By Dane Lyons //
Hood College athletic teams played a major role in supporting Frederick’s annual Oktoberfest, providing volunteers for an event that raises money for local organizations and scholarships.
The Oktoberfest, which occurred on Oct. 2 and 3 and is now in its 25th year, is organized by the Rotary Club of Carroll Creek and relies entirely on volunteer labor to operate the event. Vendors are paid, but the people working event shifts volunteer their time.
Kimberly Chaney, a member of the volunteer committee and Hood liaison, said the event depends heavily on volunteers, including students from Hood.
“We have about 600 shifts,” Chaney said. “Between all the athletic teams at Hood, that’s about 25% of shifts covered.”
Hood students fill about125 of the event’s 600 volunteer shifts, helping with various responsibilities throughout the weekend.
Chaney said Hood’s involvement is important because the event gives students an opportunity to participate in a community-wide effort while supporting a cause that benefits local residents.
“We couldn’t do it without you,” Chaney said.
Hood athletic teams including volleyball, basketball and softball volunteered during the event. The baseball team was also scheduled to assist with the cleanup following the weekend.
For Chaney, one of the most rewarding parts of Oktoberfest is working with Hood students.
“I love the Hood students,” Chaney said. “Your guys’ enthusiasm is just terrific. We love the energy.”
Rebecca Lehman, the event’s volunteer coordinator chair, said the people involved are what makes Oktoberfest special.
“My favorite part is the people,” Lehman said. “Whether it’s the people coming to enjoy the experience or the people who are volunteering or the Hood students, it’s just all of us coming together to do good for the community.”
The event also provides an opportunity to celebrate Frederick’s German heritage while bringing together people from different backgrounds.
“This is the opportunity for us to go back to our roots and celebrate our heritage,” Chaney said.
Beyond the celebration, Oktoberfest serves as a fundraiser for the community. Money raised through the event is distributed through grants and scholarships to support local organizations and causes.
The event also includes activities for different age groups. Friday night is generally reserved for adults 21 and older, while Saturday includes children and family activities.
Organizers said they plan to continue changing and expanding the event each year while maintaining the partnership with Hood College.
“We will always have the Hood sports teams helping us,” Chaney said. “And as Rotarians, we look forward to coming in supporting the Hood teams. So go Blazers.”
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