The National Auto Body Council (NABC) PRIDE Committee is accepting nominations for the 2008 PRIDE Awards, which recognize those in the collision industry who selflessly donate their time, energy and financial resources to worthy causes outside the industry. This is the 13th year NABC has sponsored the PRIDE Awards.

Here’s a recap of last year’s four PRIDE winners:

Barbara Cellini from Broadway Auto Rebuilders in South Chicago Heights, Ill., started the Thomas Cellini Huntington’s Foundation after her husband, Tom, was diagnosed with the disease. The foundation is a leader in Huntington’s research and gathers financial resources for families whose lives have been disrupted by the disease.

Kevin DeWayne Jackson, parts manager for Indianapolis-based Collision Solutions, and his wife have brought more than 65 foster children into their home. They have adopted three of these children to join their own three children.

Patricia McConnell, president of Old Dominion CARSTAR in Eugene and Springfield, Ore., serves on the Board of Directors for the Relief Nursery, a nonprofit organization that serves children in Lane County, Ore., who are either the victims of abuse or at risk of being abused. McConnell donated a vehicle to the Relief Nursery and is ensuring that donated services keep the van in top condition. She also assists in ensuring that the children get to enjoy holidays and vacations and have a safe place to go.

John (Whitey) Westlund, from Lehman’s Garage in the Twin Cities of Minnesota, came to the committee’s attention through a 30-page nomination form from shop president Darrell Amberson. In addition to devoting more than 60 years to the auto industry, Whitey has battled alcoholism. The pages were filled with personal testimonials recognizing Westlund for all that he has done during the past 33 years to help others claim victory over the disease.

A downloadable nomination form is available at www.autobodycouncil.org, and a version of the form can be completed and submitted online.