Rusty Wallace Motorcycle Ride Benefits Isaiah 117 House
By Jamie Schnell
schnellj@knoxfocus.com
On Saturday, May 17, the Rusty Wallace Family of Dealerships hosted a fundraising event for Isaiah 117 House at Rusty Wallace Honda at 109 Callahan Drive in Knoxville. The Isaiah 117 House is inspired by the profound message found in the biblical passage Isaiah 1:17, which commands us to “defend the cause of the fatherless.” This organization is one of many in the state whose mission emphasizes the importance of advocating for vulnerable children and fostering a sense of safety and belonging. Isaiah 117 House was initially created to provide a comforting home and help reduce trauma for children who have been removed from their homes while they await placement in the foster care system.
The event commenced with a motorcycle ride led by Knox County Sheriff’s Office, featuring the impressive Blue Knights and the dedicated Knox County Tango Unit. The riders enjoyed a day of glorious weather, and later gathered for an unforgettable highlight: a special appearance by the legendary Hall of Fame NASCAR driver, Rusty Wallace himself. With a warm and welcoming smile, he enthusiastically noted the “wonderful turnout,” and voiced his appreciation. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated, taking the time to sign t-shirts and graciously posing for photo opportunities, creating lasting memories that captured the spirit of the gathering.
Another addition to the event was Knucklehead, a dog with a knack for adventure, along with his owner, a veteran and author known as “Patch.” Together, they have journeyed an astounding 75,000 miles, sharing their adventures through a series of children’s books.
Thanks to the community’s generosity, Rusty Wallace successfully raised over $160,000, which will be distributed among seven Isaiah 117 Houses throughout the East Tennessee region. Adding to the atmosphere were captivating performances by the dynamic band Thor and the Reigns, whose music resonated across the gathering. The air was filled with the aroma of barbecued foods, creating a festive ambiance that brought everyone together in support of a remarkable cause.
The event was more than just a celebration; it was a powerful demonstration of community spirit. Andrea Townsend, the location leader for Isaiah House in Anderson County, expressed her enthusiasm: “The Rusty Wallace Ride for Isaiah House is a truly meaningful event that unites our community for an extraordinary cause. Thanks to Rusty’s remarkable compassion and the support of our attendees, we were able to raise a significant amount of money to provide lavish love and care to children in the state’s custody who are awaiting foster placement.”
This gathering truly encapsulated the essence of generosity and hope, making a profound impact on the lives of those in need.
