It’s July again, which means that it is time for the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, July 11-21 which culminates in race weekend in scenic Shenley Park. The 37th anniversary of the Vintage Grand Prix celebrates the Shelby and Mustang Marque of the Year. When the Shelby Convention comes to the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix this year, the Cobra will be coming home. Although Carroll Shelby was a Texan, and his legendary sports car company was in California, Shelby’s very first Cobras were built right here in Pittsburgh.
The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix is a unique 11-day automotive festival brings world-class racing to the streets of in Schenley Park with the goal of raising funds to provide residential care, treatment and support for developmentally disabled individuals in the Pittsburgh region. As the Vintage Grand Prix websites says, “It’s a race where everybody wins.” Because of the generous support and contributions from sponsors, and the dedication of volunteers, the event has raised more than $5.5 million to the Autism Society of Pittsburgh and Merakey Allegheny Valley School since the first races in 1983. That first year, $25,000 was raised. The 2018 donation was a record-setting $410,000. This is a one of a kind event being the only race if its kind held on city streets. The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix continues to grow and remains the largest vintage racing event in the United States.
As in years past, MyWay Mobile Storage will be providing several storage units for the event. MyWay SafeBoxes will be storing items needed during race weekend at Schenley Park. “The volunteers that have helped this event over the past 36 years are really what make it all possible. MyWay Mobile Storage is happy to be able to provide storage units to help the event run more smoothly,” he said, “It’s amazing to realize all the hard work and all the donations that have been raised in support of the Autism Society and the Allegheny Valley School. Really though, I’d expect nothing less from Pittsburghers. This is a very giving town.”
Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix events run through a 11-day celebration spanning six venues and two counties. Schenley Park Race Day closes things Sunday, July 21st with races and car shows continuing all day long: Warm-up and Practice Laps—8:30 AM to 11:00 AM, Opening Ceremonies, Parade laps by Shelby or Mustang owners—11:00 AM to 11:45 AM, Vintage Car Races—12:00 to 4:10 PM, International Car Show on the golf course—9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The 1972 Dodge Charger that was awarded to Roberto Clemente of the Pittsburgh Pirates as the Most Valuable Player of the 1971 World Series has been completely restored to its original appearance and finish and will be on display at the entrance to the American Car Show on Schenley Drive during Race Weekend.
Learn more about Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix events at: http://www.pvgp.org.
About the two charities: The Autism Society of Pittsburgh and Allegheny Valley School Autism is a neurological disorder that impairs behavior and communication. More than 4,000 families in Southwestern Pennsylvania have children with this disability. Their families are often overwhelmed by the enormous task of discerning and providing for their complex needs. The Autism Society estimates that the cost of autism over the lifespan is $3.2 million per person. They operate solely on donations to address the needs of these children through a comprehensive array of information, advocacy and referral services, which are provided to their families and the caring professionals and service providers who work with them. This includes creating, developing and improving programs and approaches in diagnosis, treatment, education, training and social adjustment. Visit http://www.autismsocietypgh.org/ for additional information.
As of April 1, 2018, NHS Allegheny Valley School changed its name to Merakey Allegheny Valley School (AVS). This is a name change only…there is no change in ownership, management, staff, or range of services offered. New name – same mission! The Allegheny Valley School was established in 1960 to care for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. AVS offers a variety of residential and therapeutic programs to nearly 900 individuals through 125 programs and facilities in 9 Pennsylvania counties. Most of the residents are diagnosed with severe or profound intellectual disabilities; most also have multiple physical disabilities, medical complications and some have behavioral management needs. Proceeds from the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix are used to cover expenses at the school that are not reimbursable by Medicaid including equipment, new program development, renovations, improvements, and so much more. Visit http://avs.nhsonline.org/ for additional information.
About MyWay Mobile Storage:
MyWay Mobile Storage is the leading provider of moving and storage solutions and located in a spacious 25,000 square foot facility in West Mifflin, PA. They provide quick and easy do it yourself moving containers that can be delivered right to your door and stored in their climate controlled, secure storage facilities. MyWay Mobile Storage is a Realtor’s Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh Affiliate Member and Market Owner, Ed Sickmund, was honored with their 2011 Affiliate of the Year award. Sickmund and MyWay Mobile Storage are also involved with the National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals, Business Networking International, and the South West Communities Chamber of Commerce.