Jail and Bail Fundraiser | Video

Jenny Castro | 6/26/2012

One out of nine babies in North Dakota are born prematurely. On Tuesday, the March of Dimes held it`s annual Jail and Bail event to raise money for premature babies and their families.

These jailbirds were facing some serious charges, like "lip-syncing in church" as they tried to earn their bail money. It`s not your typical jail stay and these are certainly not your typical charges.

"They arrested me for singing in the shower," said participant Lisa Risovi.

"Double parking at the airport," said participant Marshall Hill.

All these jailbirds were booked, finger-printed, had their mug shot taken, talked to the judge and then they were stuck calling friends and family for their bail money.

Of course it is a mock situation which raises money for the March of Dimes, but still the callers are getting some mixed reactions.

"They really thought I was in jail and I`ve had a couple say that they`ve spun downtown to check in Ward County and see if they could bail me out and then found out I was here,” said Risovi.

"My kids said if we pay double will they keep you,” said Hill.

Unlike real jail, everyone is here on their own free will and they know that being thrown in jail for today is for a good reason.

"I think people make a real connection, it`s done with a humorous twist but it`s a great way to build awareness of our mission, as well as help babies and who doesn`t want to help babies," said Karin Rosieland, March of Dimes State Director.

Also at this jail they got to enjoy the exquisite "bread and water" compliments of the Pizza Ranch. This jail experience has many participants eager to be booked again next year.

"Not in real life. I like the March of Dimes jail, not the real one,” said Hill.

After about an hour of hustling for bail money, many participants raised several hundred dollars for the March of Dimes. And also in that hour 63 babies were born premature but fortunately charities like this are working to decrease that number.

The March of Dimes usually raises around $15,000 from the Jail and Bail event. And their annual walk raises about $50,000. To learn more about the March of Dimes visit www.marchofdimes.com.

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