IN THIS ISSUE · SPRING 2026 — Read the cover story
What happens when a love for classic cars meets a desire to help others? In the Upper Cumberland, the answer is Gears & Giving, a nonprofit organization using community car shows and cruise-ins to support families navigating childhood cancer and other serious medical diagnoses.
Founded by local car enthusiasts who believed their shared passion could serve a greater purpose, Gears & Giving has become much more than a collection of car shows. It has evolved into a growing movement built around compassion, generosity, and community support.
“Gears & Giving was founded on the belief that passion can be a powerful force for good,” said Marc deClaire, President of Gears & Giving. “What started as a shared love of cars has grown into a mission to bring hope, relief, and tangible support to families facing some of life’s hardest moments.”
The organization hosts approximately four family-friendly car shows and cruise-ins each year, bringing together classic car owners, local businesses, and community members who want to make a difference. While attendees enjoy rows of vehicles, raffles, and fellowship, the true focus remains on helping a specific local family facing a child’s serious illness.
Funds raised through sponsorships, donations, raffles, and a $20 vehicle entry fee go directly toward helping families manage medical expenses, travel costs, and everyday financial challenges that often accompany a childhood cancer diagnosis.
“Every event is centered around a pre-selected family, and the proceeds go directly to supporting that family’s immediate needs,” deClaire explained. “We believe compassion should move just as powerfully as our engines.”
The impact extends far beyond financial assistance.
For many families, knowing an entire community has rallied around them provides encouragement during an overwhelming season of life. DeClaire recalls one especially meaningful event involving Michael, a child battling a rare form of cancer.
Michael was invited to ride in the organization president’s 1969 Chevy Chevelle SS, a loud and powerful muscle car that quickly became the highlight of his day.
“At the end of the ride Michael said, ‘This is the best time I’ve ever had,’” deClaire shared.
Moments like that remind volunteers why the organization exists.
“When we were able to present the family with the funds raised, it wasn’t just about the financial help,” he said. “It was the moment they understood they weren’t alone.”
That sense of community continues to fuel the organization’s growth. Supporters regularly return to events, bring friends and family members, and help spread awareness through social media and word of mouth.
Looking ahead, Gears & Giving hopes to expand its reach, increase event participation, strengthen partnerships with local businesses, and ultimately support even more families facing childhood cancer and serious illnesses throughout the region.
“Our long-term hope is that Gears & Giving becomes a trusted source of support and relief for families during one of the most difficult seasons of their lives,” said deClaire. “We want to show what can happen when a community comes together around a shared passion and a shared purpose.”
For Gears & Giving, every car, every donation, and every event represents something bigger than horsepower. It represents hope—and the reminder that no family should face childhood cancer alone.
To learn more or donate, visit https://gearsandgiving.com.
-by Chelsea Dartez, photos provided by Marc deClaire
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