East Norriton, PA – December 3, 2007 – The Auto Dealers CARing for Kids Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Automobile Dealers Association of Greater Philadelphia (ADAGP), announces the donation of a specialized van to the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House, as well as an $18,000 grant to support EconomicsPennsylvania’s Strive to Drive Program.
The donated van to the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House will be used at the organization’s soon-to-be developed Front and Erie Streets location. The new house, scheduled to open in January 2008, has been designed to provide 15 guest rooms for families who have critically ill children receiving care at different Philadelphia hospitals. A complimentary van service is often provided to families staying at Ronald McDonald Houses so they can easily travel to and from the respective hospitals. The vans also provide transportation to the airport, bus stations, grocery stores and other appropriate destinations.
“We are dedicated to supporting the people, places and services of our great region—especially in times of need,” said Kevin Mazzucola, executive director of the Foundation and ADAGP. “By helping Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House offer this type of service, we’re hoping the stress of navigating an unfamiliar city is alleviated from the shoulders of many mothers, fathers and more who are unfortunately dealing with very difficult situations.”
The trustees of the Auto Dealers CARing for Kids Foundation also agreed to continue its support of EconomicsPennsylvania's Strive to Drive Program. This student activity, used in the classrooms of many southeastern Pennsylvania middle and high schools, shows teens what it takes to buy a car and teaches them other important life skills. Researching prices, learning about the loan process, getting/keeping a job and securing insurance are just some of the topics covered through the program. To date, the Foundation has donated $53,000 to Strive to Drive, helping approximately 220 teachers and 20,000 students receive access to the activity.
Both donations involved assistance from the Pennsylvania Automotive Association Foundation (PAAF). PAAF is a community foundation, established in 2002, whose primary mission is to support and promote the charitable activities of the franchised automobile and medium and heavy duty truck dealers throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.