Fundraiser: Houska hopes to give paralyzed teen new wheels

Houska Automotive in Fort Collins will host a fundraiser Oct. 24 to help local hit-and-run victim Connor Walsh.

Walsh was struck by a hit-and-run driver while walking to classes at Poudre High School on March 10. The 16-year-old teen now requires a wheelchair due to severe injuries to his spine.

Houska Automotive staff hopes to raise $20,000 to purchase Walsh a vehicle with hand controls, allowing the teenager to be self-sufficient and "have the same experiences as other kids his age," according to a release.

The fundraiser is 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 24 at Houska Automotive, 899 Riverside Ave.. It will include a roasted pig, music by The Uncle Cuz Band and local metal artist Rob Work, who will create lawn art for the family from donated scraps during the event.

Guests will be asked to make a donation at the door and are encouraged to bring either a bottle of barbecue sauce or a side dish to share. Live auctions during the event will also raise money for Walsh.

Can't attend?

Mail a check payable to Connor Walsh to Houska Automotive, 899 Riverside Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80524.

Poudre High School's Leadership Class will host a movie night to raise funds for Walsh on Oct. 23. Houska Automotive will match all funds raised at the event. For more information, email Amanda Johnson, amjohnson@psdschools.org.