The Olde Silver Tavern in Manalapan hosted Manalapalooza on Saturday with the goal of raising money for a local charity.
JAR of Hope helps support a team of researchers and doctors who are aiming to eliminate Duchenne muscular dystrophy – a fatal, muscle wasting diseases that primarily affects boys, most of whom are wheelchair-bound by age 12. Many don’t survive past their mid-20s.
Jim Raffone, the founder of the charity, has made it his mission in life to save his son, Jamesey.
“It's been almost 12 years since the charity began and Olde Silver Tavern has invited us in and allowed us to host a donor appreciation day," said Raffone.
"The more you spend, the more they get. We are part of the community and they're part of the community, so we're here to help as much as we can," said tavern owner Gus Difigila.
Donors are hoping these children get what they deserve.
"They cannot apply for Medicaid until the age of 18. If anyone knows the milestone of DMD, children pass away before the age of 21," said Raffone.
Those interested in learning more about Duchenne muscular dystrophy can visit the
JAR of Hope website.