‘Hearts of gold’
When trucking is covered by the mainstream media, it’s often the bad actors and tragic incidents that receive the headlines.
However, the 19th Special Olympics Minnesota convoy held in October is an example of truck drivers who are determined to help their community.
“(Truckers don’t) get pulled into the limelight very often for the good they do,” said Kathy Karkula, development director for Special Olympics Minnesota. “They are very viable to our organization. Truckers have hearts of gold, and I want others to see that. They love Special Olympics and help us throughout the year.”
Karkula said the event, which took place Oct. 7-8, raised more than $25,000 for the charity. More than 80 trucks and 45 athletes participated in the convoy, which traveled a 30-mile route from Columbus, Minn., to Harris, Minn.
A cookout also was part of the event, and Nashville country artist Jack Kapanka performed several songs, including “America Moves by Truck.”
“It’s a lot of work, but anything we ask of truckers, law enforcement and sponsors, they find a way to make it happen,” Karkula said. “We do this event with the help of a lot of good people. They keep a smile on my face at all times. It’s way more than just a special event.”
That team effort was evident this year in the meal served. One of the Special Olympics athletes works at a local Hy-Vee grocery store and was able to arrange for a food donation. Then several truckers provided grills to help cook the food – an example of how convoy volunteers go above and beyond.
“I need to thank the entire trucking industry, law enforcement and athletes that attend each year,” Karkula said. “We need them all, and they all make it happen. I never forget who we’re doing it for and why we’re doing it. I’d do it on a volunteer basis, because that’s how much I care.”
Other truck convoys
Several other truck convoys also were held in recent months to benefit Special Olympics organizations.
As part of the Guilty By Association Truck Show in Joplin, Mo., a truck convoy generated more than $115,000 for Special Olympics athletes in that area.
Also in September, truckers in Sioux Falls, S.D., participated in a 20th annual convoy for Special Olympics South Dakota. Entering 2023, the convoys had generated about $800,000 for the state organization. LL