Virtual car showcase in Montana raises cash for cancer group

Regional efforts to raise money for cancer patients and their families took place on Saturday with the “Cruisin’ for a Cause” online showcase, a stand-in for Bozeman’s 20th annual “Cruisin’ on Main” event.

An occasional antique car could be observed driving along Main Street or across the town as participants in the auto show demonstrated their support for Cancer Support Community Montana, a nonprofit that works to provide cancer patients and their families with free programs, support groups, and education.

Generally, Main Street is closed for the event, attracting hundreds of cars and thousands of spectators. In the light of COVID-19 this year, organizers from Cancer Support Community Montana and the Downtown Bozeman Association decided to move it online.

Becky Franks, executive director of Cancer Support Community Montana, stated people with cancer and their families require support during the coronavirus crisis more than ever.

She felt it was important to discover a safe way to keep “Cruisin’ on Main,” as it is one of two important fundraisers the nonprofit puts on annually. By Saturday afternoon, with time still remaining, the event had generated about $7,000 in donations out of the nonprofit’s $15,000 goal, according to Franks.

“We’re really glad we didn’t go from a whole lot of something to nothing,” Franks said.

Participants in the showcase were allowed to take photos of their cars and post them on social media with the hashtag #cruisinforacause. Franks said 60 to 70 cars had registered for the show.

The other significant annual fundraiser the nonprofit organizes is a fall gala. Franks said the gala will take place on October 15 via an online platform. It will also include a free performance from country music singer Stephanie Quayle.