By Heather Hunter | Photos by Evan Meagher
Those on the hunt for philanthropic social events in Carmel have likely heard of Synergize. The organization builds deep friendships between its members, and supports local nonprofits at its monthly 4:30 Meetups.
On January 30, members and guests gathered for the organization’s Year 5 Kickoff Celebration. The event was held at the Turner Jeffrey building on Range Line Road. It featured a handful of Synergize member speakers, who reminisced on good memories from the past four years.
“The people in this group have changed my life,” said Tracey Maravilla, a longtime member of the organization, during her speech at the event. “I am a different, better person now than I was two years ago because of Synergize.”
Founded by Arron Stanton in 2019, Synergize began as a bespoke networking service before moving to a membership-based model in 2020. Since then, the organization has undergone several changes in structure, but its main goal has never shifted: to build a group that creates lasting, authentic friendships between its members and life-changing impact in its community.
Over the past four years, Synergize has benefited 45 different non-profits. Between a significant donation from each of its members’ dues, donations from some of its partners, and the generosity of those who attend its events, the group has collectively raised over $264,000 for local causes since its inception.
“We could not have done this without all of our members, sponsors, and supporters,” stressed Heather Hunter, Synergize’s Director of Marketing, at the event. “This night is truly a celebration of you.”
In late 2023, Synergize gained two new co-owners: Shaun and Tiffany Goodyear, who also own Indy Facets Private Jeweler. Their company is a longtime sponsor of Synergize. With a larger team, Synergize has been able to broaden its event offerings and memberships.
“We have so much planned for this year; social events, educational events, events correlating to what’s going on in the city,” said Shaun Goodyear. “It’s truly a new era of Synergize. We’ve found the most awesome community here, and we believe it’s for everyone. So we want to build something for everyone.”
Synergize posts their upcoming events on Eventbrite, which can be accessed through their website, www.synergizeindy.com. The Synergize Experience is the best starter event, featuring a casual, low-pressure atmosphere where members can socialize. The group’s only rule? No Jerks.
“Good people need a community where they can do good things together,” Hunter explained in her speech. “That’s the reason behind Synergize.”