Yamaha recently helped Wish I Could (WIC) of Northeast Louisiana raise close to $100,000 at the WIC’s 22nd annual Marengo ATV Ride fundraiser.  Funds were raised primarily through individual entry fees and private donations at the popular event, while Yamaha donated a Big Bear 400 4x4 ATV for a raffle and offered a financial contribution as well.

This is the fourth straight year Yamaha, the sole corporate sponsor, has been involved with the WIC fundraiser, which brought together more than 3,800 ATVs in Hebert, La. this June 22.  The annual fundraiser helps the regional WIC foundation in its work with terminally ill children across Northeast Louisiana.  Of the money raised, WIC donated $10,000 to three other non-profit organizations each including MedCamps of Louisiana, Barak Shriners and St. Jude Children’s Hospitals.  Funds raised by the Big Bear raffle will pay for an annual Christmas party, including gifts, held for the kids.  The balance will go directly to granting more wishes to terminally ill children.

“Wish I Could and terminally ill kids all across Northeast Louisiana appreciate Yamaha’s continued support of our annual ride and Christmas party,” said Wayne Moore, a WIC board member.

“Yamaha is proud to be a part of what Wish I Could is doing for children in Northeast Louisiana, and we’re glad to see these donations go directly to some of the kids and families who need help the most,” said Mike Martinez, Yamaha General Manager of ATV & SxS Operations.  “Yamaha also congratulations Joey Chambola, of West Monroe, La., for winning the Big Bear raffle.”