The Ruff Ryders Houma Chapter and Big Mike’s BBQ Smokehouse are presenting the “Bikers & Bar-B-Que” event, which will benefit the local Toys for Tots and Ruff Ryders Coats for Kids.
At the outdoor gathering this Saturday, attendees will be able to indulge in some of the best barbecue around, listen to entertaining records spun by DJ Cobreezy, check out plenty of souped-up prized motorcycles and contribute to some great causes.
Annually participating in the Toys for Tots, giving back to the community is of great importance for the Big Mike’s team, co-owner Judith Lewis said.
“We’ve been in business now for 13 years, and we’ve done a lot of events on a smaller scale. As we grow, we want to grow our community involvement,” she shared. “Our community gives to us so often just by coming in and enjoying their meal with us. It’s definitely something we need to give back.”
Lewis added that it’s a “perfect opportunity” to get involved with another organization by co-hosting the event with the Houma Ruff Ryders, who engage in several charitable acts throughout the year.
Through their Coats for Kids that started just three years ago, the motorcyclists were able to donate over 600 brand new jackets to kids in need at various schools, and the used donated ones were given to churches and other organizations that have community outreach programs.
The club has also handed out Thanksgiving dinners at a local elderly facility, hosted its own Toys for Tots and held discussions on possibly starting a program that would provide meals to first responders, said Matt Hebert, Houma Ruff Ryders Business Manager
“We try to do anything and everything we can do for the community as far as helping out,” he added. “And with anything we try to do in town, we bring our love for motorcycles and stuff like that along with it.”
“Motorcycle organizations often get a bad bad rap, but we are doing positive things for our community,” said Allen Craft Jr., Vice President of the Houma Ruff Ryders. “Come out to support this Saturday — and get to know us.”
To help the Coats for Kids cause, guests can add gently used child coats to the collection at this weekend’s event or make a monetary donation — with 100 percent of the proceeds going toward buying new jackets.
Written by Drew Miller
Houma Times