AWDA Invites Industry to Celebrate 40 Years of Investing in Aftermarket Education

BETHESDA, Md. - Oct. 5, 2026 - The Aftermarket Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA), a community of the Auto Care Association, invites the auto care industry to celebrate the University of the Aftermarket Foundation's (UAF) 40th anniversary by helping extend its impact for the next 40 years. Aftermarket industry companies, organizations and individuals can join the celebration and invest in the future workforce by contributing to UAF's 40th Ruby Anniversary campaign.

Since 1986, UAF has invested in the people and programs that strengthen the aftermarket. Recent results illustrate the reach of that work:

• In 2026, the industrywide scholarship program awarded 525 scholarships to students throughout the country. More than 40 donor organizations have participated in the 2026 scholarship program, allowing students to be considered for multiple awards through one application.
• UAF has funded over $10 million in scholarships, grants, and educational programs since 1986, supporting technical and professional career paths across the aftermarket.

"AWDA is built on decades of service to the industry, and part of that service is securing its longevity through scholarships and continuing education for the next generation of industry professionals," said Fletcher Lord III, AAP, chairman, AWDA. "As one of UAF's founders and leading supporters, AWDA is proud to serve as the Ultimate Ruby Celebration Host. We invite the entire aftermarket to celebrate this milestone with us. Every contribution helps UAF continue creating educated, capable professionals for the next 40 years and beyond."

Cheers to 40 Years
The anniversary campaign will culminate with a 40^th anniversary reception on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026, at 6 p.m. at The Venetian Las Vegas. Industry members can commemorate the milestone by making a tax-deductible individual or corporate donation and joining the celebration.

Learn more and join the 40th anniversary celebration at uofa-foundation.org/uaf-40th-anniversary, or donate directly at givebutter.com/aF5H3i.

All anniversary campaign contributions count toward UAF Lifetime Donor status.

UAF is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, and donations are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law. For information about scholarships, grants or the foundation's work, visit UofA-Foundation.org.