Jack Pew, America’s Car-Mart Vice President of Operations, Region 4, will take to the runway at the 21st annual Bill Fleeman Gentlemen of Distinction gala benefitting Hope Cancer Resources in November in Rogers, Arkansas. And while representing America’s Car-Mart, he will model in memory of his father, Ross, who passed away from colon cancer in 2018.
As Jack takes each step down the runway, he’ll undoubtedly feel his father’s presence. He’ll reminisce about their daily conversations during his commute to work and find solace in the uplifting voice recordings [of his father] he holds dear.
A Night of Distinction
The gala is an annual fundraising event that supports families served by Hope Cancer Resources. It’s a men’s fashion show featuring local gentlemen who volunteer to model and help raise funds for a noble cause. The event also celebrates the legacy of Bill Fleeman, founder of America’s Car-Mart, a proud sponsor of this worthy initiative.
For Jack, it will be a night to honor those who have suffered and survived cancer. “It’s also important to ensure that the memory of those who have lost their lives to cancer is not forgotten.”
Since its inception in 2004, the gala has raised nearly $2.8 million for Hope Cancer Resources, and America’s Car-Mart has sponsored it every year. Additionally, several Car-Mart associates have modeled and walked the runway for the cause.
“This event brings the community together and offers a better understanding of what families experience when someone in their family has cancer,” Jack says. “It’s the patients and their loved ones trying to support them. This is extremely important because it’s a challenging time for the entire family. So many emotions are involved in wanting your loved one to get well.”
Honoring His Father’s Legacy
“The gala holds a special place in my heart because my dad battled cancer,” continues Jack, while adding his grandfather had prostate cancer.
Jack has vivid memories of visiting his father in the rehabilitation facility after a significant portion of his cancer had been removed. Despite his father’s struggles, he remained optimistic and consistently inquired about his grandson, Jackson. Jack’s father also displayed a rebellious streak by eating shellfish, even though he wasn’t supposed to.
He continues to participate in golf tournaments to raise funds for cancer research or make donations. “Those golf tournaments always hold a special meaning for me,” Jack says.
Jack’s Car-Mart Journey
Jack’s Car-Mart career started in 2013 in the company’s Future Manager program in Rogers. He learned the business and managed several dealerships before assuming his current position in 2022.
“Car-Mart is more than just a company to me. It’s a place that stands by its values and truly believes in helping people succeed,” Jack comments. “Our commitment isn’t just talk; it’s part of everything we do. I find great satisfaction in building strong relationships with our customers and being there for them every step of the way.”
And that’s what drew Jack to Car-Mart. It wasn’t just a job.
Jack adds that he’s appreciative of the support his Car-Mart family provided him when his father passed away.
“My journey with Car-Mart has been incredibly fulfilling, and I look forward to continuing to be part of this amazing company and working alongside such wonderful people,” Jack says.
As I walk down the runway, I know my wife, Beth, and son will be cheering me on with pride,” concludes Jack. “In that moment, I’ll also hear my dad’s comforting voice saying, ‘Hey, Jack, I hope you have a great day today.’”
Meet our past America’s Car-Mart’s Gentlemen of Distinction models:
- Dan Burks – Modeling for a Worthy Cause
- Mike Rains – On the Catwalk for a Cause
- Mike Ward – Takes to the Runway for a Great Cause
Learn more about America’s Car-Mart and Hope Cancer Resources – Making a Difference Since 2004
