Local business, civic leaders 'arrested' for MDA fundraiser

The Muscular Dystrophy Association issued fun arrest warrants for about 100 local business and civic leaders April 26. Their crimes included having big hearts and being heavily armed with kindness.

Their time "behind bars" was served at Stonewood Grill and Tavern, 10120 Forest Hill Blvd., during the MDA's Lock-Up Fundraiser.

"We host the event every other year here in Wellington," said Brandy Miller, director of business development for the Greater Palm Beaches and Treasure Coast District MDA. "All the money that is raised stays local to help families pay for treatment and for scholarship to the MDA summer camp."

The "jailbirds" helped raise more than $35,000 for families affected by neuromuscular diseases in the Wellington area.

In order to be released, each jailbird's "bail" was set at $4,000 and the money was raised by encouraging friends, family, co-workers and business contacts to make contributions to MDA. The event was a success, and was filled with local leaders joining in on the fun.

"All of the jailbirds had a great time and were very dedicated to raising much needed funds," Miller said in a press release. "Stonewood Grill and Tavern did an amazing job as our host site and it was so great to see so many local business leaders coming together to help raise funds for our local MDA families."

One jailbird, Dr. Laurence Grayhills, with Grayhills and Mohip Dental, took the fun to the next level dressing as a true jailbird in orange top and black-and-white striped pants. This was the first year Grayhills participated in the event, but was excited to continue participating.

"This is just such a worthy cause," Grayhills said. "Since the money stays local you are able to see how it is used."

The funds raised will help MDA assist hundreds of local individuals and families living with muscular dystrophy, ALS and related muscle diseases throughout the Wellington area. The Lock-Up also will help send South Florida youngsters to MDA's summer camp at Gold Coast Christian Camp in Lake Worth, where all activities are designed for children with limited mobility, and many volunteers provide the one-on-one assistance needed to optimize participation. Some activities include horseback riding, swimming, sports, and arts and crafts.

"This is a one-week sleepaway camp where the kids have a fun and the parents are able to know their child is safe," Miller said. "The camp is open to children ages 6 to 17."

Link:
Local business, civic leaders 'arrested' for MDA fundraiser