Rich Palermo of Charlottesville, Va. has been recognized as a Volunteer Award winner for his efforts in raising funds for Children’s Miracle Network, an international non-profit that raises funds for 170 children’s hospitals. Palermo raised nearly $50,000 in 2008 for Children’s Miracle Network.

Palermo raised the money by coordinating the donation of a Harley Cross Bones motorcycle, which he had signed by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. He then raised money by raffling off this collector’s item. He promoted the fundraiser through the Internet, Bruce Springsteen fan clubs, Harley support groups, media outlets, Children’s Miracle Network and Log A Load for Kids.

Log A Load for Kids is an organization of people in the logging and forestry industries across twenty-six states raising funds for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Over the past 15 years, Log A Load for Kids has raised $28 million for children’s hospitals.

“It is encouraging to find someone as active in their efforts to raise money for kids as Rich.” said Children’s Miracle Network Chief Development Officer Brian Hazelgren. “Through the Log A Load for Kids program, people like Rich help make miracles happen for kids. We are grateful for his proactive approach in raising funds in unconventional ways.”

Palermo was honored at the 2009 Children’s Miracle Network Celebration event in Orlando, Fla. in March where only four others were given the same honor nationwide. The money Rich raised went directly to the UVA Children’s Hospital, a Children's Miracle Network hospital.

Other sponsor volunteer award winners included: Shane Marsh, Golden Corral; Jeff Dunnill from TD Bank Financial Group; Susan ‘Neill-Cau of Marriott International; and Rosalie Daniels from RE/MAX International.