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Phoenix launches its Red Kettle season with the “Race For Hope” luncheon and NASCAR weekend.
By Marlene Klotz-Collins
The Salvation Army in Phoenix held its first Red Kettle Kickoff luncheon, themed “Race for Hope,” on Nov. 8 at the Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center with over 400 guests.
Edsel Ford, former chairman of The Salvation Army’s National Advisory Board, presented a keynote address on the value of volunteerism, including corporate and individual responsibility. He shared the podium with NASCAR Cup Driver Michael McDowell, an outspoken Christian who survived one of the most horrific crashes in NASCAR history. McDowell’s remarks bridged the racing theme between NASCAR and The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle season.
Racing legend Jack Roush, 2011 NASCAR Series Champion Ricky Stenhouse, Jr., and championship Australian driver Marcos Ambrose also attended at Ford’s invitation.
Expanding the racing theme, Phoenix International Raceway granted permission for The Salvation Army to ring bells at the track Friday to Sunday.
“We believe this is the first time The Salvation Army has partnered this way during a NASCAR weekend,” said Southwest Divisional Commander Lt. Colonel Joe Posillico. “We raised nearly $2,500 through bell-ringing at the track; the exposure was priceless. We hope to make this a tradition to launch our Red Kettle season.”
Phoenix Advisory Board members borrowed the “dash for cash” luncheon concept started more than two decades ago in Modesto, Calif. With dollar bills floating through the air, table hosts dashed around the room, accepting donations from guests in their individual red kettles. Approximately $40,000 was raised.
As they approached the Kroc Center, guests walked through a display of classic Fords, including a limited edition 1932 Roadster, a ‘36 stainless steel deluxe sedan (one of four in America), a powerful GT40, and a ‘66 Mercury Comet that has been on display for the past year in the NASCAR Hall of Fame. In honor of Jack Roush, a 2013 Roush Mustang and truck were also exhibited, along with a ‘13 Ford Fusion, the street model of the NASCAR Sprint Cup car driven by several of Roush’s drivers.
“I was honored to be part of this inaugural event for Phoenix’s kettle launch,” Ford said. “They tied the inspiring spirit of The Salvation Army into the excitement and passion of NASCAR. Extending the fun and energy of the luncheon throughout NASCAR weekend was brilliant, a win-win for everyone.”
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