BROOKLYN, Mich. — The holiday season is quickly approaching. So take a lap around the fastest track in NASCAR to get into the holiday spirit.
MIS Cares, the non-profit arm of Michigan International Speedway, will host the fifth annual Charity Track and Toy Drive on Saturday, Dec. 7. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., weather dependent.
Guests may take a lap in their personal automobile around the track in exchange for a new, unwrapped toy or a bag of nonperishable food. All items will be donated to the Brooklyn Food Pantry in Brooklyn, Mich., and the U.S. Marines Toys for Tots.
In addition, guests will have the opportunity to visit with Santa in the Michigan Room. So don’t forget your list. Photos with Santa will be available from Cori B Photography from $5.
The speedway has even thought about the children to make it a true family day. Children are invited to color a holiday card that will be sent to active military members.
“We are happy to be part of this great event and help the local community,” MIS President Roger Curtis said. “We don’t just work here; we live here and we’re happy to be part of this community. We invite all our race fans and friends to help us support this event as we look to make the holiday season better for those who need it.”
The event has been an overwhelming success in its first four years and continues to grow, thanks to the support of the community.
“The Charity Track and Toy Drive has been very successful in years past and has benefitted some great organizations,” said Jayme Bicknell, fan services manager at MIS. “It has provided a significant impact for a number of families for the holiday season. We hope our efforts provide a lift to those that need it and make their holidays a little better.”
In 2013, the Charity Track and Toy Drive helped numerous families throughout the area. The overwhelming support from fans near and far allowed the track to fill a 15-foot truck twice with food for the Brooklyn Food Pantry and a 26-foot truck with items for Toys for Tots.