From the left are Michele Bickel, Director of Community Relations, Joe’s Kids and Karen Pence, First Lady of Indiana, Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation.

INDIANAPOLIS – First Lady Karen Pence hosted the seventh award reception for grant recipients of the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation at the Governor’s Residence on Tuesday, where she awarded $52,500 to 57 organizations and charities that serve Hoosier families and children across the state. Joe’s Kids was represented by Michele Bickel, Director of Community Relations was on hand to receive the award.

“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,” First Lady Karen Pence stated. 

“The 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 First Lady Karen Pence.

First Lady Karen Pence started the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation in August of 2013 as a way to recognize organizations and charities across the state. At the inaugural First Lady’s Luncheon held in April 2014, the Foundation awarded its first major grant of $100,000 to the Art Therapy Program at Riley Hospital for Children. Last year’s luncheon recipient was Feeding Indiana’s Hungry with a grant of $65,000, which supports food banks and food pantries in all 92 counties.

Last year, the third year, $100,000 was awarded to Indiana Bicentennial Commission for interactive “Treasures of the Statehouse” display at the Indiana State Library. Throughout the year, the Foundation will award smaller grants to organizations across the state. 

“Whether helping a child develop a love for reading or supporting families in need or encouraging a child to go further in the arts, these organizations are the backbone and the heart of our communities. They represent the very best of what it means to be a Hoosier, and we thank them for their service,” said First Lady Karen Pence.

First Lady Karen Pence presented a check to each organization ranging from $500 to $1,000 in grant money from the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation.

The Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation is a 501(c) (3). The First Lady receives no compensation. Donations are tax deductible. Learn more about how to make a donation or request a grant award on the Foundation’s website.