[APRIL
29, 2006] Local prominent citizens are being accused of
"having a big heart for Jerry's Kids." They're volunteering to be
"arrested and serve time" in a mock jail at Einstein's Louisiana
CoffeeHouse on May 10 in an effort to raise money for the local
Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Several local businesses are supporting the community event.
Nearly 100 volunteers from Logan County are expected to serve their
sentence "behind bars" for MDA. A few VIPs include representatives
from AMP Studio, Wal-Mart, Illini Bank, Guzzardo's, Burger King, J&S
Auto, Papa John's, Lincoln Printers, Christian Village and many
more.
"Being the assistant chief, I saw our chief do this last year,"
said Chad Letterle of the Lincoln Rural Fire Protection District. "I
have had a blast meeting the kids and helping with these kids in the
community. I enjoy doing this. Everything with MDA has been fun, and
it is a win-win for us all."
MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat over 40
neuromuscular diseases, including ALS, through worldwide research,
comprehensive services, and far-reaching professional and public
health education.
In addition to funding groundbreaking research, MDA provides
wheelchair and leg brace assistance for individuals affected by
muscle-degenerating diseases, as well as summer camp for the younger
patients. An MDA general clinic is located at the Koke Mill Medical
Center, and the ALS-specific clinic is located at St. John's Rehab
South, both in Springfield.
MDA is the first nonprofit recognized by the American Medical
Association with a Lifetime Achievement Award "for significant and
lasting contributions to the health and welfare of humanity."
Anyone interested in volunteering or participating in this or any
future MDA events can contact Cynthia McGill at (217) 787-6940.
