Goleta area car show benefits educational programs and those with repair needs

GOLETA, Calif. - Car enthusiasts from throughout Southern California showed support for a new program to help young mechanics and those who want to learn how to service their own vehicles.

The Community Hot Rod Project's event Saturday drew about 100 vehicles. They included, show cars, race cars, classics, low riders and custom projects.

The non-profit's organizer Kevin Haeberle says he received wide spread support for the car show and the overall effort for the program.

Funds raised will help with efforts to teach people how to work on their own cars and encourage students to be consider careers in engineering, science, math and trade skills.

There was also a tool drive that resulted in many donations that could be used for the beginning mechanics.

Custom awards made of engine parts were handed out. They were created by Haeberle and each had spinning parts.

There were also pop up tents for vendors who specialized in car care and customization.

The event was held at the South Coast church with COVID safety protocols, including spacing, masks and reduced crowd gathering encouraged.

All drivers were advised to follow the vehicle code and safe driving rules in the neighborhood.

Going forward, the group is hoping to have two adjoining sites for shop work and a vehicle museum on the Santa Barbara airport property.

They also plan to have a process to help drivers in need, especially those who are living in their cars, so they have maintained vehicles.

Some of the vehicles and participants in the show came from out of the immediate area, including from Los Angeles County.

For more information go to: The Community Hot Rod Project.