May 7, 2012—Caliber Collision Centers’ Woodlands, Texas, location recently donated a refurbished 2004 Volkswagen Jetta to a local military veteran through the National Auto Body Council’s (NABC) 2012 Recycled Rides program.
Michael Ryan Lease received the keys and title to his refurbished vehicle May 2 during a special ceremony to thank and honor him for his service in the military. Caliber said Lease was nominated to receive the Recycled Rides vehicle by ReserveAid, a nonprofit organization that provides assistance to military families.
Caliber said Lease struggled both emotionally and financially after serving four years in the Army, from 2003-2007. A lack of reliable transportation made it difficult for Lease to find steady employment. Caliber said Lease recently landed a full-time position with an industrial painting company, but has to arrange rides to get to work.
“Too many times, the men and women called to protect our country suffer financial burdens before, during and especially, after their service,” said Michael Quinn, vice president of industry and community relations for Caliber. “Our purpose day in and day out at Caliber is ‘restoring our customers to the rhythm of their lives.’ We hope this vehicle acts as a catalyst that restores Michael back to the rhythm of his life.”
“We truly appreciate the sacrifices that individuals like Michael Lease have made on behalf of our country,” said Odom Wu, national director of Auto Specialty Claims for Farmers Insurance, which donated the vehicle to be refurbished. “Giving back to the community is important to us and we are proud to partner with Caliber Collision to provide a helping hand to those in need.”
The vehicle marks Calibers seventh Recycled Rides donation in 2012. The company plans to donate a total of 12 Recycled Rides vehicles throughout the year.
