BRAZIL, IND. (April 13, 2018) – Sheriffs from across the state are launching a $500,000 “Kick In For Kids” fundraising campaign to benefit their not-for-profit Indiana Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch being developed for future law enforcement officers and at-risk kids.
To motivate individuals, businesses, veteran and other civic organizations to “kick in,” sheriffs have secured two major donors who will match contributions dollar-for-dollar if sheriffs and deputies can raise another $500,000 statewide by Aug. 31, 2018.
Tony and Sue Ardizzone, owners of ZZONE 31 Commercial Suites and Ardizzone Enterprises, Inc., of Indianapolis, have pledged to cover the initial mortgage on the 62-acre Youth Ranch property being developed in West Central Indiana for use by teens statewide.
“Each county’s ‘Kick In For Kids’ fundraising goal is calculated based on population, so every community in every county can afford to share ownership of this vital project regardless of size, said Scott Minier, interim director of the Youth Ranch. “Teens from middle schools in all areas of the state will be eligible to experience our Youth Ranch, that’s why it is so important everyone, everywhere join ranks.”
Hendricks County’s fundraising goal is $16,770, Minier said. Checks may be dropped off at the Hendricks County Sheriff’s Office or mailed to: Kick In For Kids, c/o Indiana Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch, 5401 S. East Street, Suite 117, Indianapolis, IN 46227.
Soon, a special GoFundMe and Crowdrise pages will be set up to receive donations of $5, $25, $50, $500 or whatever residents and businesses of Hendricks County can afford to give.
Overall, sheriffs estimate the Youth Ranch will cost $3.4 million to complete. An influx of $1 million — $500,000 in statewide donations and $500,000 from the match – will eliminate the initial mortgage and buy building materials for many of the needed structures and recreation areas, Minier said.
“For 38 years, sheriffs and deputies have at rented venues hosted youth leadership camps for future deputies, police officers and state troopers, as well as at-risk kids. Our Youth Ranch will be the permanent home for these camps and allow sheriffs and deputies to expand the camps to more days per week and more weeks per year – effectively quadrupling the number of teens we mentor and help. Owning rather than renting will also allow us to offer spring and fall weekend retreats for young witnesses, victims and survivors, including sons and daughters of fallen officers, firefighters and military,” Minier said.
