DRIVING COMPASSION: George Shinn’s Philanthropic Journey and the “Honolulu LuLu”
August 31, 2023
Posted by Barrett-Jackson
To date, Barrett-Jackson – along with its gracious consignors and enthusiastic bidders – has successfully raised a remarkable sum of over $154 million for charitable causes. Longtime friend of Barrett-Jackson George Shinn, a notable American businessman rooted in self-made accomplishment, now dedicates a substantial portion of his time to meaningful philanthropic initiatives that extend a helping hand to those in need.
In April 2022, Shinn displayed his altruism by parting ways with his 2009 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake as part of the Palm Beach Auction. The purpose was to generate funds in support of Samaritan’s Purse, aiding their endeavors in disaster relief and urgent medical care within Ukraine. His efforts, combined with a 1986 Chevrolet Corvette convertible Indy pace car donated from Mark and Tetiana Pieloch, and additional donations, resulted in $1,760,000 being raised for the cause. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis brought the gavel down on the charitable sale.
Continuing his philanthropic stride, Shinn proceeded to sell a rare Heritage Edition Mustang Shelby GT500at the 2022 Houston Auction. Every penny of the $1,000,938 raised by that sale benefited Samaritan’s Purse and the Florida Disaster Fund. Both these organizations were actively engaged in assisting the victims of Hurricane Ian in Southwest Florida, reflecting Shinn’s dedication to aiding those affected by tragedy.
Responding to the devastating wildfires that struck the Hawaiian island of Maui in August, Shinn is demonstrating his unwavering commitment to charitable causes once more. This time, he is generously contributing a 1932 Woody hot rod, affectionately named the “Honolulu LuLu,” with No Reserve during the inaugural 2023 New Orleans Auction, September 28-30 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, with 100% of the hammer price benefiting Samaritan’s Purse in their disaster relief initiatives on Maui.
The Woody hot rod is propelled by a 355ci small-block Chevrolet engine paired with a Turbo 350 transmission. To enhance its performance, the vehicle features rack & pinion steering and front disc brakes, showcasing a blend of modern technology.
Cloaked in an enchanting Yellow Pearl paint, the vehicle’s outer appearance radiates the essence of island living. Of particular note is its sunroof, an ideal feature for relishing the ocean breeze as you drive. The roof proudly carries a unique surfboard, capturing a distinctive coastal charm, which is complemented by a matching trailer. The trailer hitch remains cleverly concealed behind the license plate, preserving the sleek aesthetics. The vehicle bears the endearing moniker “Honolulu Lulu,” while its accompanying trailer is aptly named “Lil’ Lulu,” with corresponding graphics tastefully displayed on their rear sides.
As “Honolulu LuLu” prepares to travel a new road at the 2023 New Orleans Auction, the legacy of Shinn’s unwavering commitment to aid disaster relief initiatives glimmers brighter than ever. As the gavel falls and the story of this distinctive hot rod begins another chapter, it does so with the assurance that every dollar raised reverberates as hope in the lives of those in need. Register to bid today for your chance to take this Woody home and help this noteworthy cause.
For up-to-date information on this vehicle, visit Barrett-Jackson.com
