At the Speedway Children’s Charities Southpoint Car and Truck Show on Aug. 24 in Las Vegas, NV, U.S. Army veteran Alfonso Ocampo received a refurbished 2019 Hyundai Tucson, thanks to the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides program, a gift that promises to enhance his mobility and independence.
The vehicle, donated by GEICO and restored by Caliber's technicians, allows Ocampo, a single father with a son facing health challenges, to no longer rely on rideshares for work and medical appointments, enabling him to save money for essential daily needs and participate more actively in community and volunteer activities. This boost in mobility is also likely to open doors to better job opportunities.
“I received a beautiful Hyundai Tucson, thanks to everybody who made it possible -- GEICO, Caliber, NABC and Speedway Children’s Charities,” said Ocampo. “It’s a great opportunity to continue my independence and make my future better. I’m so grateful for this gift. This is just awesome and amazing. It’s an early Christmas gift for me.”
"There were hundreds of amazing classic cars and trucks on display at the show, but the NABC Recycled Ride presented to a U.S. Army veteran was the only one that helped change someone’s life,” said Deborah Robinson, executive director of the National Auto Body Council. “It was an honor to partner with Speedway Children’s Charities on this event, and we are very grateful to our members GEICO and Caliber for making the presentation possible. Congratulations to Alfonso on his new vehicle!”
“GEICO’s commitment to the military community traces back to our roots as an insurer for government employees and service members,” said LaDonna Bond, head of diversity, equity and inclusion at GEICO. “Through our ongoing partnership with NABC, we’ve had the privilege of donating vehicles to veterans, active-duty personnel and their families. This initiative is just one way we strive to give back to the brave men and women who have devoted so much for our nation.”
“It’s our privilege and our purpose to restore the rhythm of lives in our community,” said Robert Sadeghian, Caliber's regional manager for Las Vegas. “Our technicians at Caliber Collision continue to amaze me with their generosity to make a difference not only for today but every day.”
Since its inception in 2007, the NABC Recycled Rides program has donated more than 3,300 vehicles, valued at approximately $47 million, demonstrating the collision repair industry's commitment to giving back.
Additional partners in the presentation included Enterprise, Advanced Remarketing Services, Cars for Charity, Copart, Caliber Auto Glass, ProTech, LKQ, Top Clean Auto Detail, Auto Spa Las Vegas, The Stripe Guy, Auto Zone, Auto Nation Toyota and Sin City Wheels and Tires.
