Never underestimate the power of little cars when it comes to fundraising.

“This is something new and different and exciting,” said Jen Hlubek, marketing and development manager for MRCI, and one of the organizers of the third annual go-cart races fundraising event. “It’s also a fun activity for those who support MRCI.”

The MRCI Foundation Grand Prix — July 18-19 with 60 teams competing — will raise funds for MRCI in its goal to help Minnesota residents with disabilities.

The idea came in 2006 when one of the board members, John Weir of Weir insurance, had heard of the idea from Pro-Kart racing. Not wanting to do another bake sale or golf tournament, MRCI took a chance.

Three years later, the event is still going strong. This year, it promises to be even better with a new track and new vehicles.

“The parking lot has been Memorial Track, which is named after a former board member who dedicated more than 30 years to the foundation and died in 2006. This will be the second year for the memorial track.

MRCI has been serving the community for 55 years and is the third- largest employer in Mankato. Along with raising funds, Hlubek hopes to raise awareness for the foundation and the 150 business that provide work for people with disabilities.

“We provide employment opportunities for 1,500 people, 400 in the community.”

The proceeds will go to support the transportation program, which provides 95,000 rides. It’s especially important now, said Mark Cramer, who is helping organize the event.

“You can imagine how expensive that is with fuel prices now.”

Randy Knauss, a chairman for the event, is optimistic for this year’s race. “We raised about $15,000 last year. We’re hoping to almost double that this year.”

This wouldn’t be possible without such overwhelming help and support from the community, Hlubek said.

“MRCI appreciates the support of the community. It really does make a difference with our ability to help the people with disabilities. The people we serve love to go to work every day. That’s our mission, helping people to have happy lives.”