Discussing car culture and impact with Donta Hampton of Flint's TrendSettas Corvette Club

FLINT, Michigan — While many are familiar with the annual Back to the Bricks event that takes place in downtown Flint every August, it isn’t the only car-related event going on in the city. 

Every year from May through September, every first Thursday of the month, Flint’s very own TrendSettas Corvette Club hosts a cruise-in event along with their 'Cars and Cigars' show which has been one of the club’s annual summer events spanning back 14 years.  

Formed in 2009, the social club prides itself on being “a family-oriented club with strong roots in community service and philanthropy.”

Dating back to 1953, the first three hundred Corvettes were assembled right here in Flint’s General Motors factory. With this brand of luxury car being so enveloped in history amongst the car lovers and auto history community, it's no wonder the TrendSettas Corvette Club was birthed here.

The president of TrendSettas, Donta Hampton, spoke to Flintside about the club’s cultural significance within the city, what prospective members can expect from joining the respected auto club, and the future of TrendSettas. 
 
Flintside: What can attendees expect from this year's 'Cars and Cigars' shows? 
 
Donta Hampton: "This year’s 'Cars and Cigars' event is going to be off the charts! We’ve got an incredible lineup of classic and modern Corvettes that will catch any car enthusiast’s eye. Expect some live DJ music, delicious food trucks, pop-up restaurants, raffle tickets for prizes, and of course, a selection of premium cigars to enjoy. It’s going to be a fantastic mid-week event to celebrate our shared passion for cars and community monthly every first Thursday through September."
 
Flintside: How can new car enthusiasts get involved with TrendSettas? 
 
D. Hampton: "Getting involved with TrendSettas is straightforward and welcoming. Prospective club members can reach out to any active TrendSetta club member to get a referral as we utilize a referral system and do not actively seek out new members. Additionally, you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on all our activities. We encourage new enthusiasts to come out to our events to meet like-minded folks who share a love for Corvettes and car culture. Whether you’re a seasoned car lover or just getting started, there’s a place for you in our club. Reach out, come to an event, and you’ll find a community ready to welcome you."

Flintside: What does the future of TrendSettas Corvette Club look like? 
 
D. Hampton: "The future of TrendSettas Corvette Club is looking bright and exciting! We’re focused on growing our membership and expanding our reach within the community. One of our key initiatives is to give back by expanding our Teyana Sprinkle Scholarship Fund which supports local students in their pursuit of higher education.

Additionally, we aim to collaborate more with other car clubs and local businesses to keep the spirit of car culture alive and thriving. Our goal is to continue evolving while staying true to our roots and passion for Corvette."
 
Flintside: How big of a cultural impact has the club made on the African American community? 
 
D. Hampton: "TrendSettas has made a significant cultural impact on the African American community by providing a space where we can celebrate our love for cars and build lasting relationships. It’s incredibly inspiring for others to see us with Corvettes because, historically, such luxury and performance cars were often out of reach for Black people. By showcasing our Corvettes, we are not only breaking barriers but also redefining what is possible for our community. Our club has become a symbol of progress and empowerment, highlighting the rich contributions of African Americans to car culture and helping to strengthen our community bonds."
 
Flintside: Talk to us about some of the defining moments throughout the club's history that made a lasting impact not only on yourself but also on your outlook of what the TrendSettas Club stands for. 

D. Hampton: "There have been so many defining moments in our club’s history, but one that truly stands out is when we received the proclamation from the city from Mayor Karen Weaver. That recognition was a proud moment for all of us, acknowledging the hard work and dedication we’ve put into the club and our community."

To keep up with Donta Hampton, follow him on Instagram. To learn more about becoming a member, join the TrendSettas Corvette Club public group on Facebook.