Country-music singer Richie McDonald said he enjoys doing whatever he can for the special-needs community in Henry County.

  That’s why he recently returned to McDonough to take the stage for them for the fifth time.

  “It’s just in my heart – to come back and see the smiles on everybody’s faces and just the good time that they have and how much they love the music,” said McDonald.

  People First of Henry County hosted a benefit concert featuring McDonald, lead singer for the band Lonestar, Thursday at the Henry County Performing Arts Center in McDonough. Approximately 600 people turned out to hear McDonald sing some of his band’s biggest hits, including “Amazed,” “I’m Already There,” and “Mr. Mom.”

  People First, a nonprofit organization, provides free social events throughout the year for special-needs individuals and their families. Melissa Dodgen of Hampton is the daughter of the group’s founder, Connie Dodgen, and a diehard Lonestar fan. The two have been instrumental in getting McDonald to perform concerts locally over the years.

  The reason he keeps coming back, Melissa Dodgen said, is simple.

  “He cannot say no to me,” she said with a smile. “This is so special, and I just love watching my friend. We just enjoy it so much. What a great guy.”

  Kristy Dobbs is one of three directors for People First, along with Melissa Howard and Pamela Young-Wynn. Dobbs said she was “extremely excited” that McDonald took the time to perform for the group once again.

  “He’s so good with our special-needs community, and they love him, and they look forward to him coming every year,” said Dobbs. “We’re super stoked.”

  Up-and-coming country singer-songwriter Ryan Larkins also performed during the concert. Dobbs added that she is grateful for Larkins’ support of People First.

  “Ryan is amazing,” said Dobbs. “He just actually got signed to a label. He had already made a commitment to us, and he decided to keep his commitment, so we’re very happy about that. He’s an awesome guy – one of the nicest people I’ve ever met.”

  Larkins, who was born and raised in Nashville, first met the Dodgens a couple years ago when he gave them a tour of country singer Barbara Mandrell’s Fontanel mansion. It didn’t take long, he said, for him to develop an affinity for those with special needs.

  “It was just a great experience for me, and just opened my eyes to the special-needs community,” said Larkins. “I wanted to be here for them.”

  McDonald added that he appreciates the constant love and support he and his bandmates have received from People First. Such love, he said, was evident during the concert when he was joined on stage by several of the group’s participants.

  “It wasn’t something I planned, it’s just something that happened

naturally,” said McDonald. “They love Lonestar’s stuff. I want to be a part of this. I want to shout it from the highest mountaintop that People First is a great organization, helping a great cause.”