Kasey Kohlmorgen accepts check from Karen Pence.

By REBECCA BAZZONI
Executive Director, Joe’s Kids

First Lady Karen Pence hosted the second award reception for grant recipients of the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation at the Governor’s residence on Wednesday, where she awarded $15,000 to 19 organizations and charities that serve Hoosier families and children across the state.

Kasey Kohlmorgen, who was on hand to receive the award, represented Joe’s Kids.

“When Mike was elected Governor, I was overwhelmed with requests from so many worthy organizations to get involved in their efforts. However, it quickly became clear that I couldn’t be at every event nor could I champion every cause. That is why I, along with a team of dedicated board members, started the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation as a way to shine a light on the organizations across Indiana who lift up our communities and make our state strong,” Pence continued.

Joe’s Kids is one of those organizations that is doing great work for our Hoosier children and families, and it is an honor to recognize them today,” said Pence.

Pence started Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation in August 2013 as a way to recognize organizations and charities across the state.

At the inaugural First Lady’s Luncheon held in April, the Foundation awarded its first major grant of $100,000 to the Art Therapy Program at Riley Hospital for Children.

Throughout the year, the Foundation will recognize organizations with smaller grants.

“These grants are a first step toward making a big impact in recognizing these deserving organizations. We hope it can help give them a boost and bring more interest to their causes,” said Pence. “These organizations are the backbone and the heart of our communities. Joe’s Kids represents the very best of what it means to be a Hoosier, and we thank them for their service.”

Joe’s Kids provides physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy services to children with special needs or developmental delays.

“At Joe’s Kids, we consider it a blessing to provide therapy to each of the children that pass through our doors” said Rebecca Bazzoni, Executive Director at Joe’s Kids. “Without community support, the children at Joe’s Kids simply would not receive the level of care that they need in order to reach their maximum potential. We are extremely grateful for this gift from the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation.”

To learn more about Joe’s Kids, visit their website at www.joes-kids.org.

Wednesday’s reception was the second reception this year. An additional reception is scheduled for March of 2015 with next year’s luncheon scheduled April 23, 2015.

The Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation is a 501c3. The First Lady receives no compensation. Donations are tax deductible. Learn more about how to make a donation or request a grant or monetary award on the Foundation’s website at: www.IndianaFirstLadysCharitableFoundation.org