helping those helping others

The Michael C Kalal
Heart of Gold Charity​

Providing uncovered or under-covered safety equipment for our First Responders
our mission

Securing Safety Equipment for First Responders

Have you ever met a person that you knew instantly they were more than your typical individual?  This was Michael C. Kalal: always thinking of others, putting them first, and putting his own needs last.  I am proud to say, that this was my husband.  He was put on this Earth to serve his fellow man, constantly and consistently in any way he could.

Michael was an advocate for first responders for as long as I can remember.  In his memory and honor, the Michael C Kalal Heart of Gold Charity was established to continue his giving.  

Our Mission is to secure safety equipment for our First Responders that is either not covered or under covered by municipal budgets.  Examples of what this might entail:

– AED Device
– Flashlights
– Bullet Proof Vests (Human and Canine)
– Dash Cams
– Body Cams
– Canine Unit Food
– Offset the Cost of Canine Unit Training
– Assist with Medical Costs for Canine Units Injured in the Line of Duty

police dog in vest
K-9 Unit Supplies & Training Support
bulletproof reflective vest
bulletproof vests & equipment
Flashlights and personal equipment

Events

11 april 2026

Reverse Raffle Dinner

Join us for a BBQ Pulled Pork Dinner and Reverse Raffle fundraiser – Top prize – $1,000.  Silent Auction, Side Boards and 50-50 Raffle – All funds raised will be used to secure safety equipment for first responders. 

Burton Fire Station,
13828 Spring St, Burton, OH 44021

Check back for updates!

tbd may 2026

Plant Sale

Proceeds from our annual plant sale benefit first responders with the purchase of Safety Equipment.

Burton Fire Station,
13828 Spring St, Burton, OH 44021

Check back for updates!

tbd july 2026

MapleSplash Festival

Visit our table at the MapleSplash Festival from 2p-9p at Century Village in Burton! Live Entertainment, Food, Family Fun and Prizes, all in support of a good cause.

The MapleSplash Raffle benefits dozens of charities throughout Northeast Ohio.

Facebook Posts

As we reflect on all we're grateful for this weekend, let's remember those who help keep us safe – make a donation to support our First Responders this Giving Tuesday -visit mckheartofgold.org/ to make your donatio#GivingTuesdayi#firstrespondersResponders See MoreSee Less
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In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we like to wish all our Emergency Responders and their families a safe, healthy, blessed holiday. We are forever grateful for your service! See MoreSee Less
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Giving Tuesday is fast approaching – join us in protecting our first responders! Visit mckheartofgold.org/ to make your tax deductible donation today! See MoreSee Less
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3 weeks ago

MCK Heart of Gold Charity
Every Memorial Day local Knights of Columbus around the world gather at their local Catholic cemetery to honor those who have passed who have served in our military. It is a time for remembrance honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The Mass is not just a memorial, but a religious observance. This allows the Knights of Columbus to commemorate those who served. This brings together members of our community to reinforce shared values of patriotism and faith while we mourn those we have lost and celebrate the freedoms we have in this great country. In honor of Veterans Day – we thank those who have served our nation.#VeteransDay See MoreSee Less
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If law enforcement receives a domestic violence, shooting, or stabbing call, your local EMT or Paramedic is called to assist. They can then become targets during hostile situations. I would never have imagined that there would be this need, but we have been receiving requests for bullet proof vests for firefighters and EMTs at The Michael C Kalal Heart of Gold Charity.Additionally, bullet proof vests have a life expectancy of 5-7 years. This is an ongoing expense these brave men and women often take on themselves while protecting our community.Each vest costs between $600 and $800, and should be custom fitted to ensure all vital organs are properly protected. Will you consider a matching donation to equip our emergency response personnel with bullet proof vests? First Responders risk their lives and safety when we need them most, and they deserve our support. As Founder, I am personally pledging $800, please consider a match as an individual, group, or business. Go to: mckheartofgold.org/ to make your donation by December 2.Help Protect a Life Today! See MoreSee Less
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