Legendary rock icon PAUL RODGERS has announced that during his concert tours this year, both solo and BAD COMPANY, he will be donating rare personal stage items, autographed memorabilia and collectibles for a nightly draw. All of the proceeds will be given to the Fender Centers ‘Kids Rock Free’ national music education initiative in efforts to raise money and awareness. Plus Rodgers and his wife, Cynthia, will match all monies raised.

“Without music in schools curriculum there is a void for young people to express, explore and experience music. We are on a mission to set up this music program across the US If not for music in my life as a young person who knows where I would have focused my energy,” said Rodgers.

The Kids Rock Free campaign provides free and low-cost music lessons to students age 7-17 and has serviced over 12,000 kids. Rodgers has dedicated himself to the program since 2003, donating his time, talent and finances. In an effort to expand the program nationwide and to help kids across the United States experience music at a very low cost or for free, the push is on to raise additional funding to make that experience a reality.

Those who wish to participate may simply visit the merchandise booth during any concert date and purchase a $5 fundraising ticket. Two random drawings will be held each night, and the winner(s) will take home one (or two) items. Monthly drawings are also being held online on Rodgers’ website, PaulRodgers.com. Rodgers and his wife, Cynthia, will match all donations made during the fund-raising drive.

Additionally, supporters of Kids Rock Free 'text-to-donate' can make a $10 donation directly from their mobile phones by texting 'ROCK' to 50555. A one-time $10 donation will be added to mobile bills; messaging and data rates may apply. Terms, help and other details can be found online here.

Confirmed US tour dates:

July

16 - Fantasy Springs Casino - Indio, CA
17 - Orange County Fair - Costa Mesa, CA
22 - The Lakeland Center Jenkins Arena - Lakeland, FL
23 - St. Augustine Amphitheatre - St. Augustine, FL
25 - Chastain Park Amphitheatre - Atlanta, GA
27 - Bank of America Pavilion - Boston, MA
30 - Choctaw Resort Casino Event Center - Durant, OK

August

1 - Outlaw Jam/Frederick Co. Fairgrounds - Frederick, MD
4 - Casino Rama Entertainment Center - Rama, Ontario
14 - Bike Rally - Port Dover, Ontario

October

4 - Potawatomi Casino - Milwaukee, WI
5 - Potawatomi Casino - Milwaukee, WI
7 - The Joint/Hard Rock Hotel & Casino - Catoosa, OK (Tulsa)
9 - Little Creek Casino Resort - Shelton, WA *

* denotes Paul Rodgers solo date