A single mother and soon-to-be nursing graduate in Southern California was presented with a key to independence and reliable transportation on May 3, thanks to a collaborative effort from the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides program.
Diane Von Kaenel, who was set to graduate with a nursing degree two weeks after the presentation, was the grateful recipient of a fully refurbished 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The car, donated by Allstate and restored by Fix Auto USA, comes at a crucial time as her previous vehicle was beyond repair and she had to ask for rides from friends to class and complete her course work.
Henry Arroyo, owner of Fix Auto Palm Desert South, where the car presentation occurred, shared his own journey from a third-world country to business owner in the U.S.
“Coming here at a young age has given me the chance to become a better person. I've worked hard to get to where I am today. And I love the fact that we can all come together and give someone else the opportunity to improve their life," Arroyo said. "It's an incredible feeling to see the pure joy on someone's face when they receive a blessing. I truly appreciate the partnership we have with the NABC Recycled Rides and all the companies that donate vehicles for us to refurbish."
The NABC Recycled Rides program, operational since 2007, involves various automotive industry players who refurbish and donate cars to individuals and families in need. To date, more than 3,300 vehicles with an estimated value of $47 million have been donated.
Supporting partners for this particular gift included Cars for Charity, Advanced Remarketing Services, Copart, Auto Glass Now and Enterprise.
