In Greater Cincinnati, one new nonprofit organization is working to rally support of “supercars” and its adjacent scene into fundraising for a number of worthwhile causes.
“We’re dedicated to organizing car events and rallies that fuel hope for underserved, underprivileged, and sick children,” says Steve West, who co-founded the nonprofit with friend Pavan Manek.
They do so as the Queen City’s first and only non-profit supercar rally organization: DadQuest Adventures.
“A supercar rally is when a group of supercar owners sign up for a multi-day, multi-state road trip,” West explains. “Participants can network, enjoy spirited drives together and form lasting bonds. In most cases, these rallies are also organized to raise funds for a nonprofit or charitable cause.”
West explains that, while there have been some for-profit car rallies in the region, his is a bit more selective and “exclusively supercar focused,” he explains. “This helps us curate the best product and raise the most funds for the kids.”
It was in 2023 when West and Manek realized that Cincinnati lacked any sort of supercar/rally groups that were dedicated to supporting youth organizations. They quickly got to work and, today, DadQuest Adventures is already turning heads with thrilling events for a cause.
West says that some of his most cherished memories while participating in car culture occurred while attending events that encouraged kids to interact with the cars and their drivers; doing so was at once entertaining, educational and could support worthy causes.
Since then, he says, friends he’s made in the supercar scene have developed bonds through driving together, raising money and seeing each other on a regular basis.
“Seeing our friends, colleagues and their families realize the impact they are making has given a new meaning to the (supercar) scene in Cincinnati,” West says. “It’s been very rewarding, to say the least.”
West acknowledges that the “car scene” in Greater Cincinnati has been on a decline, which he attributes to unsafe behavior. For that reason, he explains, DadQuest Adventures stick to supercars; he says a higher barrier to entry typically ensures a safer, more responsible crowd.
Currently in its second year as a nonprofit, DadQuest Adventures has already assisted in awarding scholarships through Be The Change Ohio, raising more than two thousand dollars in a toy drive for Ronald McDonald House of Cincinnati, raising funds for a private donation to a local family impacted by cancer and it has also provided housing assistance to a local mother and her children.
DadQuest Adventures is looking beyond the Queen City, however, and recently kicked off a collaboration with Smiles Unite Us last fall—a one-night rally from Cincinnati to Columbus. Smiles Unite Us sponsors no-cost cleft palate surgeries for children both here in the United States, as well as in third-world nations.
Outside of events like that, West says, DadQuest Adventures joins other organizations for weekly “Cars & Coffee” gatherings, and participates in other car meets throughout the season.
“Through our passion for automotive culture, we unite communities to raise funds and provide essential support, ensuring every child has access to the care, opportunities and experiences they deserve,” West says. “Together, we drive change, one mile at a time.”
To learn more, visit DadQuestAdventures.com.
“Together, we drive change, one mile at a time.” - Steve West, Founder & President, DadQuest Adventures