SHERIDAN, WYOMING – January 6, 2026 – Operation Healing Forces says it has been named the beneficiary of the Johnson's Horsepowered Garage Collection, a no-reserve group of custom vehicles set to be sold during Mecum Kissimmee 2026 in Florida. The announcement ties classic-car craftsmanship to a clear purpose: proceeds from the collection are intended to directly support programs serving America’s Special Operations Forces community. For collectors, it’s a chance to bid on distinctive builds; for supporters, it’s a high-visibility way to turn a passion-driven event into meaningful help for service members, veterans, and families.
A Charity Partnership Built Around Craftsmanship And Service
Operation Healing Forces (OHF) says the new partnership with Johnson's Horsepowered Garage (JHG) brings together a shared commitment to craftsmanship, community, and service. The key point is straightforward: the Johnson's Horsepowered Garage Collection will be offered at no reserve, and proceeds are intended to benefit OHF’s mission to serve the Special Operations Forces (SOF) community.
The collection is scheduled to cross the block during Mecum Kissimmee 2026, which runs January 6–18 at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida. Mecum is described in the release as The World's Largest Collector Car Auction, and the event is expected to feature approximately 4,500 vehicles and draw tens of thousands of collectors, bidders, and automotive enthusiasts from around the world. That scale matters because it gives the fundraising effort a far bigger stage than a typical local benefit event.
What’s In The Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage Collection
This isn’t positioned as a mixed garage-cleanout sale. The release describes the collection as consisting primarily of 1930s-era rodded and modified custom vehicles, built around bold design, originality, and exceptional craftsmanship. It also emphasizes a balance many collectors care about: respecting automotive history while still taking creative risks.
One standout mentioned is Backseat Betty, described as a custom build that incorporates authentic military surplus items into its construction. In the context of this partnership, that detail gives the collection a deeper emotional layer, blending hot-rod culture with a visible nod of respect for Vietnam veterans.
"These All-American vehicles represent rugged individuality and craftsmanship built with intention,"
Where The Proceeds Are Expected To Go
OHF says proceeds from the collection will support its comprehensive programs, including therapeutic retreats, immediate needs assistance, and support services that promote reintegration, rehabilitation, and resilience for SOF families. The release also describes OHF as serving the wounded, injured, ill, and fallen United States Special Operations Forces community, including active-duty members, National Guard, Reservists, veterans, families, caregivers, and survivors.
For readers who don’t live in the collector-car world, this is the “why it matters” part. A single auction moment can feel fleeting, but the kinds of programs described here are designed for the long haul, especially for families navigating the visible and invisible impacts of military service.
Why Mecum Kissimmee Is A Big Stage For This Story
Car auctions can be thrilling, but they can also be loud and transactional. What makes this announcement different is the stated intent to use the size and energy of Mecum Kissimmee to amplify impact beyond the automotive community. The release frames the auction environment as a way to connect with one of the largest and most engaged collector car audiences in the world.
Mecum Kissimmee is also described as “family-friendly,” which fits the tone of a charitable partnership that aims to reach people who love classic cars, community events, and practical ways to support service families.
3 Ways This Matters For Fans And Families
- For collectors, a no-reserve sale can create real momentum and attention around the vehicles, which can elevate visibility for the cause tied to the auction.
- For supporters, the partnership channels a high-profile car event into concrete support programs such as retreats and immediate needs assistance.
- For anyone who loves automotive culture, it’s a reminder that craftsmanship and community can share the same spotlight, especially when an event draws thousands of enthusiasts.
What To Watch During The January 6–18 Run
If you’re following Mecum Kissimmee this year, the practical angle is watching how the collection is presented and how the crowd responds to the “purpose-driven” story behind it. The release makes clear that the vehicles are meant to be memorable on their own, but also meaningful as a fundraiser tied to service and family support.
For many people, the most lasting part of a big event is the ripple effect afterward: what it funded, who it helped, and whether it inspires the next partnership like it. This collaboration is framed as one of those moments where a niche passion can translate into broader community impact.
Learn more at https://www.operationhealingforces.org