Perdue Farms’ professional truck drivers hit the road on Saturday, October 5 to participate in the 11th World’s Largest Truck Convoy® to benefit Special Olympics Delaware. The World’s Largest Truck Convoy is part of a national effort to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics. It was the creation of former truck driver and Orange County, Florida Sheriff’s Department Corporal Norm Schneiderhan, whose family is involved in the truck industry. He was so inspired by the impact Special Olympics has had on his life through participation in the Law Enforcement Torch Run, that he decided to create the World’s Largest Truck Convoy. Today, it has expanded to 26 states and four Canadian provinces.
Thirty drivers from Perdue Transportation Inc. joined the convoy and traveled a 28-mile route through scenic southern Delaware that began and ended at the Delaware State Fairgrounds in Harrington. The convoy featured 147 trucks representing 57 companies. The event raised $43,000 for Special Olympics Delaware.
Perdue has participated in the World’s Largest Truck Convoy for six years. This year, Perdue expanded its support of Special Olympics Delaware by sponsoring the festival at the World’s Largest Truck Convoy through a $5,000 grant funded by the Arthur W. Perdue Foundation.
“We’re excited to have Perdue come on board this year as our festival sponsor,” said Lisa Smith, director of special events for Special Olympics Delaware. “The stature of a company like Perdue standing side-by-side with Special Olympics Delaware just elevates the level of respect and dignity for our athletes. We’re grateful for the continued support of Perdue and its drivers.”
For some Perdue drivers, it was their first experience in the convoy. “It’s an honor for me to be involved in this,” said Keith Wolford, a 13-year Perdue driver. “I really like that Perdue is being a part of this and donating for the children. That’s the reason why it’s really special for me. It’s all about the children.”
