Nov. 17, 2011—The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) on Thursday announced it raised more than $3,200 for Operation Comfort's Automotivation program through a fundraising effort during the 2011 SEMA Show.

Operation Comfort, based in San Antonio, supports wounded U.S. military members who are receiving treatment at the Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC). Operation Comfort’s Automotivation program allows wounded service members to rehabilitate through automotive-related activities—such as rebuilding and restoring cars, trucks and motorcycles—as a form of occupational therapy and career replacement.

"A lot of our guys are gear heads, and Automotivation gives them a chance to leave the hospital and the barracks to do something they love," said Janis Roznowski, executive director of Operation Comfort. "In the process, they may find a new career path opening up in front of them. We thank SCRS and the collision industry for their generosity. The money collected at this show is going to go to our next project, the restoration of a 1934 Ford Cabriolet."

Two vehicles restored by soldiers through the Automotivation program were displayed at the 2011 SEMA Show—a 1957 Dodge Power Wagon used by the Army as a weapons carrier, and a 1966 Cobra kit car.

"This year's SEMA Show was an unforgettable event for a lot of different reasons, but nothing really compares to the feeling you get when you help rally support around a worthwhile cause," said Aaron Clark, chairman of the SCRS. "Collision repairers have demonstrated time and again that the industry believes in community support and philanthropy, and it was great to see that on display yet again. Good luck to Operation Comfort, and thank you to the many industry professionals that contributed. Like those who serve our country in the military, you make us all proud."