Two U.S. Army veterans were presented with keys to refurbished vehicles in Clifton, NJ, easing their daily transportation challenges, as part of the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides program, which aims to provide reliable transportation to veterans and families in need.
NABC, GEICO and New Trimble Auto Body presented a fully refurbished 2018 Honda Accord to Raul Perez, and an equally beautiful 2017 Hyundai Tucson to Krystal Cordero, who were both nominated by the New Jersey Veteran’s Network.
Perez is a community relations manager for a children's dentistry practice and an active volunteer for helping with food and clothing drives. He served on active duty in South Korea from 1998-2001, and also served in the active U.S. Army Reserve from 2005-2006.
“Being a disabled U.S. Army veteran, the vehicle gifted will be a great help getting me to my appointments and therapy,” said Perez. “Not only that, as a community relations manager, it will help me to continue my efforts in serving the community, and to help to participate in food and clothing drives as I’ve done in the past. I’m very happy to have received this vehicle. I appreciate the NABC for choosing me, NJ Veterans Network for nominating me, and all others involved in making it possible.”
New Jersey Veterans Network President Michael Boll said Cordero served on active duty in the U.S. Army from 2006-2010 as an airborne soldier in psychological operations.
"She embodies the values of integrity, honor and selflessness that are the cornerstone of our military," Boll said. "Transitioning to civilian life after serving in the military can present numerous challenges, and Cordero has faced these with resilience and determination. Despite the obstacles encountered, she has actively sought opportunities to contribute to the community and has been a positive force in uplifting and supporting fellow veterans."
Boll said Cordero dedicates her time to assisting advocating for veterans in the real estate sector, including helping homeless veterans to reintegrate into civilian life.
"The donation of this vehicle will be immensely beneficial to Krystal, enabling her to access employment opportunities, attend necessary medical appointments and engage more fully in community activities,” Boll said.
The NABC Recycled Rides program, since its inception in 2007, has involved numerous businesses from the collision repair industry collaborating to repair and donate vehicles. To date, more than 3,300 vehicles valued at approximately $47 million have been donated.
The event also featured contributions from Advanced Remarketing Services, Cars for Charity, Copart and Enterprise.
