The National Auto Body Council (NABC) announced that it has received nearly $250,000 in pledges and donations towards its $1.5 million Capital Campaign for Operation Comfort’s AutoMotivation program. The Capital Campaign goal is to purchase, renovate and equip a 30,000 sq. ft. training facility in San Antonio, Texas, that will serve as a permanent home for Operation Comfort’s AutoMotivation program.   Wounded service members in the AutoMotivation program benefit from occupational and rehabilitative therapies as they work on automotive projects. NABC-led  efforts take the program to the next level by providing opportunities for participants to simultaneously recover and heal while acquiring certified I-CAR curriculum-based training for new career paths in the collision industry.  “We are thrilled with the momentum and support coming from all corners of the industry to support this cause,” says Chuck Sulkala, NABC Executive Director. “Many companies, regardless of size, are joining our fundraising efforts and finding ways to engage their customers and employees to support this great program for our wounded troops.” Companies that have already launched their fundraising initiatives include: Hertz launched a fundraising effort over Presidents’ Day Weekend that raised $50,000 in a two-day promotion. The company’s sponsorship of Operation Comfort is part of its Hertz for Heroes program, a project initiated by Hertz employees with military backgrounds.  3M Corporation is pledging $50,000 based on sales of selected products through the Automotive Aftermarket.

Sterling Autobody Centers has pledged a $30,000 corporate donation and anticipates an additional  $30,000 will be raised through efforts from its individual body shop locations.
 
Keenan Auto Body is collecting donations at each of their 11 shops and are matching every donation dollar for dollar until the Capital Campaign goal of $1.5 million has been reached.
 
“Our heartfelt thanks to the many companies and individuals who have already donated and pledged their support. There are many more companies with fundraising efforts in the works and we look forward to sharing more exciting news on their successes and contributions towards our Capital Campaign goal,” says Sulkala.

About the National Auto Body Council
The National Auto Body Council is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact the National Auto Body Council directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 or go to www.autobodycouncil.org. Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NationalAutoBodyCouncil. The NABC’s Twitter feed is @AutoBodyCouncil.

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