Recycled Rides Revs Up for Rideaway

Topeka, Kan. – The season of giving will begin at Washburn Tech with the gifting of another Recycled Ride at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, December 3, in Building K on the Washburn Tech campus at 5724 SW Huntoon St. The refurbished vehicle, donated by State Farm Insurance, will be presented to a local family or organization in need.

“State Farm is one of the most ardent supporters of Recycled Rides as demonstrated through both monetary and vehicle donations,” said Gary Bayens, interim dean, Washburn Tech. “This is just one more way that they support their motto of helping life go right.”

Recycled Rides partners auto service and auto collision students with instructors and professional mentors in the community to refurbish vehicles, which are awarded to individuals or families in need. Local businesses and individuals also donate parts and supplies to get the vehicles on the road again. Lewis Collision Center, of Topeka, is the t-shirt sponsor this fall.

In December, the recipient will ride-away in a refurbished 2012 Ford Escape that was donated by State Farm after sustaining hail damage. The recipient also will receive a bag of car-care products and the promise of a first oil change and check-up.

Washburn Tech was the first college in the nation to participate in the National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides program. This vehicle is the 28th automobile donated by Washburn Tech’s Recycled Rides program.