By Daren Schmaltz, F388132
September 2015
Since 2012, annual fundraisers organized by the Rocky Mountain Country Coachers chapter have reaped $42,000 in donations for New Life Center, a domestic violence shelter in Goodyear, Arizona.
Jack Kelly, a charter member of the chapter, was instrumental in selecting New Life Center as the club’s charity. The 104-bed shelter aids domestic violence victims in a variety of ways. In addition to providing a safe haven, New Life helps women increase their job-readiness skills and provides work-appropriate clothing for job interviews and new careers. Children’s programs include individual and group advocacy; art and music therapy; and a child development center.
According to New Life’s website, 95 percent of the women completing the program do not return to an abusive environment.
Money raised each year for New Life Center by the Rocky Mountain Country Coachers chapter has steadily grown, from a total of $5,000 in 2012, to $9,000 in 2013, and to $12,000 in 2014. The 2014 fundraiser included an element of sadness, however, as Jack was battling pancreatic cancer. He died February 14, 2015.
The 2015 fundraiser, held in March, was a special tribute to Jack. He no doubt would have been pleased. It was the most successful event yet, raising $16,000.
Not only are chapter members generous with their time and money, they enjoy attending the club’s rallies, which include entertainment and plenty of food. The best part is time spent with fellow chapter members.
If you would like more information about the Rocky Mountain Country Coachers, visit www.rmccoachers.com or call (480) 205-4520.