In Negative Times - Let's Make A Positive

Anyone that knows me understands I am direct and to the point person (sometimes I am often accused of being too black and white) because I believe deeply in any message I send out. I see and understand all my messages very clearly. All my messages, however, must be proven and stand the test of time.

This is a very personal message I am asking you to embrace. I have never done this before in an open forum such as the internet, but in this case it is worth every risk anyone could perceive.........this is important and very worth it. It is proven and stands the test of time.

The Aftermarket sector is one of the most genuine of the Automotive Industry. We work hard and we play hard. We have a high standard of morals wanting always to do the right thing for other people because we want to help. It is our character. We criticize many but are always prepared to compromise in order to move things forward. We demand a lot but we are prepared to give a lot. Of all the characteristics of the Aftermarket, nothing is stronger than to say "We truly are a people to people industry". We deal with people, we enjoy people, we support people, we must have people as a constant in our lives; we are the Aftermarket sector of the automotive industry.

For a number of years now, many of my students of my classes have heard me talk about "High Five for Kids". I want to talk about it again but now in the openness of the internet.

This particular charity is a unique stand alone Aftermarket initiative. High Five for Kids is a registered Foundation in Canada. Tax receipts are issued with all donations.

High Five for Kids is focused on "Kids"........only the Aftermarket could think of such a focus in such a unique way to provide happiness and environments that promote what the Aftermarket stands for......people loving and interacting respectfully with people to provide circumstances which allows people to enjoy the moment and create a positive atmosphere.

To date, through the High Five for Kids charity, monies have been raised and sent to under privileged Kids so they can access Day Camps; monies to rebuild playgrounds in small towns and villages; monies to assist in building recreational parks; and provided monies towards hospices that provide shelter and support to families that have been affected by Cancer of young children. All of these recipients (and many others) have been identified by AIA Canada Members Nationwide and H5's have become a support mechanism to those members requesting assistance to make a positive for the young ones in our world and their Families.

As a lifetime member of the Aftermarket industry (35 years) I am urging every shop owner and Jobber in Canada to commit 25 cents from every invoice/repair order they write each month to "High Five for Kids". Look we know business is tough but in tough times we, the Aftermarket, can still find the way to contribute and think of the kids. We as a sector are so drawn to them to ensure they enjoy themselves and are happy in a safe environment. Why? Because we personally can relate to every child experiencing tough times, unhappy times, unfortunate times. Many within the Aftermarket lived it and breathed it. We understand it. H5's accomplishes exactly what we have always wanted to see for Kids in our country who are in the circumstances many of us have experienced.

You can be assured that through AIA Canada 100% of your donation goes directly to this charity.........as it is a non profit Industry Association no money is drawn off the donations for administration and "other things" so many charities are known for. Everything about H5's is volunteered from members of the Aftermarket.

Please get behind this Charity and send in a monthly cheque based on 25 cents per invoice/repair order you wrote the month before payable to "High Five for Kids" c/o AIA Canada 1272 Wellington Street West, Ottawa, Canada K1Y 3A7......

I know we can always make an excuse as to "why I can't do this" but I believe there is more doers of positive things out there in the Aftermarket over the naysayers of criticism and inaction. If you ever would like to ask me any question on this charity, please call my toll free number 1-800-267-5497. If I can not answer your question, I know where to get the answer and I will get back to you. Remember, we are in the people business.

25 cents from every invoice/repair order to High Five for Kids.......a very worthy cause with very little sacrifice.......working together, the Aftermarket is an incredible sector of the Automotive industry because we do make a difference in peoples lives.