Much has been written about Charles Starr, Neil and Cynthia Ferrell and The Bad to the Bone Riders. And rightly so. Even though the MARC Center receives donations and memorials throughout the year, their MARC Ride is the main source of income for the center.
The MARC Center is a day program for adults with special needs. The Board of Directors contracts with Central Counties Services (formerly known as Central Counties MHMR) of Temple to provide staff for the center. The facility on Pecos Street is owned by the community of Rockdale. The local board advocates for the people who attend the center.
In 2002 the Bad to the Bone Riders decided to do a fundraiser for the MARC Center which has turned into an annual event. To date they have raised over $315,000. That is an amazing feat to help these adults with special needs.
Ann King, director of the MARC Center, tells us how they use the money that is raised by this group of very nice people. The list is pretty impressive. Past proceeds from the rides have been used to:
• Help fund an additional 1,500 square feet to the building in 2011.
• Purchase a small building for storage.
• Install a gazebo for consumers to be in a shaded area outside.
• Add a basketball court.
• Provide sidewalks to the gazebo and basketball court.
• Install new flooring throughout the building.
• Remodel men’s restroom.
• Replace two air conditioners.
• Add cabinet space in the kitchen.
• Purchase computers and software for the participant’s use.
• Replace a hot water heater.
• Purchase additional tables and chairs.
• A very expensive leveling of the MARC building.
In addition, the funds have been used to send participants to summer camp at Down Home Ranch, pay for bowling twice a month in Georgetown, support the yearly Halloween party with more than 100 friends from other centers attending, Christmas lunch for participants and their families, yearly dinner and swimming party for participants and families, swimming in the summer on Fridays at the City of Rockdale pool, designated monthly parties such as New Year’s pajama party, Valentine’s Day party, St. Patrick’s Day party, April Fool’s Day party, Cinco de Mayo party and more. And day trips that provide enrichment opportunities for people who attend the MARC Center.
Definitely a list of good things of which the Bad to the Bone Riders should be very proud. Last Saturday’s MARC ride was another huge success to help keep these good things going for another year. At last count they raised $15,100 with more donations expected.
Ann and the MARC Board wish to convey their heartfelt thanks to all the participants and the community for supporting such a good cause.
—K.W.C.
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