Concert and silent art auction to benefit nonprofit

Published 1:47 pm Thursday, July 26, 2012

Child Protect Children’s Advocacy Center, Chilton County will host its third annual benefit concert and silent art auction Aug. 3 at Clanton First United Methodist Church’s Helen Parrish Activity Center.

Mike Schiermann, president of the Citizens’ Advisory Board, is head of fundraising at Child Protect and is looking for this year’s benefit to be the biggest so far.

“Last year we probably had about 125–150 people. I’d like to see 300–400 this year,” he said.

According to Schiermann, last year they raised about $3,500 and are hoping to surpass that.

Schiermann explained that Child Protect does not receive funding from the government.

“We are a nonprofit. We exist strictly on charitable donations from people in the community who understand the importance of what we do,” he said.

According to Schiermann, just last year they helped 80 children in Chilton County.

Child Protect’s work continues long after the trial, he said, providing ongoing counseling to help both the victim and the family recover.

“Worthy doesn’t even begin to describe what Child Protect does.”

Steve Roberson, Whistlestop Combo and Canaanland will perform, and the Chilton County Arts Council will provide works of art.

“There will be a great variety of music and fun personalities,” said Schiermann. “It won’t last all night; you can be home by 9.”

The auction begins at 6 p.m., and music begins at 7 p.m. Admission is $10, and tickets will be available at the door.

For more information about Child Protect, contact Schiermann at 205-280-7264.