U.S. Army veteran receives vehicle from American Family Insurance and Gerber Collision & Glass as part of NABC Recycled Rides® program

U.S. Army veteran receives vehicle from American Family Insurance and Gerber Collision & Glass as part of NABC Recycled Rides® program

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Jacqueline Barker was the recipient of the vehicle donated by American Family Insurance and refurbished by Gerber Collision & Glass as part of the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides® program.

Through this program, American Family partners with local auto body shops to donate vehicles that have been declared a total loss, which could result from a collision, hail damage or other accident. This nationwide, nonprofit project, organized by the NABC, repairs and donates vehicles to deserving recipients.

Since 2007, the National Auto Body Council Recycled Rides Program, along with their partners like American Family, has presented more than 3,500 vehicles, valued at more than $50 million to veterans, individuals in need and charitable organizations.

Total-loss cars are a gain for recipient independence

When a car is declared a total loss, American Family pays the customer for the actual cash value of the vehicle before the loss. American Family usually takes possession of the vehicle and can sell it through a salvage vendor. With this program, rather than take the salvage proceeds, American Family donates the vehicles and a local auto body shop donates its services to repair them. Other vendors also offer parts and services. The vehicles are repaired to industry standards and meet safety requirements.

American Family and Gerber Collison & Glass worked together with a nonprofit organization to identify a deserving recipient for this gift. Recipients meet certain requirements such as need, valid driver's license and ability to insure and maintain the vehicle.

This most recent recipient was chosen in collaboration with the Seattle Vet Center.

Recipient is guest at Lumen Field

Jacqueline was a special guest of American Family Insurance at the Seattle Sounders vs. LA Galaxy soccer game on September 13 at Lumen Field, where she was presented with the keys to a completely refurbished 2021 Toyota.

A retired U.S. Army veteran Private First Class, Jacqueline served with the 62^nd CBRN company while stationed at Camp Humphrey in Pyeongtaek, South Korea.

Since her transition out of the military in 2021, Jacqueline has shown remarkable determination in rebuilding her civilian life. She quickly secured employment in the security field, including access to a shared vehicle.

While living with her mother, Jacqueline saved enough to purchase her own vehicle, while continuing to pay rent. Unfortunately during a period of unemployment, she lost possession of her vehicle and was without transportation.

However, despite these obstacles, Jacqueline never stopped striving and was determined to meet these challenges and get back on track. Last November she began a new full-time job, marking a major, positive turning point in her life's journey.

"We thank Jacqueline for serving our country honorably through her military service," said Danny Henderson, American Family vice president of clams. "We're honored to join with Gerber Collision & Glass to provide this vehicle Jacqueline needs to continue to move forward in life, and relieve the burden and worry around safe and reliable transportation."

At Lumen Field for the presentation from American Family were: Dejuan Williams, senior manager, claims; Asim Rashid, sales district leader; and Matthew Baker, agency owner.

Representing Gerber Collision & Glass was Brian Cronk, regional vice president. Earon Brown from Seattle Vet Center was also on hand to support Jacqueline.

In addition, American Family Insurance partner, Copart, donated the vehicle towing for this event.

American Family Insurance and Gerber Collision & Glass have been honored to participate in the NABC Recycled Rides program providing vehicle gifts several times a year for more than a decade.

(Group photos, L to R): Matthew Baker, Asim Rashid, Brian Cronk, Jacqueline Barker, Earon Brown, DeJuan Williams.

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About American Family Insurance
American Family Insurance, a mutual holding company based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance Group is the nation's 12th-largest property/casualty insurance group, ranking No. 202 on the Fortune 500 list. The Group has a current 'a+' credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a "Standing the Test of Time" company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of 'A' or better for 75 years. The group sells American Family-brand products, primarily through exclusive agency owners in 19 states. The American Family Insurance Group also includes CONNECT, powered by American Family Insurance, Homesite and Main Street America Insurance and has approximately 11,000 employees nationwide.