Above: Steve Ferraro, ESE’s Director of Operations, shows off the impressive haul of toys donated by ESE employees for the Caravan of Toys drive on Saturday, November 22.

EASTERN STATES EXPOSITION and central chevrolet host toy drive with local car clubs

The Car Club of New England and Corvette Club of Western Mass. partnered with Central Chevrolet and Eastern States Exposition (ESE) to host a toy drive in West Springfield, Mass. On Saturday, November 22, the Caravan of Toys provided an uplifting morning of holiday cheer in support of the Boys and Girls Club of West Springfield.

“Eastern States Exposition has always been committed to supporting our community,” said ESE’s Director of Operations, Steve Ferraro. “With Central Chevrolet as our neighbor, we teamed up—along with several local car clubs—to create the Caravan of Toys. Together, we collected toys to help the Boys and Girls Club of West Springfield and make their Christmas extra special.”

Though the Caravan of Toys event has passed, those that hope to get involved can still donate new or unwrapped toys to the dealership, located on Memorial Avenue in West Springfield, during regular business hours now through Monday, December 8.

The meetup began at ESE’s Gate 9 between 10-11am. Donated toys were loaded into a caravan. Classic, custom and collector cars were assembled in a queue. At 11am, the party proceeded to Central Chevrolet led by the caravan of toys and the Grinch. The party was greeted by elves and Chevy Silverado trucks at the dealership.

Participants socialized, took photos with the Grinch and elves and enjoyed coffee and donuts, free of charge. Three trophies were awarded throughout the morning to the vehicles deemed Best in Show, Most Unique and People’s Choice.

Ed O’Grady, sales manager of Central Chevrolet, explained, “The idea took root when David Virella, president of the Corvette Club of Western Mass., and I were discussing ways to leverage the enthusiasm of local car clubs for a good cause this holiday season. By combining the resources of Eastern States Exposition and a major dealership, as well as the impressive reach of the Corvette Club and the Car Club of New England, we could create something truly special and impactful.”

Toys will be transported from Central Chevrolet to the Boys and Girls Club of West Springfield at a later date.

Event coordinators extend thanks to those that unwrapped their special vehicles for the occasion, and everyone that took the time to handpick toys for those in need this holiday season.