Group uses July 4th to raise money to fight muscular dystrophy

MILWAUKEE -- Wednesday was the hottest Fourth of July in Milwaukee's history, and it was also the date for one group's only fundraiser of the year. Citizens Against Muscular Dystrophy has raised money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association since 1973, and Wednesday, they battled the heat to reach a milestone.

John Schober is dedicated to the MDA and the New Berlin Fourth of July festival. Schober helped organize the first fundraiser back in 1973 and he says it began as a backyard carnival for MDA, and continued to grow year after year.

Schober says those who help raise money to battle MD are loyal volunteers.

"Hardcore group -- our regulars will be here all day in the heat," Schober said.

The group sold Fourth of July favorites, like beer, soda, hot dogs and brats. Schober said he doesn't have any particular reason for participating in the fundraiser year after year, other than fun!

"We wouldn't do it if it wasn't fun every year. I mean, we only see people once a year," Schober said.

Schober said this year was special, because after looking over the books, they discovered they've raised nearly $400,000 as of this July 4th. Before opening Wednesday, they were $9,000 short of the $400,000 mark.

Schober said with the tip jars alone, they average around $1,000 to fight MD.

"The busier the better. Not only do you know you're doing good, but it's so social -- you interact with so many people, which is such a great time," Schober said.

CLICK HERE for more information on the Muscular Dystrophy Association.