The 100 Club of Central Texas

The 100 Club of Central Texas is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing immediate financial and emotional support to the families of first responders who have been killed or critically injured in the line of duty. Established in 1983 by two Austin physicians, Dr. James Moritz and Dr. Ed Stivers, the organization initially served the immediate Austin area, offering assistance primarily to police officers under the name "The 100 Club of Austin".

Service Area and Recipients

The 100 Club of Central Texas serves first responders across multiple counties in Central Texas, including Bastrop, Bell, Caldwell, Hays, Milam, Travis, and Williamson. The organization supports a wide range of first responders, including corrections officers, emergency communications operators, emergency medical technicians, firefighters, and law enforcement officers. Additionally, it extends support to service animals who serve alongside these responders.

Programs and Services

Financial Support

The organization provides immediate financial assistance to first responders and their families following line-of-duty deaths or critical injuries. This support is crucial for helping families navigate the financial challenges that arise during such difficult times.

Scholarship Programs

The 100 Club offers two scholarship programs for active-duty first responders:

• First Responder Scholarship Program: Provides $2,500 to up to six first responders annually.
• William (Bill) Orr Memorial Scholarship for First Responders: Awards $5,000 to one first responder each year, supported by G.T. Distributors and the Orr Family.

Animal Memorials

The Club also provides financial assistance for memorial services for service animals that pass away during or after active duty. This includes partnering with local companies to provide memorial plaques or engraved markers for the animals' final resting places.

Community Events

The organization hosts a Family Fun Day annually to bring together the families it serves, fostering a sense of community and support.

History and Expansion

The 100 Club of Central Texas has expanded its services over the years. Initially focused on police officers in the Austin area, it expanded in 2005 to include all first responders, such as county sheriff personnel, emergency medical technicians, and firefighters. Further expansions took place in 2015 to include Bell County and in 2023 to include Milam County. The organization continuously updates its financial support structures and scholarship programs to better serve its community.

Legal Status

The 100 Club of Central Texas is a 501(c)(3) organization, dedicated to charitable purposes. This designation allows it to receive tax-deductible donations and contributes to its role as a leading supporter of first responders and their families in Central Texas.