Volunteer's Racers Club Enters Its 19th Year

When he’s wearing his prized shirt covered in racing sponsor patches, Al Michenfelder is easy to spot in a crowd. The Freehold Borough resident and his collection of model cars have been a fixture at Kruise Nights and local events for over 20 years. In 1992, Michenfelder said former Freehold Borough Councilman Marc LeVine suggested he share his interest with children in the community.

“Marc LeVine saw me bringing out my model cars at a Kruise Night and said how about giving back and teaching the kids how to do it,” Michenfelder said. “I ran with the ball and kept running.”

Michenfelder’s Racers Club will start its 19th season on Saturday, Oct. 8 from noon to 1 p.m. at the historic Court Street School. He volunteers his time to the free program, which teaches children ages five to 12 years how to work together to build model cars. The club meets every two weeks on Saturdays through April. The Court Jester has donated seven model cars for children to work on, and also sponsors an end-of-season display and contest held throughout April in the Freehold Public Library. The winner of the contest receives a $25 gift certificate to the Court Jester and is recognized by the Freehold Borough Council.

Michenfelder estimates that over 120 children have gone through the Racers Club program over the years. He emphasizes academic achievement by giving out prizes donated by sponsors to children who receive good report cards.

Michenfelder is a gregarious man and builds an easy rapport with Racers Club members. He welcomes children from all backgrounds and abilities, including those with developmental disabilities.

“We love our special needs kids,” he said.

Michenfelder said he finds ways to meet kids at their level. To squelch any potential disagreements, he came up with “the penny rule.” The rule is simple and effective, highlighting Michenfelder’s uncanny ability to connect with his club members.

“You flip a penny. The winner gets to keep the penny and the loser has to explain what the argument was about before the whole group,” Michenfelder said.

Since most of the kids don’t want to have to explain a disagreement, Michenfelder only has to mention the penny rule to stop a problem before it starts.

The most gratifying aspect of Racers Club for Michenfelder is being able to contribute to his community.

“For me, it’s called giving back,” Michenfelder said.

For more information about Racers Club, call Michenfelder at 732-822-3924 or email racersclub71@gmail.com.