On June 7th, the streets surrounding Spruce Manor Special Care Home in Dalmeny will come alive with chrome, horsepower, and heartfelt community spirit as the annual Spruce Manor Car Show & Shine rolls into town. Running from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., this cherished event is more than just a display of classic cars, it’s a fundraiser, a celebration, and a symbol of how strong community ties can drive meaningful change.
What started in 2015 as a small Father’s Day event with just 19 cars in the parking lot has grown into a full-fledged community celebration that now draws close to 100 vehicles. “It was meant to be something special for the residents, a way to celebrate Father’s Day with their families,” explained Nikki Hyland, who has been involved since the very first show. “Now it’s a major fundraiser and a highlight of the year for everyone at Spruce Manor.”
After a brief pause during the pandemic, the event returned stronger than ever, thanks to passionate staff, dedicated volunteers, and overwhelming local support. Christine Pady, Spruce Manor CEO/Administrator, shared, “It’s about showing the community that this home matters, and that they’re a part of it.”
Proceeds from the event will go toward much-needed kitchen renovations at Spruce Manor. The current kitchen is as old as the building itself, and funds raised through the car show will help cover some of the necessary updates. “It’s always about improving quality of life for our residents,” said Christine. “Whether that’s new beds, a renovated kitchen, or enhanced recreational opportunities, the money stays right here where it matters.”
This year’s event promises fun for the whole family with live entertainment sponsored by Dalmeny Funeral Home, face painting provided by Little Pharmacy, a BBQ, along with watermelon and rollkuchen with drinks provided by the Dalmeny supermarket, raffle & auction prizes including a Ninja cooler, car polishing kit, an electric blanket, a fire truck tour of Dalmeny for five courtesy of the local fire department and more. There will also be driver gift packages sponsored by local businesses like Co-op, Herron Meats, and Harvard Western Insurance.
“Thank you to the community members, and everyone that have supported the home over the years, and who are showing their support this year to our car show. And thank you to all of the staff members that have stepped up to volunteer,” Christine said. “They have been putting in extra hours, which just goes to show that they see Spruce Manor as more than just a job, but also as a passion for caring for the residents here and ensuring they have the best quality of life here possible.”
The event is especially meaningful to Spruce Manor’s residents. As the cars begin arriving after the annual Dalmeny parade, excitement builds inside the home. “The residents watch from the windows as the street fills up with classic cars and families,” said Nikki. “It really transforms their day.”
“This is an event where everyone can come and enjoy, from car enthusiasts to kids and grandparents,” said Nikki. “We want it to feel like home, because that’s what Spruce Manor is.”
Volunteers will be easy to spot in bright blue Car Show T-shirts, many are Spruce Manor staff donating their time to make the event successful. “Our team goes above and beyond every year,” Christine said. “It’s not just a job to them, it’s a passion.”
Whether you’re entering a car, bringing the kids for some face painting, or just looking to support a great cause, the Spruce Manor Car Show welcomes you.
If you are interested in volunteering or getting involved next year, contact (306) 254-2101.
As Nikki put it best, “This car show started with a few old cars and a big heart. And it’s that heart that keeps growing every year.”
