Category: News

  • Indianapolis Rotary Foundation, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, and Central Indiana Police Foundation to Unveil New Gaming Trailer


    Indianapolis, IN — The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), in partnership with the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation and the Central Indiana Police Foundation (CIPF), announced today that a new mobile community engagement gaming trailer will soon roll into Indianapolis neighborhoods, offering a fresh and innovative way for officers to connect with young people and families.

    Funded by the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation’s Legacy Impact Grant, the gaming trailer will serve as a flexible, welcoming space where youth and officers can build relationships through shared activities in a fun, low-pressure environment. Outfitted with televisions and video gaming systems and designed for easy transport, the trailer will support IMPD’s ongoing efforts to engage residents beyond emergency situations and foster meaningful, positive interactions.

    “The Indianapolis Rotary Foundation supports organizations addressing challenges at every stage, from food insecurity and foster care to workforce development and public safety,” said Erin Smith, president of the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation. “This investment to create an innovative gaming trailer and GREAT Camp programming reflects our belief that prevention, mentorship and community engagement are essential components of a stronger Indianapolis.”

    For IMPD, the trailer represents a significant expansion of its outreach capabilities.

    “Prevention, mentorship, and relationship-building are just as important as enforcement when it comes to public safety,” said Lt. Allen Tuttle of IMPD’s Community Engagement and Outreach Bureau. “This trailer allows our officers to meet kids where they are, right in their own neighborhoods, and interact in a positive, memorable way.”

    The trailer will be used throughout Indianapolis at youth events, neighborhood gatherings, mentoring sessions, and CARES programming, strengthening connections to create safer, more resilient communities.

    The Indianapolis Rotary Foundation’s Legacy Impact Grants are awarded every two years to projects that address significant community needs while creating lasting, measurable impact. This investment reflects a shared belief that strong communities are built through collaboration, prevention, and meaningful engagement.

  • Volunteers Needed: 4- Way Test Program

    The Education Committee is continuing its work with area schools, helping introduce students to Rotary’s commitment to ethical decision making and good citizenship.

    One of the committee’s most valued programs is introducing the Rotary 4-Way Test to sixth and seventh grade students. The program encourages students to think about their own personal values and consider what they believe is ethically right and wrong.

    Our next 4-Way Test program will be held:
    Thursday, November 5
    Andrew J. Brown Academy
    4501 E. 32nd Street, Indianapolis

    The program will take place during the school’s first period. The exact start time is still being finalized, but it will typically begin between 8:30 and 9:00 am and conclude around 10:30 am.
     

    We Need Your Help!

    The Education Committee is looking for at least 10 volunteers to participate in this important program.

    If you are available to help, please contact Mike Crowley at microwle295@gmail.com or (317) 627-9030.

  • October 13: Conversation with the Secretary of State Candidates

    Media Contact:

    Name: Jenny Dexter, CSO, Veteran Strategies
    Email: jenny@veteranstrategies.com
    Cell/Mobile: (317) 696-1615

    MEDIA ADVISORY

    All Four Indiana Secretary of State Candidates to Appear Together at Rotary Club of Indianapolis

    WISH-TV 8 and WRTV 6 News reporter Garrett Bergquist will moderate the October 13 conversation,
    three weeks before Election Day.

    INDIANAPOLIS, IN (October 12, 2026) – The Rotary Club of Indianapolis will host all four candidates for Indiana Secretary of State for a moderated conversation on Tuesday, October 13, at noon at the Rathskeller.

    WHAT: Conversation with the Indiana Secretary of State Candidates

    WHO: Greg Ballard (Lincoln Party), Beau Bayh (Democrat), Max Engling (Republican), and Lauri Shillings (Libertarian)

    MODERATOR: Garrett Bergquist, All Indiana Politics reporter, WISH-TV 8 and WRTV 6 News

    WHERE: The Rathskeller, 401 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis, IN 46204

    WHEN: Tuesday, October 13, 2026

    LUNCH AND NETWORKING: 11:30 a.m.–noon

    PROGRAM: Noon–1:15 p.m.

    MEDIA CHECK-IN AND CAMERA SETUP: 11:15–11:45 a.m.

    MEDIA INTERVIEWS: Will be at the candidates’ discretion

    With the November 3 general election three weeks away, the candidates will discuss their priorities for the office that oversees Indiana’s elections, business filings, and securities regulation.

    Each candidate will give an opening statement, then answer the same policy questions in rotating order. Bergquist will also pose questions submitted in advance by Rotary members before closing statements. Club President Stan Jacobs will open the program, and Vice President Lynn Lambuth will introduce the moderator.

    The club last hosted a Secretary of State candidate town hall in October 2022.

    POTENTIAL VISUAL OPPORTUNITIES

    • All four candidates on stage together, with the moderator at the podium
    • Opening and closing statements and candidate responses to policy and member questions
    • A full luncheon audience of Rotarians and guests

    MEDIA LOGISTICS
    Advance registration is required for all attendees, including media. To reserve space for your crew, please RSVP to Jenny Dexter at jenny@veteranstrategies.com or 317.696.1615. The program is in person only, with no virtual option.


    ###

    About the Rotary Club of Indianapolis:
    Chartered in 1913 as the 58th club in Rotary International, the Rotary Club of Indianapolis brings together business, civic, and community leaders guided by Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self.” The club focuses its service on mental health and suicide prevention, youth homelessness, community food insecurity, and workforce reentry, and meets on Tuesdays at noon at the Rathskeller. For more information, visit indyrotary.com.

  • October 8: 2026 Rotary Golf Classic

    October 8: 2026 Rotary Golf Classic

    We’re excited to announce the second annual Rotary Golf Classic, taking place on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at the beautiful and historic Broadmoor Country Club.

    This shotgun scramble tournament will tee off at 9:30 am, promising a day of fun, networking, and community support — all while enjoying one of Indianapolis’ premier golf courses.

    Event Highlights

    • Shotgun start at 9:30 am
    • Scramble format — perfect for golfers of all skill levels
    • Prizes, food, drinks, and more!

    Registration

    Register now to participate or sponsor the Rotary Golf Classic.

    • Registration form
    • Payment can be made on Square or mailed to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis, 133 W. Market Street, Suite 232, Indianapolis, IN 46204

    Advertiser Opportunities Available

    We are currently seeking advertisers and sponsors. Your support will help fund the Rotary Club’s ongoing community service in Indianapolis and beyond.

    If you or your organization are interested in advertising or sponsoring this event, please contact John Fenoglio to reserve your spot and discuss available opportunities.

    2026 Golf Classic Advertising Opportunities

    Title Advertiser – $2,500 (Secured)
    – Includes four (4) green fees, recognition on all print and online marketing and podium times at the awards banquet, and all player benefits

    Awards Luncheon Advertiser – $1,000 (Secured)
    – Includes two (2) green fees

    Beverage Cart Advertiser – $1,000
    – Signage as sponsor of the beverage cart and for providing 1 (one) drink ticket to each player

    Foursome Package – $600
    – Discounted green fees, snack bag, lunch and all of the amenities for each player with this tournament

    Hole Advertiser – On Site – $450
    – Set up a tent on site and interact with the players, access to a golf cart and hole signage

    Hole Advertiser – Passive – $250
    – Includes hole signage

    Fee per Player – $175
    – Green fee, snack bag, lunch and all of the amenities

    Want to make a donation? Visit Square and click “Support Rotary Golf Classic.” Please note that donations to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis are not tax deductible.

  • September 9: Indianapolis Indians Game

    September 9: Indianapolis Indians Game

    Join us for a fun evening with the Indianapolis Indians on Wednesday, September 9.

    Date: Wednesday, September 9
    Time: Meet at 5:31 pm
    Cost: $13 per person

    You may meet the group at the JW Marriott’s High Velocity Bar before the game or head directly to the ballpark at 5:31 pm.

    We will be seated together in a reserved seating block. Gates open at 5:30 pm, and first pitch is at 6:35 pm.

    Important: Tickets must be purchased by August 15 to guarantee seating with the group. Purchase your tickets today on Square.

  • Indianapolis Rotary Foundation Invests $100,000 in IMPD CARES Program

    INDIANAPOLIS, Ind (June 23, 2026) — The Indianapolis Rotary Foundation has awarded a $100,000 Legacy Impact Grant to the Central Indiana Police Foundation in support of IMPD CARES, a prevention-focused initiative that uses mentorship, education and community engagement to strengthen relationships between young people, families and law enforcement.

    The grant will support two key components of the program: $50,000 to expand youth initiatives, including the G.R.E.A.T. (Gang Resistance Education and Training) Program and summer camp, and $50,000 to purchase and customize a new community-engagement gaming trailer to be deployed throughout Marion County.

    “The Indianapolis Rotary Foundation supports organizations addressing challenges at every stage, from food insecurity and foster care to workforce development and public safety,” said Erin Smith, president of the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation. “This investment reflects our belief that prevention, mentorship and community engagement are essential components of a stronger Indianapolis.”

    Each year, IMPD CARES programs reach approximately 1,200 young people across Marion County. Administered through IMPD’s Community Engagement Office, CARES includes the Police Athletic League, Books and Badges, Play It Smart, G.R.E.A.T., SLYDE (School-Led Youth Development & Engagement) and adult education programming.

    “We often talk about public safety after something bad happens,” said Lisa Rollings, executive director of the Central Indiana Police Foundation. “These programs are about creating positive connections long before that point. This grant allows us to expand opportunities for young people and officers to engage in meaningful ways throughout Indianapolis.”

    The new community engagement gaming trailer represents an innovative approach to outreach. By meeting young people in a setting that feels familiar and inviting, officers can create opportunities for conversation, mentorship and relationship-building with youth who may not otherwise participate in traditional programs. Each deployment will include educational programming alongside opportunities for positive engagement between officers and the community.

    “Enforcement is one part of public safety. Prevention, mentorship and trust-building are equally important,” said Lt. Allen Tuttle, manager of IMPD’s Community Engagement Division. “Programs like CARES and G.R.E.A.T. give officers opportunities to connect with young people outside emergency situations and help strengthen the communities we serve.”

    Awarded every two years, the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation’s Legacy Impact Grant supports transformational projects that address significant community needs and create lasting impact throughout Central Indiana.

    ###

    About Rotary Club of Indianapolis
    Founded in 1913, the Rotary Club of Indianapolis brings together leaders from business, government, nonprofit organizations and the community to address challenges facing Central Indiana through service, philanthropy and civic engagement.

    Through the Rotary Club of Indianapolis Foundation, the organization provides more than $260,000 annually in grants, youth programs and charitable initiatives that strengthen communities across the region.

    Learn more at indyrotary.com.

    About the Central Indiana Police Foundation
    The foundation started in 2013, focused on the Indianapolis Police Department. We are now serving 70 police departments in central Indiana. The mission is to foster community-wide support for law enforcement, providing supplemental resources, and building positive officer-community partnerships.

  • July 5:31 Social Event at Blind Owl Brewery

    July 5:31 Social Event at Blind Owl Brewery

    Join the Rotary Club of Indianapolis 5:31 Club at Blind Owl Brewery on Wednesday, July 1.

    Who: Rotarians, friends, guests, and anyone wanting to learn more about Rotary.

    What: No agenda, just the regular monthly social get-together.

    When: July 1, from 5:31 pm till 7:00 pm, or whenever you can be there.

    Where: Blind Owl Brewery, 5014 E. 62nd Street. (Binford Blvd)

  • August 11: Indiana Fever Game

    August 11: Indiana Fever Game

    Join fellow Rotarians for a fun night of basketball as the Indiana Fever take on the New York Liberty!

    Game Details:

    • Date: Tuesday, August 11
    • Time: 7:30 pm
    • Location: Section 208 (balcony, center)

    Ticket Information:

    • Price: $59.50 per ticket
    • Rotary seats will be grouped together for this event.

    If you would like to attend, please complete the ticket form. You will receive an invoice for your tickets in June, as payment to the Fever is due by June 26.

  • 2026 Community Grants: Apply Online

    2026 Community Grants: Apply Online

    The 2026 Indianapolis Rotary Foundation Community Grant guidelines have been posted. The Foundation intends to award four grants of $25,000 and three grants of $10,000.

    The online grant application can be found here. Applications are due by June 19, 2026. Applicants must be 501(c)3 nonprofits who serve the charitable and educational needs of Central Indiana.

    You can find out more about the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation here.

  • November 19: 4-Way Test Volunteers Needed

    November 19: 4-Way Test Volunteers Needed

    The 4-Way Test Program is a fantastic opportunity for Rotarians to engage with students, offering valuable tools, techniques, and strategies for making thoughtful, ethical decisions that will serve them throughout their lives. By participating, you’ll help instill essential skills in young people while providing them with insights that will shape their future.

    This initiative is not only impactful for the students, but also incredibly rewarding for the volunteers. It’s a chance to witness firsthand the growth and development of the next generation and be part of their educational journey. We promise the experience will be eye-opening, fun, and a fulfilling way to give back to the community!

    For our newer members, this is an excellent way to get involved with Rotary and experience our mission in action. We welcome everyone to be part of this meaningful program!

    Our next 4-Way Test will be on Wednesday, November 19 at 8 am at Christel House South Academy, located at 2405 Madison Avenue, Indianapolis. 

    Interested in volunteering? Please email Mike Crowley or call him directly at 317-627-9030.

    Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to make a difference in students’ lives and be part of Rotary’s impactful work!