It began as a way for men across Putnam County to get involved and make a difference and has quickly grown into much more.
The 100+ Men Who Care of Putnam County borrowed an idea from similar 'giving circle' organizations, according to member Todd Lewis, who is the vice president of First National Bank in Cloverdale.
"Each member commits to donating $500 to the Putnam County Community Foundation each year. The first $100 goes into our community endowment at PCCF. Then the remaining $400 is given out $100 at a time at our quarterly meetings. We combine our $100 donations to create a big impact. Our members nominate local nonprofits that benefit Putnam County," Lewis told The Putnam County Post.
Each quarter, three organizations are randomly selected and make a brief presentation to the group, who then votes, according to Lewis.
"Based on 100+ members, in 45 minutes each member's $100 donation will become part of a big $10,000 donation to a deserving nonprofit. Plus, the $100 given to our community endowment at the Putnam County Community Foundation means funds will be generated annually for the community grants committee at the Foundation to use," Lewis said.
One of the groups 100+ Men of Putnam County models itself after is the 100+ Women Who Care chapter in Putnam County.
"Inspired by their success, in January of 2015, Scott Davis rallied 11 men -- Jeff Signworth, Ken Eitel, Page Cotton, Eric Wolfe, Bob Jedele, Alan Zerkel, Todd Lewis, Ralph Cunha, Chuck Schroeder, Jason Hartman and Dave Murray -- to begin a Men's 100+ Who Care chapter. We come from all walks of life and different backgrounds. As individuals, we, sometimes, feel that it is difficult to make a significant impact in our community, but, as a group of 100+ Men, we have the ability to make a meaningful difference in ways that we never thought possible," said Lewis.
Lewis said he is involved in several local nonprofits, but the 100+ Men of Putnam County is "completely different."
"While we want members to come and enjoy the fun and fellowship, there is no attendance requirement or pressure. As a matter of fact, we have several members who live outside of the community now and have never attended an event, but they still want to be involved and make a difference. Also, this is a perfect organization for someone that is either out of town a lot or is super busy. The meetings are short, but very meaningful. We learn about three nonprofits/projects every meeting. I can truly say these are fun and I look forward to them. Plus, the impact we make together is incredible. We have given out almost $400,000 since 2015. The lowest number of members we have had is 102. In 2023, we are hoping to get over 120," Lewis said.
For more information, visit http://www.100plusmen.com.
