Jeep Event Benefits Lakewood Volunteer Fire Department and Lakewood-Busti Canine Unit

Michelle Turner came to the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation looking for a partner to help her make the biggest impact possible from a Jeep and motorcycle fundraising event. Michelle, along with Bonnie Ridgeway and Gregg Pietrocarlo, were the vision and energy behind “Go Topless and Ride the Lake Jeep Jam” summer event.

The inaugural Jeep Jam event, held on July 28th, featured Jeeps and motorcycles cruising around Chautauqua Lake, concluding at the Rod and Gun Club, with music, vendors, and food trucks–all in support of the same objective. Like many other Jeep festivals across the country each summer, the Lakewood Jeep Jam brought visitors to the Chautauqua Lake region for a day of sun, fun, and live music. More importantly, the event raised money to support community organizations and key projects.

The proceeds from the 2024 event were granted to the Lakewood Volunteer Fire Department and Lakewood–Busti Canine Unit, as well as Randy’s Ride, which remembers Randy Ridgeway who passed away in 2022. “We have a long history of assisting community members in their desire to support the needs they see around them,” said Tory Irgang, Executive Director. “Michelle’s vision for how to utilize a fun event to raise money for first responders was a win-win.”

To make a contribution to the Jeep Jam Fund, visit crcf.me/jeepjam. To learn more about Jeep Jam, visit them on Facebook, at crcf.me/jeepjamfb.

For more information on the funds held at the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, visit www.crcfonline.org or contact Lisa Lynde, Donor Services Officer at 716-661-3390 or llynde@crcfonline.org