That turnout is not just a number. It directly connects to how much funding the event generates each year.

How the event funds are used

The convoy serves as the primary fundraising source for Make-A-Wish Philadelphia, Delaware, and Susquehanna Valley. About 75 percent of the wishes granted each year are tied to this single event, which keeps participation and fundraising closely linked.

Organizers have set a $575,000 goal for 2026. Hitting that mark depends on both driver turnout and fundraising leading into the convoy.

“The funds raised through the Convoy are essential to making wishes come true for children with critical illnesses in the Susquehanna Valley,” Make-A-Wish Philadelphia, Delaware, and Susquehanna Valley said. “Your participation not only supports an inspiring community tradition but also plays a crucial role in bringing hope, strength, and joy to local children.”

Participation requirements and registration

With that in mind, the event remains open to a wide range of drivers. The convoy runs the day before Mother’s Day, and trucks with a gross vehicle weight of at least 26,001 pounds are eligible. Drivers can register in advance online here or wait until the day of the event.

Route and safety updates for 2026

As participation continues to grow, organizers have introduced a new route for 2026. The change is intended to improve safety for drivers, wish families, and the surrounding community while also reducing the impact on traffic.

Industry presence at the event

In addition to driver turnout, industry support will also be visible on site. The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association will be present, with Marty Ellis attending alongside the Association’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker.

Why drivers participate

Taken together, these elements show why the convoy continues to draw consistent participation. The connection is direct. Driver involvement supports funding for wishes in the same region where the event takes place.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the convoy?
It serves as the primary fundraising source for Make-A-Wish Philadelphia, Delaware, and Susquehanna Valley.

How much is the event aiming to raise in 2026?
$575,000.

Who can participate?
Drivers operating trucks with a gross vehicle weight of at least 26,001 pounds.

Can drivers still register close to the event?
Yes. Registration remains open through the day of the convoy.

What impacts how much is raised each year?
Driver turnout and fundraising before the event.

The Mother’s Day Truck Convoy continues to connect driver participation with measurable support for children and families across the region.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: April 27, 2026

Source: Land Line Media

Image Source: Wish.org

The post Mother’s Day Truck Convoy Drives Major Fundraising Effort for Make-A-Wish appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“What’s a simple pleasure that makes your day on the road better?”

Here’s what real Truck drivers had to say.

When a Kid Hits the Arm Pump
Some memories never get old. Top fan Adam Woxland said, “A kid doing the arm pump.”
Jeff Miller added, “The arm pump — I saw two in one day just last week! First time that’s ever happened for me!”
And Mike Mueller kept it fun: “Always gonna be the fist pump from kids.”

Finding a Place to Park or Rest
Evan Tom Lehr put it simply: “A parking spot in the truck stop.”
Slim Gooden said, “Being able to find a parking spot in the Truck Stop with a decent diner in or nearby to enjoy a good meal, 10-4?”
Luke J Arris and LaNelle Smith both called out “a good shower.”

Starting the Day Right
Steve Mock said a “breakfast sandwich and a Diet Coke” gets the job done.
Randy Paiz shared his go-to: “Coffee & a cherry kolache from Weikel’s in LaGrange, Texas.”
Jaime Saravia sticks with “honey bun and Pepsi,” and Joyceandmiles Hopkins enjoys “getting your thermos filled with fresh coffee for free.”
Anand Singh named his ideal combo: “A clean bathroom, hot fresh coffee, cheap cigarettes, and very low diesel price.”

Getting a Break at the End of the Shift
Thornell Funches looks forward to “not dealing with folks when I am parked for the eve… nice and quiet.”
James Hilliker values “getting to relax in my motel room after driving all night.”
Tom Tomas simply said, “Shower and coffee……”

The Companions That Make the Miles Easier
Jim Worthington said it best: “Just cruising with my best bud.”
Wade Kerr added, “My dog.”
Christina Trask loves seeing “dogs looking out of the window.”
Michael A Hamilton looks forward to “talking to my girls on the phone,” and Marion D. Hill said, “Phoning home.”

No Traffic, No Problems
Matt Cunningham shared: “No lanes closed.”
Rachel Tatum appreciated “less traffic,” and Thomas Cass echoed that with “No traffic.”
Norm Howard kept it classic: “Fair weather and open road.”
Moira Elliott reminded us what drivers see daily: “Looking at all the natural diversity our amazing country has to offer — desert, mountains, coastlines, prairie, grasslands, forests. We live in a beautiful land.”

Tunes, Books, and Simple Escapes
Dave Hicks keeps it old-school with “1950s and 60s American Rock and Roll on the radio.”
Allen Sammons listens to “audiobook or good music,” and Kevin Harrington said, “My tunes.”
Kathleen Littlefield keeps a “good book” nearby.

Doing the Job with Purpose
Some drivers look at the bigger picture.
William Chandler said: “Knowing that I help feed thousands of Americans that day.”

Other Unexpected Joys
Deedee Saferight said she enjoys “visiting my favorite welcome center in the mountains of North Carolina.”
Theodore Morgan shared a quiet favorite: “Walking barefooted in the grass.”
Robert Bartleson said simply: “Anything after midnight.”
Don White expressed hope: “To be able to drive again.”

Join the Truck Drivers USA Community
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Join the Truck Drivers USA community today and be part of something built for drivers.

The post The Simple Pleasure Every Truck Driver Looks Forward To appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Here’s a look at where some of our drivers were this Independence Day:

Celebrating at Home or Off the Clock
For many, the day was a rare moment to slow down and unwind.

• Carla Crim spent her evening in Ohio, solo but content, watching Jaws 3.
• Jack Harris also stayed in, relaxing at home and listening to his neighbors’ fireworks echo through the night.
• Crystal Dahlman, a top fan, shared her 4th with her grandkids, watching TV and enjoying some quiet family time.
• Tom Cutler enjoyed the holiday at home with his two loyal fur babies.
• Andrew Joseph spent it at his sister’s house in Ames, Iowa.
• Deb Brogdon checked in from Bascom, Florida.
• Mike Fitzgerald was in Edmond, Oklahoma.
• Dennis Smith simply said: “Home.”

Still on the Move, But Making the Most of It
For drivers who were working or on the road, the 4th looked a little different, but they found ways to enjoy it nonetheless.

• Ashley Wade was making her way into Lake Havasu, heading toward Minneapolis.
• Leisa Jackson was rolling toward Houston, keeping her spirits up: “Happy 4th of July!”
• Rick Yates was in California’s Bay Area, getting loaded and prepping for a run down I-40.
• Dennis Winstead was headed toward California as well.
• Paul Trotter, a top fan, was loading up in Michigan.
• Kim Sluyter started her day on I-17 south of Flagstaff and expected to end it somewhere along I-10.
• Harold Warwick had a busy day, delivering to the Walmart DC in Gas City, Indiana, then making his way to Paw Paw, Michigan, for the next pickup.

Truck Stops, Terminals, and Everywhere in Between
Some drivers found themselves at familiar haunts or waiting out the holiday in quieter spots.

• Dan Carr was across from the Flying J in Aurora, Oregon.
• Larry Robertshaw was parked in Kanona, New York, near the Pilot/Love’s and even set off fireworks from above the westbound rest area.
• Sean Newcomer checked in from the Love’s in Shorter, Alabama.
• Jeffery Lewis was at the Petro in Salina, Kansas.
• Gary Stewart stopped at the Love’s in Wamsutter, Wyoming.
• David Combs found himself at the Kwik Trip in Worthington, Minnesota.
• Waheed Zazai enjoyed the scenery near Delano, California, and spent time making videos of a nearby grape garden.
• Simon Bowdrey reported from the TA in Prescott, Arkansas, where the heat and humidity were on full blast.

Across the U.S. and Around the World
Others were scattered across the map, from the Midwest to overseas.

• Diane Young and Mary Ridener both celebrated from Cheyenne, Wyoming.
• Pamela Sanchez was in Running Springs, California.
• Jaime Saravia stayed in Haines City, Florida.
• James Kimbley was in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
• Marvin Chacón Madrigal, a top fan, was grateful to be safe at home.
• Kasey Kindrick celebrated all the way from London, England.
• Paul Wallis was in Iligan City, Philippines.
• Sigfredo Ariel Aizpurua spent the day at the Terpel gas station in Penonomé, Panama.
• Mark Reese, retired after 45 years, was relaxing in Volcan, Panama.

Riding with Family or Missing Them from Afar
Some shared sweet updates about their loved ones—either being reunited or waiting for them to come home.

• Pam Budd Goodwin shared that her husband was on the road in Nebraska but planned to be home by Sunday.
• Shelly Stockton said her husband was in Montana heading for Idaho, while she was holding it down back in Michigan.
• Gail Boyce was thrilled: “My son is home! Thought he would be working, so he’s relieved.”

More Check-Ins from Around the Country
Our drivers showed up from every corner of the country:

• Norman Larsen from Cheyenne, WY
• Lyle W Brunson at the I-80 & I-25 intersection
• John Bushbaum from his brother’s place in Silver Lake, WI
• Ashley Davis from Madison, GA
• Randy Jaye Westbrooks in Kingsport, TN
• Marion D. Hill in northeast Texas
• Don Smith in Mineola, TX
• Lisa Michelle McDowell in West Virginia
• Jeff Dewey, retired in Eagle River, WI
• Judy Cobb at Outback RV Resort
• John Hubalek Jr. is safe and sound in Oswego, NY
• Catherine Guill gave a shoutout to her dad and all drivers out there
• Matt Marckese in Brush, CO
• Jesse Ray Rex in Gila Bend, AZ
• Chris Hill in Flat Rock, NC
• Mary Cruikshanks in Cincinnati, OH
• Bob Boss was hosting in Stamford, CT
• Trudy Fearday checked in from Friendship Beach and also mentioned Adams, Wisconsin
• Michael Wamhoff in Jessup, Maryland
• Sekh Denise in Savannah, GA
• Maxamed Ismacil in Phoenix, AZ
• Bill Cutsinger in Cullman, AL
• Rhonda Starling in Florida
• Sherry Stroy kept things light with a quick “LOL.”
• Al Cravenjr Jr. near MM37
• Jordain Wilburn stayed home this year, remembering the last 4th spent at a truck stop in Laredo, TX.

Whether behind the wheel or with family, working or resting, drivers across our community spent the 4th of July in ways as varied as the roads they travel. And no matter where they were, one thing was clear: the spirit of resilience and pride runs deep in this profession.

To all drivers out there—thank you for keeping the country moving, every day of the year.
Want to be part of a community that gets it? Join Truck Drivers USA to connect with fellow drivers, share your stories, and stay updated on everything happening on and off the road.

The post Where Truck Drivers Spent Their 4th of July: Stories from the Road and at Home appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The A/C Loyalists: Windows Down, Tunes Up

For a lot of drivers, music is non-negotiable—even if it means braving the heat.

Michelle Dittmann keeps it simple: “No A/C. Roll the window down and turn up the tunes.”
Jason Cromer agrees: “No A/C. I always have Pandora.”
Joseph Perlman says, “No AC. You can roll the windows down, but I can’t drive without music.”
James Stem summed it up perfectly: “No AC. I have to have my radio.”
Charlie Davis chimed in: “No A/C, gotta have music.”

Others, like Yannick Dils, got creative: “No A/C. Turn up the radio and open the fridge for cooling.”

Team No Radio: Gotta Stay Cool

Then there’s the crew, who’s all about keeping their cool—literally.

Shawn Rutherford put it plainly: “No radio, easy—unless it’s winter.”
Jeff Trelford gets by with a workaround: “No radio, I’ve got a Bluetooth boombox.”
Cory Clark doesn’t hesitate: “Definitely no radio… A/C is almost a must.”
Deborah Caputo agrees: “No air conditioning.”
Lela Pearson, Julie Davis, Rick Beckwith, and many others said they’d rather ditch the radio if it meant keeping their A/C.

For Brian David, it’s about practicality: “No radio. I can always use my phone for entertainment, but personal experience tells me the old 2-55 A/C sucks.”

“Been There, Done That” Veterans

Some drivers didn’t flinch—because they’ve already done both.

David Barandica recalled: “I had a job driving a box truck without any of those.”
Charles Russell took it up a notch: “I’ve done both and driven L.A. to Norfolk with neither A/C or radio in late July.”
Evan Siegel shared: “Drove from Lordsburg, New Mexico to Houston with no A/C in the summer.”
Mike Eitner, with over 3 million miles under his belt, said he’s done it both ways.

And Then There’s the Middle Ground…

Some folks said it depends, like Deborah Sison, who said, “No radio if it’s during summer. No A/C if it’s during winter.”
Russell Zinck added: “It all depends on if it’s winter or summer.”

Others got philosophical—or just plain funny. Timothy Henry said: “No radio because I’ve got a good voice.”
Hope N Rick Gonzales agreed: “No radio, I can sing!”

What’s the Final Verdict?

From phone-streamed music to Bluetooth speakers and ice packs to cracked windows, drivers have found all kinds of ways to adapt. But one thing’s for sure—truckers will always find a way to make the ride work when it comes to comfort on the road.

Whether you’re team A/C or team radio, it’s clear that every driver has their own must-haves. The real takeaway? It’s not always about comfort—it’s about making it through the miles your way.

The post Truckers Sound Off No Radio or No A/C on the Road appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Stop by Booth #22

If you’re curious about how Truck Drivers USA and Driver.jobs are reshaping the recruitment landscape or you’re looking to book a one-on-one meeting to discuss your company’s specific needs, we’re here to help. Our team is excited to share how our driver community and expertise can tackle your toughest hiring and retention obstacles.

The Ultimate Giveaway – Ray-Ban Smart Glasses

We’re also adding some fun to the mix with a giveaway that you won’t want to miss. When you book a meeting with us or follow this link to enter, you’ll be in the running to win a pair of Ray-Ban Smart Glasses! These aren’t your average sunglasses—equipped with a 12 MP camera and immersive audio powered by Meta AI.

Don’t Miss Our Session: Content that Clicks

We’ll also be hosting a workshop designed to transform the way you think about driver recruitment. “Content that Clicks – The Social Media Blueprint for Driver Recruiting” will highlight the impact of social media and how you can leverage platforms to connect with drivers. TDUSA’s President Lori Furnell will be joined by Melanie Moore, Marketing Director at Ozark Motor Lines to break down why user-generated content and authentic driver stories are changing the game when it comes to recruitment and retention.

See You Soon!

Remember, the Recruitment & Retention Conference is happening today through February 21 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Nashville. Be sure to stop by Booth #22, meet our team, enter the Ray-Ban Smart Glasses giveaway, and walk away with new insights that will help take your recruitment strategies to the next level.

We can’t wait to see you at the conference and help you enhance your recruitment and retention efforts!

The post Join TDUSA at the Recruitment & Retention Conference in Nashville – Exciting Giveaway and Insights Await! appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.