Endless Mountain Chapter of A.B.A.T.E. kicked off fundraising for a popular program which provides gifts to children during Christmas. For decades the chapter adopted the program. For John Overturf it was his favorite campaign and over the years it included a chicken BBQ, collection of gifts outside of a business and recently vehicle rides featuring A.B.A.T.E. members.

On June 29, riders braved Mother Nature and completed a memorial ride in Overturf’s name to raise funds for the program.  Recently a check for $1,000 was presented to the Cameron County Chamber of Commerce.  The chamber coordinates with community volunteers from organizations including the Cameron County Family Center, Cameron County School District and Dickinson Center to collect family names and distribute gifts donated by the public and purchased with donated funds.

In 2023, there was an uptick in need in the community, and coupled with inflation, funds in the account were nearly depleted.  “This is a giant way to begin the fundraising for this year,” according to chamber executive director Tina Solak. During the check presentation Overturf’s widow, Robin and grandson Oliver reminisced about John and his love for the program.