American Legion Post 25 to Host Fundraiser for Injured Riders Jim Peterson and Jim Massey – Community Invited

Community invited to support two longtime Legion members as they continue recovery from serious March motorcycle accident

The community is invited to rally around two beloved members of American Legion Post 25 this Saturday, April 18, as the Laurens post hosts a special fundraiser to benefit Jim Peterson and Jim Massey following the serious motorcycle accident that left both men with life-threatening injuries earlier this year.

The fundraiser will begin at 12:00 p.m. at American Legion Post 25, located at 19 Choctaw Street in Laurens, and will feature a silent auction, BBQ food plates for $10, live music, and a 50/50 drawing.

Peterson and Massey were among seven American Legion Riders from Post 25 enjoying a group motorcycle ride in March when a serious accident occurred on Highway 11, leaving both men critically injured and requiring emergency surgery.

According to American Legion Post 25 Commander Kevin Farnsworth, both men continue to face long roads to recovery, though progress is being made.

“Jim Peterson is home and doing fair, but he still has a long recovery ahead of him,” Farnsworth said. “Our Legion family has completed remodeling work at his home to help accommodate his needs during recovery.”

Farnsworth said the Post’s current focus has shifted to helping Jim Massey prepare for the next stage of his recovery.

“Our big project right now is at Jim Massey’s house,” Farnsworth said. “We are building a handicap ramp, remodeling his bathroom and shower for wheelchair access, and widening doorways throughout the home. He’s doing better and has movement in both arms, but from the chest down he currently has no movement.”

Farnsworth said the fundraiser is about more than financial support—it is about standing beside two men who have faithfully served both the Legion and the community.

“These men have spent years giving of themselves to others through the Legion and countless community efforts,” Farnsworth said. “Now it’s our turn to give back to them. We hope the community will come out Saturday and show them just how much they are loved and supported.”

Those who cannot attend the fundraiser but still wish to support the effort may contribute by taking a check directly to United Community Bank designated for the American Legion Post 25 fundraiser for Jim Peterson and Jim Massey. Donation jars are also available at several businesses throughout the downtown Laurens area for those who would like to give locally.

For years, American Legion Post 25 has been a steady source of service and support throughout Laurens County—stepping up for veterans, local families, civic causes, and community events whenever needed. Now, Post leaders say it is their members who need that same support in return, and they hope the community will come together to help these two men and the organization working tirelessly to care for them.