Preview Gala
Nine years ago, a group of auto dealers in Toledo saw an opportunity in their community to give back and help local children in need. They joined together to create the Auto Dealers United for Kids and an annual charity event, The Cars are the Stars. Over the years The Cars are the Stars event has grown to become one of the largest benefits in the Greater Toledo area and this year will hit the $1 million dollar mark for donations to local children’s charities.
This year’s event will be held on Wednesday, January 25, 2012, the eve of the opening of the Greater Toledo Auto Show. Hundreds of guests will gather at the SeaGate Convention Centre to see what’s new in the auto industry and support the charities selected by this year’s committee. The Autism Research Collaborative, La Posada Family Emergency Shelter, Imagination Station Science Society and automotive related scholarships to Northwood University and Owens Community College will all receive funds from the 2012 gala. In addition to supporting these deserving charities, a grant will also be given to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Tickets for the charity gala are $250 each and include valet parking, gourmet food stations and open bar throughout the evening. They can be purchased through the Toledo Auto Dealers Association. The Gala hours are 6:30 – 11:00 p.m.
2012 Charities
- :: The Autism Research Collaborative
- :: LaPosada Family Emergency Shelter
- :: Imagination Station Science Society
- :: Make-A-Wish Foundation
- :: ADUK Scholarship Fund
2012 Auto Dealers United for Kids Committee
- 2012 Chairman
- Marianne Ballas
- Co-Chairs
- Mike Barchick
- Robb Brown
- Jim Dunn
- Bobby Jorgensen
- Tim Mathews
- Mike Rouen
- Pat Stark
- Dave White, Jr.
- John Yark
Auto Dealers United for Kids Mission
Establish a prestigious and generous benefit to aid in the education and welfare of the children of “Greater Toledo”, at the same time increasing the visibility and respect of the region’s auto dealers in their respective communities.
