Annual Rock for Tots event raises over $49,000 for local kids
CHILLICOTHE— The 38th annual Rock for Tots took place earlier this month at the Majestic Theatre. Attendees were entertained by live performances and participated in both a live and silent auction where proceeds went to children's organizations and college scholarships.
This event has been a staple in the community for many years and was a great way to give to those who need it. Bidding was not the only way people gave as all the items auctioned off were donated by local people and businesses as well.
Paul Pollard has been helping run the event since the beginning and said is about having fun and supporting local kids. He has seen the community embrace the project and watched it grow over the years into something bigger than what was originally imagined.
"Everybody truly wants to help," said Pollard.
The Feast of the Flowering Moon royalty were in attendance helping in many ways by singing the national anthem at the start of the event and presenting auction items to bidders.
Live performers made sure the event lived up to its name by rocking on the stage and entertaining guests in between auction segments. Performers included an American Idol finalist Murphy, SOHI, The Wegians, Good n Stout, Seven Mile Bluegrass and Six to Noon.
Performer Steve Irwin, lead guitarist of Stateside Red, said this fundraiser was a great opportunity for the band to give back and help others. He said by playing, and later being auctioned off for a private event, the band is also able to support Pollard who has believed in them for a long time.
"It is a really big pleasure for me to be a part of it," said Irwin of the event.
Murphy said he really connected to the cause after meeting Pollard and hearing about where the money goes. He remembers not having much as a kid and said he is glad to be in the position where he can now help others like him.
Pollard also performed an acoustic version of a song he wrote after the first Rock for Tots event. During this Christmas song he remembers the looks on children's faces as he delivered gifts for the first time thanks to everyone's help and donations.
This event helped raise money for 35 different children's organizations and helped to fund 3 scholarships for college students. According to the Rock for Tots organization, the fundraiser made over $49,300 this year.
Shelby Reeves is a reporter for the Chillicothe Gazette. You can email her at SReeves@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @Shelby_Reeves_
This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: Annual Rock for Tots event raises over $49,000 for local kids
