Swap Meet and Car Show donates $20,000 to Branch County non-profits
The Coldwater Swap Meet and Car Show on Mother’s Day weekend was a huge success.
It drew 889 show cars and more than 4,000 spectators, said James Brooks, president of the Swap Meet and Car Show board.
Many things were new this year including the fact that it was back after two years off due to the pandemic. And the 34-year tradition also had a new leadership.
Dale Parshall, the long-time president, stepped down and was looking for new leadership. Much to his suprise, he got it.
Community members who understood the value of the event and got on board for the first time included Josh Cronkhite, vice president, Rick Yearling, Kent Siebern and Shauna Morris, all board members. Traci Risner was the only veteran from the previous board and serves as treasurer.
With such a strong turn out the Swap Meet and Car Show was again able to donate to Branch County 4013C organizations.
They gave away $20,000 on Monday evening divvied up between organizations that applied for grant. The non-profits asking for funding were also strongly encouraged to volunteer for the weekend.
The 2022 recipients included:
Animal Aid of Branch County
Beginnings Care for Life
Branch Area Careers Center
Branch Area Food Bank
Branch County Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence
Branch County Fair
Branch County Humane Society
Children’s Museum of Branch County
Coach Eby Youth and Family Center
Family Promise
Jacob’s Well
Sexual Assault Services
Tommy’s House
In the 34 years of the event, they have given $216,000 to Branch County non-profits, Risner said.
That's what makes the Swap Meet and Car Show a true community event, Brooks said. He was willing to step into leadership for that reason and because he wants he daughter to have the experience.
Board members all felt strongly that it was too good of an event to let fall by the wayside.
This article originally appeared on The Daily Reporter: Swap Meet and Car Show 2022 donates $20,000 in grants to non-profits