The concept of the “100 Club” was born in Detroit in 1952, following the fatal shooting of a young Detroit officer. Moved by the situation, William M. Packer, who was the largest Pontiac Dealer in the nation and a friend of the police commissioner, wrote to 100 of his friends encouraging them to donate to a fund for the fallen officer. He received a 100 percent response rate. Packer and the commissioner met with the expectant widow, reviewed her finances and arranged to pay off the mortgage on their recently purchased home, pay all the bills, set up an education account for the yet unborn child and deposited $7,000 in the widow’s checking account.

There are now several 100 Clubs throughout the nation all aimed at supporting emergency responders. Most have an annual membership of $100. If 100 citizens of Taney County gave $100 annually we can ensure the families of our emergency responders will be supported when necessary.

Police Officers, Firefighters, and EMTs deserve total community support. We give financial assistance. They give their lives, while protecting ours.

JB Henderson, Board Vice Chair