During times that have seen significant decreases in charitable giving, Laurel Marina & Yacht Club has managed to successfully raise the local tides of philanthropy through the success of its annual Poker Run and Live Auction benefiting Speedway Children's Charities. The Marina, its customers and sponsors have raised nearly $122,000 during the eleven-year history of the event.

Proceeds from this year's Poker Run and Live Auction, held on July 25 2015, were $21,326.23, representing the largest contribution in the event's history, and a nearly 15% increase over last year's proceeds.

According to Laurel Marina owner, Dale Thomas, Laurel's customers and Poker Run participants eagerly support this much-anticipated annual event.

"We are extremely proud of the contributions we have been able to make, and seeing a steady increase in donations each year does all our hearts good," said Thomas.

According to Thomas, Laurel customers, sponsors and friends have used this event to raise thousands of dollars for, and awareness of, Speedway Children's Charities, and the work they do to aid children in the region who are disadvantaged, either through fate, or circumstance.

"Laurel Marina has been able to harness a local passion for boating, and transform it into a driving force behind making a difference in the lives of regional children," said Thomas.

"Through our efforts, the annual Poker Run has created a major, long lasting, positive impact that will have benefit to the community and the region by way of supplemental funding for the educational and emotional basic needs for our children." he added.

Speedway Children's Charities provides funding for hundreds of non-profit organizations throughout the nation that meet the direct needs of children. With priorities set locally, proceeds from the South Holston Lake Poker Run event will directly enrich the lives of children in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.