For the second consecutive year, Woody’s Bar-B-Q used its anniversary event to raise funds and awareness for Tim Tebow Foundation’s anti-human trafficking ministry. Both times — within just a couple of hours — Woody’s raised thousands of dollars while helping to bring the issue of human trafficking to the forefront for attendees.
At its 2020 event, to celebrate the chain’s 40th anniversary, Woody’s raised $6,000. At this year’s event — hosted at Woody’s Bar-B-Q of Ponte Vedra Beach on Oct. 2 — it raised $8,000.
Woody’s Bar-B-Q hosted a silent auction and art show featuring the works of St. Augustine artist Diana Patterson. All proceeds from the silent auction went directly to the Tim Tebow Foundation, while a portion of the proceeds from the sale of Patterson’s art was added to the final tally.
The event also included entertainment from a magician and live keyboardist, as well as great food.
Additionally, a portion of the proceeds from food sales from four Woody’s Bar-B-Q corporate locations further enhanced the donation. Those locations included Woody’s Bar-B-Q of Ponte Vedra Beach, the original Woody’s Bar-B-Q in Jacksonville, Woody’s Bar-B-Q of Fernandina Beach and Woody’s Bar-B-Q of Green Cove Springs.
“It was a wonderful event with a lot of positive energy,” said Yolanda Mills-Mawman, president, COO and co-founder of the classic Southern barbecue chain. “The Tim Tebow Foundation has this incredible knack for making you feel like an integral part of their cause. They’ve certainly done that with me, my fellow co-founder Woody Mills and the entire Woody’s Bar-B-Q team.”
Those who could not attend may still make a donation directly to the cause at timtebowfoundation.org.
Impacting an estimated 40 million people in the world today who are being bought and sold as modern-day slaves, human trafficking generates $150 billion worldwide, with the United States leading all other countries in consumption. Roughly 70% of victims are female, and 25% are children.
The foundation, inspired by Tebow’s Christian faith, seeks to rescue victims and provide a way out of a life of violence and exploitation to a new life of freedom found in Christ.
Woody’s Bar-B-Q plans to continue its support of the foundation during its 42nd anniversary celebration in October 2022.
“The Tim Tebow Foundation is blessed to have the support of Woody’s Bar-B-Q, St. Augustine artist Diana Patterson, the volunteers, sponsors and the community members who came out to be a part of this event,” said foundation president Steve Biondo. “Ending human trafficking will take each one of us becoming aware of the reality of this tragedy and stepping up to push back this darkness.”
