The Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County raised $9,000 through its first-ever car show, bringing dozens of spectators, classic and muscle cars, and unique vehicles such as the Scooby-Doo “Mystery Machine,” six DeLoreans and more to the Cradle of Aviation Museum to raise money for the nonprofit and highlight the services it provides to children and adults with disabilities.
“It was a huge hit for us. We expected to raise five to six thousand,” Chris Feehan of the Cerebral Palsy Association said. “The final total was over $9,000; we were very happy that we were able to raise that much for the organization.”
For the past three years, Feehan of Mineola has attended car shows because of his own DeLorean, which he showcases. He brought the idea to host a car show for the organization to the board, and they agreed. All Feehan needed to do was organize the show, which was held Aug. 29.
Since March, he had been working with the Antique Automobile Club of America's Greater NY Region. He also worked with Empire Muscle Cars, a Long Island-based club.
“Without their help, I wouldn’t have had any clue how to put on a legitimate car show,” Feehan said.
The nonprofit receives funding through government programs, including Medicaid and Medicare, as well as insurance, but fundraising helps supplement those sources.
“(The funds) are to supplement any shortfall that we have,” Feehan said. “Because we are a nonprofit that is funded partially through the government through Medicaid and Medicare.”
The association serves about 1,200 children and adults with cerebral palsy and other disabilities through education and other services designed to help individuals live as independently as possible.
The car show also brought together members of the Long Island DeLorean community. Six DeLoreans were at the car show, a particularly strong turnout for a group that Feehan said typically sees only a few of the iconic vehicles gathered at the same event.
The event also featured appearances from Star Wars characters, including Stormtroopers and other costumed figures from the 501st Legion's Empire City Garrison and the Saber Guild's Endor Temple, who added to the family-friendly atmosphere and gave attendees another unique attraction beyond the vehicles on display.
Feehan bought his own DeLorean roughly five years ago and spent two years restoring it with the help of another DeLorean enthusiast. He has since spent the past two and a half years taking the vehicle to car shows.
“One of those individuals who was at the show, a guy Steve, helped me fix it up,” Feehan said. “And the past two and a half years, I’ve been taking it to car shows and dressing like Marty McFly.”
The show featured 10 awards, along with a People’s Choice Award. Registered participants were judged by members of automobile clubs. A separate vote was conducted by the spectators.
For Feehan, the event represented more than an opportunity for car enthusiasts to show off their vehicles. It was a way to combine a hobby he enjoys with an organization whose work he believes deserves greater support.
The Cerebral Palsy Association’s next fundraising event will continue with a 5K run at Eisenhower Park on Nov. 15. Supporters will have another opportunity to contribute to the organization and the people it serves.
