When the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association and Henry County Sheriff’s Office launched the CommUNITY Car Show to raise money for the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes supporting at-risk children, the event committee wanted a distinctive award to create buzz and attract participants. The team at nearby Roswell-based distributor Render Ad Service (PPAI 108113, D3) recommended a full-sized basketball, autographed by former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal, who had agreed to donate $5,000 as a grand prize, as the trophy.

A local news station reported that the top 25 cars would receive an autographed basketball, and calls came from around the Southeast to enter. The venue lot filled quickly, with 550 cars entering the contest and more than 1,500 people attending. The fun, all-ages event raised over three times the original goal, and organizers plan to host the gathering annually.