Rodeo funds local charities

Sisters Rodeo presented a check for $500 to Family Access Network of Sisters in January, part of the continuing tradition of the rodeo to support its community.

"We know that there are many more people in need, and helping those who have trouble with monthly bills through a difficult winter is part of who we are. FAN seems to be the organization that knows how to do this best," said rodeo president Glenn Miller.

In 2008, the rodeo also donated $1,200 to Sisters Park & Recreation District (formerly SOAR).

"We were part of the development of SOAR, and we continue to feel proud of what this program has done for the kids in our community. We have supported their programs since SOAR began," Miller stated.

Sisters Rodeo Association gives about $35,000 every year in financial support and in-kind donation to non-profits, especially those that support youth. Since 1992, the association has granted an additional $58,000 in college scholarships to Sisters High School graduates.

During the rodeo, many organizations raise money working in concessions at the rodeo grounds. Other groups do grounds maintenance after each performance, sell posters and programs and help with shutting down operations after the weekend. For some of them, this is their biggest fund-raiser of the year.

"Our philosophy is to support the Sisters community that has supported us for 69 years," John Rogers, rodeo treasurer explained. "In lean years for the rodeo, the community helped us, and when we're able to do more, that's what we want to do, by giving back."

Tickets for the rodeo, June 12-14, are on sale now. Call the ticket office at 549-0121.