Baltimore Man Wins Car from Local Nonprofit for Playing Johnny Speed Car Racing App

Vehicles for Change, Inc. and Mindgrub Technologies will present a 2004 Ford Mustang to Joseph Lytle, 42, of Baltimore, in a ceremony on July 23 at Mindgrub’s office in Federal Hill. A father of two and manager of Harris Teeter’s Federal Hill location, Lytle is the winner of the first drawing for “Johnny Speed,” a car racing app and creative fundraising tool launched by VFC in April to benefit its programs.

Lytle first learned of the app at VFC’s official launch during the “Furious 7” premiere at AMC Loews in White Marsh. “I was particularly drawn to the idea that the app would help support a nonprofit and social cause,” said Lytle. “Both my girlfriend and I were in disbelief when I received the call that I had actually won the car. My daughter is starting driver’s education soon, so this vehicle will serve as a great extra family car for her to practice.”

Developed by Mindgrub, players must help Johnny Speed escape the paparazzi by completing race courses and dodging obstacles to advance to the next level. All players who successfully completed level one of the game were automatically entered in the drawing to win either a car valued between $5,000 and $7,500, or a $2,500 cash prize. VFC will announce the next drawing in the near future.

“At VFC, we are constantly seeking creative initiatives to enhance our programming. This game is a unique way to raise money to fulfill the mission our organization was founded upon,” said VFC President Marty Schwartz. “Our organization is built around transportation, so a mobile game centering on car is a great fit.”

While the app is free to download, players may purchase stars to buy various vehicle upgrades and extras that will enhance their game performance. Profits from in-app purchases will directly fund VFC programming.

EVENT DETAILS

WHEN: Thursday, July 23, 2015 - 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

WHERE: Mindgrub Technologies - 1215 E. Fort Ave., Suite 200, Baltimore, Maryland 21230

AGENDA: 10:00 – Light refreshments and opening remarks
10:20 – Recognition of quarterly contest winner
10:30 – VFC President and Mindgrub President and CEO to hand over keys
10:40 – Closing remarks

“Johnny Speed” is free to download on Google Play for Android and in the Apple App Store. Learn more about “Johnny Speed” atwww.playjohnnyspeed.com, like “Johnny Speed” on Facebook, or follow @JohnnySpeedGame on Twitter. For media inquiries and onsite media coordination, contact Josie Hankey at 410-420-2001 or by email at josie.hankey@fallstongroup.com.