Asheville IFB Solutions trainer Tammy Watson was in a meeting at IFB Solutions (formerly IFB Asheville) when discussions began about helping fund a walking trail adjacent to the building for employees who are blind or visually impaired. Those discussions sparked an idea.

Watson works with many IFB Solutions employees who are blind, teaching them to sew, and she understands the importance of having a blind-friendly trail so people can get outside and walk. As Webmaster for WNC Wheels, a local car club, Watson knew her club raised funds for many worthy causes. So she approached the club to do a fundraiser to help get the trail built, and the response was overwhelming.

“I took this idea to help build a trail for our employees to the club, and we decided to have a car, truck and motorcycle show to help. The club voted unanimously to do it,” said Watson. “We hope to have 200-250 vehicles on display, and all the funds we receive will go to help build the walking trail.”

Watson approached Asheville Outlets marketing experts who agreed readily to host the show. The car, truck, and bike show will be June 11 from 1-4pm at their outdoor location next to Field & Stream.

There is no preregistration to enter, and a $7 fee allows participants to display their vehicles. Each entrant receives a window placard and ballet. Trophies will be awarded for the top five vehicles and Sponsor’s Choice. All proceeds will go to IFB Solutions, formerly Industries for the Blind Asheville.

Watson is asking people to bring their antique or new vehicles, and says that each entrant will receive a goody bag with coupons and other items.

The walking trail requires a special surface so employees who are blind can use their canes to feel the difference between it and the surrounding grass. IFB Solutions Asheville hopes to add some benches, interpretive signage in braille, and a sensory garden in the future, but the immediate need is to get the trail built soon.

To learn more about the event on June 11, contact Tammy Watson at 828.640.4165 or Cory Mihalik, club treasurer, at 828.702.2740. To donate funds to support building the walking trail, visit IFBSolutionsfoundation.org.