KAFE 104.1 Organizes Successful Drive By Giving Event, Raising Over ,000 for Foster Children
On May 2, 2023, Saga Communications’ KAFE 104.1 engaged the Bellingham community in its annual Drive By Giving event, successfully raising over ,000. This impactful initiative ensures that 68 foster children will have the opportunity to attend the Royal Family Kids Camp (RFK), a vital summer program focused on providing enriching experiences for young individuals in the foster care system.
Celebrating over three decades of commitment to charitable outreach, KAFE 104.1 broadcasts live from a local drive-through coffee stand, creating an interactive platform for both listeners and passersby to contribute. This year’s event was no exception, with the KAFE team, including hosts Patrice Valentine, Dave Walker, Allan Fee, and Scotty VanDryver, working tirelessly to encourage community participation and engagement in the fundraising efforts.
The Royal Family Kids Camp is designed specifically for children aged 6 to 11 who have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment. By offering a week-long overnight camp experience, RFK provides a safe and nurturing environment where children can overcome their traumatic histories and build self-esteem through various activities and mentorship opportunities. The camp aims to create positive, transformative experiences that empower these children as they navigate their unique challenges.
As the event unfolded, it became clear that the community’s commitment to supporting vulnerable children runs deep. Local businesses played a significant role in the fundraising effort, facilitating donations that directly benefit the camp and its attendees. “The support of the community is a huge part of Drive By Giving,” said Scotty VanDryver of KAFE 104.1. “Listeners and businesses know they are helping these kids that have had a rough start to life. We’ve seen firsthand the difference Royal Family Kids makes in these children’s lives, helping give them the support and confidence they need as they grow up.”
Andrea Ketchum, a representative from RFK Camp, echoed VanDryver’s sentiments, emphasizing the community’s solidarity towards fostering change. “What makes RFK Camp different from other camps is we have a community that 100% gets it, and they want to make a difference in the lives of foster kids. We could never have done this if KAFE wasn’t so on board,” she remarked.
The Drive By Giving event once again underscored the profound impact that community-driven initiatives can have on the lives of children who require additional support and care. As Bellingham’s dedication to these causes continues to shine through, it highlights the power of collective action in transforming the futures of the most vulnerable members of society.
