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“I am extremely pleased with AWDA’s and AAIA’s willingness to step up and vigorously support aftermarket scholarships. Education has been at the core of both associations’ missions. The combined $50,000 in scholarship funds will benefit many deserving young people,” says Rusty Bishop, Foundation chairman, and CEO of Federated Auto Parts.
AWDA Chairman Bill Maggs, president, National Pronto Association, says, “This is what our AWDA Funds are all about. With Rusty at the leadership of University of the Aftermarket Foundation, I am confident this contribution will help our industry and provide for future aftermarket talent.”
“Momentum is growing to support and promote the fact that the car care industry is a great place to work,” says Tim Lee, AAIA chair. “Part of the attraction is our commitment to education and training. Through AAIA and AWDA, we are putting our money where our mouths are in support of scholarships to help attract and retain the best and the brightest young employees.”
“It is the Foundation’s hope that these contributions will spur additional giving,” says Bishop. “To this point, the University of the Aftermarket Foundation has had great success, but I believe that we, as an industry, can do even more to make education more readily available to those who seek an aftermarket career.” Those interested in offering financial support to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation can click here to download the donation form.
About the University of the Aftermarket Foundation
Since 1986, the University of the Aftermarket Foundation (formerly the AWDA University Foundation) has provided funding for aftermarket educational programs and research. Through its grant program, the Foundation and its donors ensure that education has a positive, stabilizing influence on the future of the aftermarket. The Foundation reached a milestone during the fourth quarter of 2006 by surpassing $5 million in donations during its ongoing endowment campaign. For more information about the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, call (816) 584-0511.
About AWDA and AAIA
AAIA is a Bethesda, Md.-based association whose more than 23,000 member and affiliates manufacture, distribute and sell motor vehicle parts, accessories, service, tools, equipment, materials and supplies. Through its membership, AAIA represents more than 100,000 repair shops, parts stores and distribution outlets.
AWDA represents more than 600 top distributors and manufacturers of motor vehicle parts nationwide. The 65-year old organization is a key segment of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA).