This year, Blue Ridge Fest proved to be a record-setting event. While attendance reached a new peak and classic cars filled all available spaces, the most important milestone of the May 9 and 10 weekend was that of total money raised. More than 120 sponsors supported the 2008 Blue Ridge Fest, which raised more than $145,000 in net proceeds for 13 local agencies dedicated to providing assistance to individuals and families who need help. The 13 Upstate charitable agencies have recently received checks to aid in their assistance to local communities.

Charities funded by the $145,000 raised included: Anderson County Meals on Wheels, Collins Home & Family Ministries, Foothills Alliance, Gleaning House Ministries, Mary’s House, Meyer Center for Special Children, Oconee Crisis Center, Inc., Oconee Presbyterian Service Fund, Pickens County Meals on Wheels, Rosa Clark Medical Clinic, Sabrina House Children’s Charity, Senior Solutions and United Christian Ministries. Celebrating its 11th anniversary in 2008, Blue Ridge Fest has given more than $810,000 to help local agencies since it began.

Blue Ridge President and CEO Charles Dalton said the event met his highest expectations. “The selfless efforts of our employees at Blue Ridge Electric and Blue Ridge Security, the generous involvement of our sponsors, and the wide community support were all keys to the success of Blue Ridge Fest. I am sincerely grateful to everyone who had a part in this weekend,” Dalton said. “It is gratifying to think about the assistance these funds will provide to individuals and families in need across this four-county region.”