By Heather Hunter | Photos by Evan Meagher
CARMEL, IN – This month, Synergize’s 4:30 Meetup brought friends together to leave a legacy in the lives of local heroes. Each of the group’s monthly events supports a different nonprofit serving needs close to home. July’s featured cause was Folds of Honor Indiana.
Since 2007, Folds of Honor has awarded almost $200 million in educational scholarships. These scholarships benefit the spouses and families of America’s fallen and disabled servicemembers. Recently, Folds of Honor has expanded their mission to include first responders, too.
Unlike many other charitable organizations, 91 cents of every dollar donated to Folds of Honor goes directly towards funding scholarships. These scholarships benefit both K-12 students and students pursuing higher education.
“We meet the family where they are; tutoring, private school, trade school.” explained Diane Markle, Regional Impact Officer of Folds of Honor Indiana, while speaking at the event. “We honor their sacrifice, and we educate their legacy.”
Other speakers at the 4:30 Meetup included Randie Dial of CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA), who sponsored the event. He urged attendees to continually “refocus” their priorities.
“It’s been a tough, busy year for many of us,” he said, “but we will continue to show up for each other and our community.”
In total, Synergize raised more than $2,500 for Folds of Honor’s Indiana Chapter. The money, Diane said, will stay local. “Whatever you give with our chapter is used in our chapter. The recipient could be someone four doors down from you,” she said.
Synergize’s next event is one they are co-hosting alongside one of their Presenting Partners: Indy Facets Private Jeweler. It’s a Community Block Party, completely free and open to the public, and will take place on August 6 at 755 W. Carmel Drive.
Additionally, Synergize hosts small events for its members throughout the month, alongside the 4:30 Meetup. The group’s goal is to build deeper, more authentic relationships between its professional members. For more information about Synergize and membership, sign up for a Synergize Matters information session on Eventbrite.