Car club holds successful fundraiser, brings in $8000

The Medical Transportation Program in Steinbach got a huge boost over the weekend, thanks to the fundraising drive held by the Country Classics Car Club. 

Cruisin’ for a Cause brought in more than $8,000 to help fund medical rides for people who need this support. 

Sandi Kihn is an executive member of the club. She was instrumental in getting this program going, connecting the car club with the Pat Porter Active Living Centre (PPALC) to make sure nobody has to miss a medical appointment due to lack of funded transportation. 

After Club President Mario Silva announced the final amount, Kihn raised her hands to cover the shocked look on her face. 

“It feels fantastic,” she said. “I was not expecting it. The club stepped up bigtime.”

Kel and Kathy Ginter were the top fundraisers for this event. (Photo Credit: Facebook.com/CountryClassics12)

Audrey Harder, Executive Director of PPALC, was also in tears when she heard the number of dollars going into the fund and struggled to find words. 

“I was completely shocked,” Harder said. “I knew it would be good, but to hear that... you just sat there and... you just see the faces of the people you have been able to help over the last while, and you know that this is going to help so many more people.” 

She said it is very clear that this group of car enthusiasts is passionate about our community and helping those who need it.

@steinbach_online The Medical Transportation Program in Steinbach got a huge boost over the weekend, thanks to the fundraising drive held by the Country Classics Car Club.    Cruisin’ for a Cause brought in more than $8,000 to help fund medical rides for people who need this support.    Sandi Kihn is an executive member of the club. She was instrumental in getting this program going, connecting the car club with the Pat Porter Active Living Centre to make sure nobody has to miss a medical appointment due to lack of funded transportation. Learn more on your Steinbach Online app. #steinbach #fundraise #medicaltransportation ♬ Losing now - Official Sound Studio

Silva is proud of the effort club members put into this fundraiser and impressed with the results. 

“It sends a message to our car club and to other car clubs that it’s not just all about cars, it’s about giving back to the community that you live in,” he says. 

Kihn offers her gratitude to the club and community for making this a very successful fundraiser. 

“I just want to thank every out there who donated, participated in the run, who made food. We had a dinner after the fact, absolutely everyone who was touched by this and had the feel of wanting to donate and give. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

Members of the Country Classics Car Club after their first Cruisin' for a Cause fundraiser where they drove around 350km and collected pledges to support the Medical Transportation Program in Steinbach.

In June, the car club raised $1,100 at the car show during Summer in the City to get this program and fund started. 

This money helped pay for 14 medical trips during the summer. Harder says it felt great to be able to help each person who needed this type of support. 

“We didn’t have to turn anyone away.” 

Now, she looks forward to helping many more people who struggle with getting the necessary transportation for medical appointments. 

Donations are always accepted for the Medical Transportation Program at the Pat Porter Active Living Centre. If you or someone you know might benefit from this type of support, contact the centre at 204-320-4600 for information. 

-With files from Carly Koop.

 

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