Dueling Piano Fundraiser to Help Kids in Need This Holiday Season
Keys for Kids returns to Rustic Roots in Wood River from 6–10 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026. See how Riverbend Rescue is pairing dueling pianos with a mission to help local kids during the holidays.
Riverbend Rescue’s Keys for Kids fundraiser supports local families at Christmas
WOOD RIVER - An upcoming fundraiser promises to be “a dang good time” while financing holiday gifts for local kids.
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From 6–10 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, community members can stop by Rustic Roots in Wood River for the third annual Keys for Kids event by Riverbend Rescue. This evening will feature dueling pianos, a catered meal, a full bar, raffles and fun, and all proceeds go toward Riverbend Rescue’s mission to provide Christmas gifts for kids in need.
“Me personally as an entrepreneur, I feel it’s my due diligence, it’s my obligation, it’s my duty to pour back into the community,” said Adam Marburger. “I challenge other business owners to adopt that same mindset. I know a lot of businesses in this community do pour into the community, and I’m so grateful to see that. And for those that are kind of dipping their toe in, maybe a little lukewarm, just know that that’s our calling. Our calling is to give back, and giving back local is the best way to give back.”
Marburger’s business partner inspired him to support kids in need during the holiday season, and his family did this “in silence” for several years. But he decided to found Riverbend Rescue so they could spread the word and engage more donors, which allows them to help more families.
The nonprofit works with nurses and counselors in the local school districts to identify kids who need extra help around the holidays. Then Marburger and his team shop for everything on the children’s wish lists. He said a lot of the kids ask for crucial items like bras, jackets, blankets, dishware for their families, and more.
“If you saw what was on these lists, you’d tear up,” Marburger said. “They’re asking for the bare essentials, and it’s one of those things that really tears you up when you’re shopping. But we try to make sure we add a few extras in there for them as well.”
Riverbend Rescue is growing, and they aim to “bless” 100 families this year. But Marburger noted this isn’t possible without the community’s support. He encourages people to purchase tickets to the Keys for Kids event or reach out for more information about sponsorship opportunities.
Additionally, he believes the Nov. 14 evening will be a lot of fun for attendees. The dueling pianos will take requests, and your $50 ticket gets you a catered meal, several drink tickets, and more. Marburger also thinks it’s a great chance to engage with leaders in the community.
“It’s an epic night out,” he said. “You’ve got a combination of who’s who in the community, a lot of business people in the community, a lot of opportunities to rub elbows. You never know when your next deal or opportunity can come your way. It’s just being in the right room with the right people.”
Marburger acknowledged that there are a lot of people who could use some help, and he hopes Riverbend Rescue can make a difference for local kids. He encourages people to come out to Keys for Kids, enjoy the experience, and help those in need.
For more information, visit the official Facebook event page or the official Riverbend Rescue website.
“There’s a big need in this community, and we’re not going to solve it in one day or in one year,” Marburger added. “But we could solve it in 10, right? We’re on our way.”
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