On Thursday, December 9, two deserving Topeka residents experienced a life-changing event – the presentation of two vehicles to provide them independence and the ability to work and take care of their families – thanks to the National Auto Body Council Recycled Rides program along with the vehicle donors and Washburn Tech. These were the 31st and 32nd NABC Recycled Rides vehicles the school has presented.
“Congratulations to Eric and Sharlene Showalter for their leadership of and commitment to this program,” said Bill Garoutte, president and CEO of the National Auto Body Council. “Refurbishing and presenting 32 cars over a number of years is a milestone. Doing this while helping students gain valuable hands-on repair skills and an appreciation for giving back to their community is amazing.”
The presentation was held at held on the Washburn Tech campus. Along with NABC Recycled Rides program representatives, the participants included Washburn Tech auto service and auto collision students with instructors and professional mentors in the community; two recipients who were chosen by a selection committee comprised of Washburn Tech students and facilitated by leaders of the United Way of Greater Topeka; and local businesses and individuals who donated parts and supplies.
NABC and Washburn Tech presented two vehicles to the deserving families, including a 2008 Toyota Yaris and a 2008 Mercury Sable.
NABC Recycled Rides is a unique program in which businesses representing all facets of the collision repair industry team up to repair and donate vehicles to individuals and families in need of reliable transportation. Since the inception of the NABC Recycled Rides program in 2007, members of the National Auto Body Council have donated more than 2,750 vehicles valued at more than $38 million.
Additional partners in the NABC Recycled Rides presentation include 1-800 Charity Cars, LKQ, PPG Refinish, O’Reilly Auto Parts and Briggs Auto Body, which donated the t-shirts.
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