On Friday, May 9, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., the community of Habersham County will come together to help a local family facing the fight of their lives. The event, Cruise In with Purpose, will donate 100% of its proceeds to Riley Hembree and his family, offering much-needed support during his battle with cancer.
Riley, a courageous 16-year-old local tenth-grade student at Habersham Central High School, was recently diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer affecting soft tissue and muscle. Riley’s journey ahead includes multiple treatments and many challenges, but thanks to the strength of his faith and the unwavering support of his community, he is not walking alone.
The extent of Riley’s treatment involves 40 weeks of travel for chemotherapy to Arthur M. Blank Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, as well as six additional weeks of radiation at Emory. He just completed his 7th week, having to spend the night at the hospital to ensure his numbers were good, which are miraculously going up.
Cruise In with Purpose
Cruise In with Purpose is held on the second Friday of every month at Sam Pitts Park in Clarkesville.
The meaning behind Cruise In with Purpose is more than just its name. It represents a heartfelt mission: to serve others, share the love of Jesus Christ, and lift up neighbors when they need it most. Purpose Church sponsors this event as an avenue to serve the community’s needs.
Cruise-In with Purpose, in partnership with Cole Cleiman, WCHM 94.3FM, and the City of Clarkesville, will host a classic car show and family-friendly fundraiser, bringing together people from across the county. The goal is simple: to provide financial and emotional relief to the Hembree family as they navigate this battle.
Dawsonville local and NASCAR Cup Champion, Chase Elliott, has kindly offered for his team to bring one of his amazing cars to the Cruise In.
It is an opportunity for car enthusiasts to check out one of his incredible rides up close. He cannot be there in person, but you will have the chance to see one of his amazing cars.
Food and fun will also be part of the event. Hamburgers, hot dogs, popcorn, and boiled peanuts will be available for purchase, as well as delicious food from El Patron’s food truck.
Over 35 local businesses have already stepped up as sponsors, showing incredible generosity and love. But there’s still room for more to join in.
More than a car show
This is more than just a car show—it’s a show of faith, love, and solidarity. Let’s stand together and let Riley and his family know that the community is behind them.
Mark your calendar for May 9, and come out to make a difference. Together, we can bring hope, healing, and purpose to a young man who needs us now more than ever.
If it rains, Cruise In with Purpose will move to the following Friday, ensuring everyone still has the incredible experience of a car show. Should the grounds be too wet, the cruise will relocate to the lovely Woods Mercantile parking lot on the square, providing a perfect alternative.
Whether you want to sponsor, donate, or show up in support, every effort makes a difference. For those looking to get involved, contact Rick Whiting at (706) 499-3710 for sponsorship opportunities or donation information.
Also, friends have set up a GoFundMe account for Riley and his family. Click here to donate.
