Chris Mertens

Good Afternoon, I ask that you read the whole post. Help Share everything coming up, and Let’s fight together. First, I want to thank everyone who has reached out over the last 12 hours with messages, prayers, and words of encouragement. They mean more to me than you will ever know. As everyone knows, our school referendum failed. Unfortunately, athletics, extracurricular activities, and transportation are the areas being cut. These are decisions our superintendent and school board do not want to make, but the financial reality leaves them with very few options. However, one thing I refuse to do is quit on our kids and I know there is others that feel the same. I truly believe God brought me to Elwood for a reason, and maybe this is that reason. Two of my greatest strengths I feel like have always been fundraising and building relationships. Now, I am going to need both more than ever to keep what we can alive by the board meeting. Our only hope of keeping athletics, extra curriculars, and transportation alive is on a year by year basis until the state makes changes or we can attempt another referendum in two years. Our goal is to raise $1 MILLION to keep as many programs alive as possible for the 27/28 school year! I am incredibly grateful to announce that we are starting with the single largest donation in school history of $150,000! Words cannot express what this generosity means to me and, more importantly, our athletes and kids. This individual has given our kids something they desperately need right now, HOPE! In the coming days, I will share an official donation link. We are going to need help from people throughout Indiana and across the country. I am asking everyone to PLEASE SHARE this message and our donation link when it becomes available. No donation is too small! Every dollar helps us keep opportunities alive for our kids. Every dollar donated is tax-deductible. If you prefer to donate by check, please mail it to: Elwood Athletic Department 1137 N. 19th Street Elwood, IN 46036 Memo: Keep Programs Alive Initiative These kids didn’t ask for any of this. All they want is the opportunity to be kids, compete with their friends, enjoy their extracurriculars, make memories, and proudly represent their community. I have poured my heart and soul into this athletic department over the last five years, and I refuse to walk away from these kids when they need someone fighting for them the most. This may be the biggest fight of our lives, but I promise I will give every ounce of energy I have to keep athletics, extracurriculars , and transportation alive in Elwood! Thank you for your prayers, love, generosity, and support. Together, I pray we can give our kids the future they deserve! Much Love, Ryan Athletic Director