by Conner Sura
In the wake of the horrific shootings in Burnsville that left three responders dead last month, Minnesotans are wondering how they can support first responders.
There are several ways to show support, but none is more unique than the “Minnesota 100 Club” license plate.
The Minnesota 100 Club, a non-profit organization based in Minneapolis, has been around for 52 years. Its members dedicate their time and resources to helping the families of fallen or critically injured first responders. In that time, they have helped more than 500 families and have given out more than $1 million since the organization began.
Founded in 1972 after an officer died in the line of duty, a group of Minneapolis business people and labor leaders came together to discuss how they could help the fallen officer’s spouse. Inspired by other 100 clubs throughout the country, they took the lead and founded the Minnesota 100 Club. Each member pledged $100 to help the spouse. Originally based in northeast Minneapolis, their support has spread statewide, offering financial relief to families.
At first, the Minnesota 100 Club gathered funding through traditional sources like donations and fundraisers. Inspired by Arizona’s 100 Club specialty plates, they approached the state legislature in 2019 with the idea of a Minnesota 100 Club specialty license plate. The plates cost $40 and are renewable annually. Two years later, the plates were approved.
Since the introduction of the license plates, the 100 Club has been able to offer more support to families. The plates raised the maximum amount of relief given from $25,000 to $50,000 in less than a year.
If anyone is looking for a way to support responder men and women all year ‘round, consider purchasing a specialized Minnesota 100 Club license plate. All proceeds go to critically injured or fallen first responders.
How to get them
Those who would like to get 100 Club plates, can do this:
Go to Dps.mn.gov or Google “Renew MN driver’s license.” On the home page, click “Vehicle Services,” then click on “Renew Vehicle Tabs” (registration). Complete the demographics page. To do that, you will need your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and insurance information. A question will appear asking, “Do you want to change your plates?” Click “Yes.” You can also decide to personalize your plates at that point. Click on the box that says “Plate Type,” and then click on “Other.” A drop-down menu will appear. “100 Club” is the first one on the list.
“100 Club” license plates for new vehicles can also be ordered at the car dealership.
