Over $1k raised during Saturday fundraisers in Riverton

(Riverton, WY) – It was a Saturday of fundraisers this past weekend at the Fremont County Fairgrounds with both the 2nd annual Feed the Kids Bike & Car Show hosted by the Oilfield Ironmen Big Bear Chapter as well as the “Smash COVID” event with nonprofit Help for Health Hospice.

Big Bear set a goal for their 2nd annual Feed the Kids Bike & Car Show to beat what they raised last year which covered 400 meals for students at Fremont County School District #25. “With increased entries and donations this year, the club was able to raise $1,000 for the school food program,” shared Trish Thorpe, Big Bear Treasurer. “That’s 500 meals for FCSD#25 students!”

A row of brightly colored classic and modern cars framed the front of the Fremont Center drawing car fans in like a moth to a flame. Not to be outshined by the cars, a variety of motorcycles were also on display.

It was hard to miss a swinging bat, pick-axe and sledgehammer when you first entered the fairgrounds. Help for Health Hospice provided the space for folks to let loose and get some frustration or grief out with their “Smash COVID” event.

Fremont Auto Recycling donated an already totaled car to take the brunt of the event. The car was covered with COVID stickers made by Star Trims. Participants got 5 swings for $5 and they ended up raising $230, according to Kelly Wicks, Help for Health Hospice Executive Director.

With the bike and car show fundraiser focus on kiddos, the Big Bear Chapter brought in Safe2Tell Wyoming to share information on their program and child-safe reporting app.

Big Bear also shared the anti-bullying teddy bear campaign, “Be a Buddy, Not a Bully.” Proceeds from the campaign teddy bear sales and event t-shirts also went toward their fundraising efforts.

Donations also came from the Food Dude food truck came from Rock Springs for the event. He donated part of his proceeds to the fundraiser, according to Thorpe. Walmart also provided free water for attendees which were appreciated on a hot day.

“Thank you to Smartt Insurance and Liberty Pawn for their support this year and planning over the past 10 mos!” Thorpe said.

All six bicycles were raffled off and found new homes Saturday as well.

Barn Bums 4H members were also in attendance and raising money by selling “Walking Tacos.” They were also recruited by Big Bear to vote on winners for this year’s bike and car show awards making it another Kids Choice Awards year.

“Please remember, we may be giving out awards, but this is a community support event, not competitive,” Thorpe noted.

They are already looking ahead to next year and adding a new category, “Daily Driver.” It was also mentioned they hope to grow this event and expand the student meal coverage to more schools.

“IF YOU RIDE IT OR DRIVE IT, and YOU love it, please ENTER IT!”