Ten months ago, car enthusiasts and patrons of Alpio’s at Troon began opening their hearts and their wallets the second Saturday of each month to raise money for charity.

On Saturday, Nov. 9, Alpio Barbara, owner of Alpio’s at Troon, and Sue Pille of Platinum Companies, will present a check for $40,000 to the Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation/Golf-Fore-Charity at the monthly Cars and Coffee at Alpio’s at Troon event.

“It’s amazing how a $2 tip has turned into $40,000,” said David Reese, who along with Mike McDaniel and Tiffany Sharp are co-chairs of Golf-Fore-Charity 2020. “It’s no secret that Alpio has a passion for cars, people and helping kids. We’re honored to be a part of this great event.”

This year’s check presentation is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. at Alpio’s at Troon, 10452 E. Jomax Road, Scottsdale. Last month’s 2-year anniversary event drew 153 custom and high-performance cars. Cars and Coffee runs from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. the second Saturday of each month.

In November 2017, Barbara hosted his first Cars and Coffee at Alpio’s. It continued to grow, even after Barbara was in a life-threatening motorcycle accident in April 2018.

“I knew the show had to go on,” Barbara said. “My great circle of friends came together and kept the event going. A gentleman in attendance at the June 2017 event wanted to leave a $2 tip for the free coffee provided by Platinum Companies. ‘That’s not necessary; we’re just happy to have you join us.’ In July, a tip jar for the Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation was placed at the coffee counter.”

Each month Barbara and House of Hardtops match the tips. Golf-Fore-Charity will match any donations collected up to $2,000 for the month of November.

Additional donations are raised by the North Scottsdale Coffee Group charging a nominal fee to go on group rides around Arizona.

      “It all adds up,” Barbara said. “It’s not about me; it’s all about the kids.”