Columbia Club Members Unite to Support Indianapolis’s Unhoused Population Ahead of Winter

Annual Socks4Souls Event Mobilizes Columbia Club Volunteers to Distribute Essential Winter Supplies to Indianapolis’s Unhoused Community

As the chill of winter approaches, Columbia Club members are preparing to bring warmth and comfort to those who need it most in the Indianapolis community. On October 19, 2024, at 9am, volunteers from the Club’s Leadership & Civic Engagement Committee and young professional group, the Harrison Society, will gather for the annual Socks4Souls event. This initiative aims to distribute essential items — socks, hats, blankets, toiletries, and more — to the city’s unhoused population, helping them prepare for winter.

“Our members look forward to this opportunity each year to give back to those who may be less fortunate in our community,” said Molly Richardson, Assistant General Manager at the Columbia Club. “We believe our community is stronger when we work together to help others. This is but one small way we can help bring a level of comfort during this season.”

The Socks4Souls event has become a cherished tradition among Columbia Club members, embodying the Club’s foundational spirit of generosity and civic engagement. Volunteers will convene at the historic Columbia Club in the heart of downtown Indianapolis before dispersing to various locations throughout the city to distribute the collected items. This hands-on approach allows members to connect directly with individuals in need, fostering a vital sense of community and compassion.

The impact of the Socks4Souls event extends beyond the immediate provision of physical items. For many recipients, the interaction with volunteers offers a moment of human connection and dignity. “It’s not just about handing out socks or blankets,” said Richard Hester, chair of the Club’s Leadership & Civic Engagement Committee. “It’s about letting people know they are seen, valued, and not forgotten. A simple conversation or a warm smile can have a profound effect.”

Media representatives are invited to cover the event and capture inspiring moments of interaction. For specific distribution locations and photo opportunities, please contact Molly Richardson at [email protected] or call 317-761-7517.

The Columbia Club also encourages other community members and organizations to join in acts of kindness during winter. “Every gesture, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in someone’s life,” said Hester. “We hope our efforts inspire others to reach out and support those in need.”

About the Columbia Club:

Established in 1889, the Columbia Club is a private city club dedicated to fostering leadership, civic engagement, and community service among its members. Located on Monument Circle, the Club offers a variety of social, cultural, and philanthropic opportunities, aiming to enrich the lives of its members and the broader Indianapolis community.