Let’s just pretend this week’s column was not forcefully requested by anyone with the same last name as me and certainly not from someone within my same gene pool. Can we also assume the Amy W. in this article is just the typical Indiana University college student who also happens to be from Carmel? I can’t fault her for her persistence as she executes her strategy to leverage any connection to the Current in Carmel for shameless event publicity.
Amy W. starts her plea with, “Since you are always looking for inspiration for your column in the Current, I have the perfect story for you. IU Dance Marathon is November 15, but there is a golf tournament in Fishers on June 15 at River Glenn to help us raise money.” Sensing my skepticism about how this ties to volunteerism in Carmel, she kept up the pressure. “Over 200 Carmel grads participate every year in IUDM and the Carmel Dance Marathon actually supports IU,” said Amy W. “We are striving toward a $2-million goal, and the golf tournament is a big part of our fundraising strategy. You must tell people about it.”
It is true, Carmel High School Dance Marathon raised close to $300,000 which means there is a high level of interest and support for the event. It is also true that the money raised by Carmel does flow through the IU organization, eventually ending up at Riley Hospital for Children. And, there is a strong presence of Carmel grads guiding and molding the IU organization.
Take, for example, Adam Burns, Adam Shafer and Audrey Leech; a threesome from Carmel and student executive board members for IUDM. They are key players in this huge yearly event. Adam Burns is Director of Riley Development and said, “My role on the board is to demonstrate leadership and participate in all DM events. Although I am not a very good golfer, I am going to get out there and have fun with all of the IU alums who come back to play in our tournament. It is a 10-year tradition.”
The tent year is a big deal, giving Indiana University supporters the opportunity to do what they love plus support Riley at $150 per golfer or $550 per foursome. Tickets are on sale now through IUDM contact Laura Swartz at [email protected]. Golf, dance, IU and Carmel. Makes total sense to me. Good call Amy. Love, Dad.