A recent Cici's Pizza fundraiser for In–Vest USA was a success, say its organizers

On February 10, four area locations set aside ten percent of the day’s proceeds to help the Midlands–based organization purchase life–saving bulletproof vests for law enforcement officers. The event raised about $1,000 for the cause, said Cici's franchisee Mitch Uehling.

In–Vest USA founder Michael Letts said the money is enough to purchase two vests.

“People and businesses of the Midlands have a generous spirit and a tradition of pulling through for good causes, and that spirit was on full display during our recent pizza fundraiser,” said Letts. “Even in unremarkable times, law enforcement officers have a dangerous job. In a time of economic downturn, when many communities see increases in crime and law enforcement budgets are strained, the efforts of businesses such as Cici’s and the many who turned out to support this cause are more important than ever."

The St. Andrews Road, Village at Sandhills, Decker Boulevard, and Shoppes at Woodhill locations participated.

“In–Vest is a truly worthy cause, and we’re proud to do our part to help protect the men and women who put their lives on the line to keep us safe,” said Uehling

In–Vest was formed in 1993 to outfit Richland County deputies with vests after Letts and a group of Richland County business leaders learned vests were not standard–issue equipment. The charity has thrived thanks to partnerships with businesses such as Wachovia and Bell- South and restaurants such as Cici’s, O’Charley’s and Carrabba's. The organization has provided thousands of vests to officers nationwide.