Safelite Challenge Raises $250,000 for Charity
More than 300 Participate in Triathlon, Duathlon, Motorcycle Poker Run and Weight Loss Contest
COLUMBUS, Ohio – May 6, 2011 - Safelite AutoGlass® successfully completed its 2nd Annual Safelite® Challenge, a fundraising effort for Afrika Tikkun, on April 16 in Lake Mead, Las Vegas. The benefit invited Safelite’s associates to participate in a number of ways while raising funds for the South African based charity: individual or team triathlon or duathlon, a 5K fun walk, a charity poker run on motorcycles or a weight loss contest. An online auction where employees bid on items donated by the company’s management team and vendors also supported the cause. As a result, the Safelite® Challenge donated $250,000 to Afrika Tikkun.
Established in 1994, Afrika Tikkun (formerly MaAfrika Tikkun) works toward the transformation of South African communities by caring for vulnerable children and orphans, not only providing vital care, but also building the skills needed to succeed in life. More than 800,000 families live in the communities supported by Afrika Tikkun. Nelson Mandela is a Chief Patron and has hailed Afrika Tikkun’s programs as a “miracle.”
The top performers of the triathlon and duathlon (individual or team) and the top eight individual Safelite® associates who raised the most funds will have an opportunity to compete in the London Triathlon in July.
Finally, the winner of the weight loss contest was James Vondra who lost 27 percent body fat. Vondra, who is a warehouse lead from Omaha, Nebraska, said, “I have made a conscious effort to monitor and control my food intake on a daily basis. This accomplishment has allowed me to be more active and energized to do the things I have put off for a long time. My goal is to maintain my eating habits and to begin exercising more readily.”
Sika and PGW Glass served as co-presenting sponsors for the event. Founding sponsors were Adrian Steel, AGC, GlassMedic and Ron Foth Advertising.
“I am truly humbled by the good nature of Safelite’s people who gave so openly of their time and energy to support a good cause,” said Tom Feeney, president and CEO of Safelite AutoGlass®. “It’s these people who make Safelite what it is – people-focused and compassionate. Our sponsors who supported us financially and by attending the fundraiser are also deeply appreciated.”
About Safelite AutoGlass®
Safelite AutoGlass®, founded in 1947, is the nation’s leading provider of vehicle glass repair and replacement services, providing mobile service to more than 95 percent of the U.S. population in all 50 states. The Columbus, Ohio-based company employs nearly 10,000 people across the United States and served 4 million customers last year through its company-owned operations. For more information, visit www.safelite.com.