'Jail and Bail' helps March of Dimes take care of babies

Barbara Maack with March of Dimes wrote this article.

Upstanding citizens in Avondale and Tolleson will "do time" for Arizona's babies on Thursday by turning themselves in for March of Dimes "Jail and Bail."

From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., they'll be booked, make bail and be treated to lunch at Carraba's Italian Grill, 9920 W. McDowell Road.

March of Dimes "Mission Mom" Vanessa Henry and her family will also be on hand to thank the participants for their support of the March of Dimes.

Vanessa's daughter, Hannah, was born 10 weeks prematurely, weighing 2 pounds, 13 ounces. Although Hannah has some physical challenges, she is thriving due in part to research funded by the March of Dimes.

Volunteer "Jailbirds" are challenged to raise their "bail" by asking for donations from friends, family and business associates. They can collect it in advance, or use their cellphones at the event. Just for fun, when they arrive at Carraba's they'll be suited in stripes and sent behind bars have their mug shots taken.

Their records will reflect that their effort was to support the March of Dimes mission of preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.

In 2007, volunteers and donors in Avondale and Tolleson contributed generously to help give Arizona's babies the best chance for a healthy start in life.

The top bail-raising jailbird last year was Jacky Wolf Sr., manager of Smith Field Beef Co., who collected $1,000 to help save babies.

To volunteer to become a Jailbird, call Claire Marren, March of Dimes community director, at 620-287-9936, or e-mail her at cmarren@marchofdimes.com, or sign up at marchofdimes.com/Arizona.

Funds raised will help to find answers to prevent the leading killer of newborns - premature birth. In an average week in Arizona, 243 babies will be born prematurely, and 12 will die before their first birthdays. Babies who survive may face lifelong disabilities or chronic illnesses, including cerebral palsy, vision and hearing impairment, asthma and other respiratory difficulties.