The Concours and the Children’s Cancer Connection

August 12, 2024

Our Commitment to Children’s Cancer Connection

Learn about the heartwarming mission behind the 2024 Des Moines Concours with this video from Jennifer Hines, CCC Executive Director.

In 2014, when the Des Moines Concours moved its location to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in the Western Gateway of Des Moines, the partnership between the Iowa Automotive Heritage Foundation, who produces the Des Moines Concours, and Children’s Cancer Connection (CCC) began. The Board of Trustees saw the good works of the organization. So, it was an easy decision to have proceeds from the Concours benefit CCC.

A Letter from CCC Events Manager, Abby Coppolla

Abby Coppolla works closely with the Des Moines Concours Committees and Chairs to help plan the event. She shares the mission of Children’s Cancer Connection and the ongoing partnership with the Des Moines Concours.

“While this event offers a spectacular display of vintage and classic motor vehicles, it also serves a profound purpose beyond the stunning cars.

“Proceeds from the Des Moines Concours d’Elegance will benefit Children’s Cancer Connection, an organization dedicated to supporting Iowa families impacted by childhood cancer. Our mission at CCC is to connect these families by providing opportunities that encourage relationships and strengthen community. Through generous fundraising and donor efforts, CCC offers hospital-based programming, support outings, camps, events, and other outreach to more than 800 Iowa families at no cost to them.

“By attending and participating in the Des Moines Concours d’Elegance, you’re not only enjoying an incredible display of automotive history; you’re contributing to a cause that truly matters. You’re helping us make a significant impact on the lives of children and families facing the challenges of childhood cancer.”

Children's Cancer Connection Youth Judges
Every year, Children’s Cancer Connection brings a crew of youth judges, complete with clipboards, pens and judging documents, to pick their top three favorite exhibited vehicles. Their awards are presented during the main awards ceremony which starts with the Star Car Class at 2:45 PM.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Even though the Des Moines Concours is free to attend on Sunday, September 8th, there are other ways you can support our mission. Every donation, big or small, helps the Iowa Automotive Heritage Foundation (IAHF) cover expenses for the Des Moines Concours and also provide funding to CCC to continue providing vital programs and services to families in need.

You can mail checks to Des Moines Concours, P.O. Box 13322, Des Moines, IA 50310. Or email us at info@desmoinesconcours.com. You can also make a donation at this link.

Children’s Cancer Connection is proud to be the longtime charity partner of the Des Moines Concours.

From Backroads to Boulevards – We invite you to join us at the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park on Sunday, September 8th. Come and view world-class motor vehicles while supporting a cause that changes lives. Together, we can celebrate art, innovation, and community, while making a deep impact on the lives of children and families through Children’s Cancer Connection.