A new service organization coming to Putnam County, taking a multi-pronged approach to bettering the community.
Exchange Club President Charlotte Sanders said the club focuses on four major pillars. Locally, it supports Americanism, youth programs, and community service, as well as a national mission of child abuse prevention and awareness. Sanders said there is a big need for an organization like the Exchange Club.
“This whole thing is to make this community a better place to live for me, for you, for everybody,” Sanders said. “And so, I think the Exchange Club of Putnam County is going to be a big deal, and we’re going to try to get in there and do what we can and work together. And we hope that everybody can join us.”
Sanders said the club started after she attended a meeting for the Stevens Center, which does similar work. Sanders said she realized there has not been an organization like the Exchange Club in Putnam County since 1973, which inspired her to start it.
In addition, Sanders said she is passionate about community service. She said she is willing to jump in whenever is a need.
Upon recognizing the need for the Exchange Club in Putnam County, Sanders sent out invitations to the people who would become the first members. She said the club now has 29 members, and new people are always welcome to join.
Sanders said the four pillars are the foundation of the program. The Americanism pillar focuses on promoting patriotism and civic engagement, as well as honoring veterans. Sanders said the club does lots of community service. and it hopes to partner with other organizations to address local needs.
“I would like to go talk to the Mayor, the County Mayor of course, and the City Mayor, and ask them where we can help,” Sanders said. “What needs and what projects are going on in Putnam County that we can be a part of to help them.”
Sanders said the Exchange Club will offer youth programs, scholarships, awards, an mentoring opportunities to support young people. The national issue of child abuse is a collaboration with other exchange club chapters across the country.
“We’re actively working to prevent child abuse through awareness campaigns and support services,” Sanders said.
Sanders said the Stevens Center is one of the Exchange Club’s partners in child abuse prevention.
The next Exchange Club meeting will be July 24 at the Putnam County Courthouse. Sanders said the community is welcome to attend.
