The IAM Midwest Territory hosted two of its three annual “Spirit of the Midwest Events,” a sporting clay shoot and a car show near Saint Louis over a weekend in late May to benefit Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC).
IAM Grand Lodge Representatives Chris Tucker and Terry Kimmel coordinated this year’s Spirit of the Midwest events, managing everything from raffle prizes, venues, and food to registration, advertising, and awards, with the added help of IAM Midwest Territory staff and family members.
The sporting clay shoot took place at NILO Winchester Hunting and Shooting Preserves and drew 104 participants. Awards were presented to the best shooters of the day. There was also a 50/50 raffle and raffles for new guns and equipment.
The 2024 Spirit of Midwest “Rides for Guides” Classic Auto Show happened at IAM District 837 in Hazelwood, Mo., and awarded cars for stock and modified classes based on year, best interior, people’s choice, and best of show.
GDA | TLC service dog recipient and veteran Kim Boehm and her mobility dog, Jackson, were the guests of honor. Every participant received a complimentary printed photo with their car and Jackson.
A total of 94 cars came out, 78 of which showed and 16 were there for display only.
These first two Spirit of the Midwest events raised a total of $14,800 for GDA | TLC.
“The Midwest Territory looks forward to the Spirit of the Midwest Events every year,” said General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Territory Staff, their families, NILO Farms, and District Lodge 837 work really hard to pull together these events. It is always a fun time at each of these events, and all while raising money for the charity all IAM members care about so much, Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines. Thank you to everyone who came out to support these incredible events and to all those who make it happen!”
The final event of the series, the 2024 Motorcycle Charity Ride, will be held on Saturday, July 13, in Bloomington, Ind.
Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines provides service dogs for people who are blind/visually impaired, veterans, children with autism, and facilities to become trusted companions that bring confidence, independence, and mobility. Their services are provided free of charge to residents in the U.S. and Canada.
The post Annual ‘Spirit of the Midwest’ Guide Dogs Fundraising Events Kick Off Summer Fun for Good Cause appeared first on IAMAW.