Approximately 4,500 car enthusiasts visited Garland’s downtown square Saturday, April 28 for the Wheels of Hope Car Show. The show featured more than 200 vehicle entries.
According to Dana Cooper, Veritex Community Bank Business Development officer and a member of the Wheels of Hope committee, this is the fourth year that the bank has hosted the event to raise funds for Garland’s Hope Clinic. The facility provides health care to low income residents who do not have access to health care from insurance or other facilities. The bank continues to work with the health care facility because its work is so beneficial to the community.
“It’s such a blessing to know that every dollar that is raised goes to support people who would not otherwise have access to health care,” Cooper said.
Jamie Miller, Veritex executive vice president, serves on the Hope Clinic board of directors.
“Through his [Miller’s] leadership, we are committed to helping the men, women and children of Garland,” Cooper said.
Getting ready for the show is a six-month process that begins in October. The Wheels of Hope committee begins meeting monthly in January and their hard work shines in April with a fun, well-attended, family-friendly event.
Cars from every decade since the 1930s gathered at the show. There was something for everyone including Corvettes, Thunderbirds, Chevelles, vintage Ford trucks and many more. A vintage Garland police car was on display and Lightning McQueen even rolled in for the event.
Cooper said that many individuals, groups and businesses work together to make the event a success. In addition to the Wheels of Hope Committee, the city of Garland, Garland ISD administrative staff and students, the Hope Clinic staff, volunteers, and folks who enter their vehicles, help make the event a success. She also thanked the great folks of Garland and surrounding cities as well as all those who have embraced the work of Hope Clinic.
Veritex Community Bank has been the title sponsor of the car show since its inception. A small sampling of additional organizations the bank has supported are: Garland Cultural Arts Commission; Garland ISD Education Foundation; Garland Symphony Orchestra; Garland Unit NAACP; March of Dimes; Military Warriors Support Foundation; New Beginning Center; Scottish Rite Hospital for Children; and Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer.
Be sure to save the date for next year’s event – Saturday, April 27, 2019.
Hope Clinic mission statement: Hope Clinic exists to share the love of Jesus Christ by partnering with our community to provide primary health care and resources for healthy living to the underserved population. The ministry has the support of Garland churches, various community agencies and supportive individuals. Visit Hope Clinic’s website for more information.