March 20, 2008 issue
Bojangles Raises Funds for Muscular Dystrophy
Shamrock Sales Reach $70,000
Story by Garrett Simmons
This year, as part of its annual St. Patrick’s Day Fundraiser, Bojangles sold green and gold shamrocks for $1 and $5 to support the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Bojangles’ 2008 campaign marked its tenth year selling shamrocks to raise funds for children suffering from muscular dystrophy. Larry Caudill, Bojangles area manager, said he is grateful to be involved. “It is, and has been in the past, a wonderful opportunity to help those less fortunate,” Caudill said.
Muscular dystrophy is a disease that weakens muscles in the limbs and trunk, making everyday functions nearly impossible. Many of the children who suffer from muscular dystrophy have been confined to a wheelchair their entire lives and have never experienced activities that most of us take for granted.
This year’s shamrock sales, which totaled more than $70,000, will be used to provide some of those experiences to children with muscular dystrophy. Tony Tolbert, marketing and merchandizing manager for Bojangles, explained the importance of the fundraiser and why she feels privileged to be a part of it. “The money raised from shamrock sales gives hope to children suffering from muscular dystrophy,” she said. “It gives them a chance at normalcy.”
One of the ways the MDA utilizes the funds is to host an annual weeklong day camp for children who have MD. During their week at camp, children participate in all the activities of a normal children’s camp. “The camp is truly a miraculous event for these children,” said Tolbert. “Swimming pools are wheelchair accessible, and children can interact with others through games structured around their needs.”
Each year the Bojangles shamrock campaign lasts five weeks. This year’s campaign ended on Monday, March 17. Funds raised in 2008 placed the 10-year total amount at more than $876,000. All proceeds are given directly to the MDA to further research and to host the annual day camp. This year 90 children with MD will go to camp. Caudill gave his sincerest thanks to everyone in the High Country who helped. “We are very lucky to have such generous customers,” he said.
Community Interest
News & Notes
Events
Arts & Entertainment
