Slotcar enthusiasts were trackside Sunday afternoon to raise funds for charity. The miniature race car drivers made donations to the National Veterans Awareness Ride (NVAR) for a chance to pilot slotcars at Grand Island's Schafer Speedway Slotcars.

The money goes in part to support the emergency repair trailer that follows the group's motorcycle convoy from Sacramento, California to our nation's capital.

Along the way, the steel-steed riders stop in at veterans' homes to talk with retired service personnel.

"Last year I went into one room, and I was the only visitor this individual had for an entire year. You know, he's kind of forgotten, I guess. So we go in, talk to them, and get some small gifts, give them some playing cards and just spend a little time with them," said NVAR state coordinator, Bill Luft.

About seventy-five to one-hundred participants ride in the motorcycle caravan at any one time, with some riders joining the group for just one leg of the ride.

The group advocates greater POW and MIA awareness to benefit veterans of all wars and U.S. military conflicts.