Ghost Riders hold annual toy drive

It may not be Thanksgiving yet, but members of the community are already preparing for the Christmas season, finding ways to help those in need every step of the way.

The Ghost Riders Motorcycle Club came to Elizabethton’s Walmart this past weekend for their annual toy drive, raising thousands of dollars towards their goal of helping less fortunate children just like Santa would.

“Without us, the kids would not have a good Christmas,” Chief Enforcer Harley Thomas said.

The motorcycle club worked alongside the Elizabethton Housing and Development Agency. At both entrances to the Walmart parking lot, members collected monetary donations from passersby.

Members who were not actively waving down cars as they came in and out were gathered near each other at the main entrance, enjoying each other’s company. To them, this was more than just a standard fundraiser. It was a way to serve people who needed the support.

He said the event, which they hold during the first two weekends of November every year, holds special, personal significance to their members.

“A lot of our members grew up less fortunate,” Thomas said.

Vice President Jacob “Slim” Dillard said they often face challenges getting the word out about the toy drive, especially due to misconceptions about what they do as an organization.

“We are not a gang,” Dillard said. “We are a club of motorcycle enthusiasts.”

The club does not just span Elizabethton, either. Another branch of their organization is running a similar campaign in North Carolina.

Once all the donations come in, the club then presents the toys they obtained to the children at a later date. Dillard said the feeling is almost unmatched.

Both he and Thomas said their favorite part of the experience is when they can hand the toys out to the kids themselves.

“The two best things in the world are feeling the wind on your motorcycle and helping the kids,” Dillard said.

Ghost Riders is an organization that has chapters all over the country, promoting the fun of motorcycles while sponsoring charity events like this throughout the year.

SportsPlus

Local news

Holly receives public censure by Tennessee Supreme Court board

Local news

Hampton Cove Creek Clean-up Day set Jan. 17

Local news

A Life Lived: Judy Thompson’s life reflected a true servant’s heart

Local news

Biden signs bill expanding Social Security benefits for retired teachers, public employees

Local news

Carter County officials provide disaster assistance updates for residents

Local news

Economists predict 2025 trends amid presidential transition

Local news

Crowe-sponsored legislation to crack down on hostile nations purchasing land

Local news

Happy Valley High, a participant in Tennessee Scholars Bowl

Local news

CCDP hosts Building Community Together forum Jan. 16

Local news

Carter County Drug Prevention Volleyball Tournament set for Jan. 18

Local news

Elizabethton Parks and Recreation to host 6th Annual LEGO®: Think Outside the Blocks event

Local news

Tennessee gas prices climb seven cents as new year begins

Local news

VFW Post 2166 to host food distribution for veterans on Jan. 10

Local news

Grammy-winning Chanticleer performing at ETSU 

BREAKING NEWS

NWS issues Hazardous Weather Outlook for East Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, and North Carolina

Local news

Bluegrass Legend Ricky Skaggs coming to Greeneville January 19

Local news

Elizabethton Parks and Recreation moves to Tetrick Community Center, walking track reopens

Community

Fish and Chicken Fry Jan. 4 at Boozy Creek

Local news

New MVR requirement for Tennessee driver license applicants from eight states begins Jan. 10

Local news

NWS issues Hazardous Weather Outlook for East Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, and North Carolina

Local news

ETSU secures grant to preserve Appalachian history

Local news

TN Treasurer returns over $4,800 in unclaimed property to Elizabethton

Community

Senior Center Schedule

Local news

Ballad Health implements visitation restrictions at all facilities due to high spread of infectious disease