The FCA Southwest Region was proud to support a drive for a worthy cause coordinated by long-time friend Deb Pollack. With her extensive record of quality events, plus the opportunity to help the nearly one million people in the US who are living with the debilitating Parkinson’s Disease, it was a rewarding experience in every way.
Deb defined the goal of the event as, “We are looking to build both an adventure and a movement within the automotive community that will create a groundswell in finding a cure for Parkinson’s Disease. Having been in the car industry for several decades – blending cars and camaraderie has always been something of second nature – but when I lost my Mom to Parkinson’s in 2006, I realized there were meaningful ways to share friendships and the emotional bonds and gratification that driving can bring, to support the challenges others may face.”
With two simultaneous, spirited drives along portions of the most scenic and challenging roads in both northern and southern California, the premiere Drive Toward a Cure rally focused on a weekend of exhilarating drives, luxury accommodations and exceptional wine and food centered around the Paso Robles area. Saturday evening’s dinner reception for 80 guests at the Adelaida Vineyards and Winery was but one example that combined an opportunity to socialize while sharing a charitable message. The full 3-day event raised over $26,000 to benefit both the globally
renowned Michael J. Fox Foundation and the California-based Parkinson’s Institute and Clinical Center.
The central meeting point in Paso Robles also allowed others like myself to join the event for the Saturday drives through the picturesque hills and shores of California’s central coast. I didn’t know there were so many curvy back roads in the area, which beg for another visit to sample the many area wineries and relaxing locations.
For information about Drive Toward A Cure and their next event on the east coast this fall, please visit www.drivetowardacure.org.