Local bikers say “don’t judge a book by its cover”

The Harley Owners Group of Yuma is made up of philanthropist who love to ride

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - It's a stigma that stains everyone that wears a club patch and rides a motorcycle. Some time ago criminal biker gangs were always in the news connected to a variety of heinous crimes.

But, that was the past, and although there are still outlaw biker gangs the majority of motorcycle clubs are centered around their communities. But, that doesn't stop people from judging those who wear leather, club patches, and ride motorcycles.

According to local bikers, Hollywood is partly to blame. Recent shows glorifying criminal biker gangs have made it difficult for law-abiding clubs to operate.

That's something the local director of the Harley Owners Group says they have to combat each time they take to the road. HOG Yuma has been in the Yuma community for decades and has grown to be known for the group's philanthropy.

On Saturday, December 11th the club will celebrate its 33rd Annual HOG Toy Run. The event collects toys and money which are donated to local children in need

So, how do runs work? Simply put you get registered, receive a run sheet and then visit the locations on the list, and have them stamped, and then get back in the allotted time.

Now, you may be thinking this is a motorcycle-only event, but in many events, all vehicles have been welcomed and taken part in the event.

Bobby's Territorial Harley Davidson (Gila Ridge Road) has long been a supporter of HOG Yuma's charitable events. Participants will start and end the ride at Bobby's, where they'll have raffles and lunch courtesy of Texas Roadhouse.

The cost for the event is an unwrapped toy and $20 for single riders/$30 for couples. All toys collected will be donated to the Salvation Army and any proceeds raised will be donated to the Yuma Child Burn Survivors Foundation.