CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Harding University High School marching band is still in need of funds to attend the 2009 Presidential Inauguration.

Now, community leaders are stepping in to help.

Charlotte City Councilor Anthony Foxx will be among leaders gathering on Saturday to help raise funds for the band, which is holding a tailgating fundraiser before the Carolina Panthers/Arizona Cardinals NFL Playoff game on Saturday.

The fundraiser is from 2-4 p.m. at The Excelsior Club, located at 921 Beattis Ford Rd.

An authentic NFL football autographed by Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith will be auctioned off during the event.

The Harding University High band is playing at halftime of the Panthers game Saturday night.

If you'd like to donate, call Harding University High School at 980-343-6007 or visit http://pages.cms.k12.nc.us/harding/band.html.