Central Tampa News & Tribune | May 6, 2009

Wheels of Success honors supporters

DANA SHORES - A sellout crowd of more than 300 guests honored supporters of Wheels of Success at the third annual Race Luncheon and Hub Cap Awards ceremony.

The event, at A La Carte Event Pavilion, raised about $27,000 for the organization, which provides transportation to working families to help keep them employed. The assistance may be a car, car repair or another need.

Susan Jacobs, the nonprofit's founder, said the organization last year presented 70 cars and provided 153 other services.

"The vehicles we get may not be their dream car, but it can get them to their dream car," she said. "It will get them to work, school or a second job."

Deb Johnson, who volunteered to help with the silent auction at the event, received a car. Her home burned Nov. 22 and her car was destroyed by the heat.

She said she works odd hours and public transportation is not available.

"I don't know what I would do without them," Johnson said.