We just had our 9th Annual Charity Car Show and to say it was a success was an understatement! This year we had the biggest and best turnout we’ve ever had and raised $20,000 to donate to hospitals and foundations!
Our event kicked off with the founder, Anthony DeCarlo giving a heartfelt speech about what our charity is and does, and why it was started. Joey DeCarlo was Anthony DeCarlo’s son who passed at the age of 2 ½ to leukemia. Anthony’s speech was followed by the national anthem, and the pledge of allegiance, and then the show kicked off! With almost 200 cars, multiple food vendors, and a DJ, it’s hard not to have fun on such a beautiful day. We also have things to keep kids entertained such as a bounce house and face painter – as we make sure to cater to all ages for a family fun day! Another highlight of this year’s event was the incredible Elvis impersonator who swooned the hearts of young and old, singing live throughout the day. Throughout the entire day, people continually came up to us to let us know what a great addition Elvis was.
Our show wouldn’t be possible without all the amazing car owners! During our car show, the registrants are automatically registered to win door prizes and at the end of the show, we give trophies out for the best cars and trucks, dating from the 1920s – 2020! We also give out special “In Memory” trophies, for those who were loved ones of Joey and have been a big part of the organization. This year’s special trophies were The Laura Farago Trophy, which was picked out by her father, Paul Farago. Laura worked for Joey’s Fund and was a big asset to past shows. The Janet DeCarlo Trophy was picked out by Samantha DeCarlo, Joey’s sister and Janet’s granddaughter. The Fred DeCarlo Trophy was picked out by Darren DeCarlo, Joey’s Uncle and Fred’s son. Joey’s Trophy was picked out by his Brother Mike Flaccavento. The Mayor’s Trophy was picked out by the mayor of Closter, Mr. John Glidden. Joe “The Horse” Russo Trophy was picked out by Niki and Lynn Russo, Joey’s cousin and aunt. The Officer McDonald Trophy was picked out by Tony DeCarlo. Officer McDonald was the person who worked with Make-A-Wish to get Joey and his family to Disney World before his passing.
Every year we strive to have our show grow in every way possible so we can raise awareness and donate more to hospitals and foundations so that we can help as many children and their families as possible. We are so honored and forever thankful for all the supporters we have, and we hope that next year’s show is even bigger and better than this one!

Tis this season of giving!  Our December blog post this month highlights the program “Toys for Tots”.  Toys for Tots is a program run by the United States Marin Corps to distribute toys to children whose parents cannot afford to go holiday shopping. 

Joey’s Fund is always looking for ways to help our community and pay it forward.  This year we were fortunate to receive a rather large toy donation from our founder’s brother, Mr. Darren DeCarlo, who was a former employee of Toys “R” Us.  Before the company closed, he was able to get hundreds of toys, strollers and more which he donated to Joey’s Fund.

Joey’s Fund took the toys and partnered up with the Closter Volunteer Ambulance and Rescue Corps this year!  The Closter Volunteer Ambulance and Rescue Corps will be spending the holiday season going around to local hospitals giving all the toys, clothes and more that were donated. 

If you’re interested in donating toys, please call your local fire department or police department to see where you can drop them off to do your part in paying it forward.  The Team at Joey’s Fund wishes you and your loved ones a very happy and healthy holiday season!