Almost 100 trucks and off-road vehicles — packed with new toys gathered in the parking lot of Rack Attack Tempe on Dec. 14 for the “Fortune Taco & Friends Toy Drive” to benefit Children’s Cancer Network.

Coordinated by off-road enthusiast Chris Fortunato, with support from Blake Mooney and the team at Rack Attack Tempe, the event exceeded expectations. Attendees donated 1,010 toys for children with cancer and their siblings — more than double the amount collected in 2023.

Fortunato, a Tucson resident, started the event with a few friends three years ago when he was living in Mesa. Fortunato helped grow the event through his Instagram account, @fortunetacoaz, and through word of mouth.

“During our first year, we collected about 250 toys,” Fortunato said. “Last year, when we moved the event to Rack Attack Tempe, we were able to accommodate more sponsor booths and participants, and we collected 459 toys. We could not have grown the event without their support.”

Mooney, the Rack Attack Tempe general manager, said it was exciting to see the response from the community this year.

“We had more than 100 people attend, and some came from different parts of the Valley and the state,” Mooney said. “We are very grateful to everyone who came out to show their support.”

Fortunato thanked the increased number of sponsors who donated raffle prizes, toys and in-kind support.

“Brian Randal, owner of AZ Tune Pro, an event sponsor, drove up with more than 300 toys packed in the back of his truck,” Fortunato said. “We’re also very grateful to other big sponsors, such AZ Toy Pros in partnership with State 48 Overland of Mesa, Blue Line Whips of Queen Creek, and several Gilbert businesses, including Rigid Industries, DuroBumps and DRT Fabrication."

Based in Chandler, Children’s Cancer Network supports children and families statewide throughout their cancer journey with programs and services designed to provide financial assistance, promote education, encourage healthy lifestyles, and create an awareness of issues they face related to childhood cancer.

Donations to Children’s Cancer Network qualify for Arizona Charitable Tax Credit. To learn more, childrenscancernetwork.org.

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