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By Paula Pyzik Scott

Bluffton American Legion Post 382 made its annual check presentations on Monday, August 4, presenting a total of $9,000 in support for 12 local non-profit organizations. Post Commander Kurt Emans provided background information on the recipients and committee members Sam Reineke, Tom Benroth, Fred Rodabaugh and Dennis Morrison presented individual checks.

The donations are made possible by the annual Fred Arnold Memorial Charitable Golf Outing, which takes place in June. Over the past 12 years, the outing has raised more than $70,000 for local nonprofits. Arnold's wife Pat was present for the evening's program, which concluded with an invitation to golf in 2026.

2025 donation recipients:

FROM THE PROGRAM
Bluffton Boy Scout Troop 256 serves the community through projects like the Scouting for Food program, collecting non-perishable food for the Bluffton Food Pantry. Scouts encourage residents to contribute by distributing door hangers and engaging in educational activities such as learning fingerprint identification to earn merit badges. These efforts provide vital resources and educational opportunities in the community. Nick Kimmel represented the troop at the ceremony.

Bluffton Food Pantry offers critical food support to local individuals and families, playing a significant role in reducing food insecurity. It strengthens community connections by helping underserved families gain access to essential groceries and resources.

Bluffton Diamond Sports is instrumental in teaching children's values like teamwork, sportsmanship, pride and courage through baseball and softball fundamentals. 

Bluffton Scrap Artist Quilters aids the community by donating baby quilts to foster children and larger quilts to veterans. Their recent contributions include forty baby quilts to Allen County Children's Services and forty-eight quilts to area veterans on Veterans Day. Their work supports families and veterans while also nurturing community spirit through quilting. Pat Rodabaugh represented the group.

Bluffton Family YMCA is inclusive of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. Its mission centers on promoting healthy youth development, family support, and community strength. Membership enhances personal and community well-being.

Challenged Champions Equestrian Center offers Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies to help individuals with special needs improve their physical, speech, and occupational abilities. The center provides free physical and occupational therapy to veterans and active-duty service members. It organizes programs for various community groups, aiming to enrich the lives of both children and adults. Amanda Sizemore represented the center.

Veterans Food Pantry of Northwest Ohio supplies food assistance to veterans experiencing food insecurity, ensuring they and their families receive nutritious food. Fundraising efforts support hunger relief for veterans, spouses, and dependents. Betsy Potts represented the pantry.

Children's Developmental Center supports children from birth to school age with special needs by providing interdisciplinary developmental classes, therapy services, and an equestrian program. Its mission is to help children reach their fullest potential. Elisha Reineke represented the center.

Bittersweet at Betty's Farm assists individuals with autism with by providing residential, vocational and day programs. Activities include life skills training, arts and crafts, gardening, and civic education, along with community volunteering and therapeutic recreation. These programs foster practical skills and self-esteem for participants. Jerry Hunt represented the organization.

Flag City Honor Flight honors veterans from World War I through the Vietnam War by enabling them to visit war memorials in Washington, D.C., at no cost. The volunteer-run organization raises funds and provides guardians for veterans, as well as celebratory homecomings. Duane Turner and Greg Panning represented the program.

An American Legion initiative, Operation Comfort Warrior delivers comfort items and non-essential supplies to injured service members and their families, making military hospitals more inviting and the recovery process more comfortable. The Department of Ohio American Legion Commander Stan Oren represented this program.

Gifts for Yanks Program ensures every hospitalized veteran receives a Christmas gift, supported by American Legion Family fundraising. These efforts directly benefit veterans in VA facilities and Ohio Veterans Homes. Commander Stan Oren also represented Gifts for Yanks.