Five years ago, Associated Builders and Contractors’ (ABC) North Texas Chapter didn’t have to look far for a worthy cause to support. Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children provides medical care to children without charging the patients’ families a dime, and ABC’s North Texas Chapter and members knew this was an organization that could use their help.
Founded in 1921 in Dallas, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children is one of the nation’s leading pediatric centers for the treatment of orthopedic conditions, related neurological disorders and other learning disabilities. Open to all Texans, Scottish Rite treats any child from newborn to age 18.
In its first year of supporting the hospital, the chapter conducted a Poker Run, inviting ABC members and the public to ride a motorcycle course that concluded with a party hosted by ABC member Johnston Products of Dallas.
"There were a few struggles during the first year, so my father [Gene Johnston] and I got interested," says Lori Chung, chair of the ABC Poker Run and an employee of Johnston Products of Dallas. "The project fell into our laps and we took over to do what needed to be done."
The event has something for everyone, including rodeo bike games, car and bike shows, live music and an auction. And, it wouldn’t be a Texas party without a barbeque to cap it off.
Everything for the Poker Run is donated, including time, food and auction materials. Two local radio stations donate free advertising, which has helped the annual event grow in size from 60 riders in 2003 to more than 200 riders this year.
In terms of money raised, ABC generated $6,000 in 2003 and $20,000 in 2008, pushing the five-year donation total to more than $80,000.
On July 24, ABC committee members and sponsors of the Poker Run presented the hospital with a check for $20,000 and were able to see firsthand how their support impacts Scottish Rite’s patients.
Hospital doctors and staff showed a video of a young man who had broken his leg and underwent numerous operations, but in the end, amputation was the only option. An avid sports fan, his love for the game of football never waivered, so the hospital staff made a prosthetic leg that allows him to continue his dream of athletic success.
"It’s a really neat hospital and it’s well-thought-out in the eyes of children," Chung says. "The children aren’t overwhelmed there. It’s so focused on the kids and making sure their care comes first. We have a fond place in our hearts for Scottish Rite, and we’ve all been touched by their stories and the people who work there."