Joe Fiduccia, owner of
Optimus is Here, partnered with Tony "Preacher " Rossetti, who represents the Enforcers. The pair met at another event earlier in the year. FIduccia had his truck on display and Rossetti was one of the head security guards. The two started up a conversation that ultimately led to a newfound friendship. One that would eventually reunite them several months later for the Dream Ride.
"I don't know what it was, but I felt a personal connection with Preacher. He was down to Earth, easy to speak with, and had a genuine interest in making a positive difference", explains Fiduccia..
Rossetti was able to rally support from the Enforcers to help Fiduccia bring Optimus to the Dream Ride. They setup a once-in-a-lifetime photo opp, complete with a red carpet. Over the course of several days, Fiduccia offered complimentary photos with Optimus to every special Olympian at no charge. An in-kind donation that would have yielded just over $1900.00 at other events where attendees make a donation to sit in the driver seat.
He was also joined by
Autobot Rev, a member of Team Prime, and by
Imprintable Solutions, who transferred the photos onto a complimentary t-shirt for each and every Olympian.
"This type of experience has never been offered before at the Dream Ride, and I believe it set the bar for future events. It also helped recognize who the Enforcers are, and how hard we work to make a true impact for these Olympians", states Rossetti.
While it is unclear if Optimus will return to the Dream Ride in 2020, we are honored to have been part of such a humbling experience. We invite you to check out the photos below, as well as the video on the
Optimus Is Here
YouTube channel documenting this unique adventure.
