The 2017 hurricane season and wildfires have shattered records with millions of people affected across all walks of life, including many in the automotive aftermarket industry. In an effort to support business partners and their families within the industry distressed by recent weather-related events, Automotive Parts Associates Inc. (APA) made a charitable contribution to the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF).
“Supporting the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation is the least we can do for our friends and family in our industry directly affected by the recent hurricanes and fires that have wreaked havoc across the United States. This business is special and tight-knit, we are all connected and when one link is damaged it affects the entire community. We are honored to be able to contribute to such a worthy cause,” said Douglas Squires, APA board chairman.
As the only charity that is specifically designed to improve and transform the lives of those in the aftermarket trade that have suffered hardships due to catastrophic illness or accident, the AACF is comprised of industry-volunteers that have been assisting members of the large automotive community since 1959.
“Our country has seen some tough times in the past few months with hurricanes, flooding and wildfires. Thanks to companies and organizations like Automotive Parts Associates, the AACF can make sure donations only go to persons and families working in the automotive aftermarket industry. In some cases, these people are needing immediate help with food, a place to sleep or with expenses until they are back on their feet. The AACF can provide that kind of assistance quickly. With the generosity and caring of Automotive Parts Associates and others we are helping our industry families in a time when they need it most,” said Joel Ayres, AACF executive director.
The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation is making a difference by providing financial support to members of the industry that have nowhere to turn and are unable to maintain a reasonable existence, regardless of the type of struggle.
