Chamber Member of the Week: Offroad Outlawz
Brandon and Angela Rice have always been off-road and ATV enthusiasts, visiting various parks to participate in recreational rides and events. When their son James was diagnosed with cancer, they took it upon themselves to organize fundraising events for nonprofits.
After James’s diagnosis, a nonprofit in Evansville came through in the family’s time of need, granting him wishes to help ease the burdens. That act of kindness inspired the family to search for opportunities to give back to the community, eventually forming Offroad Outlawz.
“We want to continue to grow and expand so we can donate not just to our local community, but communities across the country,” Brandon said. “It’s all about having fun and raising money for cancer. These kids are dealt a hand that no kid should have to deal with, and we thought, ‘how can we help?’”
The Rices created Offroad Outlawz this past October, with James defeating his brain tumor in March. James was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis at six months old, along with several other conditions.
“He’s our motivation, our reason,” Angela said. “As a kid, he just goes through so much, you know, but he doesn’t let it get to him. It bothers me more than it does him – he’s just like a real-life superhero.”
Brandon said the events are more than just fun; they create a strong sense of community.
“From day one, when you up to the gate, you’re considered family,” he said. “It’s one big community getting together, having a good time playing in the mud, and raising money for cancer.”
It’s more than just getting muddy, though. The events also feature live music, Barbie Jeep races, hill climbs, a bounty hole, tug-of-war, drag racing, and food.
Brandon said sponsorships are not limited to money, and they are constantly searching for door prizes and silent auction donations.
Offroad Outlawz is always looking for sponsors to help offset some of the costs associated with hosting an event. To learn more about the organization, visit their Facebook page here.
Brandon said sponsorships are not limited to money and that they are constantly searching for door prizes and silent auction donations.
“Our sponsors are great – they make things so much easier,” Angela said. “The more expenses we can cover, the more funds we have available to donate.”
By Joh Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times