Classic cars, new Chevrolets and a community effort to help shelter animals came together Saturday as Quirk Chevrolet of Portland hosted its annual Quirky Cruise-In to benefit the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland.
The car show and donation drive was held Saturday, Aug. 29, at Quirk Chevrolet of Portland, 1000 Brighton Avenue, bringing car enthusiasts and animal lovers together for an afternoon centered on community support.
“It’s a beautiful day and a beautiful event for a great cause,” Brian Johnston, chief operating officer of Quirk Chevrolet of Portland, told The Maine Wire during Saturday’s event.
The idea behind the event was simple: bring together Maine’s car community while collecting much-needed supplies for animals waiting for homes.
Quirk asked show-car owners to contribute either a pet-supply item or a minimum $5 donation in place of a traditional registration fee. Spectators were able to attend free of charge, although they were also encouraged to bring donations.
The centerpiece of the fundraiser was Quirk’s “Fill the Equinox” challenge.
A Chevrolet Equinox served as the collection point throughout the afternoon, with organizers working to pack the vehicle with pet food, toys, treats, blankets and other supplies for the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland.
According to Quirk Chevrolet, donated items were intended to support cats, dogs and small animals being cared for by the shelter.
Among the shelter’s requested items were canned cat and kitten food, canned dog and puppy food, unopened dry food, pet toys, leashes, collars, harnesses, towels, blankets and linens.
Supplies for smaller animals, including rabbit and guinea pig food, hay, toys and other necessities, were also encouraged.
But Saturday’s event was about more than donations.
All makes and models were welcomed at the cruise-in, giving owners of classic cars, muscle cars, trucks and newer vehicles an opportunity to put their rides on display.
Instead of relying on a traditional judging panel, attendees were given the opportunity to vote for their favorites through People’s Choice awards.
Trophies were offered in several categories, including Best in Show, Best Chevrolet and Best Classic.
The event also included food vendors, vehicle displays and representatives connected with the Animal Refuge League, giving attendees an opportunity to learn more about adoption, volunteering and the shelter’s work across southern Maine.
The Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland is located at 217 Landing Road in Westbrook. More information about adoptions, donations, volunteer opportunities and the shelter’s wish list is available at ARLGP.org. The shelter can also be reached at (207) 854-9771.
The Quirky Cruise-In brought together two passionate communities Saturday, car enthusiasts and animal lovers, while turning that enthusiasm into direct support for animals in need.
For Quirk Chevrolet, the day was about more than polished chrome, classic engines and People’s Choice trophies.
By the end of the event, the most important vehicle on the lot was not necessarily the fastest, rarest or most expensive.
It was the Chevrolet Equinox being filled with food, toys and supplies for animals waiting for a home.
Ain’t that a Quirk kah!
Yes, youz guys can have dat one.