On Wednesday, September 15, a deserving North Carolina veteran experienced a life-changing event – the presentation of a vehicle to provide her and her family independence and the ability to work and continue her education – thanks to the National Auto Body Council Recycled Rides program, along with car donor Allstate and repair partner Caliber Collision of Matthews.

 The presentation was held on Wednesday, September 15, at the Hilton Charlotte University Place, during the Collision Industry Electronic Commerce (CIECA) CONNEX Conference.

The participants in the NABC Recycled Rides program included vehicle donor Allstate; collision repair partner Caliber Collision, represented by Ashley Dennison, CIO; Steve Cole of Veterans Bridge Home, which selected the recipient; CIECA members and Executive Director Paul Barry; along with Bill Garoutte, president and CEO of NABC and several NABC board members.

Candice Andrews-Fisher, a U.S. Army veteran, was gifted a 2014 Toyota Rav4 donated by Allstate and refurbished by Caliber Collision of Matthews. Veterans Bridge Homes selected Andrews-Fisher, who served as a specialist in the Army 14th MP Brigade from 2001-2006, for her efforts to regain her independence after being homeless, re-establish stable housing, care for her five children and return to work. The gift of reliable transportation will provide her the ability to continue this path to personal achievement.

“I loved my service in the Army, but since I’ve had my struggles and been homeless,” said Andrews-Fisher. “I’ve been working hard to keep my life on a better path and take care of my family. This car will allow me to continue my education and work. I can’t wait to take my family for a ride.”

During the presentation, it was announced that the Honorable Vi Lyles, Mayor of Charlotte, proclaimed September 15th as “CIECA and NABC Recycled Rides Day” in Charlotte.

NABC Recycled Rides® is a unique program in which businesses representing all facets of the collision repair industry team up to repair and donate vehicles to individuals and families in need of reliable transportation. Since the inception of the NABC Recycled Rides® program in 2007, members of the National Auto Body Council® have donated more than 2,750 vehicles valued at more than $36 million.

 Additional partners in the NABC Recycled Rides presentation include 1-800 Charity Cars.