Fundraisers: Police Worked at Red Robin for Special Olympics Maryland; Melting Pot Event for HC DrugFree Tonight

Their vow is to serve and protect. On Saturday, Howard County police officers focused on the serving side of things.

They brought food and drinks out to customers at in Columbia in an event raising money for Special Olympics Maryland. With tips and part of the restaurant's sales for the day, the officers raised a total of $4,053.53 for the organization, according to the police department's Facebook page.

And tonight (March 29) at The Melting Pot, HC DrugFree is hosting a fundraiser to bring in money for its educational programs on drug and alcohol use. The $50 event, which is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., will also include a silent auction, according to Joan Webb Scornaienchi, HC DrugFree's executive director.

The organization and the restaurant are also contributing Melting Pot gift cards to one student and 13 parents of students who end up attending school-sponsored after-prom parties.

"We’re targeting parents because we want parents to understand the importance of not holding private parties where alcohol is provided to teens," Scornaienchi said. "You want the kids at the PTSA-sponsored events so there are no alcohol or drugs."