CARSTAR announced that it raised over $100,000 during its annual “Shine Month” this June to fund cystic fibrosis (CF) research, advocacy and care.
“Shine Month” is a time when CARSTAR locations across North America dedicate time and funds to the fight against CF. CARSTAR franchise partners host car washes, participate in the Walk to Make Cystic Fibrosis History, or walk in Great Strides to help engage their team and community in raising funds and awareness for CF.
“We have gotten to know families in our area affected by cystic fibrosis through our fundraising efforts, which motivates us more to help this cause,” said Wayne Minogue, owner, CARSTAR London East and CARSTAR London West. “My wife Luci, along Jeff and Nancy Vanleeuwen, completed our annual Walk to Make Cystic Fibrosis History, which is now a three-generational event for our family as our brand-new granddaughter was able to participate in her stroller this year, which meant a lot to us.”
The Minogues also joined in with other locations, such as CARSTAR Toronto Millwick, to make direct donations of $1,000 to Cystic Fibrosis Canada, to help commemorate CARSTAR’s 30th anniversary during Shine Month.
“Giving back is ingrained in us, so it really is a no-brainer to contribute to the CARSTAR cause, Cystic Fibrosis Canada, especially after we hear their impactful stories,” said Ralph Andreaachi, owner, CARSTAR Toronto Millwick. “Our team just wants to do what we can to make the lives of those living with CF a little bit better.”
CARSTAR began fundraising for CF in Canada over 20 years ago when a franchise partner’s granddaughter received a cystic fibrosis diagnosis. Since then, the CARSTAR commitment to its charity of choice has only accelerated, as have the funds raised. Passing the $3 million threshold for funds raised for Cystic Fibrosis Canada in 2016, CARSTAR now has over $3.7 million raised as U.S. franchise partners have joined in on the cause.
“Our commitment to cystic fibrosis runs deep within our corporate culture at CARSTAR, so it makes sense to celebrate our charitable partner for June’s 30th anniversary,” said Michael Macaluso, president, CARSTAR.
Cystic fibrosis is a fatal genetic disease with no cure. CF causes various effects on the body, but mainly affects the digestive system and lungs. A defective gene causes a thick, buildup of mucus in the lungs, pancreas and other organs leading to infections, extensive lung damage and eventually, respiratory failure.
“We are grateful for CARSTAR’s enthusiasm and dedication to raise funds, awareness and help advance the mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation,” said Elizabeth Thompson, senior director for national corporate engagement, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. “CARSTAR is steadfast in their efforts to support the cystic fibrosis cause across North America and we cannot wait to accelerate this momentum. It is because of companies like CARSTAR that we believe that one day, CF will stand for ‘cure found.’”
For more information on CARSTAR, visit CARSTAR.com or CARSTAR.ca.
