Children’s Hospital encourages the UT community to support it this weekend through a Kohl’s promotion and the Tennessee River 600.

Proceeds from both fundraisers will benefit Children’s Hospital.

The Tennessee River 600 will begin on July 28 at Volunteer Landing, with Philip Fulmer opening the event.

Approximately 60 participants will travel to Watts Bar Resort, visit the Chattanooga area, ride to Joe Wheeler State Park in Town Creek, Ala. and reach Pickwick Park near Memphis on Aug. 3.

The event is for personal watercrafts, not boats.

“So far, 15 to 18 states will be represented, including California,” said Dennis Beckley, event coordinator. “The winner will receive $1,000, second place will get $500 and third place will get plane tickets.”

All of the participants will make it through the trip. “If a breakdown occurs, someone usually has an extra watercraft.”

“Registration for the Tennessee River 600 is $250,” said Janya Marshall, public relations representative for Children’s Hospital. “Fees for the week-long event include road crew coverage, docking fees, an event T-shirt and a safety vest.”

For those who want to help out Children’s Hospital on a smaller scale, area Kohl’s stores are selling plush animals of Shamu, a seal pup and a dolphin to benefit the hospital. Also on sale is a children’s book called Shamu and the Adventurous Seal Pup, a tale that describes the journey through the Sea World park. All four items are priced at $5 and can be purchased through September or while supplies last.

“The items are chosen based on what will get the most interest,” said Marshall. “Obviously, they really sell because $54,000 was raised last year.”