An appreciation for ISU football coach Paul Rhoads, and an idea that developed last season, has grown into an organization devoted to raising funds for Alzheimer’s awareness and research.

ISU students and avid Rhoads fans Wes Wierson and Derek Kramer, along with Taylor Cain and Grant Rolfes, work as the four co-founders of “Paul’s Posse,” a club that raises money for the Alzheimer’s Association by selling T-shirts with Rhoads’ image on them.

The group also works to spread appreciation for Rhoads, whom Wierson describes as the “best coach in the nation.” The charity aspect began because of Rhoads’ ties to Alzheimer’s research.

“Originally we thought about just selling shirts for profit, but we decided it should go towards something more, so we chose Paul Rhoads’ favorite charity organization,” Wierson said.

Rhoads, whose mother suffered from Alzheimer’s disease, allowed Paul’s Posse permission to use his face for their cause.

“When [Paul’s Posse] approached me about using my name and face and told me they wanted the proceeds to go to Alzheimer’s research, I was just tickled to be involved,” Rhoads said.

An idea that came to founders during a tailgate has since expanded into a student organization on campus. Paul’s Posse sells their shirts during home tailgates and outside Parks Library on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Both Wierson and Kramer said the idea began during the first Iowa State home game last year, and they started making shirts two or three weeks later.

“Last year we were pretty unorganized,” Wierson said. “We did not make many T-shirts, and we only raised about $250.”

Since then the group has worked to make their organization expand.

“This year we should raise closer to $3,500,” Kramer said.

Paul’s Posse has gained sponsors around Ames, including Hy-Vee, which now carries their shirts in their local branch for $10.

Rhoads has had continued support for the Alzheimer’s Association through hosting “A Ride to Remember,” a charity motorcycle event beginning at Jack Trice Stadium, for the association.

This year the organization updated the shirt to involve more of Iowa State than just Rhoads. The new design features Rhoads’ face along with Jack Trice Stadium for Cyclone enthusiasts.

“The fans are just so supportive, and we have so much support for the team on campus; just the overall willingness to help is just first-rate,” Rhoads said. “These fans’ support has led to a new charity and a new breadth of spirit we’re spreading across the Iowa State University campus for other supporters of this ISU football coach.”