Canadian car washes raise thousands for spinal research
The Canadian Carwash Association’s (CCA) first annual Car Wash for a Cure took place March 31 and April 1 this year. The event raised a total of $5,844 for spinal cord research, donated to the Canadian Spinal Research Organization (CSRO).
Twelve car washes across Canada participated in this years’ charity event.
Over the two days, participating Canadian car washes helped fundraise money to help benefit spinal cord research by:
- Asking their customers to donate spare change;
- Owner/operators donating a portion of their sales over the two days;
- Inviting their community leaders to participate and promote to their constituents;
- Creating a fun/interactive activity that engages their customers in the fundraiser;
- Promoting their involvement via social media;
- Raising awareness of the Canadian Spinal Research Organization.
"We were glad to see the support of carwashes and customers across the country," said Karen Smith, president of the Canadian Carwash Association. "We saw a good turnout, despite the weather in Ontario and were able to raise over $5,000 through generous donations that will go directly to support spinal cord research. We're looking forward to seeing how this event grows in the coming years."
According to the CSRO, almost half of spinal cord injuries are caused by motor vehicle crashes. The CCA and CSRO are both advocates of road safety in Canada.
Participating car washes this year included Big City Carwash, Clearwater Carwash and Valet Carwash.
The event was sponsored by carwash industry leaders Mark VII, Soapy Brushy, Transchem Group and Wash Links.
The CSRO is a Canadian charity that funds targeted research for functional recovery and cure paralysis caused by spinal cord injury. The CSRO and the American Spinal Research Organization has raised nearly $30 million for spinal cord research since 1984.
The CCA says it will be releasing the dates for the second Annual Car Wash for a Cure very soon along with details on how to get involved.
