 SEMA Cares volunteer Susan Carpenter (right) and a patient at a children’s hospital build pinewood cars together, as part of a program organized by the Austin Hatcher Foundation, the newest charity to be supported by SEMA Cares. |
Since the establishment of SEMA Cares in 2007, the 501 [c](3) organization has raised more than $1 million for charities and nonprofits, including Childhelp, Victory Junction and the Aftermarket Foundation.
“Our industry has a strong sense of community, and charitable giving is the sort of community activity that joins us together,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “SEMA Cares unites the industry for a great cause, and we look forward to working with the Austin Hatcher Foundation to further these efforts.”
Founded nearly 10 years ago, the Austin Hatcher Foundation provides programs and services to help children suffering from cancer. The organization is dedicated to setting new standards for creative collaboration in the fight against pediatric cancer, and partners with many SEMA-member and automotive-related companies.
“SEMA Cares is happy to support the Austin Hatcher Foundation,” said SEMA Cares Chairperson Luanne Brown. “The Austin Hatcher Foundation’s mission aligns perfectly with SEMA Cares’ goals, and they are already actively involved with the SEMA industry.”
SEMA Cares raises funds throughout the year through events such as the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races, various project vehicle builds and more. To learn more about SEMA Cares, visit www.sema.org/sema-cares.