The Unforgettables Drives Families Forward at 2nd Annual Battle of the Badges

When Adam Pastrano lost his daughter 10 years ago, he called The Unforgettables Foundation to help bury his child. “The simple truth is that many families are unable to afford a dignified, respectful burial for their beloved child,” the organization’s website states. “The Unforgettables Foundation provides financial assistance to those families with limited resources to help offset the costs of final arrangements.” The foundation was there to support Pastrano through a devastating loss, as they have done for over 3,500 families in Southern California since 2001. Pastrano decided to pay it forward by joining the Concrete Deep Car Club to help other parents who have experienced the tragedy of losing their child. He and Melissa Robinson organized the car show on Saturday, Sept. 19 at The Unforgettables’ second annual Battle of the Badges Car Wash and Car Show at San Manuel Stadium in San Bernardino. Pastrano and Robinson brought classic vehicles and motorcycles to the event, with the help of members from the club. A donation of $10 was required to display each automobile. The community drove-in funds, literally, as well. Attendants donated a minimum of $10 to have their car washed by Kiwanis youth and volunteers from the San Bernardino County Fire and Sheriff’s departments. Over 60 young volunteers from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Safety Academy, Class 199, took part in the competition against volunteers from the San Bernardino Fire Department to wash as many automobiles and motorcycles as they could from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. However, due to many fires occurring in the area that day, more volunteers from the Sheriff’s Safety Academy were available to lend a hand. Vendors were set up in the parking lot, offering food, drinks and company products, such as Mary Kay, for attendees to shop and enjoy while waiting for their cars to be cleaned. Approximately $3,000 was raised from the event, and given to the organization. These funds will be enough to cover nearly 10 cases of children passing. “We are really happy that this event has happened in the last two years,” said Tim Evans, co-founder of The Unforgettables. “This event was achievable for people, with the minimum $10 donation, helping the cause. It allows for more people to invest in the mission of The Unforgettables.” To follow Pastrano’s lead and support The Unforgettables in their mission, visit unforgettables.org to make a donation that could lessen one parent’s trauma of losing their child.