Schaefer Autobody Center Donates Van Via Circle of Concern

made one man's day this week and presented a 2003 Mazda Tribute to him free of charge.

That's right, James Savage received the SUV, which American Family Insurance donated to Schaefer Autobody on Monday. The vehicle was repaired and donated to Savage through the Circle of Concern, a Valley Park agency that provides both long term and emergency assistance to low-income families.

Schaefer Autobody, through its membership in the National Auto Body Council (NABC), participates in a national vehicle donation program called Recycled Rides. This program is a community awareness project where members of NABC repair and donate recycled vehicles to families deemed in need.  

Recycled Rides is made simultaneous donations throughout the country the week of Thanksgiving. 

Steve Schaefer, owner of Schaefer Autobody said his company's goal is to help people in the local community. He said the NABC program is a great toolkit that walks his staff through the entire volunteer process.

“Each year collision repair operators all over the country come across cars that are ‘written off’ or ‘totaled’ by either the owner or the insurance company," Schaefer said. "Many times all these vehicles need is some TLC or mechanical and body work to get them road ready and safe to drive.

"Why are these cars going to waste when there are people who really need them?"

Circle Of Concern assisted Schaefer Autobody Centers in locating a worthy individual.

“We are excited about participating in Recycled Rides,” said Glenn Koenen, of Circle of Concern. “Schaefer Autobody Centers has a long history of helping those in need in our community and we’re proud to be a part of this program.

"We work diligently to find the perfect match for this donation.”  

Schaefer Autobody Centers is a 26-year-old family-owned business started in Webster Groves.  The business has grown from one shop to seven collision repair centers in the St. Louis area, including one that opened in Hazelwood this year.