NCIS Star Fundraiser for Local Organizations

By Jennifer Pierce, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Bethany Children's Center said goodbye to a long time friend and fundraiser. For years, CBS's NCIS star Mark Harmon has supported the hospital. Now he's turning his philanthropic efforts to other community organizations.

For eight years, actor and NCIS star Mark Harmon and local celebrities have gone to bat for the Bethany Children's Center, each year raising thousands of dollars.

"The goal was to raise one million dollars and we reached that," said Scott Coppenbarger, the spokesperson for Bethany Children's Center.

The money helped pay off the hospital's Pediatric Medical Rehabilitation Unit. Copenbarger said the hospital is now looking into other fundraising efforts.

"Now it's time to spread the wealth and they are going to help out some other folks," said Coppenbarger

The Oklahoma Sports Science and Orthopedics has been involved in bringing the actor to Oklahoma year after year.

"Mark has told me he will keep coming back as long as we invite him," said Dr. Michael Wright.

OSSO doctor Michael Wright is gearing up for the celebrity baseball game on May 16 at the Bricktown Ballpark. The money raised will go to organizations that are feeling the pinch of the slow economy.

The Oklahoma City Indian Clinic and The Ronald McDonald House will be the recipients of this year's fundraiser.

"We're trying to help kids in Oklahoma and both of these organizations are having to turn families and kids away from providing their services," Dr. Wright said.

Dr. Wright hopes Oklahomans generosity will shine through these tough economic times and hit a homerun to those who need it most.

The Mark Harmon bowling tournament is May 15 and the celebrity baseball game is at 3 p.m. on May 16 at the Bricktown Ballpark.