INDIANAPOLIS – Today, the Hummingbird Charitable Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by former Second Lady of the United States Karen Pence, hosted its inaugural fundraising luncheon, bringing together supporters, community leaders, and Veterans to honor those who have served our nation. The event highlighted the foundation’s commitment to giving back, featuring the surprise announcement of significant monetary donations to three veteran-focused organizations and the gifting of a home to a Veteran in need.

The three organizations, Indy Honor Flight, INvets, and the Indy Warrior Partnership, were each awarded a $32,000 check to support their crucial work in aiding Veterans in Indiana. The recipients were surprised and moved by the foundation’s generosity and the recognition of their efforts.

“The support and sacrifices made by our Veterans are immeasurable, and at the Hummingbird Charitable Foundation, we are dedicated to giving back in ways that matter. Seeing the impact of today’s awards is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve together as a community,” said Karen Pence, Founder of the Hummingbird Charitable Foundation.

“We are incredibly honored and grateful to be working with the Hummingbird Charitable Foundation,” said Aaron Bacon, Program Lead, Indy Warrior Partnership. “Our similar missions of supporting and empowering Indiana Veterans in our community is a natural fit. Their generous support empowers us to further the mission and to make a meaningful impact in the community. Together, we can do better.”

“Indy Honor Flight is very thankful for this opportunity to receive funds for our mission,” said Trina Winegardner, President-Board of Directors, Indy Honor Flight. “Every penny that is donated goes directly towards flying our WWII, Korean, Vietnam Veterans to Washington, DC to see the memorials built in their honor. This experience is 100% free for the Veterans. Most describe it as one of the best days of their life.”

“INvets is honored to be selected as one of the Veteran organizations to receive recognition and to be a recipient of a portion of the money raised,” said Sarah Harrison, CEO of INvets. “INvets was founded by Veterans, for Veterans, and run by Veterans. We travel nationwide to recruit transitioning military, spouses, and families to start their next life chapter living and working here in Indiana. We connect these families to both Indiana companies and communities which match their family needs.”

A particularly moving moment of the event was when the Hummingbird Charitable Foundation along with General Leroy Sisco of the Military Warriors Support Foundation surprised Army Veteran Amanda Hounshell by gifting her with a house.

Last month, a fire destroyed her home and in Shelby County where she lived with her family.

The luncheon also featured a surprise appearance from former Vice President Mike Pence who shared a few words and then led the audience in a rendition of God Bless America, accompanied by the Greenwood Community Band Brass Quintet, creating an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

The Hummingbird Charitable Foundation expresses heartfelt gratitude to its donors, partners, and attendees who made the event possible.

For more information about the Hummingbird Charitable Foundation, please visit the Foundation’s website.

About Hummingbird Charitable Foundation

The Hummingbird Charitable Foundation, a 501 (c)3 (pending), is a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring and supporting charitable causes and organizations that make a significant difference in Indiana. Established in 2024, the Foundation is committed to its mission to enrich the lives of Hoosiers by financially supporting select charities and maximizing their impact as they serve communities across the state of Indiana.