3rd annual event raises funds for Veterans and Family Center in Beaverton, Ore.
The Salvation Army Veterans and Family Center in Beaverton, Ore., hosted the 3rd annual classic car Veterans Cruise-In July 12.
The free community event supports the center, which is the only facility in the area that houses and serves not only veterans but also their families. The event’s proceeds will fund construction of an ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) accessible room that will allow the center to extend services to disabled veterans.
“Over $21,000 was raised for this program and initiative, and it is all due to the community relationships that have been developed and the community’s recognition of the need for this program,” said Rick Stoller, executive director at the center.
In fact, the Veterans Cruise-In has a location thanks to one of these relationships. Valley Catholic High School, a neighbor of the Veterans and Family Center, allows the center to host the Cruise-In on its campus.
The Cruise-In featured approximately 200 vehicles–classic cars, fire trucks, police cars and motorcycles–with owners paying a registration fee to display them. All branches of the military were there, with tanks, classic military vehicles and even a Coast Guard ship. The military also had information booths and children’s activities.
Sponsors, including Comcast, had booths at the event. A bluegrass band performed and food stands served the hungry. Several trophies were presented, including Best in Show and Most Photographed. Salvation Army kettles were placed throughout the area for donations.
“We’re hosting this event so community members can show off their cars and support a great program,” said Stoller in a statement to Beaverton Valley Times. “We want people to have a good time while supporting our veterans.”