Chop For Charity Event Hosts Final Year

Saturday marked the fifth and final year of Jordyn Berk's annual "Chop for Charity" event. 

As its 17-year-old founder heads off to college, "Chop for Charity," which to date has raised over $40,000 in donations to the Chilren's Hospital of Orange County and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, has come to an end.

"I started 'Chop for Charity' when I was 12 years old," Berk said. "I saw what diabetes did to my grandfather and I wanted to do something about it. Every year since I've started the event, more and more have started to come out. It's great to see everyone help."

"Chop for Charity," which takes place at in Aliso Viejo, accepts public donations of $5 to enter the event. With their donation, each donor gets a raffle ticket and a piece of wood to chop with all their fury.

Dan Lockhart, a resident of the city and host to the event, said he loves Berk's idea for the charity.

"I think that it's awesome for such a young charity," he said. "I've hosted it every year so far and it's just a blast for everyone who comes."

Over the years Berk also helped some children who have diabetes learn to overcome some of their fears. One particular child stands out in her mind.

"I remember one kid who was very timid and had diabetes," Berk said. "I had him come up and speak at a previous 'Chop for Charity' and he eventually went on to become an children's ambassador for JDRF."

At this year's event, Jake and Luca Bova raised over $750 for the cause. Jake, who was diagnosed with diabetes, has become an ambassador for JDRF.

"They both have been at the academy since they were 3," said Kim Bova, the boys' mother. "I'm really proud of everything they've done and they have done a lot for their age."