“Providing St. Jude with resources of their choosing based on the need of the kids has been such a rewarding experience,” shared Jeff Edwards, Regional Vice President of Sales at Averitt. “We have found that not only do our associates rally behind these drives, but our customers do as well.”

Thousands of Toys, Endless Smiles

The initiative, now in its fifth year, has delivered thousands of toys to brighten the days of children undergoing treatment. What began with a simple Play-Doh drive has since expanded to include items such as coloring books, Barbie dolls, Hot Wheels, and action figures.

The results continue to inspire all involved. For instance, in 2023, Averitt collected and donated 30,000 Hot Wheels cars. Fast forward to 2024, their efforts shifted to dolls and action figures with an astounding total of 10,000 toys gifted to St. Jude.

A Culture of Giving Back

The toy drives are part of Averitt’s larger “Team Up Community Challenge” program. This year-round initiative encourages Averitt associates to engage in service projects within their local communities. Furthermore, Averitt matches its associates’ volunteer hours with contributions made through Averitt Charities, their non-profit organization dedicated to charitable causes.

St. Jude provides guidance each year by sharing a list of needed items, ensuring every contribution is impactful and meaningful. “We started with a Play-Doh drive after Todd Harrett and I visited St. Jude for a check presentation one year. From there, what began locally in Louisville became an initiative in all our region,” said Jimmy Hoskins, Operations Manager at Averitt’s Louisville facility. “We have been amazed at the generosity of our company, our associates, our customers, and our community. Anything I ask our associates to do, they step up because they love the kids.”

For more details about Averitt’s community-focused work, visit Averitt Charities.

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Averitt

The post Averitt Delivers Joy to St. Jude for the Fifth Year in a Row appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Tom Gilliam, a seasoned professional driver, has not only driven extensively but also trained many other drivers. He has transformed his vast experience into his own training business, The CMV Tutor LLC.

Gilliam provides multiple levels of instruction, from beginner courses for those new to trucking to specialized programs for experienced drivers looking to gain new endorsements, eliminate automatic transmission restrictions, or meet carrier-mandated safety standards. Additionally, he offers tailored training for carrier clients, including passenger endorsements and school bus certifications.

The CMV Tutor is entirely run by Gilliam himself, with no additional staff. Training sessions for Allied Van Lines are conducted using carrier facilities in Rochester, Minnesota, and Onalaska, Wisconsin, while the school provides the necessary trucks.

Gilliam prefers to keep his operation small.

“I’ve had people ask me about coming in, but when you start interjecting other people into the process, that’s where you start coming up with problems,” he explained. By managing everything on his own, he ensures the quality of his curriculum.

For many students, completing this curriculum and acquiring the skills for a CDL signifies either the start of a new career or progress in an existing one.

The CMV Tutor offers a complimentary CDL training course for individuals currently without a home. However, Gilliam emphasizes that the program is not entirely free.

“Nothing’s free,” Gilliam stated. “They’re earning this. They have to put in the hours and the effort, do the work. That’s their investment.”

The training isn’t supported by government grants or programs.

“This is out of my pocket,” he said. “I see it all the time — people camped out by the river or in the ditches. I can only help one person every few months, but at least that’s getting somebody on their feet again.”

Running The CMV Tutor’s homeless driver training program requires more than simply opening the classroom.

“A lot of (homeless people) don’t have driver licenses, not even for a car,” Gilliam said.

Applicants need to obtain a Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) before joining the program. This requires access to online study materials, fees for written exams, and transportation to the appropriate state testing facility. Additionally, applicants’ homeless status must be verified.

“We get a lot of sad stories, like the call from a parent who said their son was sitting at home and needed a life-changing career. But he’s at home; that’s the issue,” said Gilliam.

After approval, students face further challenges like securing meals and lodging, as well as acquiring work boots and clothing.

“That’s why I’m working with homeless shelters,” Gilliam explained. “They’ve worked with the people and know them. They can help filter out the ones that are having issues with drugs or mental illness. They can refer students who are most likely to benefit from the training.”

While collaborating with shelters to refine the homeless training program, Gilliam continues to offer driver training for traditional students.

“I train for several carriers, and I deal with students directly, too,” he said. Licensed in Minnesota and Wisconsin, he provides equipment with manual transmissions for training.

Gilliam holds Senior Master Instructor and Senior Master Safety Instructor certifications from the Commercial Vehicle Training Association (CVTA). He is dedicated to leveraging his 40 years of driving and teaching to prepare others for successful trucking careers.

His offer extends to homeless individuals interested in obtaining Class A tractor-trailer, straight truck, or bus licenses. He aims to train three to four students annually through the homeless program.

Those interested should apply through their local homeless shelter or advocate. Homeless agencies interested in collaboration can contact The CMV Tutor at thecmvtutor@gmail.com or 608-358-3143.

Source: The Trucker

Image: The CMV Tutor

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Headquartered in Lowell, Arkansas, J.B. Hunt initiated this scholarship program to benefit the children and grandchildren of its employees. Brad Hicks, the President of Highway Services and EVP of People at J.B. Hunt, stated, “This is one of my favorite company initiatives because it enables us to support what’s most important to our people – their families.” Hicks highlighted the commitment of both past and present scholarship recipients, celebrating their determination to advance their education.

The J.B. Hunt scholarships are available to children and grandchildren of employees who are attending or preparing to attend accredited colleges or vocational schools. Each scholarship provides $2,500 annually and is renewable for up to three years, contingent on maintaining a 2.5 GPA and full-time enrollment.

Since its launch in 2022, the program has awarded over $1.2 million to J.B. Hunt employee families. This year’s scholarship recipients hail from 25 states, including Taylor Schultz from Springdale, Arkansas, who is pursuing a degree in finance. Schultz noted, “This scholarship represents more than financial aid. It signifies recognition of my efforts and potential, boosting my confidence and inspiring me to contribute meaningfully to my chosen field of study.”

Rawaan Huseen from Chicago, another recipient who is studying radiology technology, shared that the scholarship highlights the empowering role of education and validates her commitment to the radiology field.

Looking forward, J.B. Hunt plans to continue this impactful scholarship program into its fourth year, collaborating with Scholarship America to broaden educational access through fundraising and scholarship distribution.

J.B. Hunt’s ongoing efforts reflect its commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and supporting community initiatives in health care, veterans’ support, education, and crisis management, aligning with its core corporate values.

Source: The Trucker

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“At ATG, giving back to our communities by helping to fight hunger and food insecurity is one of our top priorities,” said Kevin G. Holmes, ATG’s president and CEO. “We are grateful for the continued support our employees, customers, and business partners have for Haulin’ 4 Hunger and their commitment to help meet the increased demand our food pantries are facing during the holidays and throughout the year.”

On Dec. 15, ATG, alongside its dedicated Haulin’ 4 Hunger team, will lead two truck caravans from the Shrewsbury, Mass. dealership. Their mission: hand-deliver 4,200 meals, complete with fresh turkey and all the trimmings, to seven organizations offering food pantries and essential services. These contributions will be directed to communities in Worcester and other areas in Central Massachusetts, benefiting organizations such as Boys & Girls Club of Worcester, Friendly House, Jeremiah’s Inn, Marlborough Community Cupboard, South Worcester Neighborhood Center, St. Anne’s Human Services, and Veterans Inc.

ATG’s commitment doesn’t end there; the company will distribute thousands of nonperishable meals as part of its fourth quarter Haulin’ 4 Hunger donations. These contributions will reach six hunger relief organizations near other ATG dealerships in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Throughout December, ATG employees will deliver nonperishable meals, including canned chicken, ramen noodles, and canned peas, to LISTEN Food Pantry, New Hampshire Food Bank, Our Community Table, Our Place Drop-In Center, Raynham Food Basket, and Seabrook Food Pantry.

“The holidays are especially difficult for those struggling to put food on their table. Organizations we support are serving more people now than during the pandemic, with some seeing visits to their pantries this holiday season more than double compared to last year,” said Sarah Harrington, ATG’s integrated marketing manager and leader of the Haulin’ 4 Hunger program.

ATG attributes the success and expansion of Haulin’ 4 Hunger to the ongoing support from valued partners such as Dennis K. Burke, G. Lopes Construction, SelecTrucks of New England, Worcester Railers HC, and UniBank. This collaborative effort has enabled the program to increase donations to hunger relief organizations in every region where ATG operates. Since its initiation in 2012, Haulin’ 4 Hunger has been a beacon of generosity, contributing to the provision of over 34,000 meals for those in need.

For those interested in learning more about ATG’s Haulin’ 4 Hunger program and its impactful initiatives, click here.

Source: The Trucker

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The MoonPies, generously donated as part of the bakery’s regional school fundraising campaign, add a sweet twist to the concept of giving back. Schools participating in the “Patriotic Pies” program not only raise funds through MoonPie sales but also have the unique option to give these treats to members of the military. This approach transforms the act of fundraising into a meaningful way to show appreciation to those who serve our nation.

“We at USO Fort Campbell cherish the donations of fresh-baked MoonPies from the ‘Patriotic Pies’ project made possible by schools and their supporters,” said Ann Jarvis, executive director, USO at Fort Campbell. “They are a delight, and we always see smiles when service members receive them across Fort Campbell and our surrounding military community. The USO serves the people of our military, and fresh-baked MoonPies make that a little more delicious!”

Averitt Express played a pivotal role in this mission. Demonstrating their commitment to community and service, they transported the MoonPies from Chattanooga Bakery to Fort Campbell, covering a distance of 197 miles, all at no cost. This exemplifies the industry’s dedication not only to efficient logistics but also to the profound principle of giving back to those who make sacrifices for the greater good.

“Averitt is proud to play a role in any project that shows appreciation to members of the military, especially with the holiday season approaching. We were honored to provide the transportation for the ‘Patriotic Pies’ program,” said Barry Blakely, Averitt president and chief operating officer. “At Averitt, we have a special appreciation for our men and women in uniform. We are a veteran-owned company. About 15% of our associates are veterans. And we’re proud to have won several awards for hiring veterans and for our commitment to provide meaningful benefits to military personnel.”

This heartening collaboration between Averitt Express and MoonPie underscores the fact that the trucking industry is not just about the efficient movement of goods but also about contributing to the well-being and morale of communities. Through initiatives like these, the industry continues to showcase its compassion and commitment to making a positive impact beyond the highways and byways.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

Photo: Averitt

The post Averitt and MoonPie Team Up to Give Back to Our Nation’s Heroes appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Toy Drives on the Highway:

One of the ways truck drivers make a difference is by participating in or organizing toy drives. These initiatives collect gifts for children in need, ensuring that the magic of the holidays reaches every corner of the community. The sight of a convoy of trucks delivering toys is not only heartening but also showcases the generosity of the trucking community.

Spreading Cheer at Truck Stops:

Truck stops become temporary homes for many drivers during the holidays. Some drivers take it upon themselves to volunteer at truck stops’ holiday events or meals, fostering a sense of community on the road. Whether it’s organizing festive gatherings or providing a helping hand, these efforts make the holiday season a little brighter for truckers away from home.

Adopt-A-Family Programs on the Move:

Adopt-a-family programs are not limited to stationary homes. Truck drivers contribute to these programs by providing gifts, groceries, and essentials to families in need, regardless of their location. The mobility of the trucking lifestyle doesn’t have to hinder the spirit of giving back.

Random Acts of Kindness Rolling Down the Highway:

Truckers perform random acts of kindness during their travels, proving that even small gestures can have a significant impact. Whether it’s buying a meal for a fellow trucker, helping someone in need, or spreading positivity at rest stops, these acts exemplify the true meaning of the season.

Community Fundraising Campaigns:

Initiating or participating in fundraising campaigns is another way truckers give back. By supporting specific causes or individuals facing hardships during the holidays, truck drivers amplify their impact and contribute to the greater good.

As we celebrate the holidays, let’s take a moment to appreciate the truck drivers on the road who go above and beyond to make a positive difference. Through toy drives, acts of kindness, and community initiatives, these individuals exemplify the spirit of giving, proving that, no matter where they are, the holidays are a time for generosity and goodwill.

The post Driving the Spirit of Giving: How Truck Drivers Make the Holidays Brighter on the Road appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

In honor of GivingTuesday, KATC has made a substantial donation to 4KIDS, a non-profit organization dedicated to foster children. Additionally, funds have been allocated to provide toys for 4KIDS’ Gift of Hope Toy Store. These donations will be matched, doubling their impact.

In addition to the donations, Fleet Advantage associates have also participated in assembling gingerbread house kits as part of 4KIDS’ annual Gingerbread House Building Contest.

On December 12th, another group of Fleet Advantage associates will assist foster and adoptive parents in shopping for free toys at the Gift of Hope Toy Store.

The Kids Around The Corner Foundation is also collaborating with Junior Achievement of South Florida to educate students about financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and work readiness.

“KATC plans to make another significant donation with a check presentation scheduled for Dec. 13, and this will solidify its role as the non-profit’s South Palm Beach County Financial Literacy Sponsor,” according to the news release. “This sponsorship will help address the critical need for financial education in the region and the donation will facilitate the expansion of Junior Achievement of South Florida’s BizTown and Finance Park programs to public, private and charter schools in South Palm Beach County.”

Fleet Advantage’s support to Junior Achievement, in collaboration with schools, will break down barriers and provide crucial financial education and workforce skills to hundreds of students in the community. This includes overcoming challenges like transportation and per-student funding.

“After donating to and volunteering with 4KIDS and Junior Achievement of South Florida in the past, we are thrilled to support these two impactful organizations once again,” said Brian Holland, President and CEO of Fleet Advantage and director and treasurer of KATC. “These organizations align with our mission to make a positive impact on the lives of children and contribute to their education and well-being. We believe in giving back to the communities we serve, and through these partnerships, we aim to make a lasting difference in the lives of those in need.”

Fleet Advantage’s Kids Around The Corner Foundation has shown incredible generosity this year, making multiple donations to different organizations. They have formed partnerships with 17 new entities and have donated an impressive amount of over $200,000 in 2023 alone.

If you want to learn more about the foundation and the organizations they have worked with, click HERE.

Source: The Trucker

The post Building Bridges of Support: Fleet Advantage’s Festive Philanthropy appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Wreaths Across America Radio, dubbed “A Voice for America’s Veterans,” dedicates its 24/7 programming to content that resonates with Gold Star and Blue Star families, military veterans and their families, and the millions of volunteers associated with Wreaths Across America. Continuing its tradition, Wreaths Across America Radio will provide live, extensive coverage of the annual Escort to Arlington, the nation’s lengthiest veterans’ parade, spanning from Saturday, Dec. 9, to the morning of Saturday, Dec. 16, which marks National Wreaths Across America Day.

The broadcast on Wreaths Across America Radio will feature complete coverage of each escort stop’s ceremony, incorporating interviews with Gold Star and Blue Star families, veterans, military families, and other distinguished guests. Additionally, it will cover the Wreaths Across America Annual Appreciation Dinner and Rally in Crystal City, Virginia, held the evening before National Wreaths Across America Day.

For those eager to tune in, Wreaths Across America Radio offers a 24/7 internet stream accessible on the iHeart Radio app, Audacy app, TuneIn app, or by clicking here.

“Wreaths Across America Radio is honored to be supported by such great partners who make the coverage of the escort to Arlington possible,” said Jeff Pierce, director of broadcast and media partnerships at Wreaths Across America. “Pilot Company is an invaluable supporter throughout the entire Wreaths Across America program year after year, and we are grateful to BCB Live for returning this year to help us with this effort. The addition of Stars and Stripes as a media partner allows us to provide better opportunities for Wreaths Across America Radio listeners to be a part of the week’s events as we continue to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach the next generation the value of freedom.”

National Wreaths Across America Day ceremonies are set to unfold at over 4,000 locations nationwide on Dec. 16. Individuals interested in volunteering or sponsoring a wreath for placement can explore opportunities near them.

To meet the goal of placing a wreath on every eligible marker at Arlington National Cemetery, a total of 259,000 sponsored veterans’ wreaths are required. To contribute a $17 sponsorship, supporting year-round missions and placing a veteran’s wreath in honor of an American hero this year, or to register for volunteering, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/ARLING.

Source: The Trucker

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The Averitt Cares for Kids Family Softball Tournament is a testament to the company’s commitment to supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. In recognition of the record-breaking attendance, Averitt made a generous donation of $35,000 to aid in the fight against childhood cancers.

“The Averitt Cares for Kids Family Softball Tournament was an incredible day for our entire team,” said Averitt President and Chief Operating Officer Barry Blakely. “We were thrilled with the positive feedback we received from everyone who attended, and we look forward to making this an even bigger event in the future.”

25 teams, 350 players, and 38 volunteers came together for an incredible display of sportsmanship. They played 46 games and showcased their skills on the field.

Source: Truckers News

Photo: Averitt Express

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From Memorial Day to Labor Day, customers at TA, Petro, and TA Express locations were given the option to round up their purchases to the nearest dollar. The generous contributions will directly benefit professional drivers who are currently on a break from the road due to illness or injury.

The St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund provides critical aid to truckers and their families, offering financial support for basic necessities and guidance on navigating the healthcare system.

“The work of St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund aligns with our mission to return every traveler to the road better than they came and we are committed to helping ensure professional drivers have access to critical resources during times of need,” said Debi Boffa, Chief Executive Officer of TA. “We thank our guests for their incredible generosity and supporting the heroic men and women who sacrifice so much to keep our economy moving.”

TA and SCF have had a strong partnership since 2010, with TA successfully raising over $3 million dollars for SCF through their campaigns and initiatives.

Source: Truckers News

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