BRAZIL, Ind.  — American Legion Post #2, the local American Legion Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion and American Legion Riders have joined ranks to help furnish and equip the recently announced Peace Chapel at the Indiana Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch.

Sheriffs and deputies from across the state are developing the Youth Ranch in Clay County  to serve as the permanent home of their Youth Leadership Camps which they’ve hosted for 38 years for future law enforcement officers and at-risk kids.

“By owning instead of renting a camp venue, we will be able to expand our leadership programming to more days per week and more weeks per summer,” said Clay County Sheriff Paul Harden, who is the local sheriff as well as a Youth Ranch board member.

“Our new Youth Ranch will offer kids instruction regarding personal safety, first aid, cybercrimes, bullying, substance abuse and firearms safety,” said Harden. “They will learn these important life skills in a peaceful setting and while enjoying team-building recreation like canoeing, ziplining, hiking, swimming, fishing and horseback riding.”

Representatives of the Brazil Post, Auxiliary, Sons and Riders presented Harden four $1,000 checks Wednesday on behalf of their respective organizations. The funds will go toward furniture and equipment for an interdenominational Peace Chapel where young campers can voluntarily and quietly worship. Construction of the Peace Chapel was funded recently by an anonymous donor.

Harden said the entire Youth Ranch is being built without tax dollars and through donations like those of the Legionnaires.

Personal or corporate checks may be dropped off at any local Sheriff’s Office or mailed directly to the Indiana Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch, 5401 S. East St., Suite 117, Indianapolis, IN 46227.