Information

How it started:

On Veterans' Day in 2002, two PT Cruiser clubs in Northern California - Monterey Bay PT Cruisers and PT Cruisers of Silicon Valley - came togther on behalf of the hospitalized veterans at the VA hospitals in Palo Alto and Menlo Park, and hosted "Show 'n' Shines" for them to enjoy for a few hours in the morning and in the afternoon respectively. Along with their spiffed-up cars; the members brought delicious, but healthful treats and a huge display of respect and appreciation. They were so well-received that they were asked back the next year.

The following year, two Corvette clubs and a group of Mini Coopers were invited to join and a show was done at each site, for most of the day in both locations. Radio-controlled car races and lots of raffle prizes were added to the mix and the enduring formula was devised. The show became the lead-off event for a week-long celebration of our veterans.

In 2005, with the help of some local custom and classics car enthusiasts, the PT owners and Corvette drivers fielded almost sixty cars for the patients at the Menlo Park VA Hospital. The show was better than ever: three tables of awesome food gifts, and eight tables strewn with raffle prizes and gifts for our veterans.

These free shows are a vital part of the Car Show for the Vets formula and we are committed to continuing this format of Show 'n' Shines.

But wait, there's more:

In an effort to raise both funds and awareness; in 2006, Car Show for the Vets was formed by the primary organizers of the hospital shows with a whole new approach: juried car shows for car enthusiasts of all stripes to come together and enjoy their hobby, win a few prizes and trophies, and demonstrate their support and appreciation for those who have given so much for our country. Many of our exhibitors are veterans themselves; but that's not required. We like to say, "You don't have to be a Vet to show your car and show you care."

These shows are a cooperative effort among a local car club or clubs, an American Legion post and Car Show for the Vets (CSV). We have a formula that works - and we would love to share it with others who share our goal: Helping America's veterans.

All net proceeds go to veterans causes. We charge a nominal registration, host a raffle, sell t-shirts and other merchandise and solicit donations and sponsorships for prizes and trophies. The Legion Post supplies the food and beverages, and they keep the proceeds from those sales.

If you would like to be a CSV Committee Chair, and organize a show in your locale, find one of the board members on the Contacts page and let us know.