Driving Towards a Brighter Future: The Take Jake Car Show Celebrates Organ and Tissue Donation

The Take Jake Car Show, a highly anticipated annual event, is set to honor the profound impact of organ and tissue donation on October 5th at Tony Roma's in Northglenn. This year's celebration promises to be a poignant and inspiring gathering, as the community comes together to recognize the selfless individuals who have chosen to give the gift of life.

Revving Up for a Cause: The Take Jake Car Show's Lifesaving Mission

Driving Towards a Brighter Future

The Take Jake Car Show is more than just a showcase of automotive excellence; it is a powerful platform to raise awareness and support for organ and tissue donation. The event, named in honor of Jake, a young man whose life was tragically cut short but whose legacy lives on through the lives he saved, serves as a testament to the transformative power of donation.In a world where thousands of individuals await the chance to receive a life-saving transplant, the Take Jake Car Show shines a spotlight on the importance of registering as an organ and tissue donor. By bringing together car enthusiasts, community members, and those impacted by donation, the event creates a space for open dialogue, education, and inspiration.

Celebrating the Gift of Life

At the heart of the Take Jake Car Show lies a profound appreciation for the selfless individuals who have chosen to become organ and tissue donors. These heroes, whose decision to donate has the power to transform the lives of others, are the true stars of the event. Through personal stories, interactive displays, and heartfelt tributes, the show aims to honor their legacy and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.The event also serves as a platform for families who have been touched by donation, providing them with a space to share their experiences, find solace, and connect with others who have walked a similar path. By fostering these connections, the Take Jake Car Show creates a sense of community and support that can be invaluable for those navigating the complex emotions that often accompany the donation process.

Revving Up Awareness and Action

Beyond the celebration of donation, the Take Jake Car Show also serves as a catalyst for change. By educating attendees on the critical need for organ and tissue donors, the event aims to inspire individuals to take the first step and register as donors. Through interactive exhibits, informative presentations, and the powerful stories of those impacted by donation, the show empowers attendees to become advocates for this life-saving cause.The event's organizers understand that the path to increasing donor registration is paved with awareness and understanding. By creating a welcoming and engaging environment, the Take Jake Car Show invites attendees to explore the realities of donation, dispel common myths, and discover the profound impact they can have by simply signing up to be a donor.

Revving Up Community Connections

The Take Jake Car Show is more than just a car enthusiast's dream; it is a celebration of community, compassion, and the power of human connection. By bringing together individuals from all walks of life, the event fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose that transcends the boundaries of age, background, or personal interests.Through interactive activities, vendor booths, and a vibrant atmosphere, the Take Jake Car Show creates opportunities for attendees to engage with one another, share their stories, and forge meaningful connections. These connections, in turn, serve to strengthen the community's commitment to the cause of organ and tissue donation, inspiring a ripple effect of awareness and action that extends far beyond the confines of the event itself.

Giving the Gift of Life: Colorado's Organ and Tissue Donation Advocates

In Colorado, there are approximately 1,300 individuals awaiting life-saving organ transplants, while tens of thousands more require tissue transplants each year to address various medical conditions, including trauma, disease, and blindness. Donor Alliance, a nonprofit organization, coordinates these critical donations, working closely with dedicated volunteers like Judy Thompson to raise awareness and inspire others to become registered donors.

Turning Tragedy into Hope: The Story of Take Jake Foundation

Honoring a Life, Saving Others

Judy Thompson's life was forever changed in 2009 when her son, Jake, tragically passed away in a car accident. However, in the midst of their grief, the Thompson family found solace in the knowledge that Jake's organs were able to save six lives. Determined to honor Jake's memory and continue his legacy of compassion, Judy and her family established the Take Jake Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting organ, eye, and tissue donation."For us, it has just brought such healing to take a tragedy and turn it into something positive and just give many people some hope," Judy Thompson shared. "He was quite a character. He was 21-years-old and lived life to the fullest, every single day. He had never ever met a stranger, so that's what led us to create the Take Jake Foundation as a way to celebrate the life that he lived, the life that he gave, and it's a great way to raise awareness for organ, eye and tissue donation."

Raising Awareness Through Community Events

The Take Jake Foundation organizes various community events to educate the public about the importance of organ and tissue donation. One of their flagship events is the annual Take Jake Car and Bike Show, which will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, in Northglenn at the Tony Roma's in the Delta/Marriott. This event not only showcases the passion and creativity of car and motorcycle enthusiasts but also serves as a platform to spread awareness about the life-saving impact of donation."That's why Donor Alliance is appreciative of our advocate volunteers, like Judy, who is out with us in the community telling people about her son's story to really educate and inspire people about registering to be an organ, eye, and tissue donor," said Heather Burke, Communications Manager for Donor Alliance.

The Power of a Simple "Yes"

Donor Alliance emphasizes the significance of individuals registering as organ, eye, and tissue donors, a decision that can have a profound impact on the lives of others. When an individual registers as a donor, they receive a small heart symbol with a "y" on their driver's license or ID, a visual representation of their commitment to saving lives."So when you go to the DMV, when you way 'yes' to registering as an organ, eye, and tissue donor, you'll receive that little heart with a 'y' on your driver's license or id, and as we see that little heart has a big impact," Burke explained. "It's so important, sharing that decision with your family. One thing that Donor Alliance has heard is families tell us that during a difficult time, knowing a loved one's decision really provided them comfort in that situation."

The Transformative Power of Donation

The impact of organ and tissue donation is truly remarkable. A single donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation and heal up to 75 lives through tissue donation. These donations can transform the lives of individuals suffering from various medical conditions, offering them a second chance at life and the opportunity to regain their independence and quality of life."One person can save up to 8 lives through organ donation; and you can save and heal up to 75 lives through tissue donation," Burke emphasized, underscoring the profound difference that each registered donor can make.The stories of individuals like Jake and the work of organizations like Donor Alliance and the Take Jake Foundation serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of donation. By sharing these stories and inspiring others to become registered donors, Colorado's advocates are making a lasting impact on their community and beyond, ensuring that more lives can be saved and healed through the selfless act of giving.

Ukiah's Vintage Automotive Extravaganza: A Celebration of Automotive History and Community

The recent End of Summer Show & Shine Car & Bike Show in Historic Downtown Ukiah was a resounding success, drawing an estimated 150 vintage vehicles and captivating the hearts of local residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Organized by the Greater Ukiah Business and Tourism Alliance, this annual event has become a cherished tradition, offering a delightful way to welcome the arrival of the fall season.

Revving Up for a Nostalgic Showcase

A Vintage Vehicle Wonderland

The streets of Historic Downtown Ukiah were transformed into a veritable vintage vehicle wonderland, as car enthusiasts and curious onlookers alike gathered to admire the stunning array of classic cars and motorcycles on display. From the shaded, tree-lined School Street to the bustling Alex Thomas Plaza and surrounding downtown areas, the event provided a captivating backdrop for these automotive gems.Visitors were treated to a diverse collection of vintage vehicles, each with its own unique story and history. The cars ranged from meticulously restored Pontiac Firebirds and Chevrolet Fleetlines to work-in-progress projects, showcasing the passion and dedication of their owners. The event's inclusive nature ensured that every vehicle had a chance to shine, regardless of its level of restoration.

A Vibrant Community Celebration

The End of Summer Show & Shine Car & Bike Show was more than just a display of vintage vehicles; it was a celebration of community. Families and friends strolled together, taking in the sights and sounds of the event, while local businesses and restaurants welcomed visitors with open arms.The event featured a variety of engaging activities, including a Car Swap Meet, a Lion's Club pancake breakfast, and delectable lunch offerings from Big Earl's Barbecue. The Ukiah Farmer's Market also held its regular Saturday hours, adding to the lively atmosphere. Additionally, a scavenger hunt with prizes from local merchants added an element of excitement and exploration for attendees.

Honoring Automotive Excellence

The highlight of the event was the awards ceremony, where the hard work and dedication of the participants were recognized. Katrina Kessen, the Executive Director of the Greater Ukiah Business and Tourism Alliance, presented a range of accolades, including the prestigious Best of Show, GUBTA Choice, and Participant's Choice awards.The award winners represented the diverse and passionate automotive community in Ukiah. From a stunning 1969 Pontiac Firebird to a classic 1949 Chevrolet Fleetline Deluxe, each vehicle and its owner's story were celebrated. The event's emphasis on the personal narratives behind the cars, rather than just their outward appearance, underscored the true spirit of the show.

Giving Back to the Community

The End of Summer Show & Shine Car & Bike Show is not just a celebration of automotive history; it also serves as a platform for giving back to the community. Proceeds from the event are donated to the Mendocino College Auto Club, supporting their special projects and initiatives.This philanthropic aspect of the show reflects the organizers' commitment to fostering a strong and vibrant community. By supporting local educational programs and initiatives, the event not only showcases the region's automotive enthusiasts but also invests in the future of the industry and the community as a whole.

A Collaborative Effort

The success of the End of Summer Show & Shine Car & Bike Show is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Greater Ukiah Business and Tourism Alliance, its dedicated sponsors, and the tireless volunteers who make the event possible. Special recognition goes to Joe Vargas for his invaluable role in organizing and volunteering for the event, as well as Brad Campbell from Garton Tractor, who generously donated his time and expertise to coordinate the Car Swap Meet.The unwavering support of the community, both in terms of participation and sponsorship, has been instrumental in the event's continued growth and success. This collaborative spirit reflects the deep-rooted passion for automotive history and the shared desire to celebrate the unique character of Historic Downtown Ukiah.