USAA celebrates 100 years of service by gifting 100 cars

[USAA]

BY RANDI GILMORE, COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

​Sgt. James “Jim" Madison shaking hands with Ramon Lopez, VP, claims operations, as he receives the keys to his truck.

A veteran of both the U.S. Army and the U.S. Air Force, Sgt. James “Jim" M. served his country and community as a firefighter, both as a Department of Defense civilian and service member for 25 years. ­­­­­­­

Over the years, Jim sustained multiple injuries that now require him to use a wheelchair. For Jim to travel, he needs a modified vehicle to accommodate his needs—and USAA made that happen.

Thanks to funding from the Freedom Mobility Foundation and USAA's commitment to donate 100 cars through the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides program, Jim received a Ford F150 truck with a driver's seat transfer and a truck bed lift for his wheelchair.

Jim was one of 10 military community members to receive a vehicle at the kickoff to the 100-car giveaway at the San Antonio office event last week.

Recycled Rides® is a unique program in which insurers, collision repairers, paint suppliers, parts vendors and many other industry players can collaborate to repair and donate vehicles to deserving individuals and service organizations in local communities throughout the country.

As part of USAA's 100-year celebration, P&C claims has made the commitment to donate 100 vehicles and the associated costs to the Recycled Rides program. This will be the most vehicles donated in one year in USAA history.

Claims has partnered with military affairs and military affinity to identify the recipients who are veterans, families of veterans and those currently serving through their vast networks.

More events will continue throughout 2022 across four five more regional offices and five other locations, with the closing event in December at the San Antonio office where 15 vehicles will be gifted.

Randy T. interim USAA P&C president, spoke at the event and shared what an unforgettable experience he had.

“Reliable transportation is one important step toward financial security," says Randy. “Being able to gift 10 military community members with the ability to improve the quality of life for not only themselves, but also their families, is something I will never forget."

Ramon L., USAA VP, claims operations, also reflected about how events and moments like the 100-car giveaway campaign bring our mission to life.

“We are committed to giving back to those who have gone above and beyond," says Ramon. “We will continue to transform the lives of those most in need by providing them with dependable vehicles."

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