A genuine NASCAR stock car, a 1960s midget racer and “funny car” drag racers will be among the array of unique and classic autos on display this weekend at the Rogers’ Winter Burnout Charity Car Show at the Tinley Park Convention Center. This indoor “cruise night” exhibit will feature more than 70 show-quality vehicles along with free giveaways and raffles.

But there’s more to the show than shiny chrome and big engines.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Lincolnway Special Recreation Association, an organization that provides sports and activities for children, teens and adults with disabilities. The LWRSA serves the residents of the Mokena, Frankfort, New Lenox, Manhattan and Peotone park districts. 

Tim Rogers and his wife, Becky, owners of Rogers Towing Service of Mokena, have been holding charity fundraisers for the past few years. This year they decided to donate the money to the LWRSA. Rogers said the inspiration was his uncle, who was physically disabled. Growing up, Rogers spent a lot of time with his uncle and could see how activity and socialization helped motivate him.

“When he had something to do and somewhere to go, he was a completely different person,” Rogers said.

“Disabled people are just like everyone else,” he added. “They just function differently.”

Rogers became acquainted with people involved with the LWRSA after playing in the organization’s annual golf outing. That led to Rogers, who has long been involved with car shows and cruise nights, calling upon his network of car enthusiasts to help plan and sponsor the event. A committee headed by Becky Rogers made it all come together, he said.

“It just started going and here we are,” Rogers said. “Everybody’s brought something to the table.” 

Featured cars will include a NASCAR racer once driven by Kasey Kahne, on loan from Bettenhausen Automotive. Bettenhausen also will display 2011  models of the Dodge Charger and the Dodge Durango.

Another popular car will be the 1957 Chevy called Shake, Rattle and Run. Owned by Dick Messino and driven by Mike Lopez of High Speed Performance in Mokena, this car races regionally and is kept in immaculate condition.

“I would put my lunch on any part of that car,” Rogers said.

Winter Burnout Charity Show

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday
Where: Tinley Park Convention Center, 18501 Convention Center Drive
How much? $10, $5 for seniors and veterans. LWRSA participants, children younger than 12 and active military in uniform are free.
Special event: Saturday night will be a semi-formal VIP showing from 7-10 p.m., which will include hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, a 50/50 raffle and silent auction. Tickets for the VIP showing are $50.
More info: Go to www.rogerstowingservice.com or www.rogerscharitycarshow.com for details and to purchase tickets.