Kendal Gapinski

By Kendal Gapinski, Daily Local News

POSTED:  | 

EAST WHITELAND — Justice4PAKids, a local organization that helps child sex abuse victims, will hold a motorcycle ride and after-party fundraiser Saturday at The Office Bar and Grille.

“It’s a unique fun fundraiser that we’re doing,” said Maureen Martinez, president of the organization.

The event will feature a two-hour, self-guided tour throughout Chester County followed by lunch and activities at The Office Bar and Grille, 1021 N. Morehall Road, near Malvern.

Robert Riley, vice president of the group, said he came up with the idea of a motorcycle ride because he is an “avid Harley-Davidson rider” and thought the fundraiser would be a unique way to reach out to the community. He said that after the success of the group’s spring 5K fundraiser, a motorcycle ride seemed like an event for the fall that would stand out and reach a giving group of people.

“Motorcycle guys and girls have a passion to help people in stressful situations,” said Riley. “Plus, I’m not aware of any other event like this in the area.”

Riley said he will be one of the leaders who will guide riders on a recommended route, but because it is a self-guided tour, motorcyclists may choose their own path. After the ride is finished, participants can stop by The Office Bar and Grille and purchase lunch, listen to speakers and enter a raffle.

According to Riley, 20 percent of profits made from food sales until 10 p.m. will go to the organization.

Speakers at the event include Chief Deputy District Attorney Pat Carmody, who will be speaking about the work the DA’s office does with child abuse victims, and State Sen. Andrew Dinniman, who will talk about legislation concerning child sexual abuse. Additionally, Martinez said the Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County will be handing out literature.

Raffle prizes will include items such as gift certificates and Harley-Davidson gear, as well as a wood carving that will be done by a local artist during the event, said Riley.

“There will be a guy doing a wood carving out of a tree,” added Martinez. “It’s going to look like the American eagle. He needs two hours to carve and finish it, and then we’re going to raffle it off to a lucky winner.”

All money raised during the event will go to Justice4PAKids. According to Riley, the organization has three main focus areas where it directs its efforts. They include improving the statute of limitations laws, education through seminars and literature, and comforting victims by putting them in touch with professional organizations.

The event will begin on Saturday with registration starting at The Office Bar and Grille at 9:30 a.m. and the self-guided motorcycle ride taking place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Participants can then head back to The Office Bar and Grille for the after-party.

For more information, email info@justice4pakids.com.

Follow staff writer Kendal Gapinski on Twitter at @KendalGapinski.