The Aftermarket Foundation celebrated its 50th Anniversary by launching a new Web site to help further its goals of assisting those in need.
The new, comprehensive Web site at www.aftermarketfoundation.org shares more information about what the Foundation does as the “Heart of the Aftermarket.”
The launch was announced during the recent AAPEX and SEMA shows, at which the foundation had booths to share its message and information.
Founded in 1959 as an outgrowth of the Quarter Century Club as a social industry club after World War ll, the prime movers in forming this early charitable organization where aftermarket pioneers - Moe Strauss and Charlie Unger from Pep Boys; Charles Weissman from American Auto; Arthur Taubman from Advance Auto and Ray Jesselson, a manufacturers representative. The club was named the Ray Jesselson Benevolent Foundation and over the years changes its name to the Automotive Foundations for the Aftermarket (AFFTA) and finally, The Aftermarket Foundation.
During the first 15 to 20 years, funds raised were distributed as needed to those in the industry with nowhere left to turn. In the late 1970’s, Don Schlenger took over and revitalized the Foundation, bringing on active trustees and seeking the assistance of industry companies and organization to both raise awareness and funding.
Now in its 50th year, the Aftermarket Foundation is the only industry charity whose sole dedication is to help those in the industry in need of assistance. Because of the need for support from all of those in the industry, The Foundation has set-up a managed donation account at The Aftermarket Foundation - PO Box 864520 - Orlando, FL. 32886-4520 - (772) 286-5500.
The Aftermarket Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) Charitable Organization.
