NABC Donates Cars to Two Florida Veterans

The National Auto Body Council announced that they have presented two veterans in Florida with new vehicles, thanks to GEICO for donating the cars, sponsorships by the Wounded Warrior Project, and repair partner Classic Collision.

The presentation was held at the Ferman Collision Center in Tampa, Florida. Against the backdrop of a huge American flag, provided by Stepp’s Towing, and surrounded by more than four people for moral support, Karla Diaz and Rick Burton were honored.

Diaz is a disabled U.S. Army Veteran who served as a combat medic from 2006 to 2012. She is a widow raising three boys. One of her children is disabled and often has medical appointments. Diaz frequently depends on asking family and friends for rides.

Diaz received a 2017 Kia Optima. The gift of reliable transportation will enable Karla to care for her family’s needs.

Burton, who served in the U.S. Army from 1995 to 2014, is a disabled Veteran with a fixed income. He is always finding ways to help other veterans who struggle upon discharge from service. Recently, vehicle repairs have resulted in him losing his means of mobility and transportation. Burton received a 2020 Honda Civic.

Since the inception of the NABC Recycled Rides program in 2007, members of the National Auto Body Council have donated more than 3,200 vehicles valued at approximately $46 million.