HUNTERSVILLE, N.C .— American Tire Distributors (ATD) has increased its financial commitment to the Gary Sinise Foundation (GSF), a nonprofit organization that serves the nation's defenders, veterans, first responders, their families and those in need.
ATD and its subsidiary, Tire Pros, is working to raise $1.5 million through its "Summer for Heroes" Giving Campaign for the foundation, a 50% increase over its 2021 commitment.
The campaign ran from June 1 to Aug. 31. In addition to raising money through its website, ATD also hosted 5K race for Heroes associates' on Sept. 10. In addition, it is hosting the second annual Gala for Heroes on Oct. 16 and the 32nd annual golf classic to support GSF on Oct. 17.
Actor Gary Sinese will appear at all the events, and there will be a performance by the Lt. Dan Band.
As part of the campaign, JR Motorsports, professional race car driver Josh Berry and Tire Pros raised awareness of the cause. Berry's No. 8 Chevrolet featured special colors and ATD's Summer for Heroes logo on the hood and quarter panels during the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Watkins Glen Raceway in New York on Aug. 20 and at the Daytona International Speedway's Wawa 250 on Friday, Aug. 26.
Stuart Schuette, president and CEO of ATD, call it "an enormous honor" to support the campaign.
"At ATD, we're passionate about helping first responders, veterans and their families," he said. "We acknowledge that our nation's heroes face challenges – both physical and mental wellness — so if we can help even one person with our donation, then we know our efforts were a tremendous success."
The donations raised during the Summer for Heroes will help fund the following Gary Sinise Foundation programs:
- Relief & Resiliency: This program offers support for service members, first responders and veterans and their families, before, during and after battle. As part of Relief & Resiliency, Snowball Express helps maintain traditions for children of fallen military by providing fun experiences. It also works to promote recovery in the aftermath of their trauma.
- First Responders Outreach: Tthe program funds essential equipment, PPE, emergency relief and training for first responders.
- R.I.S.E.: Short for Restoring Independence, Supporting Empowerment, this provides specially adapted smart homes and vehicles, home modifications and mobility devices for wounded heroes.
In 2021, ATD's Summer for Heroes campaign raised $1 million. To learn more or contribute to ATD's Summer for Heroes click here.
