We also want to thank them for selecting Assistance League for 12 years as the charity chosen to receive funds from their golf event. On the day of the outing, the raffle, games and tips came to $6,650. The winner of the 50/50 gave half of his winnings back to Assistance League. We are excited to announce that we raised more than $33,000! Thank You to our Raffle Donors: AECOM Hunt 317 Charcuterie Arni's Assistance League Members Café Buondi Cake Bake Carol Gambrel Carol Valentine Chef JJ's Chicken Salad Chic CLB Resturants Convivio Cutco EF Marburger Fat Dan's Fogo de Chao French Lick Resort Frito-Lay Good Morning Mama Goodman Shoes Graeter's Ice Cream Hollyhock Hill Hotel Carmichael Iaria's Indianapolis Colts Indianapolis Zoo Indy Eleven Indy Ultimate Iozzo's Garden of Italy Joe's Butcher Shop Juniper on Main Lou Malnatis Mallow Run Winery Meijer Monterey Cuisine Needler's Fresh Market Noah Grants Penske Racing Play It Again Sports Prime Carwash Puccini's Rusty Bucket Sahm's Corporate Sullivan's Steakhouse Sun King Brewing Company Survival Kit Taxman Brewing The Capital Grille The Hulman The Nest of Noblesville The Olive Mill Tito's Tony's Indianapolis Top Golf Verde Woodford Reserve Woodland Country Club |
