VFW Post 2598 members and its VFW Riders in Cleveland, Tennessee, combined their efforts during a benefit ride to help raise more than $16,000 for children’s medical research on Sept. 3.
With 34 motorcycles and several cars belonging to Post 2598 members, the VFW Riders trekked more than 190 miles across the state in true volunteer fashion to help raise money for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis.
“Even though we were the only ones to host and manage the event,” Post 2598 Quartermaster Ernie Griggs said, “It was through the efforts of the community and sponsors that it was a successful event.”
Following the 190-mile ride, which included four stops, the 34 VFW Riders and participating Post 2598 members in cars were welcomed back at the Post by more than 125 patrons for an auction to end the benefit ride.
It was through their participation, along with generous donations by local businesses, that Post 2598 members secured $16,000 towards St. Jude’s.
“Local support and participation were the key to our success,” Griggs said. “At least 120-130 people attended the auction after the ride, which was the main money-raising event for us.”
Popular among the community for hosting multiple benefit rides in and around Cleveland, 369 miles east of Memphis, Post 2598 and their Riders are already planning a slew of other rides in 2023.
“We have several more rides in the planning stages,” Griggs said. “But no definite dates yet.”
For updates on Post 2598 benefit rides, visit their Facebook profile at https://www.facebook.com/VFW-Post-2598-1036462649701759/.