Elkhart plans event in honor of first respodners

In support of the men and women who serve the Elkhart community, one organization is planning an event to say ‘thank you.’

In December, Homes for Heroes will host a year-end banquet to "Honor the Badge."

Friday, final details for the event were ironed out with Mayor Tim Neese, Police Chief Windbigler and Fire Chief Carey.

The benefit is a gift from the community for the everyday sacrifice and service of these departments.

“We believe police and firefighters deserve our honor and we've been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from local businesses to sponsor this event, and it's just a small way for us to show appreciation for what they do every day,” said Jim McKinnies, an affiliate of Homes for Heroes.

The event will be closed to the public, but you can still get involved.

A Harley-Davidson 2016 Sportster 72 in ‘Charcoal Denim’ will be raffled off, but the organization needs your help. There are still several raffle tickets up for grabs at $20 each, with proceeds going back to the Elkhart Fire and Police Departments.

Raffle tickets are available for purchase at Hoosier Harley-Davidson located at 720 W. Bristol St. in Elkhart; the Elkhart Chamber of Commerce located at 418 S. Main St.; the Elkhart Police Department located at 175 Waterfall Dr., and the Elkhart Fire Department located at 500 East Street.

The drawing will be held on December 1st. You do not need to be present to win.