AkzoNobel marks 14th Annual Benevolence Program

The AkzoNobel Acoat selected International Benevolence Program will be held at collision repair centers across the United States and Canada starting the week of December 17.

The Benevolence Program is a community service endeavor sponsored by AkzoNobel and conducted by collision repair centers that are members of the Sikkens Acoat selected program. Its mission is to generate goodwill while improving and promoting the image of the collision repair industry. Participating collision centers present refurbished cars to deserving individuals or organizations during the holiday season.

"The continued lagging economy makes this program even more needed," said North American Services Manager Barry Rinehart. The gift of dependable transportation that many of us take for granted, can be a turning point. It enables individuals and families to get their lives moving in a more positive direction. We have 15 businesses participating this year. They enable hope thru the use their natural skills and talents to give back. It is inspiring to see what they do."

Each year the collision repair industry comes across cars that are "written off" by either the owner or the insurance company. Oftentimes these are older vehicles that just need some mechanical and body work to get them road-ready and safe to drive. Employees at participating shops donate their time and labor to repair the vehicle. Once the vehicle is reconditioned, shops work with local charitable organizations to help them identify an individual or group that is in need of a vehicle.

Other gifts such as auto insurance, oil changes, car washes, grocery store gift cards, clothing, toys and books are often donated by local merchants to accompany the car.

The Acoat selected National Benevolence Program is sponsored by AkzoNobel Coatings Inc. and is for customers who use its Sikkens brand of automotive refinish products.

To learn more, visit the Acoat selected website at www.acoatna.com.