There is undeniable turmoil currently playing out in the Eastern European country of Ukraine. Since February, its people have been under attack from the Russian military. As survivors flee, many have been left in need of support in ways that most will never comprehend. In a simultaneous act, the war rages on, while a large-scale international humanitarian effort plays out. Carlisle Events is teaming with the Carlisle Area Lions Clubs and the Carlisle Salvation Army to receive donations that can ultimately help those in need.
Beginning with Spring Carlisle (April 20-24) and running through Fall Carlisle (September 28-October 2), the Salvation Army will be on grounds, ringing their familiar bell, and taking donations. According to Captain Ozzie Urbaez, their on-site donations will go towards Ukrainian relief efforts, while also raising awareness for their local causes too. Their location per event varies, but their mission remains the same; to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet the human needs in his name without discrimination. In addition to their standard monetary donations, they’ll also have a donation bin set up where that support will benefit Ukrainian refugees.
“We at The Salvation Army are honored to partner with Carlisle Events to help the people of Ukraine who have been heavily affected this year,” added Captain Baez. “Our partnership with Carlisle Events dates back to more than 20 years and their support to the people we serve in Carlisle is invaluable. On behalf of The Salvation Army we thank you for your generosity in helping our friends from Ukraine who are in desperate need of our help this year.”
In addition to the Salvation Army’s on-grounds presence, local Lions Clubs will come together to greet guests as they enter the venue to solicit donations for the Ukrainian relief effort. These Lions Clubs include Carlisle, Boiling Springs, Mt. Holly, Plainfield, Newville, Shippensburg, and Jacksonville (Walnut Bottom). Just as the bell and look from the Salvation Army will be unmistakable, so will the vests and branding of the Lions Club members.
“Our motto is ‘we serve’ and when Carlisle Events called us to ask about supporting this cause, we were eager to spring into action,” noted Raymond Highlands, Carlisle Lions Club President. “In addition to Lions from our Carlisle club, we are thankful for the help and support of area Lions Clubs too. I can’t thank them enough as we pull together to help those in need.”
This venture is one that was discussed for weeks within the Carlisle Events offices, but ultimately got going following an e-mail from co-owner and co-founder Bill Miller, Jr. Recognizing our long-time partnership with the Salvation Army and having formerly served on their board, a conversation was started that pays off with the Salvation Army, Lions Clubs, and Carlisle Events partnering to continue supporting those in need, locally and abroad.
“Our team at Carlisle Events stand with the people of Ukraine,” said Miller. “Our hearts are heavy with the devastation they are enduring and we want to help in any way we can,” continued Miller. “Carlisle Events has teamed up with the Salvation Army to send as much as we can to ease the suffering on all the people of Ukraine. Give with your hearts with whatever you can and we will make sure every penny will get to the people.”
Attending a car show at Carlisle isn’t just a great way to support those in need, it’s an affordable family outing. Kids 12 and under are always admitted free at Carlisle and for details on vendor or Showfield registration, event specifics, or to purchase discounted spectator admission tickets, call 717-243-7855 or visit CarlisleEvents.com.