A decade since Victory Lane began, the importance of community partners remains central to what happens both at camp sessions and throughout the year. The New Castle Optimist Clubs and Henry County Community Foundation have been part of the Victory Lane story since the beginning.

The Optimist Clubs have provided several meals during summer camp sessions and participated in Victory Lane fundraisers. Everett Cole is part of the group who helped with this endeavor along with Evan McGrew, Sylvia Ward, and Steve and Loretta Wray among many others.

“We are here to serve the community in a variety of ways, both in service and financially,” Everett noted. “Victory Lane is more than just a good cause, and we appreciate the opportunity to provide this support.”

The Henry County Community Foundation has supported Victory Lane through Choose Henry grant cycles, Teens About Serving Community (TASC) grants, and event sponsorships. Hilary Bennett, the Foundation’s Program Director expressed: “What Victory Lane does for families both in the organization as well as outside is great.”

Amber Estelle, who serves as the Communication and Donor Engagement Manager for the Foundation, has been to summer camp sessions and attended some of Victory Lane’s monthly events. She enjoyed seeing families connect and grow closer together.

“I love the mission of Victory Lane and the opportunity to connect. It’s always a good feeling when we’re able to support organizations like Victory Lane who are making a difference for families in our community,” Amber shared.

Foundation President and Executive Director Jennifer Fox sees the value in supporting families who pour their lives into caring for others. To her knowledge, there are no other nonprofit organizations in the region fulfilling the same mission as Victory Lane.

“It feels great to know we are able to support a program that provides for the needs of some in our community who have few opportunities,” she expressed.

If you are a community partner who is looking for a worthwhile organization to serve, contact Natasha Hamilton at 765-591-7487 or [email protected].