Golf Cart Parade Gets Presenting Sponsor

The 48th annual Palm Desert Golf Cart Parade has named The Auen Foundation as the Presenting Sponsor. This is the fourth year the Foundation has served in this capacity. 

The Auen Foundation is a private, family foundation that was established in 1992 by Ronald and Sherrie Auen. The Foundation funds innovative programs designed to enhance the overall quality of life of the aging population and to bridge the gap between generations. 

“The Golf Cart Parade is a nice fit for us, because it is essentially a huge intergenerational program,” said Catharine Reed, Program Director for the Auen Foundation. “We receive the nicest letters from seniors after the event thanking us for the senior seating area, which makes coming to the parade easy and extra special for them.” 

The Auen Foundation’s senior seating area is mostly shaded, and free to seniors who reserve their spot in advance. 

“It’s a tradition,” said Dottie Stitzinger, part time Palm Desert resident. “We just must go every year for the silliness, the school bands, and those floats on carts. The Golf Cart Parade is the best way to celebrate the desert community, and we just love sitting in the senior seating area.”  

Other features at the all-day event include VIP Main Street seats, the interactive children's area on Larkspur, a cart show, and a Palm Desert Rotary pancake breakfast. 

The Golf Cart Parade originated in the early 60s, put together by several individuals who just wanted to have fun. Today, it has grown to more than 90 whimsically decorated golf carts, bands and dance groups, strolling down the beautiful El Paseo corridor and celebrating the Valley's unique community.

The 48th Annual Parade, presented by the Auen Foundation, takes place on Sunday, October 28, with the patriotic theme "American Pride." The parade begins at 1 p.m. and travels west on El Paseo. Entry forms are available online by clicking here.  

"We are honored and thrilled to receive this wonderful gift again," said Mike Hardin, 2012 Chairman of the Golf Cart Parade. "The Auen Foundation's gift will help underwrite activities for all in attendance to enjoy. This is an exciting year for the parade, with the support from the City of Palm Desert, the Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce as Title Sponsors and the Auen Foundation as Presenting Sponsor. There truly is something for everyone at the American Pride event, and we couldn't be happier about the festivities."