Beyond its role as an organization that would provide a platform for automotive media – journalists, corporate communications specialists, marketing and advertising representatives – to meet, network and exchange ideas at luncheon meetings and other activities, SAMA (Southern Automotive Media Association) has historically held events that “give back” to the community. Chief among these is Rides ‘n’ Smiles, held between 2008 and 2016.
This signature SAMA event was the brainchild of Bill Adam with the cooperation of the Homestead-Miami Speedway. Rides ‘n’ Smiles offered Baptist Children’s Hospital pediatric patients who suffer from chronic childhood illness such as cancer, diabetes, Crohn’s and Colitis, and brain injuries, a chance to get an up-close and personal look at the 2.3-mile road course at the Homestead track.
In 2019, its spiritual successor, the first Hot Wheels Fun Day was held at Baptist Health’s Miami Cancer Institute. Although more modest in scope, with select vehicles from South Florida’s press fleets for pediatric cancer patients to sit in, it was nevertheless successful enough that a second iteration returned for 2025.
This year’s Hot Wheels Fun Day was held on Saturday 6 September between 10 AM and 12 Noon. This timing was deliberate, serving as the kickoff event for Miami Cancer Institute’s Childhood Cancer Awareness Month events.
In total, there were 9 vehicles (including a Rolls-Royce!) for the enjoyment of the brave young children and teenage warriors battling pediatric cancer. In addition to the vehicle experiences, they enjoyed automotive-themed art activities, as well as pizza, soft drinks and popsicles.
A thank you to the Hot Wheels Fun Day’s donors
This celebration of life, hope, joy and creativity was made even better thanks to a number of donors. We’ll start by thanking Love Your Melon for their generous donation of hats and beanies that brought warmth, love, and lots of smiles to the little ones. Love Your Melon is much more than hats: it’s a community of fighters, supporters, and storytellers. Every story matters, every gesture counts.
Lowe’s Home Improvement generously donated miniature Messi foosball tables. Sofia’s Hope is a non-profit charity foundation fighting childhood cancer and funding research. They donated cups, snacks and bracelets for the children and teens. Pickolé 100% natural popsicles were the delicious and refreshing dessert that capped off a pizza lunch.
Finally, we thank Prestige Auto for providing the vehicles that the kids so thoroughly enjoyed. And, of course, the staff of the Miami Cancer Institute for their valuable assistance in making this event possible.
