Fifty-four collision centers across the United States and Canada will provide transportation to 60 needy families during the 10th annual AkzoNobel Acoat selected National Benevolence Program to be held Dec. 8 through 15.
The Benevolence Program is a community service effort sponsored by AkzoNobel and conducted by collision repair centers that are members of the Sikkens Acoat selected program. Its mission is to improve and promote the image of the collision repair industry through charitable works. Participating collision centers present refurbished cars to deserving individuals or organizations during the holiday season.
“Over 300 cars have been donated to date,” said North American Services Manager Mike Sillay. “Thanks to the generosity and concern that our customers have for their communities, we have been able to effectively sustain the growth of this program. The spirit and enthusiasm that these owners and employees exhibit to ensure that others can have a better life is a true testament to the standards that they set for their businesses.”
Each year, the collision repair industry comes across cars that are written off by either the owner or the insurance company. Often, these are older vehicles that just need some mechanical and body work to get them road-ready. Employees at participating shops donate time and labor to repair the vehicles. Once the vehicles are reconditioned, shops then work with local charitable organizations to identify an individual or group that is in need of a vehicle.
Other gifts such as auto insurance, oil changes, car washes, grocery store gift cards, clothing, toys and books are often donated by local merchants to accompany the car.
The Acoat selected National Benevolence Program is sponsored by AkzoNobel Coatings Inc. and is for customers who use its Sikkens brand of automotive refinish products. For more information, visit www.acoatna.com.
