BETHESDA, Md. – Donations to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation increased more than three-fold last year, according to John Washbish, MAAP, secretary of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation and chairman of its contributions committee.

“The foundation’s board of trustees made it a goal to significantly step up the fundraising efforts on behalf of the foundation. Based on the results, we have more than exceeded expectations,” said Washbish. “We want to thank the many donors for their generous support of the foundation and its scholarships and educational programs.”

“The incredible generosity of our industry is evident in the growth in the number of donors and the increased amount of donations,” said Rusty Bishop, AAP, chairman of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation. “Every contribution to the foundation makes a difference, allowing us to fund the education and training of even more future industry leaders than ever before.”

The following organizations contributed $100,000 or more to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation in 2013: Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Automotive Distribution Network, Babcox Media, Brenton Productions, Dorman Products, Federated Auto Parts, National Pronto Association and O’Reilly Auto Parts/O’Reilly and Wooten Families. Donating $50,000 or more in 2013 were the Clay Buzzard Family, Dayco Products, Federal-Mogul and Tenneco.

The University of the Aftermarket Foundation welcomes contributions of all sizes. To make a donation, call 816-584-0511 or email Barbara Cunningham at [email protected]. The foundation is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization and all contributions are tax deductible to the extent provided by law.

For more information about available automotive scholarships, visit www.automotivescholarships.com.