Spokane, WA, April 18, 2024 – Springtime in Harrington, Washington arrives with widespread anticipation for the annual Harrington Car Show, one of the region’s most popular events celebrating automotive culture and the nostalgia of bygone eras.  

Much more than a car show, the event includes activities and attractions for people of all ages. Food vendors, entertainers, local service clubs and area businesses work together to create a perfect day for families and neighbors to join in the fun and celebrate being together in community.  

As part of their year-long 50th anniversary celebration, Innovia Foundation is proud to be a supporter of this year’s Harrington Car Show, which takes place on May 18, 2024, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The annual car show is hosted by The Studebaker Garage, a family run antique car museum, housed in an old Ford Dealership, in Harrington. 

“The Harrington Car Show has become a cornerstone of community spirit and Innovia is honored to support this free event as part of our 50th anniversary celebration,” said Shelly O’Quinn, Innovia CEO. “Harrington exemplifies the beauty of rural communities across our region, and we invite you to join us on May 18 to discover all that Harrington has to offer.” 

Set against the backdrop of Harrington’s historic main street, the car show transforms the town with a stunning display of more than 250 vintage and collectible vehicles that will captivate visitors of all ages. Innovia will be on site at the Harrington Town Square where visitors can pick up a complimentary “Innovia Buck” to spend at local businesses for delicious food and beverages.  

Jill Barth, Studebaker Garage owner and car show founder, shared, “We are excited that the Harrington Car Show has become such a beloved family event. Our goal is to celebrate more than 100 years of automotive innovation, while highlighting Harrington’s rich history and our commitment to keep Harrington vital.” 

Innovia has a long history of working in partnership with the Harrington community. Several grants have helped fund restoration of the historic Harrington Opera House, which first opened in 1904 and today is a hub promoting arts, culture and economic development.  

A $30,000 matching grant from Innovia helped establish the Harrington Town Square as a gathering space in the heart of downtown.  

“Innovia has supported a number of revitalization projects in Harrington. These collaborations align with Innovia’s vision of vibrant and sustainable communities where every person has the opportunity to thrive and truly demonstrate the transformative power of community,” remarked Rick Rasmussen, Board President of Innovia Foundation and CEO of Northwest Specialty Hospital. “These initiatives reflect our ongoing mission to ignite generosity to address local needs and support opportunities that enhance the vitality of our beloved region.” 

Innovia is pleased to work with Harrington residents by hosting two funds supporting community vitality: The Hearts in Harrington Fund and the Harrington Town Square Community Fund.  

Hearts In Harrington Fund: The Hearts in Harrington Fund was established by Janis Schultz Miller out of her deep appreciation for the land and the people in her hometown of Harrington. The fund addresses priority issues now and for generations to come. “It’s all about what Harrington has given to me; it’s the sense of belonging, the feeling of home and support from all the people here,” says Janis. 

Harrington Town Square Community Fund: Innovia also manages the Harrington Town Square Community Fund that was seeded with a $30,000 matching gift challenge. Replacing an empty lot, the new town square serves as a hub for community gatherings and connection in the heart of downtown Harrington. 

The Harrington Car Show is part of a series of events and activities Innovia is gifting to communities across Eastern Washington and North Idaho in celebration of the Foundation’s 50th Anniversary in 2024. More information about these events can be found at innovia.org/fifty. 

Celebrating Community in 2024 

Together with media partner NonStop Local KHQ, Innovia is Celebrating Community, a year-long, region-wide celebration of the volunteers, citizens and organizations that have faithfully served the needs of communities for 50 years in Eastern Washington and North Idaho. Each month, Innovia will gift the region with free, inclusive, family-friendly activities and experiences to commemorate the Foundation’s past, present and future of bringing people together to transform lives and communities. Event details will be released at the beginning of each month throughout 2024. 

50th Anniversary Calendar of Events 

In addition to Innovia-sponsored community events, the Foundation has launched an online calendar where individuals and organizations can submit information about celebrations and activities in their community. The calendar is open to any events within the Foundation’s region that are free or low-cost, family-friendly and have a broad community appeal. Calendar entries can be submitted at innovia.org/fifty.  

Photo Drawing 

Community members who attend Innovia-sponsored community events this year are invited to submit their photos from the event for a chance to win a photo drawing. Winners will be selected in March, June, September and December to receive a $250 grant to a nonprofit of their choice. Entries can be submitted by posting photos on Instagram with the hashtag #innoviacelebratescommunity or by submitting through an online form. Full drawing details and rules, including the online submission form, can be found at innovia.org/fifty. 

More information about Innovia Foundation’s 50th Anniversary, 2024 celebrations and history can be found at innovia.org/fifty. 

Innovia Foundation is proud to partner with NonStop Local KHQ for community coverage of these family free events.