NABC Program Awards Refurbished Vehicles to Veterans

The National Auto Body Council presented two restored vehicles to Chicago-area veterans on October 8.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Car Types

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a set of car keys on a workbench, symbolizing the gift of reliable transportation to veterans. — The National Auto Body Council donated two refurbished vehicles to Chicago-area U.S. Army veterans on October 8, 2026, as part of the Recycled Rides program. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The NABC Recycled Rides program donated refurbished vehicles to two local U.S. Army veterans at the David Rubenstein Forum on October 8, 2026. Allstate provided the vehicles, while Gerber Collision & Glass completed the necessary repairs.

Why it matters

This initiative aims to support veterans in need by providing reliable transportation through the NABC Recycled Rides program. The effort was sponsored by the Growth Conference 2026 to recognize the service and sacrifice of military personnel.

The donation included a 2019 Ram 1500 awarded to a veteran with 15 years of service and a 2021 Kia K5 for a veteran who served from 2014 to 2016.

The players

National Auto Body Council

This trade organization manages the Recycled Rides program which refurbishes and donates vehicles to those in need.

Michael Powell

He is a U.S. Army veteran who served for 15 years and received a refurbished 2019 Ram 1500.

Michelle Scott-Bovell

She is a U.S. Army veteran who served from 2014 to 2016 and received a 2021 Kia K5.

Allstate

This insurance company served as the primary donor for the two vehicles provided to the veterans.

Gerber Collision & Glass

This automotive repair company performed the technical work required to refurbish the donated vehicles.

The details

The vehicles were restored to roadworthy condition through the collaborative efforts of corporate donors and repair technicians. This community-focused project highlights the intersection of private sector philanthropy and veteran support services.

Michelle Scott-Bovell served in the U.S. Army from 2014 to 2016.
Refurbished vehicles were presented to the veterans on October 8, 2026.

Roadmap

The NABC Recycled Rides program demonstrates how the automotive repair industry can repurpose older assets to address mobility challenges for vulnerable populations. This reflects a broader trend of corporate social responsibility within the sector to maximize the utility of existing vehicle inventories.

Veterans interested in the program can review available resources through the NABC website to understand potential eligibility criteria for future vehicle presentations. Individuals looking to contribute can also explore donating their own vehicles through the Changing and Saving Lives Keys for Change program.

The takeaway

Reliable personal transportation is a critical asset for veterans transitioning to civilian careers and daily routines. Communities can support such efforts by donating unwanted vehicles to accredited non-profit refurbishment programs.