June, 2011
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than $6,000, Pump It Up was not satisfied. They knew there was only so much they could achieve by holding a fundraiser once a year, and with goals as lofty as speaking to a session of Congress, there was more work to be done. Until that point Hedderick’s role had been primarily peripheral – he was the brawn of the group, helping setup and breakdown at events, but he spoke up at their next meeting and recommended a more male-friendly fundraiser – Nick wasn’t all that into Jonas Brothers’ dances. So, the self-proclaimed gearhead suggested a car show. That brings us to the present. The Pump It Up car show, Downshift for Diabetes, is scheduled for Sunday, June 12 from 1-4pm, rain or shine. It’s clear the car show is Nick’s baby as he proudly shares all he knows about it: that Faulkner Buick GMC, located at 705 Autopark Boulevard right off Westtown Road, have been kind enough to offer their lot for the show and will be clearing out the cars. He says there will be BBQ, baked goods and root beer floats. Kids will find arts and crafts, a play zone and other activities. Adults will be happy to find various vendors, 50/50 raffles and even a DJ who Nick assures us is extremely good at his job. It really is a can’t-miss event – one of those few times when you can genuinely have a good time and do it for a reason greater than your own Above: Joe, Nick and Kevin Jonas (L to R) were happy to pose with Morgan Mullen and show their support for Pump It Up. It was the Jonas Brothers whose challenge to help raise money for the cause prompted the formation of Pump It Up. Below: It isn’t always easy being the lone male in a group full of women. No one knows this better than Nick Hedderick. Adam Jones
selfish amusement. In the end the kids of Pump It Up are just that – kids. Granted they’re mature and polite enough to shake hands and look people in the eye when saying thank you, but they’re still just kids. The non-profit is in the name of Morgan’s parents, Judy and Brett Mullen. The kids rely on the support of people like Nick’s mother Paula Hedderick, their relentless promoter, and Corey Wegerbauer, Pump It Up board member and owner of Building Blocks childcare. They love the Jonas Brothers, probably all weigh less than 110lbs and undoubtedly chat about cute boys (or girls, sorry Nick). For all their youthful interests, they have managed to see a goal more important than popularity, something many of us had trouble seeing past when we were teenagers. For that alone they deserve recognition. Truthfully, to be so motivated, successful and altruistic at such a young age is amazing, a feat few would take for granted. Some things never change – I still envy these go-getters. If you’re interested in registering as a vendor at Pump It Up’s Downshift for Diabetes car show, or if you simply want to know more about Pump It Up, you can visit their website at www.supportpumpitup.org.