Revving Up for a Cause: Midvale's Main Street Car Show Drives Suicide Prevention

In the heart of Midvale, Utah, a community is coming together to celebrate the beauty of classic cars and hot rods, but the true purpose of this weekend's event goes far beyond the shiny chrome and gleaming paint. The Midvale Main Street Car Show is a platform to raise awareness and support for a cause that has touched the lives of many – suicide prevention.

Honoring Lives, Empowering Change

A Father's Heartbreak, a Community's Embrace

Guy Brown, a car show participant, still vividly remembers the day he and his son, Preston, set out to look at a Fox Body Mustang. It was a moment of shared excitement, a father-son bonding experience that was cut short when Preston tragically took his own life in March 2023, just weeks before his 23rd birthday. "This is nothing that any parent should have to go through," Brown said, his voice heavy with emotion. "We just want to bring awareness that this is a tragic thing."Determined to honor his son's memory and help others who have faced similar heartbreak, Brown is using his participation in the car show as a platform to support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The organization provided invaluable counseling and support to Brown and his wife during their darkest days. "We did a counseling group for about six months. We met several other people going through tough times as we were, and it really helps a lot," he shared.

A Veteran's Perspective, a Father's Loss

For Ronald Fugere, the car show's executive manager, the cause hits close to home. As a combat veteran, Fugere understands the unique challenges faced by those serving in the military. But his personal experience with loss is what truly drives his passion for this event. "He had the same name I did and he spoke seven languages, and it was so much fun to talk to him because he could talk about so many different subjects and that's what I miss the most," Fugere said, reflecting on the son he lost to suicide.Fugere's dual role as a veteran and a grieving father has given him a deep understanding of the importance of suicide prevention, especially for teens and veterans. This year's car show is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for these vulnerable populations, with the hope of providing resources and support to those in need.

A Community United in Compassion

More than 300 of the finest cars will line Midvale's Main Street, each one a testament to the passion and dedication of the car enthusiasts who have come together for this cause. Beyond the impressive display of automotive beauty, the event will also feature a trunk-or-treat, awards, and other family-friendly activities, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere."The car community is awesome because they rally around whatever foundation you're trying to support," Brown said, highlighting the generosity and compassion that permeates the event. For him, the car show represents a chance to not only honor his son's memory but also to connect with others who have experienced similar tragedies and find solace in shared experiences.As the community gathers to admire the stunning cars and celebrate the spirit of camaraderie, the true purpose of the Midvale Main Street Car Show shines through. It is a testament to the power of coming together, of using our passions to drive change, and of finding strength in the face of unimaginable loss. This weekend, the streets of Midvale will be filled with the roar of engines and the beating of hearts united in a mission to save lives and bring hope to those struggling with the darkness of suicide.