Highschoolers are often driven by music, sports, or other interests, but Lake Lehman High School senior Madalyn proved she’s driven by compassion, cars, and a whole lot of horsepower. This past summer, she hosted Cars 4 Kids, a car show at a local restaurant as part of her senior project, revving up support for KidsPeace Foster Care in Scranton/Honesdale.
“I decided to do a car show for my senior project due to my love for cars, trucks and motorcycles. I have been riding all-terrain vehicles, side by sides and dirt bikes since I was five,” Madalyn says.
The event drew in more than 120 cars, trucks, and motorcycles, with awards for Best Classic, Best Muscle, Best Modern, and Best Overall. Guests enjoyed raffle baskets, a 50/50 raffle, music, and so much more. In a touching moment of more generosity, the 50/50 winner, Madalyn’s uncle, donated his $450 prize back to KidsPeace.
With the help of her family, friends, and community, Madalyn raised more than $3,100 to benefit children and families served by the KidsPeace Scranton/Honesdale foster care offices.
“I chose KidsPeace after looking into several different charities. I wanted to help children to have experiences that I have been fortunate to enjoy as a child — like vacations, trips to amusement parks, baseball games, festivals and pumpkin patches. I wanted to help children who normally wouldn’t have the chance to go to these activities,” she says.
The passion for KidsPeace clearly runs deep in the family, as Madalyn is the niece of Monica Reap, Family Resource Specialist. Her commitment mirrors the same compassion Monica shares every day in her work.
“I am beyond proud of Madalyn for putting her heart into this project and making such a meaningful impact,” said Monica. “It means so much to see her passion for cars and for helping children and families come together. Watching her coordinate this entire car show and give back in such a big way fills me with so much pride and hope for the future.”
Madalyn notes that her current car – a 2017 Mustang GT Premium 5.0 – is one that she rebuilt to get it back on the road. But auto work is just one of Madalyn’s interests – along with woodworking, home construction, and home design. “I like working with my hands, and while I am not completely sure what my plans are after graduation, I am looking into different trades,” she says.
We are deeply grateful for Madalyn’s support, her big heart, and the kindness of everyone who made this event a success. Together, they showed that when a community comes together, kids win every time.
