FORSYTH - Leather-clad Harley-Davidson motorcycle riders may not be as tough-hearted as they look.

Members of the Blue Knights Illinois IV and Wind and Fire Chapter 48, motorcycle groups composed of Decatur-area police officers and firefighters, respectively, met Tuesday morning at the Coziahr Harley-Davidson/Buell to accept donations from local businesspeople to benefit two charities and raise awareness of their efforts.

Bob Henry, president of Blue Knights Illinois IV, said the group of active and retired law enforcement officials enjoys helping in the community, particularly through support of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for the Special Olympics.

"We're the good guys, and we like to promote motorcyclists in a positive light," Henry said. "The kids need the money; it costs a lot to put these events on. The more we can donate, the better off they are."

Wind and Fire Chapter 48 contributes to the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance Burn Camp, said Charlie McGorray, chapter director.

"We're firefighters, and we see what tragedies house fires can cause with the burning of small children," he said. "These camps give them a chance to meet up with other children in similar situations. Last year, we were fortunate enough to raise money to sponsor three children for a week (at the "I Am Me" burn camp) in McHenry County in Northern Illinois."

Chris Ballard of Jim Cleveland Home Team, RE/MAX Executives Plus and Debra Waks of Mortgage Services of Illinois presented personal donations to the groups on behalf of their businesses. A poker run to benefit both charity events will be held Saturday, beginning at Coziahr Harley-Davidson, the motorcycle groups' primary sponsor.

"It's a motorcycle event where we go to different locations and draw a card at each destination," Henry said. "Whoever has the best poker hand at the end wins. All proceeds are split between the Special Olympics and the burn camp."

The Greg Glick Band will be playing from 7 to 10 p.m. at the last location, the AIW Hall, 2882 N. Dinneen St., Henry said, and there will be a donation box for anyone who wishes to attend but is not participating in the poker run.

Courtney Klemm can be reached at cklemm@herald-review.com or 421-6968.