The management team at Corry Auto Dealer’s Exchange, along with nearly 1,000 participants, is counting down the days to the third annual Barber Beast on the Bay — a fundraiser for the Barber National Institute.

Corry ADE officials highlighted the main event kicks off on Sept. 12 with an exciting day of activities that includes a grueling 10-mile extreme obstacle course challenge at Presque Isle State Park.  A 1-mile adapted course for participants with physical or intellectual disabilities is also part of the day’s line-up that includes music, food, cheer zones and plenty of fun.

The Barber Institute was founded in 1952 by Gertrude Barber, an educator in Erie, Pa. The organization has grown into a multi-faceted organization that serves more than 4,200 individuals per year, offering support and resources to children and adults with autism, intellectual disabilities and mental health challenges. 

“As a local business, being a part of the community effort is so important,” said Tad Swift, Corry ADE auction manager and family spokesperson for the facility that has served the industry for more than 30 years. 

“Being part of Barber Beast on the Bay is a great opportunity to express our gratitude in a truly meaningful way,” Swift added.

Services provided by the Barber Institute include a school that serves students in northwestern Pennsylvania, various behavioral health services as well as autism diagnosis and treatment.

“Our sponsors play an important role in making this event a success.  We appreciate the team at Corry Auto Dealers Exchange reaching out to us to be a sponsor,” said Laura Schaaf, director of giving for the Barber National Institute. 

“By underwriting the costs, sponsors like Corry ADE make it possible for 100 percent of the proceeds to go toward helping us make dreams come true for the children, adults and their families who are part of the Barber Institute family and our communities,” Schaaf added.

For more information about Barber Beast by the Bay, visit http://www.barberbeast.org.