Georgia Magazine - December 2024 - 8

GEORGIA News
Compiled by Katie Cowart
Holiday cheer for those in need
Since its inception in 2008,
F
or the 17th year in a row, Santa's Toy Run (STR) will roar
to life at the Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in Braselton
Dec. 7-8, combining thrilling motorsports with heartfelt
holiday giving. The event was created and is hosted by longtime
Rayle Electric Membership Corp. members Ron and Michele
Rigdon.
Since its inception in 2008, Santa's Toy Run has delivered
holiday gifts to more than 5,000 children across the region. The
event also has raised more than $50,000 for organizations that
deliver vital care to these children throughout the year.
STR partners with the National Auto Sports Association
(NASA)-Southeast to create a weekend like no other.
Racing action kicks off on Saturday with a full day of
competitive events, as NASA-Southeast drivers vie for season
titles. On Sunday, fans can experience the speed and skill of
professional drivers up-close in the Race Car Ride Along.
The centerpiece of Sunday's schedule is the Toy Run
itself-a thrilling race with more than 80 cars from multiple
divisions on the track simultaneously. Santa's Toy Run also will
feature its second annual car show, with a lineup of unique
show cars.
One of the most meaningful aspects of Santa's Toy Run is
its community impact. Attendees can gain admission through
the Tickets for Toys program. A new, unwrapped toy or a gift
card valued at $20 or more grants access to all races on both
days. These donations will be distributed to local children,
teens and families in need.
" Seeing the kids' faces light up when they receive their
8 Georgia Magazine December 2024
Santa's Toy Run has delivered
holiday gifts to more than 5,000
children across the region.
gifts is the best part of this whole event, " Ron Rigdon says.
" It reminds us all of what the season is about and why it's so
important to support our local children, especially at
Christmas. "
In the 2022-23 school year, metro Atlanta counted more
than 6,000 children who were homeless or living in shelters
or group homes. According to data gathered by the U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services, 42 percent of these
children are younger than 6, highlighting the importance of
events like Santa's Toy Run.
" Our goal is to protect the integrity of every donation,
whether it's a $20 toy or a $10,000 contribution, " Rigdon says.
" We ensure that 100 percent of each tax-deductible donation
goes directly to reputable nonprofits. "
Local beneficiaries include Gwinnett & Fulton Partnership
Against Domestic Violence, Gateway Domestic Violence Center,
Peace Place Domestic Violence Shelter, A Friend's House group
foster home and the Veterans of Foreign Wars National Home.
To learn about partnership opportunities or to support
STR's mission, contact Rigdon at ron@santastoyrun.org or visit
santastoyrun.org.
COURTESY RON RIGDON
http://www.santastoyrun.org
Georgia Magazine - December 2024

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