Kids Helping Kids

On his drive home in the fall of 1999, Bob Beiber pondered a way to foster arts awareness in the Elkhart community and engage his students on a new level. He noticed a Marathon gas station across the street, and suddenly his plan became clear. The chair of Concord High School’s art department would organize the first ever “Potter’s Marathon” with proceeds benefiting Riley Hospital. 

He presented the idea to school administrators, colleagues and students the next day. A team of 10 energetic students agreed to pioneer the first marathon. They raised nearly $2,200 and created more than 140 pieces of pottery during the 24-hour, non-stop spinning event. 

That was 11 years ago. Now, each November, Beiber and his team spin pottery while onlookers encourage their efforts. When the pottery dries, the students tool, fire and glaze the pieces. Proceeds from a student-hosted pottery sale in December go to Kids Caring & Sharing.

This year’s 35-member varsity team generated 500 pieces of pottery and $20,000. To date, the annual event has raised more than $100,000 for Riley Hospital. “These students display the definition of hard work and integrity,” Beiber said. “These unsung heroes of the school are motivated by nothing other than their hearts.”