The professionalism, integrity and generosity of the collision industry took center stage at the 2016 NACE | CARS Expo & Conference as three military veterans and two single parents received keys to newly refurbished cars through the National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides program.

“I am grateful, you all have blessed my family. This vehicle will make a big difference in our lives,” said Travis Steele, an Army veteran who received a van for his family of six – and one more on the way.

Since the inception of Recycled Rides in 2007, more than 1,000 vehicles valued at over $12 million have been donated across the country. Recycled Rides is a national program in which collision industry companies team up to repair and donate vehicles to individuals in need.

“This is what the National Auto Body Council is about. We want to change and save more lives and Recycled Rides is one of the ways our collective collision industry can do that,” said Domenic Brusco, NABC chair. “We thank the many volunteers, our NABC Board of Directors, and all our members because it is with their support that we can change and save more lives. If you’re not a member, I would ask that you too join us today so that we can make an even bigger difference.”

The families were nominated by nonprofit charitable organizations in the Southern California area.

Click here to read more about the families that were gifted Recycled Rides.