ST. CLOUD, Minn. Prior to the kickoff of a recent Auto Value parts stores product expo, Automotive Parts Headquarters Inc. (APH), in partnership with more than 40 manufacturers’ representatives, hosted its third annual chili cook-off. Nine chili dishes were entered and $20,395 was raised, including APH’s dollar-for-dollar match contribution, for WACOSA, a non-profit day program for adults with disabilities in central Minnesota.
“APH, Auto Value and the Bartlett family are strong believers and supporters of WACOSA,” said Clint Gordon, area sales manager for Dorman Products and chili cook-off champion. “Adults with disabilities are often the hardest hit when county, state and federal funding cuts need to be made. For that reason, we are extremely proud to help the APH team in any way we can [to] raise money and awareness for this important program.”
WACOSA connects local businesses with a workforce of more than 500 adults with mental or physical disabilities. Through training and coaching, WACOSA workers provide reliable and affordable business solutions through in-center work opportunities or community employment.
Automotive Parts Headquarters Inc. (APH) is a third generation family- and employee-owned aftermarket auto parts distributor and store group serving Auto Value parts stores located in Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota and Michigan. APH was established in 1920 in Minneapolis, Minn., as National Bushing & Parts Co. During the 1960s, the company formed a main office and distribution center in St. Cloud, Minn. Today, with its network of 80 corporate stores and 35 independent stores, APH is consistently ranked in Babcox Media’s Top 20 Super Stores. The distributor and store group employs more than 750 team members.