Hobbies that start in childhood can sometimes inspire for a lifetime. For Joe Findysz of Tucson, Ariz., his lifelong interest in automobiles created a unique opportunity to give back to his community.

Joe has always loved cars. It all began with building models and collecting matchbox cars when he was a kid. At 14, he bought his first real car—a Ford Model T. He’s been collecting vintage cars and trucks ever since.

Joe was able to pursue this hobby with help from friends at his neighborhood Ace Hardware. Joe and his friends formed such a strong relationship over the years that he and his family now own and operate the store, located on 22nd Street.

"It’s been here for 60 years, so it’s the same age as I am now. So I was almost born at this store, and I grew up with it," said Joe.

When Joe saw the Main Street Electrical Parade at Disneyland, inspiration struck. For the holiday season that year, Joe decorated one of his fire trucks with strands of lights and put a sleigh and reindeer on top. Later, he decided to take the idea even further and decked out one of his largest fire trucks with 15,000 lights and holiday decorations.

Joe and his family drive the Christmas fire truck all over Tucson during the holidays. "It brings a lot of joy to people. It’s probably the most photographed vehicle in the city of Tucson," said Joe.

The biggest event of the season is the annual visit to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern Arizona, spreading holiday cheer to the people who need it most in the community. This year, the Findysz family is also bringing the Christmas fire truck to the Ronald McDonald House Walk for Kids.

"These kids really need joy in their lives, so if we can bring a little bit of that, it’s worth it. We’re excited to be involved," said Joe’s daughter Erin.

Leading up to the visit, the Findysz family holds a Round Up event at their Ace store. During Round Up, customers can round up the total of their purchase to the next dollar. The Findyszes add the rounded-up amount to a donation that they give to the Ronald McDonald House.

These small contributions add up. Along with their own donations, the Findysz family gave over $17,300 to the Ronald McDonald House last year.

"It’s always great to give back. We’ve been very fortunate to run a successful business, so we help as often as we can," said Joe.