Hinckley Car Club raises money for Make-A-Wish and collects donations for animals at car show

HINCKLEY TWP. — The Hinckley Car Club gave back to children and animals in need at its annual Cars at the Cabin car show at the Brooklyn Exchange Cabin in Hinckley on Sunday. Jeff Truitt is a founding member and vice president of the Hinckley Car Club. He said the organization is a 501(c)(3) organization, and all the funds raised by the group go to charity. A single charity is selected as the focus each year. "In the past, we've raised for Boundless to help them get a wheelchair for a kid in need," he said. "We've done (it for) individual members that have a problem. Make-A-Wish is our focus this year." Participants at Sunday's event could also "stuff the truck." Those who stopped by were encouraged to bring a donation of items like pet food or treats to help animals who are in at a no-kill shelter. "People seem to gravitate to it," Truitt said. "We do very well with it. We just started and the truck is almost full, so it's just something to feel good about. We're all dog lovers or animal lovers." Hinckley Car Club events are open to all people who are car enthusiasts or who are into car culture, Truitt said. "We've got new cars," he said. "We've got old cars. We've got trucks. If you're into cars, and cars are your passion, you're welcome here. Bikes as well." Historically, the organization raises about $5,000 a year in its charitable events, Truitt said. This year, the group may end up raising $10,000, which would be enough to give two wishes at Make-A-Wish. "We're fortunate enough to be able to play with these expensive toys," he said. "It means a lot to be able to give back to people. Coming here, just to get together, that's nice. If you're doing it toward a common goal, it's all good." Contact reporter Madisyn Woodring at (330) 721-4049 or mwoodring@medina-gazette.com.