Fueling the Future: How a Flint Car Show Keeps a School's Wheels Turning

In the heart of Flint, Michigan, a community-driven car show is making a difference in the lives of local students. The annual "Holy Hot Rods" event, now in its fifth year, has become a beloved tradition that not only showcases classic automobiles but also raises crucial funds to maintain the school's bus, a vital lifeline for students.

Driving Change: The Power of Community Passion

Revving Up for a Cause

The "Holy Hot Rods" car show is more than just a celebration of automotive history; it's a testament to the power of community spirit. Hosted by the Holy Rosary Catholic Church and School, the event has grown to become the largest of its kind, attracting over 125 classic cars and thousands of enthusiasts. The driving force behind this success is the show's founder, Greg Ellsworth, who shares, "We have a love for cars and we want to share that with everybody, and we figured this is a good way to help offset the cost of running the school bus."

Fueling the Future

The funds raised from the car show play a crucial role in maintaining the school's bus, which transports 20 students to and from school each day. Ellsworth explains, "Maintenance alone can cost $2,000 a year." This investment ensures that the students have reliable transportation, allowing them to focus on their education without the burden of finding alternative means to get to school.

A Community Celebration

The "Holy Hot Rods" event is more than just a car show; it's a community celebration that brings people of all ages together. In addition to the classic cars on display, the event features live music, food tents, a kids' scavenger hunt, and even a raffle for a retro gas pump refrigerator. Ellsworth emphasizes the inclusive nature of the event, saying, "It's just great that people enjoy the show and want to come back. We got a lot of new people here this year, too."

Driving Towards a Brighter Future

The success of the "Holy Hot Rods" car show is a testament to the power of community engagement and the impact that a single event can have on the lives of local students. By leveraging their passion for classic cars, the organizers have found a unique way to support the school's transportation needs, ensuring that the students have the resources they need to thrive. As the event continues to grow, the community can look forward to more exciting displays, engaging activities, and the knowledge that their participation is making a real difference in the lives of Flint's youth.