By DENISE MOE
On March 22, Synergize members and guests met at the Hotel Carmichael in Carmel to build friendships and change the world at its 4:30 Meetup. The monthly events provide Synergize members and non-member attendees with an opportunity to build deep, authentic relationships and support a cause in the community.
This month, Synergize benefitted local organization Dotted Line Divas. The nonprofit was founded by Synergize member Christina Huffines in 2016. A single mother who has been through times of struggle, Huffines became an extreme couponer in 2013 to provide for her family at a low cost. She learned how to buy household and hygiene necessities in bulk on a budget and used them to help the families around her.
Today, Dotted Line Divas provides household and hygiene essentials like diapers, toothpaste, and toilet paper to hundreds of families in Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. These are essential items that usually are note covered by SNAP or any other programs. Through a Personal Care Pantry and couponing classes, Dotted Line Divas helps families in need in hopes that they would pay it forward to others.
Dotted Line Divas Founder Christina Huffines speaks at the 4:30 Meetup. (Reporter photo by Denise Moe)
The meetup was sponsored by Indy Auto Man. Victor Figlin, General Manager, spoke on its behalf. Other speakers included Devin Johnson, CEO of Kennected (a Presenting Partner of Synergize) and Arron Stanton, Synergize’s founder.
Synergize donates a portion of each membership and meetup ticket sale to a nonprofit beneficiary every month. It also collects extra donations at the event. In total, the group raised $4,135 for Dotted Line Divas, and will continue to spread awareness and make connections for Huffines and its leadership.
“Christina [Huffines] is an inspiration,” Stanton said. “Instead of just rejoicing because she was able to get help in her own tough situation, she turned around and used what she’d built to help others who are still struggling. Whatever part we can play in her impact, we’re honored to do it.”
Synergize’s next 4:30 Meetup will benefit Watch Us Farm, a Zionsville-based private nonprofit employing high-functioning adults with autism, brain injury, and intellectual impairment. Tickets are available for sale on Eventbrite.
To learn more about the Synergize movement, membership, and 4:30 Meetups, visit synergizeindy.com.