The third annual Rob Machado Foundation Benefit Concert is set to take place Nov. 10 and 11 at the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach. This year features another talented lineup of musicians with acoustic performances by the Goo Goo Dolls, Run River North, Timmy Curran and Austin Burns.

Rob Machado is known around the world as a legendary surfer and a passionate environmental activist. He created the nonprofit Rob Machado Foundation in 2004 to educate the youth about how to contribute toward a healthy earth.

All proceeds from the benefit concert at the Belly Up Tavern will go directly to programs within RMF to promote environmental responsibility in schools and at beaches.

“We’re all very lucky people and this is our chance to give back,” John Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls said.

Due to tickets selling out so fast in previous years, the benefit now spans two days. The event will also feature an auction, which includes surfboards signed by Machado, a guitar signed by Mike Ness of Social Distortion, Taylor acoustic guitars signed by members of the Goo Goo Dolls and more surprises. The donations from the auction go a long way in raising money for the cause, Rzeznik said.

“Everything has to start at a grassroots level,” Rzenznik said. “We’re raising money to help with these very important programs.”

Rzeznik recounted a lot of fond memories from playing at the Belly Up in previous years. One of his favorite parts about the RMF Benefit Concert is the tiny dressing room that everyone has to share. The iconic, intimate venue located in Solana Beach is a staple of San Diego music culture.

“It’s one of those classic sorts of venues, it’s really infinite,” he said.

The benefit also has a way of bringing together the community. Neighboring business Culture Brewing Company will be holding a RMF Benefit Concert pre-party at their brewery and tasting room. Twenty-five percent of all sales from 5 to 9 p.m. will go to RMF.

With the funds raised this past year, including sales from the sold-out 2013 benefit concert, the RMF was able to make a huge impact in the surrounding San Diego communities. The foundation installed new trashcans at Cardiff State Beach, made from 100 percent recycled material, co-sponsored the Grow Your Own program at the Solana Center, and sponsored Family Ocean Night at Cardiff Elementary.

The RMF Benefit Concert is an awesome local event with an even better cause. Doors open for both nights at 7 p.m.

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