BAINBRIDGE, GA (WTXL) -- Bikers are rumbling their way into Bainbridge for the 17th annual Bainbridge Bikefest. It's an event that raises money for charity, and this year, it's even more meaningful for the Honor House Veterans Center that burned earlier this year. Investigators say it was a result of arson.
Organizers are expecting thousands this weekend at the bike fest. After last week's arson, proceeds from the festival's poker run will got towards helping the center rebuild.
"Every little bit helps, especially when like we are starting from ground zero," said Dan West, president of Honor Sentinel, the organization that set up the veterans center.
West said he's been talking with some local agencies about a potential temporary center, but for now, the bike fest is a chance to get some much needed funding.
"There's a lot more people now who know what we're trying to do here, and why we're trying to do it, and our support and people interested in the veterans center has really increased," West said.
That includes David Cobb, one of the board members of Bainbridge Bike Fest, Inc. He has military members in his own family and says the arson at the center hit close to home.
"It's just unthinkable that somebody would on purpose do something to the men and women that's fought and died for our country," Cobb said.
The poker run at the fest will take bikers to five stops in Bainbridge, including the veterans center. Cobb said he expects emotions -- and donations -- to pour out.
"It should touch your heart. if it doesn't touch your heart, you're not really a true American," Cobb said.
In addition to the bike fest, West and Honor Sentinel are teaming up with the City of Bainbridge next month for a music festival. All of the proceeds from that event will go towards the rebuilding project.
West has set up an online fundraising campaign as well to accept donations for the project.
