Board President Joe Penland Sr. was surprised when he was presented a plaque by the 100 Club of Southeast Texas at the March 9 monthly board meeting.
The plaque was in appreciation and recognition for Penland’s years of leadership, service, dedication and hard work.
“Your leadership has always looked ahead with a vision to continually improve our club. You have brought us to a new and exciting level. Our club is confident, secure and has a bright future,” subscribed on the plaque from the 100 Club of SETX leadership and members.
The 100 Club of SEXT offers financial respite in first-responder tragedies.
Acting as financial first responders for tragedy-stricken families of actual first responders, the 100 Club of SETX has been easing the monetary burden for families of first responders who have suffered a loss in the area for three decades.
“When tragedy strikes, the effects are devastating, and all too often it strikes in the form of a death or disabling injury of a law enforcement officer or firefighter. The 100 Club of Southeast Texas is here to provide an immediate response to the needs of the family of a fallen officer or firefighter,” reads the organization’s mission statement. “Our members realize that money can’t make up for the loss of a loved one, so representatives of the club visit with family members within 48 hours of a tragedy. Our purpose is to provide not only support and understanding but a substantial contribution to the financial needs of the surviving spouse and children.”
The 100 Club originated in Detroit in 1952 after the fatal shooting of a young Detroit policeman. A local businessman wrote to 100 friends encouraging them to donate to a fund for the officer’s family. The response was 100%.
One year later, The 100 Club began in Houston when 100 men each contributed $100 to help the families of Houston Police officers killed in the line of duty. One month after the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, the 100 Club of Houston extended benefits to the dependents of firefighters.
In 1988, the 100 Club was established in Jefferson County following the shooting death of Beaumont Police Department Officer Paul Hulsey Jr. The club added Hardin County in 1996, extended benefits to firefighters in 2006 and to Orange County in 2010.
The 100 Club of SETX is seeking to expand its membership and growth is only possible through members and donations made from the community. Membership helps support the peace officers and firefighters who risk their lives to protect Southeast Texans.