HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — American Tire Distributors Inc. (ATD) is again teaming up with its Tire Pros retail marketing arm to support the Gary Sinise Foundation (GSF) with its third annual Summer of Heroes Giving Campaign.
ATD is striving to beat its previous donation of $1.5 million. A link for donations, and more information, are available online.
ATD hosted a 5K for Heroes fundraiser in May for associates and their families nationwide.
ATD and GSF will host a First Responders Day fundraiser on Sept. 10 in Charlotte, N.C., featuring a performance by the Gary Sinise-fronted Lt. Dan Band.
The fundraising campaign will conclude, and donation presented, at the third annual Gala For Heroes on Oct. 8, followed by the annual Golf For Heroes event on Oct. 9.
"The Gary Sinise Foundation serves as an inspiring beacon of hope and solidarity, and ATD is proud to continue with our partnership with them to support our nation's heroes," ATD President and CEO Stuart Schuette said.
"Their commitment of supporting these heroes during their most challenging times is truly inspiring. We are privileged to contribute to the work they are doing and share their passion for making a difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much."
The Summer for Heroes campaign will support wounded veterans, first responders and families of fallen veterans by helping fund four GSF programs:
- Mental Wellness Support. GSF is addressing mental wellness needs for veterans and first responders through strategic partnerships with various organizations, with services including detailed evaluation and treatment, private inpatient treatment, resiliency workshops and support communities.
- First Responders Outreach. GSF helps equip first responders with training, equipment and critical funding for emergencies. GSF also builds smart-technology-adapted homes or provides home modification for those injured in the line of duty.
- Snowball Express. This program provides support to families of fallen veterans with opportunities to connect with other families who have experienced similar loss, make new memories and honor their loved one.
- Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment (RISE). In addition to providing home modifications, adapted vehicles and mobility devices, RISE supports the construction of specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded veterans.
Since 2019, ATD has raised $2.75 million for the GSF. In 2022, the campaign raised more than $1.5 million to help fund mental health and suicide prevention programs, community outreach and support programs.
