Synergize proving that relationships can change the world

(From left) Jason Ulm of Axia Technology Partners, Synergize founder Arron Stanton, Hamilton County Sheriff Dennis Quakenbush, Carmel City Council President Laura Campbell and State Representative Jerry Torr. (Reporter photo by Denise Moe)

This past Tuesday, members of Synergize supported the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Community Foundation at the monthly 4:30 Meetup. The group raised $2,330, which will be donated to the Foundation’s Shop with a Cop program and other initiatives.

Sheriff Quakenbush spoke at the event. The deputies will shop alone this year, he said, using lists from the children. “But the great news is, they’re going to have a present under the tree to unwrap this year,” he added. In previous years, “we were limited by the number of deputies we had to shop for the children. This is essentially unlimited now,” he explained. “It’s limited only by your generous giving and the giving of the community.”

The HCSO Community Foundation aims to create impact through positive relationships between law enforcement officers and the community. In addition to Shop with a Cop, a back-to-school shopping event is held every fall.

During the pandemic, the Foundation partnered with Shepherd’s Center to deliver groceries and medication to the elderly. Deputies also work regularly with Gleaners Food Bank and other local organizations.

Synergize’s mission is to create relationships that impact the community. Its members support a different nonprofit organization at each 4:30 Meetup. Since its inception in January, the group has raised over $33,000. Synergize’s goal for 2021 is $100,000.

“People ask me all the time, why is Hamilton County so safe? And It’s because of people like you, it’s because of these partnerships,” Sheriff Quakenbush told the group. “We’re really passionate and excited about that.”

About Synergize

Synergize is a networking organization focused on building lifelong friendships and making a real difference in the world. Members live by the motto ‘Relationships Over Everything.’ To become a part of the Synergize movement, visit synergizeindy.com.