How Cornell’s Annual Car Show Boosts Folds of Honor Scholarships
In the heart of Greenfield Center, New York, Cornell’s Used Auto Parts is gearing up for its fourth annual charity car show. This event, set for May 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 62 South Greenfield Road, promises a day of classic cars, community spirit, and giving back. With a rain date of May 3, the show benefits Folds of Honor New York, an organization dedicated to providing educational scholarships to families of fallen or disabled military members and first responders. Hosted by owner Casey Cornell, the event has grown from a small employee gathering into a major fundraiser, drawing sponsors from as far as northern New Hampshire.
From Humble Beginnings to Community Staple
What started as a casual get-together has evolved significantly. Cornell recalled the first year, when they expected just 20 to 30 cars from employees. Instead, it exploded in popularity, running out of food and attracting far more attendees. By the second year, the event tripled in size, and last year it raised $10,500 for Folds of Honor. This year, organizers aim to double that amount, fueled by sunny weather hopes and strong early sponsorships.
Fundraising comes from multiple streams, including car registration fees, food sales, T-shirt proceeds, and a 50/50 raffle where winners have generously donated their shares back. Sponsors play a key role, with commitments already from Clear Stream Campground, Performance Industrial, Camelot, Saratoga Honda, Novus Clothing, Mariah Jones with The Shayna Goodson Team (Find Real Estate), Mangino Chevrolet, and Cartier Construction. Cornell encourages potential sponsors to commit by March 31 to ensure their logos appear on banners and materials. For more details, visit Cornell’s Facebook page at facebook.com/CornellsUsedAutoParts.
Sean Wilcoxon, operations director at Performance Industrial, owner of Tinney’s Tavern, and a Folds of Honor board member, emphasized the event’s broader impact. He noted that local efforts like this can fund multiple scholarships, potentially sending two or more students to college. The car show not only raises money but also fosters connections, with speakers like Ron Pastino sharing personal stories to inspire attendees.
Honoring Sacrifice Through Education
Folds of Honor was founded by Lieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney after a poignant experience witnessing the return of a fallen soldier’s remains. The organization ensures the legacies of those who served live on by supporting their families’ educational dreams. In New York, the chapter focuses on fulfilling every scholarship application, especially given the ongoing toll of events like 9/11. Wilcoxon highlighted that the state sometimes falls short of funds due to high demand from military and first responder families.
The mission resonates deeply in the region, where awareness has grown through local events. Until recent years, many, including Cornell’s general manager Mike Colvett, were unfamiliar with Folds of Honor. Now, thanks to initiatives like Cornell’s car show and Performance Industrial’s involvement, it’s becoming a household name. The group stresses that freedom is not free, and these scholarships honor the heavy price paid by service members.
A Survivor’s Journey and Call to Action
Ron Pastino, a retired New York State Police special operations veteran and 9/11 first responder, brought a personal touch to the discussion. After six years in the U.S. Army and 24 in state police, Pastino spent seven and a half months at Ground Zero on recovery and security efforts. Exposure to toxic chemicals led to severe health issues, including lung disease and multiple surgeries. Forced to retire at 45, he battled PTSD and financial strains while supporting his twins through college.
Folds of Honor eased that burden, funding his children’s undergraduate degrees and his daughter’s master’s program. Pastino now advocates for holistic treatments like stem cell therapy, which reversed much of his lung damage. He views 9/11 as the longest active terrorist event, still claiming lives 25 years later, with deaths from related illnesses surpassing those on the day itself.
For those eligible, applying is straightforward via foldsofhonor.org. Wilcoxon urges applicants to contact New York board members for advocacy, as national funds help bridge gaps. The unpaid board, composed of local volunteers, works tirelessly to meet needs.
As the car show approaches, it stands as a testament to community resilience and gratitude. Attendees can enjoy vehicles, food, and stories while contributing to a vital cause. In Wilcoxon’s words, it’s about laughter, connection, and remembering the sacrifices that make such freedoms possible. Events like this ensure no family is left behind.