On Monday afternoon, Shop for Kids held a sold-out fundraiser at Sagamore Golf Club, 10900 Golden Bear Way, Noblesville. The venue was filled with friends, supporters, elected officials, first responders, and more who came out to support a charity that provided Christmas gifts for children in need in Hamilton County.
During his tenure as Hamilton County Sheriff, now-Indiana State Police Superintendent Carter was instrumental in forming Shop for Kids, which has provided a Christmas shopping experience for Hamilton County families in need since 2008.
Carter was on hand to offer his support, and was surprised by a few gifts of his own. It was an interesting turnabout for Carter to receive gifts, since he has so often played the role of Santa Claus for others.
Shop for Kids Board Member Dustin Dixon presented Carter with a framed photo from last year’s Shop For Kids event, at which Carter arranged for a State Police helicopter to land in the parking lot of a Target store in Fishers as an extra surprise for the kids helped by the program.
Additionally, and in this newspaper’s view, more significantly, Hamilton Heights Youth Assistance Program announced the establishment of a $1,000 scholarship in Carter’s name. The scholarship will be given to a Heights student of Carter’s and Hamilton Heights Superintendent Derek Arrowood’s choice. The scholarship is currently funded to last 10 years.
For more information about Shop for Kids or to make a donation, email shopforkidshc@gmail.com or visit Facebook.com/ShopForKidsHC.
Reporter photos