WHITE PLAINS, Md. — Skaters, bikers and families will gather at the White Plains Skate Park this Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, for the 4th Annual Bring-A-Can-Jam — one of Southern Maryland’s most meaningful community events. Running from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the event combines a day of BMX and skateboarding with a mission to support local families in need.
The jam was created by Joe and Amanda Tolley Fowler in memory of Joe’s father, Keith, who died in 2022. Keith spent much of his time volunteering at food pantries, and Joe wanted to carry that spirit forward. His idea was simple but powerful — a BMX and skate jam where entry isn’t about paying a fee, but about bringing canned goods and nonperishable items for donation.
“I wanted to do something that honored my dad but also brought people together,” Joe said. “This just felt right.”
Amanda helped shape the name “Bring-A-Can-Jam,” a nod to the BMX trick “can-jam.” At that first event, participants literally “jammed their cans” into the back of Joe’s dad’s truck — a moment that captured both fun and purpose.
A Local Tradition With Heart
What started as a small gathering has become a regional draw. Riders now travel from across the DMV, and even from as far as New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, North Carolina and Florida. Last year’s event collected nearly 1,200 pounds of food for the Southern Maryland Food Bank in Waldorf. This year, the goal is to double that and hit 2,000 pounds — a full ton.
Amanda said the growth wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the local skate and BMX community. Freddie Riner from the Southern Maryland Skateboard Association and Rocky Collins of Little Whale Skate Shop helped guide them through event setup and permitting with the county.
“We’ve developed stronger connections because of it,” Amanda said. “Having both their support and guidance has helped us feel more confident in putting the event on every year.”
She recalled how surprised a Charles County Recreation staff member was at the turnout the first year, saying, “In his 20-plus years working with Charles County Recreation, he’s never seen the White Plains Skatepark so packed and said it’s a great thing we’re doing to bring the community together.”
Food, Music And Positive Vibes
The Bring-A-Can-Jam has grown into more than a jam — it’s a festival with community at its core. Aunt Titty’s Mobile Food Truck will be on-site serving lunch, and music will be provided throughout the day by DJ Juicebox Johnson. Live performances include Stygian Mind at 2:30 p.m. and Fear of God at 3:15 p.m.
Local sponsors like RadShare, Pedal Pushers, Little Whale Skate Shop, Charm City Skatepark, Animal Bikes, Kink BMX, Bones Bearings and Cinema BMX have donated prizes for the contests.
“The camaraderie and positive energy that’s generated at these events are indescribable,” Amanda said. “You can really feel the positive energy moving through the crowd.”
Passing The Torch
The couple’s daughter made an unexpected but proud appearance last year, giving a short speech to thank attendees for their donations. “She reminded us all what the purpose behind this event is really about,” Amanda said.
Joe continues to be motivated by the event’s community impact. “I may not be the one carrying the torch across the finish line, I’m just the one that lit it, and I’ll carry the torch for now, but anyone can do something big like this,” he said.
Now in its fourth year, the Bring-A-Can-Jam stands as a growing tradition of generosity, proving that even a single idea can bring people together — one can at a time.
4th Annual Bring-A-Can-Jam
When: Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025 (10 a.m.–5 p.m.)
Where: White Plains Skate Park, Saint Charles, Md.
Admission: Free with canned or nonperishable food donation
Beneficiary: Southern Maryland Food Bank
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