The National Guard Association of Indiana (NGAI) has once again made
it possible for service members and their families to get the
education they deserve. A milestone was set Saturday, June 30, 2007,
during the 8th Annual NGAI Car Show, where the group met and
exceeded last year’s fundraising goal despite a drop in vehicle
registrations.
More than $10,000 was raised during the show, which will go to
scholarships for Indiana Soldiers' and Airmen’s dependents. The
proceeds will allow NGAI to award 10 scholarships to those who
qualify for the funding. In addition to meeting its goals, the car
show itself was a monumental success.
"The show went extremely smooth, better than last year," said
NGAI Secretary Charlie Dawson. "Everyone was super impressed with
how the flow of registration went, and we all know that the first
impression is a lasting one. But the secret to success is the
sponsors."
Designed with community in mind, the NGAI Car Show gives
residents an opportunity to enjoy a family-oriented event while at
the same time giving their sponsorship a chance to reach out. One of
the car show’s biggest sponsors, Flanner and Buchanan Funeral
Centers, was on hand at the show to express their support of the
Indiana National Guard and their families. Tim Elson, vice president
of sales and marketing for Flanner and Buchanan, said that the
company is always excited to assist in a good cause.
"One reason we sponsor the show is because of the money, which
goes to kids of Guardsmen for their schooling," Elson said. "We also
do this to convey a message that the strength of the National Guard
isn’t just going overseas, but serving the community as well. We’re
tuned into this community, and this event allows us to show just
that."
Sponsorship goes deeper than just community ties, said NGAI
Executive Director Larry Massey. "Where are you going to get the
money for these scholarships?" Massey asked. "Registration couldn’t
possibly get us enough fundraising dollars. (The sponsors) are the
real reason we can provide for Soldiers, Airmen and their families."
Fundraising aside, the car show itself showcases some of the
Midwest’s finest automobiles, both old and new. Bob Thayer of
Indianapolis, who has participated in the NGAI Car Show since 1994,
registered his 1934 Ford 3-Window Coupe this year.
"Every car show I enter is for charity," Thayer said. "I love
doing military shows. You meet such good people that are into the
same thing you are. It’s also family-oriented, and it’s just a lot
of fun."
