Story By: ALICIA BUSA / WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA – MONTEREY, CA – On December 2, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca marked the culmination of its Cars & Coffee season with a festive twist, transforming the event into a fundraiser and toy drive for CASA of Monterey County. It was the fourth and final event of the 2023 season and garnered overwhelming community support.
Under the guidance of Communications Manager Alicia Busa and the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca team, each Cars & Coffee gathering has become not only a celebration of automotive passion but also a platform for giving back to the community. This season’s events transformed into fundraising activities, raising over $10,000 for local causes including the SPCA and a relief fund for the community of Pajaro, highlighting the track’s commitment to making a positive impact locally.
This event was benefitting CASA of Monterey County, a local branch of the national organization that trains and supports advocates for children in the foster system. The community’s generosity shone through, as over 400 cars rolled in filled with holiday spirit resulting in an impressive $2,500 raised in cash and credit card donations, and three carloads of donated toys to CASA, adding a touch of magic to the season for children in need.
Against the backdrop of a crisp but sunny winter morning, holiday music filled the air and a few attendees even danced. Coastal Roots Hospitality warmed visitors with complimentary hot coffee and cocoa, while also offering tamales for sale. Sabor Kustoms took the spotlight as the featured marque, showcasing stunning custom vehicles primarily from the ‘50s and ‘60s, in vibrant candy colors.
Anthony Jimenez from Monterey Cars & Coffee played a crucial role this year, rallying volunteers to help park and direct traffic at each of the track’s four events. WeatherTech Raceway staff is also grateful for the help of their incredible sponsors Coastal Roots, Good Boy Bob Coffee, Monterey Touring Vehicles, Tanimura & Antle, and My Chevrolet who helped to make the Cars & Coffee events possible and often came out in support for each cause.
Reflecting on the day’s success, Alicia Busa expressed gratitude, stating, “The December 2nd Cars & Coffee event truly captured the essence of giving and community spirit that these events have become. It was moving to see the sheer number of toys donated from the residents. We’re proud to have created a festive space where car enthusiasts came together not only to enjoy their passion but also to spread joy and support a worthy cause.”