In 2009, Olympia native Molly Sjoboen got together with a few friends to start the Olympia Pub Crawl, a benefit for childhood cancer research. They had a good run, got some attention and made a modest $200.

The group grew, the awareness spread and the tally rose from $250 in 2010 to $6,000 in 2011.

And last year, the Olympia Pub Crawl brought in $21,000 - a far cry from four years prior.

Sjoboen attributes the gain to local business sponsorship and a community that cares.

"The momentum has taken a life of its own," she said. "It used to be that I was asking for help, but now people are asking me what they can do to help."

Monetary support and raffle prizes in the form of goods and services have been pouring in for the group, which is working to become its own nonprofit. More than 30 local businesses donated to this year's fundraiser, which takes place Saturday, Aug. 24, in downtown Olympia.

The day begins with a 5k run from Swantown Marina, then leads to a kick-off party and pub crawl along Fourth Avenue and culminates with live music at the Capitol Theater. Participants can attend one or all of the events.

Something different this year is the venue, the Capitol Theater, which allows all ages to attend the rock show. Last year, attendees had to be 21 and older.

"The music is a great part of the pub crawl," Sjoboen said. "We want to keep it open to a variety of people."

Full Moon Radio, 10 Cents in Oklahoma, Horse Bodies and Hurts Like Hell will be rocking this year, and Mr. Frank from Evergreen College radio, KAOS, will play emcee.

"We are excited to be performing at the Olympia Pub Crawl for the second year," said Jessie Jackson, guitarist for Full Moon Radio. "It's a very well organized benefit to raise funds for childhood cancer research and it's great to see so many local businesses come together and support this cause."

This year, proceeds will benefit Friends of Mia, a local nonprofit dedicated to assisting families affected by childhood cancer. Part of the proceeds will go to research funding.

"The bottom line is it still needs to be for kids," Sjoboen said. "Not only the research component, but also for families - they are in need. In the midst of the party, you kind of forget, but there are a lot of folks in our community that could really use some support."

The Olympia Pub Crawl kicks off at 2 p.m. at the 1230 Room in downtown Olympia. Early discount registration is closed. Day-of tickets cost $40, which includes T-shirt, if available, kickoff party at 1230 Room and the Last Call Party at the Capitol Theater. For the show only, cost is just $20.

LAST CALL PARTY, 8:30 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 24, all ages, bar for 21+, Capitol Theater, 206 Fifth Ave., Olympia, $20, $15 OGS members. For more information visit facebook.com/OlympiaPubCrawl