Driving Change: Pictou County Antique Car Club Gives Back

New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, Friday, May 30, 2025

For more than 50 years, the Pictou County Antique Car Club has combined a love of classic cars with a commitment to raising funds for local charities. With their annual Show & Shine event returning this June 7-8, the club is gearing up to welcome thousands of visitors while continuing its proud tradition of giving back.

This year, the club presented the Aberdeen Health Foundation with a donation of $1000, bringing their total annual giving amount to $9,375. These funds support the Aberdeen Hospital’s Women & Children’s Unit, enhancing care for families across Pictou County. Before the club began making annual donations in 2006, they contributed an early gift of $500 in 1991 to the Foundation’s original capital campaign.

“We take pride in helping the community, that’s all, just giving back,” says Eric Boudreau, the club’s Executive Treasurer. “Donating to local charities is a big thing for us, especially when it comes to children.”

The club has around 50 active members and welcomes all types of vehicles, from 1930s classics to modern Camaros and tuner cars. Members don’t just gather for car shows, they regularly visit nursing homes and other local venues, sharing their vehicles and stories while supporting local community.

Proceeds from the club’s summer show are distributed to six local organizations, including the Aberdeen Health Foundation, St. Martha’s Hospital Foundation, the Pictou County Food Bank, the Pictou County Christmas Fund, the Antigonish Knights of Columbus toy drive, and Nova Scotia Early Childhood Development Intervention Services (NSECDIS).

Held annually in early June, the Show & Shine is the club’s largest fundraiser. Last year, the event drew over 3,000 visitors and nearly 380 cars over two days. Highlights include door prize draws every 15 minutes, a 50/50 draw, a live auction of high-value items, and side events like Jeep and snowmobile showcases. Food trucks, vendor booths, and sponsor support help make it a fun and successful weekend.

“It’s amazing to see the turnout,” says Boudreau. “We get donations of all sizes, from $40 to in the thousands, and lots of sponsors pitch in with prizes too. Everything from gift baskets to full wheel alignments, t-shirts, jackets, hats, water bottles, and all kinds of automotive and household items. The big Sunday auction is always a favourite.”

Those interested in participating can drop by the gates or reach out to a club member in advance. A popular tradition kicks off the weekend on Thursday evening, when members meet at A&W for a classic car cruise through town.

For the Aberdeen Health Foundation, the club’s annual support has meant meaningful investment in local health care. Their contributions have helped fund programs and equipment that directly benefit women, children, and families in the community.

“We’re so grateful for the club’s generosity over the years,” says Michelle Ferris, Executive Director of the Foundation. “It’s inspiring to see how they’ve used their love of classic cars to support local families by giving back to so many important causes.”

 

Pictou County Antique Car Club Show & Shine
10 a.m. – 4 p.m daily
June 7-8, 2025
Scott Weeks Rec Field
234 Park Street
New Glasgow, NS B2H 5W5

 

 

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The Aberdeen Health Foundation is the leading charity for enhancing health care in Pictou County. In 2024, the Foundation invested over $2.7 million to fund medical equipment and enhance health programs at the Aberdeen Hospital and in the community. Your contribution can be the catalyst for even greater change — find out how you can make an impact here.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Megan Manuel Murphy
Administrative Coordinator
Aberdeen Health Foundation

902-752-7600 ext. 4600
Megan.ManuelMurphy@nshealth.ca