Additional auction proceeds and donations raised more than $108,720 in one day.
Veteran and 2021 Canine Companions graduate Brett Turek offered remarks at the auction, which took place on Saturday, March 12 at the BacklotCars booth at the NADA Expo. Also onsite was Marcell Mallett, Canine Companions executive director of the southwest region, along with two puppy raisers and graduates: Scott Dyer with his dog España, and John Tarabilda and his dog Oro.
“We are proud to partner with the NADA Foundation and Canine Companions for the 11th year in a row,” said Peter Kelly, chief executive officer of KAR Global. “With the help of our generous dealers and partners across this industry, we’ve raised more than $723,000 to date—providing veterans and people with disabilities with highly skilled dogs that can offer independence, as well as companionship. This is always a highlight of our NADA experience, and our teams at KAR, ADESA and BacklotCars are excited to support this year’s auction.”
The winning bidder was Lane Nichols of Fairbanks, Alaska. Nichols serves on the NADA board of directors and is the dealer principal of Gene’s Chrysler Dodge Jeep and Ram.
Since 2002, NADA Foundation’s Frank E. McCarthy Program has contributed nearly $1 million to Canine Companions, placing skilled service dogs with children with disabilities and wounded veterans.
“Dealers are without a doubt are committed to serving others, including veterans and active servicemen and women,” said Annette Sykora, chairwoman of the NADA Foundation and NADA 2008 chairwoman. “The funds raised through the BacklotCars auction will help NADA and its members serve the veterans who participate in Canine Companions.”
For more information on the NADA Foundation, click here.* For more information on Canine Companions, click here.
Written by Juliet Guerra, NADA Director of Media Relations
Source: NADA*
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