Richard Childress Racing veterans support reached new heights on October 8 at the team’s race shop in Welcome, North Carolina, when United States Army veteran Tiwanna Kaiser received a refurbished 2020 Chevrolet Malibu in a moving surprise. This milestone, made possible through the National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides program, marks a pivotal turn for Kaiser, providing reliable transportation essential for rebuilding her life and helping her family.
Army Veteran Overcomes Hardship with Community Aid
Kaiser, a Charlotte, North Carolina, resident and Army veteran who served from 1989 to 1997, has faced immense personal challenges in recent years. She endured the tragic loss of her daughter, a difficult battle with COVID-19, and experienced a period of homelessness where her family was left without stable shelter and often slept in a car. Kaiser’s determination led her to earn a college degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in 2023, even as she adjusted to living with a disability and working remotely. However, having dependable transportation remained a significant obstacle until the recent donation event provided a turning point.
“I was really surprised, I really was not expecting all of this, and I’m just grateful,”
said Kaiser, overwhelmed during the car presentation.
“I think this is awesome, and I’m just happy to see that people care about us. When you join the military, they make you think once you come home, everybody will be so happy for you, there will be jobs waiting for you, and it just wasn’t happening like that. We just never felt like anybody cared.”
– Tiwanna Kaiser, U.S. Army Veteran
Collaborative Efforts Bring Support to Veterans
The generous act was a collaborative effort involving several organizations deeply committed to assisting veterans. Allstate donated the car as a long-standing partner of the NABC, and Maaco of Greensboro, owned by Phil Collins, refurbished the vehicle, restoring it for Kaiser’s use. To further this support, Richard Childress Racing added a $500 gas gift card, highlighting their dedication to veterans through practical assistance. Veterans Bridge Home, an organization nominating Kaiser for the award, joined other program supporters such as Sherwin Williams, Tire Discounters, Copart, and Enterprise in making this possible.
“Our goals at Maaco are to help those around us and those we have the opportunity to meet and impact in the most positive way,”
Phil Collins, Maaco Owner
National Program’s Lasting Impact Recognized
Since its establishment in 2007, the NABC Recycled Rides program has donated more than 3,500 vehicles valued at over $51 million to families, veterans, first responders, and others overcoming adversity. This particular event at the Richard Childress Racing facility, part of one of NASCAR’s most patriotic teams, served as a heartfelt symbol of resilience and the power of community to uplift individuals.
“Truly, Tiwanna is a deserving individual,”
Jim Glenn, Director of Claims for Allstate, noted.
“On behalf of all the local Allstate Good Hands people, we are glad to have donated this vehicle to help as she moves ahead.”
– Jim Glenn, Director of Claims, Allstate
Restoring Hope and Independence Through Giving
For Kaiser, the gifted Chevrolet Malibu stands for more than transportation; it represents renewed freedom, dignity, and the chance for a fresh start on the road ahead. Support from Richard Childress Racing, Maaco, Allstate, and the entire network involved in the Recycled Rides program, including advocates like Veterans Bridge Home, underscores a shared commitment to honoring the sacrifices of military veterans and providing real-world support where it is needed most.
