Revving Up for a Cause: Umberto's Car Show Drives Hunger Relief on Long Island

Umberto's of New Hyde Park, a beloved Long Island institution known for its iconic pizzeria and the invention of the Grandma Pie, recently hosted its second annual car show in partnership with the New York Alfa Romeo Owner's Club. The event, which attracted over 150 supporters, not only showcased a stunning array of classic and modern Alfa Romeo vehicles but also raised funds and collected non-perishable food donations for the Island Harvest Food Bank, the region's leading hunger relief organization.

Fueling Hope: Umberto's Car Show Tackles Food Insecurity on Long Island

Driving Change: Umberto's Commitment to Ending Hunger

Umberto's of New Hyde Park has long been a pillar of the local community, and their dedication to supporting organizations like Island Harvest Food Bank is a testament to their unwavering commitment to making a difference. As the owner and founder, Umberto Corteo, eloquently stated, "At Umberto's, we understand many people continue to struggle to put food on their tables. We are committed to supporting organizations like Island Harvest Food Bank to raise funds and eradicate hunger here on Long Island." The annual car show has become a cherished event, not only for its celebration of automotive excellence but also for its ability to bring the community together in support of a vital cause.

Fueling the Fight: The Impact of Umberto's Car Show

The second-annual Umberto's Car Show was a resounding success, with over 25 classic and modern Alfa Romeo vehicles participating in the event. The impressive display of automotive artistry attracted a diverse crowd of enthusiasts and supporters, all united in their desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity on Long Island. The event's impact was significant, as it raised funds and collected enough non-perishable food to provide over 1,500 meals through the Island Harvest Food Bank.

Driving Hunger Relief: The Role of Island Harvest Food Bank

Island Harvest Food Bank, the region's leading hunger relief organization, played a crucial role in the success of the Umberto's Car Show. With a mission to end hunger and reduce food waste on Long Island, the organization has been a steadfast partner in Umberto's efforts to support the community. As Bena Halloran, the food drive coordinator for Island Harvest Food Bank, eloquently stated, "With increased food prices and the region's high cost of living, food insecurity affects thousands of families across Long Island. In our second year partnering with Umberto's and the New York Alfa Romeo Owner's Club, we collected enough non-perishable food to help hundreds of people in Nassau and Suffolk counties. With valued partners like Umberto's, we are making a difference in the lives of our neighbors struggling just to put food on their tables."

Revving Up for a Cause: The Excitement of the Umberto's Car Show

The Umberto's Car Show was not just a celebration of automotive excellence; it was a vibrant community event that brought together car enthusiasts, local residents, and supporters of the Island Harvest Food Bank. In addition to the impressive display of Alfa Romeo vehicles, the event featured prizes, giveaways, and a palpable sense of excitement and camaraderie. The event's ability to combine the thrill of classic and modern car appreciation with the noble goal of addressing food insecurity on Long Island made it a truly unique and impactful experience for all who attended.

Driving Towards Wellness: Southwest Lutheran Church's Transformative Car Show and Mental Health Fair

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Southwest Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is set to host a remarkable event that seamlessly blends the love of classic cars with a deep commitment to mental health and wellness. Dubbed "Cars & Caring," this one-of-a-kind celebration promises to captivate the senses and nourish the soul, all while raising funds for the vital work of New Mercies Ministries.

Revving Up for a Day of Inspiration and Empowerment

Showcasing Automotive Gems and Community Connections

The centerpiece of the event is the Car Show, where enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the timeless allure of classic automobiles. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore dozens of meticulously maintained vehicles, each with its own unique story to tell. From the sleek lines of a 1969 Dodge Dart to the powerful presence of a muscle car, the Car Show promises to ignite a sense of wonder and appreciation for the artistry of automotive design. Adding to the excitement, the organizers have planned for up to 20 People's Choice awards, allowing attendees to have a direct say in celebrating the most captivating cars on display.

Fueling the Mind and Spirit: The Mental Health & Wellness Fair

Alongside the Car Show, the event will feature a Mental Health & Wellness Fair, a testament to the church's commitment to holistic well-being. This indoor space will serve as a hub for local organizations and resources, providing visitors with a wealth of information and support on mental health and wellness-related topics. From Connection Points and Cross Connections to NAMI Fort Wayne and RemedyLIVE, the fair will offer a diverse array of experts and services, empowering attendees to take proactive steps towards their mental and emotional health.

Embracing Family Fun and Community Engagement

The event's organizers have ensured that there is something for everyone, including a vibrant Family Fun Zone. Children can bounce and play in the bounce house, have their faces painted, and explore the Touch-A-Truck area, where they can interact with vehicles from local organizations like Republic Services, SonShine Christian Academy, the Allen County Sheriff SWAT team, and the Indiana National Guard. This interactive experience promises to ignite the imaginations of young attendees and foster a sense of community engagement.

Expanding the Marketplace: Crafting a Unique Shopping Experience

In addition to the Car Show and Mental Health & Wellness Fair, the event will feature a new addition – the Creation Marketplace. This curated shopping experience will showcase the talents of local artisans, offering a diverse array of handmade products, from crochet and jewelry to homemade lamps and watercolor art. Visitors can immerse themselves in the creativity of the community, discovering unique treasures and supporting local entrepreneurs.

Raising Funds for a Worthy Cause

Underpinning the entire event is a noble purpose – to raise funds for the vital work of New Mercies Ministries. Through a Silent Auction, attendees will have the opportunity to bid on an impressive array of items, ranging from golf packages and zoo tickets to sports memorabilia and entertainment experiences. This collaborative effort will ensure that the proceeds from the event can be channeled towards the important initiatives of New Mercies Ministries, making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.

A Mayoral Proclamation and a Celebratory Soundtrack

Adding to the excitement, the event will feature a special appearance by Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker, who is expected to read a proclamation at noon, further highlighting the significance of this community-driven initiative. The outdoor stage will also come alive with the soulful melodies of Adam Strack, providing a musical backdrop to the day's festivities and creating an atmosphere of celebration and unity.As the community gathers at Southwest Lutheran Church on September 21st, they will be embarking on a transformative journey that seamlessly blends the passion for classic cars with a deep commitment to mental health and wellness. This event promises to be a beacon of hope, inspiration, and empowerment, leaving a lasting impact on all who attend.