The Dave Astor Show was a popular Portland television program featuring local teenagers singing and dancing along to early rock and roll hits. In October 1964, Astor hosted a special episode for 27 young people who attended a Portland cerebral palsy clinic near Astor's office.

The guests were "adopted" by the program's usual performers to make sure they felt comfortable, and the show ended with everyone singing "My Country 'Tis of Thee."

"I had seen these wonderful kids day after day and it got so we'd wave hello to each other across the street," recalled Astor. "I knew I wanted to do something for them, something special that they'd remember for a long time."

In addition to his work as television host and owner of a car dealership, Astor also served as the state teenage adviser for the March of Dimes.