A New Challenge in Beating the Beast

Patrick Eller has thrown down the gauntlet for anyone thinking about registering for Barber Beast on the Bay.  “I challenge everyone to become a fundraiser.  Don’t take the easy way out and just pay the money.  People like to make a donation to charity when you let them know that you are going to put yourself through something to get it.”

Patrick Eller, #3, takes off from the starting line at last year's Beast

Patrick, an Erie native who has been on active duty with the Army since 1999, knows a little something about raising money.  He was the top fundraiser in 2013 and 2014, bringing in more than $3,500 for the Barber Foundation over those two years, and has already raised more than $1,700 this year. 

What’s the secret to Patrick’s success? “Social media, social media, social media,” he said. Patrick reaches out to friends and colleagues around the world to let them know what he is doing, and holds random drawings every month for everyone who has made a donation.  He gives out small prizes, such as gift cards, that have been donated.  At the end, all of his donors will be eligible to win an iPad mini that has been donated.

Patrick with his inspiration, daughter Braelyn.

For Patrick, the decision to support the mission of the Barber National Institute was a personal one.  His daughter, Braelyn, was diagnosed with autism when she was 18 months old, and has made tremendous progress with services from the Barber Institute.

“I know that the Barber Institute does so much for families and children.  I have personally been affected and I know so many other people who have been affected, that I wanted to do something to give back,” said Patrick.    

Last year, Patrick enjoyed the competition from other fundraisers who were trying to catch up to him in the top spot, and is hoping for the same friendly rivalry this year.   So enjoy the benefits of becoming a fundraiser:

-Get a free or reduced registration

-Be eligible to win prizes yourself

-Feel good about supporting an organization that helps more than 4,200 children and adults with intellectual disabilities and mental health challenges every year.

To earn a free registration, commit to fundraising $550; for $50 off registration, just raise $300.

If you’ve already registered but would now like to fundraise, let us know at BarberBeast@BarberInstitute.org and we can refund your fee and change your status.  If you’re still planning to register, check out the fundraising page at http://www.active.com/donate/BarberBeast2015