Every picture and face tells a story for Don and Shelia Peppers. "We started with 10 men five years ago, and it's grown every summer," Don says. The Central couple founded Camp Proverbs several years ago. The program uses sports, faith, and school to put young men on the right path. "Some kids just out of boredom or lack of activity choose the wrong road," Don says.
Over the weekend, their fundraising efforts were drained by a thief. The Pepper's held a charity basketball game to raise money for the camp in Pendleton. "I was watching the money, had it in view," says Shelia. "I turned away to assist someone with drinks and when I turned back around the bag was gone." It was a huge hit for the camp, where every penny counts. The hundreds of dollars stolen could have helped one of the camp's graduates go to college. "They're not just taking from us," Shelia says. "They're taking from the young people we're trying to service in the community."
With no leads, the Pepper's have taken things into their own hands, by trying to track down the money. They say the community has seen its share of crime in recent weeks.
"I''ve taken it as an opportunity to go out in the community and talk to several young men who may be suspects, looked 'em in the eye, and encouraged 'em," says Don.
If you have any information on the case, call the Anderson County Sheriff's Office at (864) 260-4400.
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