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Ashley Slechta . Photo by Yasmin Rochette .
Ashley Slechta , Events & Program Manager for the 100 Club of Arizona explains the organization is quite active in securing educational scholarships for the children and spouses of public safety officers and firefighters . “ Over $ 325,000 has been raised and over 100 awards dispersed in 2013 so far this year ,” she says .
Scholars such as East Valley resident Tyler Hunt , 21 , whose father works for the Chandler Police Department have been awarded a $ 1,000 scholarship as he continues premed studies at Grand Canyon University .
“ I believe it is one of the most honorable organizations I have been involved with . I am extremely grateful for both their financial assistance and encouragement in fulfilling my dreams ,” Hunt says .
Jamie Berham from the Mesa Police Department received assistance from the 100 Club of Arizona after a lifechanging accident on his motorcycle while in the line of duty . Fortunately , he ’ s now on the road to recovery and stated , “ It was a more than a pleasant surprise ; the money was very helpful with household expenses . The 100 Club of Arizona was also there to lend a hand in other ways too ; if I needed transportation , for example . Their support came at the exact right time for me .”
These are just a couple of ways the 100 Club of Arizona continues to help the local community of first responders . “ Our Safety Enhancement Stipends provide funding to public safety agencies so they can purchase items such as upgraded bulletproof vests and taser guns . This year we ’ ve raised over $ 200,000 , some of which was used for training to enhance the safety of officers and firefighters ,” Slechta says .
Through H . E . R . O . E . S ( Helping Emergency Response Officers & Survivors ) assistance can be made to officers and firefighters in the event of a life-altering incident . Another program , Peer 100 , addresses wellness challenges within the first responder community , including support and services .
The money for the 100 Club of Arizona good works comes in part from fundraisers such as the upcoming Annual Scholarship Ball which will be held on September 28 , 2013 at the Arizona Grand Resort and Spa . A golf tournament precedes the main event , as well as a silent auction .
Non-black tie events include 5K runs , chili cook-offs , proceeds from the annual Country Thunder event and local vendors donating proceeds from sales as well as generous support from local companies .
“ The 100 Club started with one family who was in need and now helps thousands . We serve families in every corner of the state . We can help officers and firefighters in their hour of need ,” Slechta says .
For more information or to donate , visit 100club . org .
202magazine . com / JULY 2013 / 202 MAGAZINE
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