The Indiana Dream Center (IDC) is all about lending a hand to those in need through its faith-based recovery programs. When the charitable organization, based in Huntington, found itself in need of a box truck to replace its aging delivery vehicle, IDC’s Huntington neighbor Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems was there to lend a hand of its own.

Bendix supported IDC with a $10,000 grant to use toward the purchase of a dependable used truck.

The truck will be utilized primarily to pick up and drop off items sold or donated to the IDC thrift store, a critical revenue generator for the center that helps support its men’s discipleship home and other programs. In addition, the truck will enable the IDC to continue participating in local food drives and further community outreach efforts.

Bendix’s Huntington operation, along with other Bendix locations, are serious about giving back to their home communities. Every year, they distribute thousands of dollars in grants from the company and its corporate foundation, Knorr-Bremse Global Care North America Inc., for nonprofit organizations and community initiatives across North America. Beyond the monetary support, many Bendix employees are active as well, volunteering and participating on local nonprofit boards.

One of those volunteers is Matt Piatt, who works at Bendix Huntington as a business team leader – distribution. He submitted the application that secured the IDC grant.

“I’ve worked with the Indiana Dream Center for a year and a half, and I know people at Bendix who have been helped by its programs. A good used box truck is one of the center’s larger needs,” he said. “The truck is essential to the operation of the thrift store, which not only helps fund the men’s recovery home, but also benefits many people in Huntington County by providing discounted options for clothing and other necessities.”

Piatt continued, “The truck is also used to conduct food distribution to the needy in the community. I’ve been a part of these food drives and personally seen how many people they help. The box truck grant is a tangible way to help the center, the people it serves, and Huntington residents. It’s so clear how the grant is going to make a big difference in the community.”

The Indiana Dream Center started as a shelter in 2010 to help people recover from life-controlling issues. Today, along with operating its fully functional men’s discipleship home, the IDC also provides resources to the local community, outpatient programs, and drug-testing services.

“Our current box truck is almost 10 years old now, and it’s starting to nickel and dime us. Plus, it’s difficult to find parts. We’re in need of something that works better so we don’t have to worry about funds coming out of the budget to repair it,” said Michelle Crone, the IDC’s executive director. “We are very thankful to Bendix for their generous grant. We see them aiding others in their community as well. They are helping us meet our mission of supporting those who need a hand getting back on their feet – who need that second chance.”

The center is researching trucks and hopes to make a purchase in the coming weeks.