Southern Thunder Harley-Davidson’s Grand Re-Opening Party Raises More Than $110K for Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi.

Southern Thunder Harley-Davidson, in Partnership with The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation, Makes It Clear that Community Comes First

Southaven, MS (June 20, 2014) – In spite of the rain, thousands of riders rallied at Southern Thunder Harley-Davidson Saturday, June 7, for a good cause and a great time. The event, which featured top musical talent including rock legends Molly Hatchet and Black Oak Arkansas, helped raise $110,790 for Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi (BGCNMS).

It’s been less than a year since he bought Southern Thunder Harley-Davidson, but new owner Bob Parsons wanted customers to know just how much he appreciates the riding community and how committed the dealership is to supporting the local area.

“The Grand Re-opening Party at Southern Thunder Harley-Davidson was far more than a daylong celebration of motorcycling – it was about being a good community partner,” said Parsons. “We’re not here to simply sell motorcycles, we are here to help make this community a better place for everyone. By supporting Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi I believe we are doing just that.”

A motorcycle endorsement was good for free concert admission for riders and one passenger. For all others there was a $20 requested donation. One-hundred percent of ticket and event tee-shirt sales and 20 percent of all vendor proceeds were designated to benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi.

Since 1996, BGCNMS has empowered young people to reach their full potential as caring, productive, responsible citizens. Nearly 2,000 children and teens count on five clubhouses after school and during the summer for safety, hot meals, positive friends and countless opportunities to be great.

The largest donation of the evening, $100,000, was presented to BGCNMS by none-other than Bob Parsons himself. In addition to the outright donation, Parsons also announced that The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation will provide funds to remodel three clubhouses that are in dire need of repair.

“By addressing the shortcomings of the clubhouses we are helping to create a safe and happy place for the children who need it most,” Parsons added.

Parsons and his wife Renee have long supported the work of Boys & Girls Clubs in their home state of Arizona, awarding more than $6 million to the organization.

“The announcement Saturday evening exceeded our greatest expectations,” said BGCNMS Chief People Officer Zell Long. “The $110,790 donation and commitment to upgrade three of our facilities will have a tremendous impact on the lives of our Club members, board, staff and community stakeholders. As good stewards of the funds and commitment, the good people at Southern Thunder Harley-Davidson and Mr. Bob Parsons can be assured that all will be targeted toward the highest and best uses for the organization. We are humbled and so pleased to be the recipient of such generosity.”

To learn more about Southern Thunder Harley-Davidson visit, www.SouthernThunderHD.com.