The 44th annual Drive for Life Foundation Gala will take place on September 24, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the elegant ballroom of Radisson Plaza in Kalamazoo, Michigan, gathering community leaders, philanthropists, and sports enthusiasts for an evening dedicated to fundraising and celebration.
Special Guests
Northwestern head coach Pat Fitzgerald, a two‑time consensus All‑American and 2008 inductee into the College Football Hall of Fame, will serve as the special guest speaker, bringing his celebrated coaching legacy to the event. NASCAR driver Carson Hocevar, who captured his first Cup Series victory at Talladega Superspeedway in April 2026, will also attend as a celebrity guest, highlighting the growing connection between motorsports and local philanthropy.
Tickets for a pair of attendees are priced at $300 each, and each purchase includes a raffle entry for a chance to win a brand‑new 2026 Honda Accord or a $30,000 cash prize, underscoring the event’s blend of luxury and community spirit.
The gala is presented by Zeigler Auto Group, whose support extends to the American Cancer Society and a range of local charities, reinforcing a commitment to cancer research and broader community welfare.
Since its inception, the Drive for Life Foundation has leveraged social events, auctions, and ticket sales to generate funds that bolster cancer research initiatives and provide direct assistance to families in need, a mission that aligns with the ongoing efforts of the American Cancer Society.
Community Impact
By combining the star power of a celebrated college football coach and a rising NASCAR talent with robust fundraising mechanisms, the gala aims to amplify its outreach and ensure sustained support for life‑saving research and local charitable programs.