TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

Woman walking in fight against ALS

ADVERTISEMENT

By JESSICA BALANZA

jbalanza@tampatrib.com

Published: April 29, 2009

WESTCHASE - With only a month until the Walk to Defeat ALS, Kathy Robarts decided to try a new fundraising tactic.

She solicited the help of Five Guys Burgers & Fries to help her raise money she needs to reach her goal.

From 1 to 3 p.m. on April 20, the restaurant donated 10 percent of its proceeds.

"It's really important to us," said Peggy Boris, vice president of marketing for Five Guys. "We are responsible to give back to the community."

Robarts said her tactics to raise money usually include sending e-mails and hosting garage sales. After learning of other organizations success with raising money through Five Guys, she gave it a try.

"The lunch was a big success," Robarts said. "We made $107.35 with all the donations."

She combined the fundraiser with her monthly Red Hots meeting, which is a Town 'N Country chapter of the Red Hat Society.

Robarts began this fundraising venture in 2006, a year after her husband, Gene, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig's disease, an incurable disorder that debilitates the body's muscular system.

"Just the progression of his paralysis is what has kept us going," Robarts said.

The Walk to Defeat ALS, hosted annually by the ALS Association, serves as the organization's main fundraiser to help with research and provide care and support for those facing the disorder.

Every year the couple sets a goal of how much money they would like to raise. This year is no exception. The goal is $8,000.

So far Robarts' feet have raised about $7,500. Since 2006, the couple are close to raising a total of $30,000.

"Today is just one piece of a big puzzle of fundraising," said Kamden Kuhn, publicist for the ALS Association. "Every walk they bring lots of participation. They are an asset to the organization."

Jessica Balanza can be reached at (813) 865-1518.

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT