FORT WAYNE, Ind. – A long-standing community tradition continued Wednesday as the Iris Family Support Center and Casa Restaurants hosted the 40th annual Brown Bag Lunch fundraiser. The event, which has become a staple in Fort Wayne, brought together volunteers and supporters to help raise funds for vital family services.

Thousands of Meals Packed for a Cause

From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., volunteers gathered at The Summit on West Rudisill Boulevard, working swiftly to assemble more than 2,500 brown bag lunches. Each meal, prepared by Casa Restaurants, was packed with care before being distributed across the community. The operation ran like clockwork, thanks to the dedication of dozens of volunteers who showed up to support the initiative.

For many in the area, this annual event is about more than just lunch. It represents a community effort to assist families in need, offering both financial support and increased awareness for child and family welfare programs.

A Milestone Year with a Big Goal

This year’s fundraiser carried a special significance. In honor of the event’s 40th anniversary, organizers set an ambitious goal—$40,000. By the end of the day, the tally showed that the community had stepped up in a big way, meeting and even surpassing expectations.

One of the key figures behind the event, Iris Family Support Center CEO Dee Szyndrowski, expressed deep appreciation for the long-standing collaboration with Casa Restaurants. “We are so grateful to Casa for 40 years of partnership on this event,” she said. “Each year, we look forward to coming together to serve a delicious lunch to our community while raising money and awareness for critical services that support children and families in their moments of greatest need.”

Where the Funds Will Go

The money raised during the fundraiser will go directly toward the Iris Family Support Center’s mission, which focuses on:

• Protecting children by providing crisis intervention and prevention programs.
• Preparing parents with educational resources and support.
• Strengthening families through community engagement initiatives.
• Educating the public on issues related to child welfare and family stability.

These programs ensure that children grow up in safe, nurturing environments, reducing the risks associated with family instability.

A Legacy of Giving Back

Founded four decades ago, the Brown Bag Lunch fundraiser has steadily grown into one of Fort Wayne’s most anticipated charitable events. It brings together local businesses, community leaders, and everyday residents in a joint effort to support children and families in crisis.

Table: Key Facts About the Brown Bag Lunch Fundraiser

Over the years, the event has provided essential funding for programs that help prevent child abuse, support struggling families, and educate the community about the importance of a stable home life. While the methods of fundraising may have evolved, the heart of the event remains unchanged: neighbors helping neighbors.