Nikole Babb
nbabb@cherryroad.com
Did you see a convoy of 87 motorcycles riding around the county on Saturday? The Butler County Toy Run hosted by the motorcycle lobbyist group, A Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactments, (ABATE), took a ride of over 70 miles through Butler County to raise funds and collect kids’ toys to donate to the El Dorado Salvation Army.
The annual event brings in 100 around motorcycle bikes and their riders to El Dorado. Their purpose: to give back to those who need it most while enjoying a ride around Butler County. The ride begins at the Butler County Community Building at 11am and continues through the cities of El Dorado, Augusta, Douglass, Rose Hill, Andover and Benton, culminating back in El Dorado.
Once the ride ends, riders go inside for some old-fashioned community fun. Chili, Jimmy John sandwiches, drinks and chips are available for purchase while a silent auction and raffle prizes kick off. Although no one goes home empty handed; long-time serving volunteer Hollie Jiminez makes goodie bags for all who attend to ensure everyone is a winner.
Giving back is something Hollie has done her entire life, which she learned from her mother, Teri, the organizer of the run. Teri and her husband Mick took over the run 33 years ago, which now acts as a toy run and family event all in one as the entire family volunteers to make it happen.
“You have to give back,” said Teri. “I mean, you have to. You’ve got to share. That’s what community is all about, so it’s just something we do.”
The value reflects into her family for generations from her daughter to her great grandkids, the entire family takes the time to volunteer and give back.
This year 87 bikes were in the convoy to ride through the county. Although it fell on the same weekend as a big motorcycle event in Missouri, resulting in a lower turnout, Teri says she’s still happy with what they did that day.
“You know, lots of toys over there,” said Teri. “So, we’re happy, you know?”
Among those 87 bikes were riders from around the state. A group from Wellington that participates in Sumner County, Butler County and Cowley County’s toy run said they love the camaraderie and making a difference. Riders came in from Hutchinson and other surrounding areas. Multiple motorcycle groups participate, such as ABATE, the Christian Motorcycle Association and more.
The money made from the food and prizes is donated to the Salvation Army and other organizations such as the angel tree project. The money and toys donated to the Salvation Army is used during the Christmas season to brighten a family’s holiday. The run raises about $10,000 or more each year and over 300 toys. Final numbers have yet to be counted for this year’s event. Not a cent or one toy is used outside of Butler County – all of it stays local to Butler County.
The Butler County Toy Run is scheduled for the first weekend of October each year on Saturday. The cost to participate in the ride is one unopened toy. All vehicles are welcome to participate as long as they can keep the speed of the highways.
To be a part of next year’s event as a rider or sponsor, contact Mick or Teri by email at tjimenez058@cox.net or by phone at 316-320-0333.
