Child Protect’s third annual benefit concert and silent art auction Aug. 3 drew a large crowd and much-needed donations, according to event organizers.

The children’s advocacy center held the fundraiser at Clanton First United Methodist Church’s Helen Parrish Activity Center.

“It was very successful,” said Mike Schiermann, president of the Citizens’ Advisory Board and head of fundraising at Child Protect. “I believe we had more people attend this show than we’ve had in the previous two years. We probably had about 150 people.”

The art auctions were new to the event and featured pieces of artwork by Chilton County Arts Council members and other local artists.

Steve Roberson, Whistlestop Combo and Canaanland provided musical entertainment.

“The performers were outstanding,” Schiermann said. “It was a great night for everyone there. I think the word is starting to get around that this is an annual event that people do not want to miss.”

Schiermann said Child Protect raised more money this year as well, with between $3,400 and $3,500 at the end of the night.

“More than $700 of that came out of the silent art auctions,” Schiermann said. “That’s going to go a long way toward helping the center continue to operate.”

As a non-profit organization, Child Protect operates strictly from charitable donations.

Proceeds from events like the annual concert help pay for the facility’s power bills, rent, office supplies and other basic needs.

“The center is in need of charitable donations 365 days a year,” Schiermann said. “There’s never a bad time to call the center and make a donation.”

For more information or to make a donation, call Child Protect at (205) 755-4205.