The Rotary Club of Boca Raton is set to host an extraordinary event, Motors & Missions, a charity car show and chili cook-off. This unique gathering aims to support Boca Helping Hands (BHH), a local nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives through various assistance programs. The event will take place on Sunday, January 5th, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at BHH's location in Boca Raton. Attendees can expect an engaging afternoon filled with entertainment, food, and the opportunity to honor a remarkable volunteer while supporting a worthy cause.
Recognizing a Lifetime of Service
The event will pay tribute to Art Polacheck, a 96-year-old devoted volunteer who has been actively contributing to Boca Helping Hands since 2013. His dedication extends beyond his regular tasks, as he has inspired others within the Rotary Club to join him in serving the community. Art's passion for classic cars adds another dimension to the celebration, as he recently organized a car show that raised over $10,000 for the organization.
Art Polacheck's journey is nothing short of inspiring. A resident of Boca Raton, he has spent the past 15 years volunteering at BHH, preparing meals and distributing groceries to those in need. His commitment goes beyond mere service; it embodies a deep understanding of the community's needs. Art believes strongly in empowering individuals through job training programs offered by BHH, ensuring they gain skills that can lead to sustainable careers. His background includes a successful career in medical supplies, but now, in retirement, he finds immense satisfaction in giving back to the community. "It gives me great pleasure to volunteer," he shares, highlighting how each day at BHH brings purpose and fulfillment to his life.
Celebrating Community and Compassion
Motors & Missions promises to be a vibrant event that combines automotive enthusiasm with charitable efforts. Attendees can enjoy live music, food trucks, and participate in a 50/50 raffle. The top 25 vehicles will receive awards, making this an exciting competition for car enthusiasts. While admission is free, visitors are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations to support BHH's mission. Registration fees for car owners start at $40, with premium registration offering additional perks.
Boca Helping Hands plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for nearly 35,000 individuals annually. As a partner agency of Palm Beach United Way, BHH focuses on providing essential services such as food, medical, and financial assistance. Accredited for sound nonprofit management and recognized for transparency, BHH continues to build strong communities by addressing education, health, and financial stability. Through events like Motors & Missions, the organization not only raises funds but also fosters a spirit of compassion and unity among its supporters.
In a significant move for automotive enthusiasts, the Mainstreet Memories Car Show is set to make its triumphant return to the heart of Port Huron on July 26, 2025. Organized by Mainstreet Memories Car Show, LLC, in partnership with the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), this beloved event will once again transform Huron Avenue and Military Street into a vibrant showcase of classic and modern vehicles. Spanning one mile from Glenwood to Griswold, the event promises to bring together car lovers, vendors, and community members in a celebration of automotive history and culture.
A Community Effort to Revitalize Downtown
The decision to bring the car show back downtown was sparked by the overwhelming success of the Back to the Bricks Promo Tour held in June 2024. This event reignited the passion for vintage cars and highlighted the potential for revitalizing the city center. Ron Steward, President of Mainstreet Memories Car Show, emphasized the importance of collaboration with local organizations such as the City of Port Huron, the Blue Water Convention and Visitor Bureau, the Blue Water Area Chamber of Commerce, and McMorran Plaza. Together, these entities are working towards transforming the event into a weekend-long celebration that caters to the entire community.
This year's schedule includes open cruising on Friday evening, followed by an exciting concert at McMorran Plaza. The main event on Saturday will run from 2 PM to 8 PM, with parking starting at noon. Attendees can look forward to a guest band performance at 5 PM and a headliner act at 8 PM. Lisa DeLong, the new Director of the Port Huron DDA, expressed her enthusiasm for supporting and collaborating with event organizers, business owners, and the community to ensure the success of this cherished event.
To enhance the experience, organizers are exploring opportunities for various community organizations to participate, including the Council on Aging, the YMCA, and the Lions Club. Registration for the event opens on January 1, 2025, via the official website.
From a reader's perspective, the revival of the Mainstreet Memories Car Show signifies a renewed commitment to preserving automotive heritage while fostering community spirit. It serves as a reminder of the power of collaboration and the positive impact it can have on local economies and cultural landscapes. As we anticipate the event, it's clear that the streets of Port Huron will come alive with nostalgia and excitement, creating lasting memories for all who attend.