Fundraiser will support GSFR Cadet Camp

Several years back, Trevor Reed, member of the Rotary Club of Eastern Lancaster County, had an aha moment. Because Reed and fellow Rotary Club member Erin Varley are both in bands, Reed suggested they organize a musical fundraiser.

The idea proved so popular that Reed is now organizing the seventh Rotary Rocks benefit concert. This year's event will be held on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Lititz Shirt Factory, 5 Juniper Lane, Lititz. As in the past, the fundraiser will feature live music by two bands: Varley's group, called Iron Grapes, and The Reed Brothers Band, which involves Reed on drums, along with his two brothers.

Billed as an evening of music and fun, Rotary Rocks has supported a number of local organizations, including Lighthouse Vocational Services; Aaron's Acres, which holds its summer camp in New Holland; and CrossNet Ministries, including a special fundraiser, which bought the CrossNet Food and Nutrition Center a commercial freezer and shelving. This year, the club decided to support the local fire company. "We reached out to Garden Spot Fire Rescue (GSFR) and said we would like to support them with Rotary Rocks," reported Reed. "We met with Chief (Darryl) Keiser." Reed asked the chief for some thoughts about how GSFR could use the funds. "(Keiser) said the Cadet Camp would be a good recipient. In 2024, about a dozen area young people - ages 10 to 14 - completed the academy-type camp, which is staffed by about 25 GSFR members and features training in aspects and requirements of firefighting and vehicle rescue and exposure to emergency medical training. About 80% of a camper's time is spent doing hands-on training activities, including working with ladders, ropes, hoses, and fire extinguishers, along with water rescue. "(Rotary Rocks) will (benefit) the 2025 camp," noted Reed.

"The camp is an opportunity to bring the community together, learn new skills, and recruit students for the future of the fire department and/or emergency services,"said Keiser, adding, "Donations will support the purchase of cadet uniforms, turn-out gear, and equipment for participant activities."

Reed said that attendees can expect an evening of rock 'n' roll. "My band is mostly classic rock, funk, and blues, and we may play a few originals," explained Reed, who also drums in his church worship band. "Iron Grapes typically plays classic rock," he added.

Donations for the event will be accepted at the door. There will also be opportunities to donate during the concert, and a silent auction, featuring up to 10 items, will be held. Readers who would like to donate in advance may visit https://.RotaryRocks2024.eventbrite.com.

Established as the Rotary Club of New Holland in 1944, the small but active Rotary Club of Eastern Lancaster County, works to make an impact in the local community. Reed said he hopes to raise at least $5,000 from this year's event. More information about the club may be found by searching for "ELANCO Rotary" on Facebook.