By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–Rio’s Bar and Grill in Helena has been known as an establishment that loves to give back to the community, while also providing good food, entertainment and atmosphere many Helena locals enjoy.

On Friday, May 15 and Saturday, May 16 Rio’s had two nights of fun that resulted in $2,500 raised for the Easter Seals charity.

On Friday, Michael Warren performed and kicked off the weekend of music, games crawfish, silent auctions, raffle items and more.

Rio’s Bartender Anne Jacks has been with Rio’s since they opened and she said they started raising money for Easter Seals about a month ago from Tuesday night bingo, the crawfish boil, raffle tickets and silent auction items such as a Nick Saban autographed helmet and a 1985-1986 Auburn Basketball signed by the Elite Eight team.

Saturday was the most festive day that included a crawfish and shrimp boil, the silent auction and raffle items, a performance by Excalibur and also plenty of activities for both adults and children.

There was a moon bounce, dunking booth, Easter Seals tent and more.

The Easter Seals organization has been helping individuals with disabilities and special needs, and their families, live better lives for more than 90 years according to their website. From child development centers to physical rehabilitation and job training for people with disabilities, Easter Seals offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life’s challenges and achieve personal goals.

Jacks enjoys the fact that Rio’s gives back but she mentioned one of her favorite things is the bar and grill’s customer base.

“My favorite thing is our fantastic customer base and they’re a big reason we can give back to the community so well,” said Jacks. “The volunteers who help us out are also a big part.”