Dawgathon, a club new to Bearden this year, is hoping to raise $8,000 in their first year, an ambitious, but hopeful, goal.

Money raised by Dawgathon is donated to East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, and it specifically goes to new beds and supplies for the NICU.

To help complete the goal for the year, Dawgathon is hosting their first ever Winter Wonderland, aimed at the families and community around Bearden. 

The event will take place in Bearden’s West Mall on Saturday from 5 to 7:30 p.m. and will include dinner, cookies, and a silent auction, as well as a craft table and face painting for younger kids.

“We’re hoping it will draw more attention to Dawgathon from families in the community with younger children as well as more Bearden families,” co-founder and president of fundraising Natalie Rice said. 

Added co-founder and president of marketing Katie Taylor: “It’ll be a great opportunity for everyone to learn more about who we are and what we’re doing.”

The new club at Bearden helps high school students get further involved in their community, and connects the Knoxville city by supporting a common goal: East Tennessee Children’s Hospital. By helping raise money for the local hospital, students have been able to learn more and improve life skills.

“It has given me the opportunity to provide Bearden with opportunities to network, create relationships, and practice leadership,” co-founder and president of event planning Cross Fuller said.

Members of Dawgathon are attempting to raise $1,000 through this Winter Wonderland event. Tickets are $10 each and will be sold at lunch for the remainder of this week.