The National Auto Body Council (NABC), along with Farmers and Fix Auto USA, recently donated a refurbished vehicle to a Los Angeles-area U.S. Navy veteran who has overcome homelessness and other challenges. The donation was made through the NABC’s Recycled Rides program.
The 2019 Nissan Altima was donated by Farmers and refurbished by the skilled technicians at Fix Auto USA of Apple Valley.
The recipient, Thomas Ellerstein, was nominated for the Recycled Rides program by the Orenda Veterans Project.
Ellerstein has had to depend on public transportation or walking for many years, limiting his work options. Nevertheless, he has worked steadily, but his income has not been sufficient for him to acquire a vehicle. He has faced homelessness and health issues, as well as the transportation challenge. The Recycled Ride that Ellerstein received will allow him to carry supplies and tools to his worksites. His nominator at the Orenda Veterans Project said that receiving the vehicle will provide Ellerstein a much-needed boost, helping him to stay motivated, feel confident and know that the odds are not stacked against him.
Farmers, a level one partner of NABC, is a frequent donor of vehicles through Recycled Rides.
Fix Auto USA, a member of the Driven Brands network, is also a level one NABC member. Fix Auto USA has grown since 2011 to more than 150 locations in 14 states.
Additional partners in the presentation included Auto Glass Now; Valley Hi Nissan; Sherwin-Williams; O’Reilly Auto Parts; LKQ; Aguiar’s Towing; Advanced Remarketing Services; Cars for Charity; Enterprise; and Copart.
For more information on Recycled Rides, click here.
