Nebraska Trucking Steps Up for Hurricane Relief

Collaboration was at the heart of this initiative, as members of the Nebraska Trucking Association (NTA) joined forces with the Salvation Army to help communities impacted by the severe hurricanes in the Southeast.

“We looked into trying to collect donatable goods,” said Kent Grisham NTA president and CEO. “But after some research, it was clear that various service organizations in the southeast had well-established methods of collecting and distributing materials in areas hard-hit by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. So, we decided to partner with one of the most trusted and reliable service organizations in the world, the Salvation Army, to conduct a fundraising campaign.”

Women’s Council and Nebraska Trucking Cares Unite for Action

The fundraising campaign, which was spearheaded by the NTA’s Women’s Council, marked a departure from the Nebraska Trucking Cares Fund’s usual mission. Typically, the fund provides aid to employees of NTA members facing hardship, but the immediate and overwhelming needs of hurricane victims prompted the group to extend their reach.

“Nebraska is no stranger to the devastation caused by natural disasters,” Grisham explained. “This year alone, our state has endured destructive tornadoes, hailstorms, floods, and wildfires. That shared experience created a deep well of compassion and generosity among our members, inspiring them to help those suffering in the Southeast.”

A Ceremonial Gesture of Solidarity

The collaboration culminated in a ceremonial check presentation between NTA and Salvation Army leaders. The $5,000 contribution will support disaster relief operations that remain active in communities affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

“We are truly grateful for this outstanding support from the Nebraska Trucking Association via the Nebraska Trucking Cares Fund,” said Maj. Scott Shelbourn, commander of The Salvation Army Western Division. “The $5,000 donated by NTA members will make a big difference for Salvation Army disaster-relief operations that are still ongoing in the Southeast in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. It takes a team effort to help disaster-impacted communities recover, and we salute the NTA for being part of that team.”

Source: The Trucker

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The event saw participation from representatives of Kenworth, a division of CSM Companies, and J&R Schugel. To further acknowledge the service of military veterans, J&R Schugel adorned their new T680 with a unique wrap dedicated to DAV.

Courtney Antonsen, J&R Schugel’s human resources director, expressed: “It’s a privilege to collaborate with Disabled American Veterans in honoring those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. Our uniquely wrapped Kenworth T680 truck will proudly journey across the country, symbolizing our appreciation and dedication to supporting veterans and their families. We also extend our gratitude to CSM Companies for their generous $25,000 donation, which will directly fund vital services for veterans.”

The Wisconsin Kenworth dealer presented an additional $25,000 check to DAV on behalf of J&R Schugel, reinforcing the company’s commitment to community and support for veterans.

Established in 1974 by founding members Jerry, Rich, and Harold Schugel, J&R Schugel has always operated with a customer, employee, and community-first philosophy. The company is known for wrapping their Kenworth trucks with themes to promote awareness for various causes, from supporting veterans to raising awareness about health issues like breast cancer, mental health, and autism.

Kevin Haygood, Kenworth’s assistant general manager for sales and marketing, praised J&R Schugel saying, “J&R Schugel has been a great customer for years, and we’re proud of all their efforts to partner with charity organizations and bring awareness to important causes throughout the country and in their local community.”

J&R Schugel runs over 700 trucks, the majority being the latest Kenworth T680 models with modern features designed for driver comfort. “All of our trucks are currently 2021 models or newer,” Antonsen noted. “The new interior features and technology, such as the digital display and sharper exterior design of the truck, are what stand out to our drivers. They spend most of their day in their trucks, and we believe providing them with new, premium equipment helps with overall job satisfaction.”

The company stays up-to-date with a three-year truck trade-in cycle, ensuring their equipment is top-notch and minimizes downtime for drivers. The latest Kenworth T680 model, introduced in 2021, continues to be a popular choice within their fleet.

Source: The Trucker

Image: J&R Schugel

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