Branning Collision and GEICO Team Up to Help N.J. Teacher

Branning Collision Centers and GEICO Team Up to Help N.J. Teacher

The recipient received keys to a completely refurbished 2014 Honda Odyssey as part of the National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides program.

(Photo courtesy of Hollee Photographee) (Left to right) Eric Tomkiewicz, GEICO area district manager central New Jersey, Paul Branning, owner of Branning Collision Centers, Mary, vehicle recipient, Kim Branning, and Branning Collision technicians.
(Photo courtesy of Hollee Photographee)
(Left to right) Eric Tomkiewicz, GEICO area district manager central New Jersey, Paul Branning, owner of Branning Collision Centers, Mary, vehicle recipient, Kim Branning, and Branning Collision technicians.

Branning Collision Centers announced that it, GEICO, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, LKQ Corporation, Hertz Corporation and other businesses teamed up to give a central New Jersey teacher (Mary) and her daughter the back-to-school gift of a completely refurbished 2014 Honda Odyssey as part of the National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides program.

Mary’s struggles began several years ago when she lost her job. Unable to find steady employment during the economic downturn, she quickly went through her savings and eventually lost her home. She turned to the FISH Hospitality Program for shelter and also began substitute teaching. With the organization’s support, Mary has now moved into her own apartment.

“At age 52, with a master’s degree and more than 20 years in a successful management career, I never expected to be homeless,” Mary said as she received keys to her new vehicle. “This gift is so exciting. I didn’t know what we were going to do about getting a newer vehicle, so this is tremendous. My daughter is really excited – thank you!”

The Honda Odyssey will replace an unreliable 20-year-old pickup truck with over 200,000 miles. Even more important, the vehicle enables Mary to accept more teaching assignments to increase her income and also be able to enjoy attending her daughter’s extracurricular school activities.

“Mary is a hard-working, self-motivated individual, and we hope this gift of reliable transportation will help turn the corner toward a brighter future for her family,” said Kim Branning of Branning Collision Centers. “Lack of reliable transportation is one of the biggest obstacles for individuals like Mary who struggle to rebuild their lives. We are pleased we could do this for her with GEICO and other colleagues in the industry.”

Other local businesses that contributed materials and services toward the Recycled Rides vehicle include Albert Kemperle, Dover Dodge, All American Auto Salvage, BMA Distributing, and Flemington Car and Truck.

You May Also Like

NABC Donates Recycled Ride to Deserving Las Vegas Family

The NABC, GEICO and Caliber Collision recently donated a refurbished 2019 Toyota Camry to a Las Vegas resident and his adopted family.

The National Auto Body Council NABC), along with GEICO and Caliber Collision, recently donated a refurbished 2019 Toyota Camry to a Las Vegas resident and his adopted family during the pre-race festivities of the Pennzoil 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The donation was made via the NABC's Recycled Rides program.

Dent Wizard Hires New Senior VP of Strategic Growth & Development

Adrian Gonzalez will be charged with driving growth through mergers and acquisitions.

CCC Report Analyzes Labor Pressures, Vehicle Complexity

Report shows advanced technology is contributing to costlier repairs, higher claims costs and longer cycle times.

Crash Champions Continues Steady Expansion Across Idaho

Crash Champions has announced the acquisition of Hoffman Auto Body in Boise, Idaho.

NABC Donates Recycled Ride to Tucson, Ariz. Family

The NABC, Allstate, Maaco and  Meineke Car Care recently donated a refurbished vehicle to a deserving Tucson, Ariz.-area mom.

Other Posts

ASE Practice Tests Available Online

ASE is encouraging those pursuing certification to take the official practice tests as part of their test preparation process.

Corby’s Collision Center: Since 1942

Bentley (Bud) and Evelyn Corby started Corby’s in a little gas station in Honeoye Falls, N.Y.

CIF Announces Enterprise as Repeat Annual Donor

Enterprise has donated for the fourth consecutive time at the Urgent Care (second highest) tier.

NABC Donates Recycled Ride to Central Georgia Mom

The NAB), GEICO and Five Star Collision Center-Wimbish recently donated a refurbished vehicle to a deserving mother of four.