Mayor Tom Henry today joined officials from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Indiana, Fraternal Order of Police and Fort Wayne UNITED to unveil Blue Bucket Brigade, a community awareness program designed to enhance relationships and partnerships among community organizations, law enforcement and youth.

The goal of the Blue Bucket Brigade is to open doors and build bridges to better serve families and at-risk youth with positive activities and mentoring. The first phase of this program will include and build upon programming similar to offerings provided by Fort Wayne UNITED, a mayoral initiative designed to enhance opportunities, advance youth advocacy and help ensure the safety of all residents with a focus on black men and boys.

As part of the initiative, law enforcement officials and members of the Boys & Girls Clubs will collect donations through the use of blue buckets in high traffic retail and business locations throughout Allen County from mid-May through Labor Day. They will be present at community events, holding Lunch and Learns at various businesses and participating in numerous engagement programs.

“A collective effort to bring the community together is another example of Fort Wayne’s commitment to providing opportunities and making a meaningful difference,” said Mayor Henry. “I continue to be encouraged by the proactive response to meeting challenges in Fort Wayne. It’s a clear demonstration of why we’re seeing positive momentum and investments throughout our City.”

“Everyone in our community must wrap their arms around our most vulnerable children. When children feel safe, protected and cared for, they are best able to become the productive citizens we all want them to be,” said Joe Jordan, president and CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Fort Wayne. “It is vital to the future of our community to reconnect our most vulnerable children to our most trusted servants and reestablish mutual respect and understanding and encourage positive lifelong relationships.”

At 5 p.m. today, law enforcement officials will interact and participate in activities with Boys & Girls Clubs members. The event will be held at the Boys & Girls Clubs facility, 2609 Fairfield Ave.

Proceeds from Blue Bucket Brigade will benefit programming and activities developed and implemented by the Boys & Girls Clubs and Fraternal Order of Police.

For more information and to learn about upcoming opportunities to participate, donate and volunteer, visit www.bluebucketbrigade.org or call the Boys & Girls Clubs at (260) 744-0998.