TYLER, Texas — This weekend, the East Texas Crisis Center held its 34th annual Auto and Cycle show at Green Acres Baptist Church. The event aims to raise funds for services aiding victims and survivors of violent crimes in East Texas.
Believe it or not, car shows and the fight against domestic violence and sexual assault share a common thread.
"The same intention that these car enthusiasts and hobbyists have for restoring all 1965 Chevy or a 1966 Mustang. The same care, the same love, the same attention is needed to help survive as the domestic violence survivors of sexual assault to restore their lives, said Nichole Henry, executive director of the East Texas Crisis Center.
Henry said the money raised helps pay for licensed therapists and social workers for those living in the crisis center shelter.
The center has a 60-bed facility, which Henry said is the largest in East Texas.
When it comes to the vehicles showcased, there was quite the variety - from a sleek Tesla cyber truck to a classic 1994 Ford Bronco II, belonging to Matt Wilcox.
Willcox didn't just bring his Bronco to the show for display; he also aimed to raise awareness.
"Getting to look at all the hard work and time that folks have put into their vehicles, it's just a great way to support an organization that needs it and have a good time doing it," Wilcox said.
Wilcox has been to the show three times, but this is his first time displaying a vehicle. He's already planning to come back next year.
"That's what I love about it. It's so diverse. There's everything from $100,000 and $200,000 vehicles to my truck, which is it's not a very expensive vehicle, but it's unique. It brings back nostalgic feelings for people, which is a lot of what car shows are about. It's just shared experiences."
And Wilcox isn't the only one who loves the car show; the whole community does too.
"They love it," Henry said. "Seeing this outpouring of support really demonstrates the generosity and the heart of the East Texas citizens and their support for the crisis center. But more important, their support for survivors."