“When we were thinking of doing a charity auction, I couldn’t think of a better cause,” said Cody Darby of Western Canada Remarketing Inc. (WCR). “Tools and school are expensive so we want to make a difference for somebody.”
WCR is a small, boutique-style auction that prides itself on offering quality service. This was their first year hosting the online charity auction, which raised $5,750 for the Automotive Retailers Foundation Inc. (ARFI).
“Trades are really suffering right now, mechanics especially,” Darby said, explaining how it seems less and less young people are interested in getting into trades. And for those who are interested—unless you are born and raised in it like Darby was—it can sometimes be a difficult industry to break into. “Hopefully, this can help someone in need.”
That was why ARA set up the foundation, to eliminate financial limitations for young people wanting to pursue a career in the automotive industry. In a time when the industry is struggling to hire and retain good employees, it is an excellent time to invest in education.
In 2019 the ARFI had over $20,000 in scholarships and bursaries to give away.
It is a wonderful thing to see ARA members step up to help the next generation. A big thank you goes out to WCR for organizing this auction and all the top bidders who donated to ARFI.
Some of the prizes included were Barret Jackson VIP tickets to the muscle lounge, a 2019 BMW Power Wheels, John Force Racing memorabilia, a hockey jersey autographed by Trevor Linden, and Country Vines & Golf passes with a wine basket. Darby is already looking forward to next year, he hopes it’ll be even bigger with a live event in addition to the online auction.