Rob Wolfe, a star of the hit TV show American Pickers, will host “Teacher Appreciation Night” at Rust Belt Americana from 5-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, at the Bend Xpo Center in East Moline.
The event, held during the opening reception of Rust Belt Americana – which is becoming the nation’s largest Antique Swap and Auction – also will feature guest speaker Jim Wichman. The event is open to 100 educators who must RSVP at here.
Mr. Wolfe will introduce his family’s scholarship program, designed to help local children explore rewarding careers in the trades.
“Not every kid is interested in going to a four-year college, and that’s okay,” Mr. Wolfe said in a news release. “There are so many exciting and fulfilling careers in the trades, and I want to make sure kids in the Quad Cities have the chance to explore those options.”
He added: “One of the best ways we can do that is by supporting our teachers, because they’re the ones inspiring the next generation. I’d love to hear from local teachers who have ideas for lessons, field trips, or projects that can introduce students to these career paths.”
Mr. Wolfe emphasized that budget constraints often force educators to use their own money for hands-on learning. “Let’s make it easier for them to bring those ideas to life,” he said.
“Teachers often dig into their own pockets to give students better opportunities,” Mr. Wolfe added. “Through our scholarships, we want to help bring their visions to life without the financial burden falling on them. If we can help fund a great idea that lights a spark in a kid’s imagination, that’s a win for everyone.”
Mr. Wolfe has a passion for working with students, especially elementary-aged children. He offers in-person and virtual tours of his downtown Davenport garage and studio, answering their questions about history, and sharing stories behind his collected treasures. He aims to expand this program in the Quad Cities by empowering educators.
About Jim Wichman
Jim Wichman, Ed.S, founder of Inspired Edification, brings more than 25 years of experience as an educational administrator. A former principal, he now inspires and empowers educators and students as a keynote speaker, consultant, and coach. Having faced poverty and homelessness in his youth, he advocates for value-driven, respectful education.
Mr. Wichman is known for his energetic, authentic, and “breath of fresh air” speaking style, which emphasizes vulnerability, celebration, and value-rooted leadership. At Teacher Appreciation Night, he will challenge educators and community members to build value-centered schools that uplift every student with his message: “Shake the world as you go by.”
Teacher Appreciation Night
Here’s a closer look at the Teacher Appreciation Night:
- Registration is required and limited to the first 100 educators who RSVP. An official school email address and grades taught are required. Teachers can register here.
- Exclusive first-look access to Rust Belt Americana’s vendors.
- Invitation-only auction to benefit the Rust Belt Americana Foundation.
- Live musical entertainment, food, and drinks.
- Keynote address by Jim Wichman.
- Rob Wolfe will share details on local trade-career scholarships.
For information on the Wolfe Family Scholarship, visit here.
