Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards used his birthday to raise more funds on June 10, 2007, and to reach out to the voters.

John Edwards marked his 54th birthday with a big bash. The backyard barbecue wasn’t the usual - $1,000-a-plate events the candidates usually attend. The party was held at the Best Western University Inn in Chapel Hill, N.C., in the state where Edwards was a former senator.

The fee for entry was just $15. Edwards told the crowd that he needs voters to mobilize to create change.

Along with his family, Edwards also got birthday support from former North Carolina basketball coach, Dean Smith.