STAUNTON, Va. – Although it is only July, Federated members and suppliers provided an early Christmas present to the Toys for Tots program with a donation of $135,000, from money pledged at the Federated’s annual Toys for Tots auction held during the group’s annual awards dinner.
 
“Our members and manufacturing partners have really embraced the Federated partnership with Toys for Tots and we want to thank them for their tremendous generosity during our annual auction,” said Mike Schultz of Federated Auto Parts. “Our auction is just the first step in what we expect to be another great year of collecting toys and donations for Toys for Tots. Last year, many of our members implemented donation programs at their stores and we anticipate very strong participation this November and December.”
 
Several Federated Auto Parts 400 Sprint Cup experiences were auctioned to benefit Toys for Tots, including the opportunity to wave the green flag; make the “start your engines” call; ride shotgun in the pace car; and serve as an honorary pit crew member for NASCAR legend Kenny Schrader. Other auction items included a “Get Dirty with Kenny” driving experience, an autographed Schrader racing suit and helmet, and an original print from famed NASCAR artist Sam Bass. Federated CEO Rusty Bishop served as auctioneer and was helped by assistant auctioneer Schrader.
 
In 2013, participating Federated Auto Parts stores will again accept toy donations at their locations. Financial contributions also can be made at www.federatedautoparts.com/ToysforTots.aspx that links directly to the Toys for Tots website. Donors can use their credit card securely to make a monetary donation or print out a form and mail it in with a check made out to Toys for Tots.