For the fifth annual United Way of La Porte County Car Wash, Michigan City decided to forgo competition and approach the county fundraiser with a more United Front. On October 9th the Police Department, school system, and Fire Department banded together to help an organization that helps us all. The car wash is the kick off to a series of United Way fundraisers spread through October and November. By the end we should reach our goal of over 1 million dollars donated.
In years past the three groups have hosted their own car washes on the same day, at their respective locations, and they made the fundraiser into a friendly competition to see who could get the most money. This year they wanted to show the community what unity looks like.
Click here to see all the photos from the United Effort Car Wash.
Mayor Meer spoke of the positive change a combined car wash had made.
“In the past it has been more competitive but I think having it in one spot has really made a difference. It is a community event.”
The high visibility was also a huge bonus. Instead of being at the fire station, the police station, and the school, the car wash got a lot of attention from travelers along Michigan City’s main road, Franklin St.
Plus the shiny red fire trucks attracted attention. One of the pair even helped get the cars washed.
When a car pulled into the parking lot it was greeted with candy provided by Captain Ed's Furniture Showroom and an opportunity to donate to United Way.
Orange cones marked the way around the car wash. A squad of police and firemen armed with soapy sponges scrubbed down the cars. Then the donor would drive his car under the 50-gallon spray of the fire truck's snorkel. Another group of volunteers was waiting at the end to dry off the vehicles with a leaf blower.
As if a hand washed car was not enough, there was also live music, food, and camaraderie. Donating a hundred dollars or more put you into the Elite Wash Club, where you are rewarded with a certificate, a United Way baseball cap, and a picture with one of the chiefs.
Betsy Kohn, the communications director for the school district, said that the principals, basketball team, ROTC, and others would be starting their shift at 230.
They, like everyone at the wash, know the importance of helping United Way.
“United Way benefits so many of our students and families. We want to give back because they give to our kids constantly,” said Kohn.
Emergency Management Associate of La Porte County Larry Butcher said, “they give to a lot of good things, the money stays in the community. I believe in them.”
For United Way themselves, the car wash is “not just about giving money,” said Kris Pate, United Way of LPC's Executive Director. “It’s about cultivating that attitude that we’re all in this together. United Way is the best opportunity to work together in a community for common goals.”
United Way supports the community through many projects. They have spent the last two years asking questions and gathering information about what ways the county can be improved. They decided on three different categories: education, health, and financial stability. United Way is tackling each one at the same time.
Their efforts obviously do not go unnoticed. The municipal departments were glad to help out.
Police Chief Mark Swistek was especially proud of the groups being able to unite this year instead of spreading out. “Being able to have all of us together is a lot of fun and it is also a chance to see what can happen when we come together.” He said that is why he prefers the united car wash instead of the competitive ones.
Fire Chief Randy Novak laughed and said it’s just because “(The police department) is scared the fire department will beat them!”
That sentiment perfectly represents the mood of the car wash. Everyone was joking and having a good time.
“It hasn’t been a sunny day,” said Pate, “But it’s been sunny here because we’re having a ball.”